Title: General Orders, 19 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 19th 1776.
Parole AlbanyCountersign Schuyler.

The Brigadier Generals are desired to make their respective brigades, perfectly acquainted with the alarm posts, which have been reported to the Commander in Chief: But in case of an Alarm, the respective regiments are to draw up, opposite to their encampments, or quarters, until they receive orders to repair to the alarm posts above referred to. The following Signals

are to give the alarm, to all the Troops (as well regulars as Militia) and the Inhabitants of the city: (viz.) In the day time; two Cannon to be fired from the rampart at Fort George, and a Flag hoisted from the Top of General Washingtons, head quarters: In the night time, two Cannon fired as above, from Fort George, and two lighted Lanthorns hoisted from the Top of Head Quarters, aforesaid.
The Colonels, and Officers commanding Corps, are immediately to have their men compleated with twenty-four rounds of powder and ball, properly, and compleatly, made up into Cartridges, six rounds of which, each man is to have in his pouch, or cartridge box, for ordinary duty; the remaining eighteen, are to be wrapped up tight, in a Cloth, or coarse Paper, and mark’d with the name of the soldier to whom they belong, and carefully packed into an empty powder barrel. The Captains, or Officers commanding Companies, are to see that this is done, and to take into his own possession, the barrel, with the cartridges so packed, and to have them delivered to the men, as occasion may require: And whatsoever Soldier shall be found wasting, or embezzeling, his ammunition, shall not only be made to pay for it, but be punished for so base and shameful a neglect, and disobedience of orders.
Notwithstanding the care and pains, that has been taken to provide good arms for the troops, on examination they are found to be in the most shocking situation: The Colonels, or commanding Officers of the regiments, are requested to get the arms belonging to their regiments, put in good order as soon as possible, the work to be executed at the Continental Armoury, or elsewhere, so as to have them repaired in the most expeditious manner—Every man to be furnished with a good Bayonet: But all that have had Bayonets heretofore, and have lost them, to pay for the new ones—Wherever a Soldier is known to have injured his gun, on purpose, or suffered it to be injured by negligence; to be chargeable with the repairs. An Account to be rendered of the expence of those repairs, after deducting what each Individual ought to pay—A Warrant will be given the commanding Officer of the regiments, for the discharge of the same.
All repairs that are done to the arms hereafter, except unavoidable accidents, to be paid by the men, and stopt out of

their wages by the commanding officer of the regiment—An Account to be rendered to him, by the Captains, or commanding Officers of companies.
Capt. Joseph Butler of Colonel Nixons regiment, is to be furnished with a Copy of the accusation, lodged against him, by Lieut. Silas Walker, and both are to attend the next General Court Martial with their evidences.
The Lads lately picked out of Col: Nixon’s, and Col: Webb’s regiments; are to be immediately discharged, and their accounts settled, and paid: In order the better to enable them to return to their respective homes—ten days provision, and pay, is to be allowed them from this day.
John Lewis of Capt. Harnburry’s Company, in Col. Ritzema’s regiment, tried by a late General Court Martial, whereof Col. Ritzema was President “for insulting and striking Lieut. Cole of Col. Wyllys’s regiment, when on command”—The Court find the prisoner guilty of the charge, and a breach of the 7th Article of the Continental Rules and Regulations; and do sentence him to be whipp’d Thirty-nine Lashes for said offences.
The General approves of the above sentence, and orders it to be put in execution to morrow morning at Guard mounting.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 19 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York May 19. 1776

This will be delivered you by Genl Gates who sets out to day for Congress agreable to my Letter of Yesterday.
I have committed to him the Heads of Sundry matters to lay before Congress for their consideration, which from the Interesting Intelligence contained in my last, appear to me of the utmost Importance and to demand their most early and serious attention.
Sensible that I have omitted to set down many things necessary, & which probably when deliberating they will wish to be acquainted with, and not conceiving myself at liberty to depart my post, tho to attend them, without their previous approbation, I have requested Genl Gates to Subjoin such Hints of his own as he may apprehend material. His military experience and Intimate acquaintance with the situation of our Affairs will enable him to give Congress the fullest satisfaction about the measures necessary to be adopted at this alarming crisis, and with his zeal and Attachment to the Cause of America, have a claim to their notice and favors.
When Congress shall have come to a determination on the Subject of this Letter, and such parts of my former Letters, as have not been determined on, you will be pleased to honor me with the Result. I am Sir with Sentiments of the greatest regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt Servt


Title: To George Washington from Major General Artemas Ward, 19 May 1776
From: Ward, Artemas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Boston May 19th 1776

Your favour of the thirteenth Instant is Just come to hand, inclosing Colo. Varnums petition, by which I perceive he makes a charge against me, because I did not redeliver (as he is pleased to call it) some men upon request of one Capt. Lane.
The case was thus, if I remember right, Lane came to me, & said he had Supplyed a man with money, to inlist men for Colo.

Varnums Regt, and that he had inlisted fifteen or sixteen men, & had Recd his orders to Joyn said Regiment at Prospect-Hill. But before the men arived, the Regiment had Marched for New York & the men had Inlisted into Colo. Phinneys Regiment. He desired I would order them to Join Colo. Varnums Regt. I asked him for the Inlistment, that I might know who the men were, & have the proper proof of their having inlisted Into Colo. Varnums Regt. He replyed, he had not got any, they were destroyed, but did not say who destroyed them. I then asked him if he was like to loose the money. He said somebody (but who I don’t remember) would give him the money again, but he would not take it.
I then told him he had better take it, & look out better next time. I think there would have been no propriety in my ordering that, or any other number to Join Colo. Varnums Regiment, without first having the proper Evidence of their first inlisting into the same.
It’s somewhat surprising the Gentleman should take it upon him, to make a charge against me, for not doing, that, which by his own charge it appears I had no right to do, by law or reason. As to Liet. Merrels Conduct in the matter I shall make Inquiry into it as soon as may be, if I find him faulty, as alledged in the Petition I shall give information thereof to your Excellency. I am Sir your humble Servant

Artemas Ward


Title: From George Washington to Nathaniel Woodhull, 19 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Woodhull, Nathaniel

Sir
New York May 19. 1776

Having reason to beleive from Intelligence lately received that the Time is not far distant when the Arrival of a Considerable Armament may be expected, I must again repeat my applications on the Subject of Arms & entreat your Honble body to use their utmost exertion that a supply may be obtained for the Regiments of this Colony, which in Genl are extremely deficient, some of ’em almost destitute—I trust your own feelings will readily suggest I have sufficient cause of anxiety & concern upon this occasion & will furnish an apology for my so often

troubling you. I have tried, I have pursued every measure my Judgemt lead to without being able to procure a sufficient quantity, nor have I any power to apply to but you, from which I can promise myself the least prospect of Success.
I wou’d also take the liberty of praying your endeavours to procure a Quantity of Intrenching Tools, Viz. Spades & Shovels, as our Operations goe on much slower than they wou’d, If we had more of them, which at a crisis like this is exceedingly alarming, when the Utmost labor & Industry will not more than complete the necessary Works of defence by the Time the Enemy may attempt an Invasion—The Qur Mr assures me that he has taken every possible method in his power to get them but without success, which is the reason of my requesting an exertion of your Interest. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Breck, 20 May 1776
From: Breck, Robert
To: Washington, George

Northampton [Mass.] 20 May 1776. “In Obeidiance to your Warrant dated Janry 24th ⟨mutilated ha⟩ve attended the Service of Mustering the Regiment raised ⟨in the⟩ Counties of Hampshire & Berkshire, & have inclosed the Muster-⟨roll.⟩ Colo. Porter’s leaving an Officer to recruit till this Time, is the Reason why this Return has been delay’d—I have likewise inclo⟨se⟩d an Accompt of my Services amounting to £6.9.4 which I pray may be paid to Mr Peter Vandervoort Mercht New York.”


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Franklin, 20 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear Sir
New York May 20. 1776

I do myself the pleasure to Transmit you the Inclosed Letter, which I received yesterday with several others in the condition this is, & containing similar Intelligence—the rest I forwarded to Congress immediately on receipt. they had passed thro the hands of some of the Committees in the Eastern Governments by whom they were opened.
On the morning of the 17 Inst. with much concern and Surprize I received the melancholy account of our Troops being Obliged to raise the Siege of Quebec with the loss of their Cannon, a number of small Arms, provisions &c.
I had hoped before this misfortune, that the Troops there wou’d have maintained their posts, and on the Arrival of the two Brigades detached from hence, consisting of Ten Regiments (the last of which was at Albany under Genl Sullivan when the Account came) the Blockade bravely kept up for a long time by a handfull of men against a victorious Enemy, superior in numbers, wou’d terminate in a favourable and happy Issue, the reduction of Quebec and our consequent possession of the Important Country to which It belongs—to what cause to ascribe the sad disaster, I am at loss to determine, but hence I shall know the events of War are exceedingly doubtfull, and that Capricious fortune often blasts our most flattering hopes.
I feel this important and Interesting event, not a little heighten’d by Its casting up, just on your entrance & that of the other Honorable Commissioners in that Country—tho your presence may conduce to the public good in an essential manner, yet I am certain you must experience difficulties and embarrasments of a peculiar nature. perhaps in a little time, Things may assume a more promising appearance than the present is, and your difficulties in some degree be done away.
Wishing your Councils under the guidance of a kind providence and a tender of my respectfull Compli⟨ments⟩ to the Gentn who accompany y⟨ou,⟩ I have ⟨the honor mutilated⟩


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 20 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir,
New York 20th May 1776.

Your favour of the 16th with several resolutions of Congress, therein Inclosed, I had not the honor to receive till last Night. before the receipt, I did not think myself at liberty to wait on Congress, altho I wish’d to do it; and therefore, the more readily consented to General Gates’s attendance; as I knew there were many matters which cd be better explaind in a personal Interview than in whole Volumes of Letters—He accordingly set out for Phila. yesterday Morning, & must have been too far advancd on his journey (as he proposed expedition) to be overtaken. I shall, if I can settle some matters, which are in agitation, with the Provincial Congress here, follow tomorrow, or next day—and therefore with every Sentiment of regard—attachment—& gratitude to Congress for their kind attention to the means which they think may be conducive to my hea⟨lth,⟩ and with particular thanks to you for the politeness of your Invitation to your House, conclude Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & obligd Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 20 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Sir
New York May 20. 1776

I received your favors of the 11 & 16 Instts the former respecting powder for which you have Inclosed the Commissarys receipts as to the Number of Barrells but not of the Contents,

no Invoice thereof having been delivered either to me or him, which certainly shoud have been sent for the detection of any fraudulent practices, if any were committed—The Commissary will expect one, & that they will always accompany such Stores as may be transmitted in Future: The Latter, about Arms at Rhode Island, covg Letters for the Genn in whose possessn they are havg read, I have Sealed & forwarded to them with directions to send the musquets immediately, being in great want. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Artemas Ward, 20 May 1776
From: Ward, Artemas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Boston 20 May 1776

I am to inform your Excellency that yesterday afternoon Captain Mugford in the armed Schooner Franklin, fell down in order to go out on a Cruise but got a ground near Point Shirley in the Evening. Major Frazers little armed Schooner went down at the same time with the Franklin, and anchored not far from her; about midnight a number of sail and other Boats from the Men of War attacked the two armed Schooners, the people on board Major Frazer’s cut their cable and came up; Capt. Mugford was very fiercely attacked by twelve or thirteen Boats full of Men, but he and his Men exerted themselves with remar[ka]ble Bravery, beat off the Enemy, sunk severy of their Boats and killed a number of their men, it is supposed they lost sixty or seventy. The intrepid Captain Mugford fell a little before the Enemy left his Schooner, he was ran through with a lance while he was cutting off the hands of the Pirates as they were attempting to board him; and it is said that with his own hands he cut off five pair of theirs: no other Man was either killed or wounded on Board the Franklin.
These are all the particulars which I have been able to collect,

as but one man has yet come up from the Schooner this morning. I am Your Excellencys Obedient Humble Servant

Artemas Ward

P.S. Mr Mugford was not commiss[ion]ed Captain of the Franklin, but Master, and as the other Officers had left the Schooner he took the Command.


Title: General Orders, 21 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 21st 1776.
Parole Camden.Countersign Liberty.

That no confusion may ensue when the Troops are called into action, the General has order’d, that all the posts and [guards] of the lines, redoubts and batteries, be so fixed and regulated, as every officer, and soldier, may know his place & duty; which will be explained to them by the Brigadiers General, according to the orders of yesterday; And further to confirm the order, and discipline of the Guards of the Army; The General orders, that the officers, and men, who are to mount guard, do parade by half past Six o’Clock, where they are by their Adjutants, in the presence of a Field Officer; to be reviewed, and their Arms and Ammunition, to be examined, according to the orders of the 19th Instant—which last mentioned Officers are to see that their ammunition and accoutrements are complete, and the men dressed in a soldierlike manner. The Adjutants are then to march them to the parade of the brigade, and to deliver them over, to the Major of their respective brigade, who is very minutely to inspect and see, that the Guards are compleat in the particulars above-mention’d—The Brigade Majors are then to march them to the Grand parade in

the Common, in the Artillery-Park, and from thence the several out-Guards are to be relieved—On the Grand parade the Brigadier, with the Field Officers of the day, will attend to see the Guards paraded, and march’d to their several destinations—The Brigade Major of the day, is also to attend on the Grand parade, and make up the Guards, before he repairs to Head Quarters, for the purpose of reporting the same, and to receive any orders from the Commander in Chief, to the Brigadier General of the day, and to the other Brigadiers of the line—The Brigadier General of the day, will give his orders on the parade, to the Field Officers of the day, at what time he would have them go the visiting, and grand rounds. At Reveille beating, which is to be at the dawn of day; all the Guards are to be under Arms, at their proper posts, and visited by the Field Officers of the picquet (who are all esteemed Field Officers of the day) who are to see that the Guards are properly placed, and that every thing is in good order for defence, in case of an attack. The Brigadier General will, on the parade, assign to each Field Officer of the day, the posts he is to visit for this purpose.
The Artillery Guard is to parade at the same time and place—the Matrosses and Gunners necessary, to be constant at each battery, are with their proper implements to march off from the Grand parade, at the head of the Guards, to be station’d at the respective batteries.
The Field Officer who goes the Grand Rounds, is to visit the Camp Guards, as well as the Guards stationed in the town, and at the batteries—The other two Field Officers of the day are to do the like, at such hours of the night, as will be assigned them by the Brigadier of the day.
By the present demand for Flints, by some of the Troops, the General has reason to apprehend, that due care has not been taken of those lately deliver’d to the Soldiers, who have had no occasion to make an extraordinary use of them—and it is well known, that a good Flint, well screw’d in, will stand the firing of sixty rounds (after which it may still be repaired) ’tis therefore presumed, that the men have either lost their Flints through negligence, or abused them by that worst of practices, Snapping their pieces continually, which not only spoils their Lock, softens the Hammer, and destroys the Flint, but frequently causes the

death of many a man, by the Gun being unknowingly loaded—The Officers are therefore required, to pay a very strict attention to this particular, and have their men’s Flints examined when they review their Ammunition; for men being surprized with bad flints in their Guns, may be attended with fatal consequences—The Officers are also desired to be careful, that when their men turn out to exercise, their Flints be taken out, and a wooden Snapper screw’d into their gun, until their excercise be over; when the Flint is again to be well screw’d in, and their arms immediately put in proper fighting order, after which, no man is on any account to snap his piece.
One Flint ⅌ Man will be delivered to the Troops, and ’tis expected more care will be taken of them, than has been done heretofore.
The Sentries in Fort George, and on the Battery, are to keep a sharp look out towards the Narrows, Staten Island, Red-hook &c., to observe if any Signals are given from thence; and acquaint the officer of the guard immediately therewith.
The Officers and Men, are strictly enjoined to keep close to their quarters—No excuse will be admitted from either, for a neglect of it; and the rolls are frequently to be called over.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Nathanael Greene, 21 May 1776
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Long Island May 21th 1776

From the last accounts from Great Britain it appears absolutely necessary that there should be an augmentation of the American forces in consequence of which I suppose there will be several promotions—As I have no desire of quiting the service, I hope the Congress will take no measures that will lay me under the disagreeable necessity of doing it—I have ever found my self exceeding happy under your Excellencys command—I wish my Abillitie to deserve was equal to my inclination to merit—how far I have suceeded in my endeavors I submit to your Excellencys better Judgment—I hope I shall never be more fond of promotion than studious to merit it—Modesty will forever forbid me to apply to that House for any favors—I

consider my self immediately under your Excellencys protection and look up to you for Justice—every man feels him self wounded where he finds him self neglected—and that in propo[r]tion as he is conscious of endeavoring to merit Attention—I shall be satisfied with any measures that the Congress shall take that has not a direct tendency to degrade me in the Publick estimation a measure of that sort would sink me in my own esteem, and render me spiritless and uneasy in my situation & consequently unfit for the service—I wish for nothing more than Justice either upon a principle of merit or Rank and will at all times rest satisfied when your Excellency tells me I ought to be—I feel my self strongly Attacht to the cause, to the Continental Congress, and to your Excellencys person—and I should consider it a great misfortune to be deprivd of an Opportunity of takeing an Active part in the support of the one and in the promotion of the other.
But should any thing take place contrary to my wishes, which might furnish me with a sufficient Reason for quiting the service yet I will not do it until the danger and difficulties appears less than at present—Believe me to be with the highest respect your Excellencys most Obedient humble servant

N. Greene


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 21 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York May 21. 1776

The Bearer, Mr Mersay being at Quebec when the Garrison Sallied & Obliged our Troops to an abandonment of the Siege & a precipitate retreat; I have taken the liberty to refer him to you for examination, that Congress may have such further Information of this unfortunate event as he possesses. I have the honor &c.

G: W—


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 21 May 1776
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada May 21t 1776

As I imagine this will meet you on the Road to this Place, I wave making any Mention of public Matters, except that it is the Wish of Congress, you would if consistent with the Good of the Service order one Battalion from New York to be posted at Amboy in the Jerseys agreable to the enclosed Resolve.
Genl Gates arrived this Morning, soon after which I was honored with your Favour by Post which I laid before Congress; and as they expect you so soon here, I imagine they will defer consulting Genl Gates & wait your Arrival.
Your Favour of the 20th Inst. I received this Morning, & cannot help expressing the very great Pleasure it would afford both Mrs Hancock & myself to have the Happiness of accommodating you during your Stay in this City. As the House I live in is large and roomy, it will be entirely in your Power to live in that Manner you should wish. Mrs Washington may be retired as she pleases while under Inocculation, & Mrs Hancock will esteem it an Honour to have Mrs Washington inocculated in her House; and as I am informed Mr Randolph has not any Lady about his House to take the necessary Care of Mrs Washington, I flatter myself she will be as well attended in my Family. In short, Sir, I must take the Freedom to repeat my Wish that you would be pleased to condescend to dwell under my Roof. I assure you, Sir, I will do all in my Power to render your Stay agreeable, & my House shall be entirely at your Disposal. I must however submit this to your Determination, & only add that you will peculiarly gratify Mrs H. and myself in affording me an opportunity of convincing you of this Truth, That I am with every Sentiment of Regard for you & your Connections & with much Esteem Dear Sir your faithful and most obedt hble Se[rvan]t

John Hancock

Fessenden complaing for the Want of Money I have advanced him sixteen Dollars, which you will please to order him to account for.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Henry Beekman Livingston, 21 May 1776
From: Livingston, Henry Beekman
To: Washington, George

May it Please Your Excellency
Fort Constitution [N.Y.]21st May 1776

I am induced to trouble Your Excellency with this Letter, lest You Should be deceived by the Information I Gave You with respect to the Depth of the River Opposite this Fort which was very Erronious: Oweing intirely to want of Recollection in the Gentleman fr⟨om⟩ who I had my Information he had tak⟨en⟩ its depth but had forgot it. I have since Sounded it and found it to be 28. 31. & 32 Fathoms oposite Our two Northermost Batteries. Over against Our southermost (which is now ready to Mount ten Guns) & ¾ of a Mile from it, It begins to Shoal from 18 to 11 Fathoms in the Channel it then remains at 11: 12. & ⟨thirteen⟩ till Near Fort Montgomery—opposite to it on this side the Creek Called pooplopen it deepens again to 18 Fathoms just over the Creek to the southward it is 22 Fathoms and in the mouth of it 31. Near the Shoall water Mentioned on the West side the River is an Eminence that Comands a Long reach both up and down the River if it Should be thought Necessary to Boom Across I think it much more practicable there than in

any Other part of the Highlands. Since My last Coll Nicol has returned and taken the Command. The Day before yesterday I recd from the Committee of Dutchess County 58 Stan⟨d⟩ of Arms but they are so much out of repair that they are Quite Useless. I have put them in Store here till we can get an Armourer—Major Schuyler of our Regt will do himself the Honour to present this Letter I could wish him to be Continued here as he is a Young Officer and wants instruction. He is intelligent and I beleive will make a Good Officer after a little Study and Experience. I remain Sir Your Excellencies Most Obedient Humble Servant

Henry B: Livingston—Lt Coll


Title: From George Washington to the New York Provincial Congress, 21 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: New York Provincial Congress

Gentn
New York May 21st 1776

Congress having been pleased to request my attendance at Philadelphia to advise with them on the situation of Affa⟨irs,⟩ and being about to set out immediately, I Judged It necessary to give Majr Genl Putnam Instructions similar to those I have the honor to Inclose you, for the regulation of his conduct, in case you come to any determination respecting the Tories here & on long Island & should have occasion for military assistance to carry It into execution. I have the honor to be with great esteem—Gentn your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: Orders to Major General Israel Putnam, 21 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Sir
[New York, 21 May 1776]

The Congress having been pleased to signify a desire that I should repair to Philadelphia in order to advise & consult with them on the present posture of Affairs, and as I am on the point of setting out accordingly—I have to desire that you will cause the different Works now in agitation to be carried on with the utmost expedition. to this end I have wrote to the Provincial Congress (of this Colony) for Tools and have hopes of obtaining them. apply therefore accordingly—takg an exact acct of what yo[u] receive.
The Works upon Long Island should be compleated as expeditiously as possible—so should those in and about this Town, & upon Governors Island—If New Works can be carried on without detriment to the old (for want of Tools) I would have that intended at Powles hook set abt immediately as I conceive it to be of Importance—in like manner would I have that at the Narrows begun provided Colo. Knox, after his arrangement of the Artillery should find that there are any fit pieces of Cannon to be spared for it—otherwise, as I have no longer any dependance upon Cannon from Admiral Hopkins it wd be useless.
The Barriers of those Streets leading from the Water are not to be meddled with & where they have been pulld down are to be repaird—& nearer the water if more advantageous.
As it does not appear to me improbable that the Enemy may attempt to run past our Batteries in, and about the Town, and Land between them & the Woody grounds above Mr Scots I woud have you imploy as many Men as you can in throwing up Fleches at proper places and distances within that space in order to give opposition in Landing but if there are not Tools enough to carry on the other (more essential[)] Works and these at the same Instant you are not to neglect the first but Esteem these as secondary considerations only.
Delay not a moments time to have the Signals fixed for the purpose of communicating an alarm upon the first appearance

of the Enemy. let them be placed in such a manner, and at such distances, as to be easily discernd; day, or Night—If this was continued upon the long Island Shore for some distance, good consequences might result from it as nothing can be attended with more signal advantages than having timely notice of the Enemys approach whilst nothing can add more to the disgrace of an officer than to be surprizd. for this reason I have to beg that the same vigilance & precaution may be used as if the Enemy were actually within sight; as a brisk Wind, & flowing tide will soon produce them when they are once on the coast. the Officers & Men therefore shd be constantly at their Qrs the Guards alert & every thing in readiness for immediate action.
As I have great reason to fear that the Fortifications in the highlands are in a bad situation, and the Garrisons on Acct of Arms worse; I would have you send Brigadier Lord Sterling with Colo. Putnam (and Colo. Knox if he can be spared) up there to see, report and direct such alterations [as] shall be judg’d necessary for putting them into a fit, and proper posture of defence.
Open any Letters which may come ⟨di⟩rected to me upon Public Service, whil⟨st⟩ I am absent, and if any very Interesting advices should be containd therein, either from the Eastward, or Northward, forward them on to Philadelphia after regulating your conduct thereby.
I must again beg that your particular Attention may be turnd to our Powder Magazines to see that that valuable Article is properly placed and Secured—I also beg that no time or means be neglected to make as many Musket Cartridges as possible. Given under my hand at Head Quarters in the City of New York this 21st day of May 1776.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 21 May 1776
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
New York Tuesday past 12 at Night[21 May 1776]

Capt. Wm Goforth arrived here about an hour since with the enclosed letters—Express from Canada, which I mean to forward on to Amboy very early in the morning, and beg your Excellency’s particular answer in regard to what you would have forwarded from this place—Capt. Goforth commanded the Schooner in the River St Lawrence—he says—that not more than 100 Men are taken prisoners & them all sick—the Frigate gave him chase—he crouded all Sail possible but found it in vain, he then quitted wt. his Crew, save a Son of Colo. McDougall’s & one more who were so obstinate they would not leave the Vessel

& were taken Prisoners—he further says that he did not see a single Man land from the Ships that came up—nor does he believe the Enemy sallied out on our Troops—of this he is confident, that not a Gun was fire’d but between the Frigate and himself. the Troops from the Island of Orleans—Point Levy—& all out Guards had got safe off, and join’d Genl Thomas.
Misfortune on misfortune—A Vessel from France arrived yesterday on the back of Long-Island & came to Anchor, loaded with 12 Tonns powder—500 Small Arms & dry Goods—the English Capt. with a Boats Crew came on shore for Assistance to land his Goods—soon after the French Capt. who was on Board—saw a small Sloop to Leward beating up to him, ’tis supposed he tho’t them friends—he immediately weigh’d anchor and bore down for them, when unluckily it prov’d to be one of the Asia’s tenders—who took and carried her into the Hook—I have seen the Capt.—he was own’d by Mr Brown of Providence—she was seen comeing into the Hook this morning in Company with the Tender, that there can be no doubt of the truth of it.
The Committee this Evening applyed to me to let the arm’d Petty-Auger Cruise of the back of the Island to protect a number of Vessels which are hourly expected in with Arms & Ammunition. she is a very Swift Sailor and draws but little water and probably may be of great service to us in this way—this Request I shall comply with unless otherways ordered by your Excellency. I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedient & Very Hume servt

Israel Putnam


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 21 May 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Fort George [N.Y.] May 21st 1776

I was last Evening honored with your Excellency’s Favor of the 15th Instant.
I have sent to Canada half of the Money transmitted me by Colonel Gilman; thirty thousand Dollars of the other half is gone to Connecticut, where we still owe about seventy thousand, the Remainder is nearly expended in paying Debts long since accrued, and the Calls for daily Expences is very considerable. I hope Congress will remit a further sum; without which it will be difficult to carry on any Service.
Since Monday Morning last I have forwarded from this post six hundred and sixty three Barrels of pork in fifty one Batteaus, and about fifty Barrels of Flour besides a small Quantity for the little Garrison at Tyconderoga, and fourteen Days provisions for the Troops which carried the above, which were Reed’s & Starks’s Regiments, the last of which left me this

Morning—The first of the provisions above mentioned I have Reason to think reached St John’s on Friday & the far greater part I believe is there now—Starks’s Regiment carryed only seventy seven Barrels being all I had—About two hundred Barrels of pork and eighty of Flour are since arrived, and will be sent off on Wednesday, with the third Regiment of General Sullivan’s Brigade which I expect in to Morrow—I have now Batteaus sufficient to move three of the four remaining Regiments, and on Wednesday Evening I shall have enough for the last of the Brigade, and by that Time the Nails now here will be all expended, but shall probably e’er then receive those your Excellency ordered from New York, with which I propose to build about forty Batteaus more: twenty to be employed on Lake George and the others on Lake Champlain in transporting provisions, for I dare not trust to the large Vessels (which may be detained by contrary winds, or by getting aground) until the Army has six weeks allowance before hand.
Yesterday there was no pork left at Albany: I suppose about four hundred Barrels are on the Way up, with an equal Quantity of Flour—I propose sending on a considerable Quantity of Flour, lest, if farther Misfortunes should happen to us, we might be under the Necessity of retiring altogether out of Canada.
I have ordered Colonel Drayton, with 300 Men into Tryon County to bring away the Highlanders & their Families and to make Sir John Johnson a close prisoner, who regardless of his Parole has secretly combined with other Tories to levy Troops, and cut off the Communication and two of the Informants agree that they intended to assassinate me and my Family & destroy my Buildings—The orders I have given on this occasion I shall do myself the Honor to transmit your Excellency, the first Moment I can spare—Indeed I ought to send you every order I issue, but I am really so much pressed by Business, that I have not been more than six Hours in Bed unless indisposed in any one Night since the Beginning of April.
I have not had a Line from Canada since my last to you—I am informed that our Troops were still at De Chambault about the Middle of last Week: that the Canadians about the Sorrel wish that we may keep the Country, tho’ they complain loudly and with too much Reason, of the ill Treatment they have received

from many of our Troops, that marched into Canada last winter.
Bennet informs me, that a Report prevails in the western parts of Connecticut, that I was to head some of the Regiments raised in this Colony; join the Tories and fall upon the Country: that the people were ordered to collect on the Occasion, and that affidavits to support this Report had been taken & sent to your Excellency—I hope the Scoundrels may be secured and held up to public Contempt—Ungrateful villains! to attempt to destroy a Man’s Reputation who having lighted the Candle at both Ends is rapidly bringing on old Age by Fatigues that Nothing but a wish to be instrumental in procuring Liberty to my Country would make me undergo. Adieu my dear General. I am with the warmest Sentiments ever most sincerely Your most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: General Orders, 22 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 22nd 1776
Parole Washington.Countersign Gates.

The following are the names of the different Batteries, in and about this City—The Battery at the South part of the Town, the Grand Battery—The one immediately above it, Fort George—The one on the left of the Grand Battery, Whitehall Battery. That behind his Excellency General Washington’s Head Quarters, the Oyster Battery. The circular Battery near the Brewhouse, on the North River, The Grenadier Battery. That on the left of the Grenadier’s Battery The Jersey-Battery: The one on Bayards-hill, Bayard’s Hill Redoubt; The one on the hill where General Spencer’s Brigade is encamped Spencer’s Redoubt; below this Hill, on a Wharf, is a Fascine Battery called Waterbury’s Battery—On the hill directly above it, is a Redoubt, near the Jews Burying Ground, by the name of Badlam’s Redoubt.
Andrew O’Brien, Serjeant, and William Welch Corporal, both of Capt. O’Harra’s Company, in Col. Wynkoops Regt tried by a late General Court Martial, whereof Col. Ritzema was President for “assaulting, beating, and dangerously wounding,

one William Irvine”; are both acquitted by the Court. The General approves the sentence, and orders the prisoners to be released immediately.


Title: To George Washington from Commodore Esek Hopkins, 22 May 1776
From: Hopkins, Esek
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence May 22nd 1776

I sent the Providence last thursday with all the Soldiers which belong’d to your Army that could then be collected—since I sent three by Capt. Williams and there is some Sick now here which shall send as soon as well—some few I believe is deserted or gone by Land.
The Cabot and Andrew Doria both Sail’d last Sunday Morning on a Cruise to the Eastward—the Columbus hope to send soon—the others I am afraid cant get away for want of Men as the Men onboard the Fleet continue very Sickly it makes it difficult to get Men & want it for that Impediment the Sailors are mostly taken up in the several Armies & otherways so that it will be with great difficulty the Fleet here can be Mann’d—the two new ships are Launched & will be soon ready if men could be had.
I receiv’d Orders to send to Philadelphia a Number of Cannon which if comply’d with will give great Uneasiness in this part of the Country. I am with great Regard Your most humbe Servt

Esek Hopkins


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 22 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Sir
Amboy [N.J.] 22d May 1776

Your Letter of the Last night with the dispatches from Canada, Came to my hands at Woodbridge this morning, I wish that the information given you by Captain Goforth respecting the number of prisoners taken, may prove true, what he told you about the enemy’s not haveing Sallied out, differs widely from General Thomas’ acct of that affair.
you will please to give every assistance which General Schuyler requires, that may be in your power, & Lest you may not have Kept a Copy of his Letter, I will transcribe that paragraph, which Contains his Demands “Intrenching tools of every Kind will be wanted, more powder, Lead, & Cannon balls and Guns for the vessels on Lake Champlain Rigging, Sail Cloth, & sail makers to be Sent up.[”]
for Intrenching tools, Rigging Sail Cloth, & Sail makers, I woud have you apply immediatly to the Provincial Congress, who will probably be able to procure them for you. Some of the members mentiond to me that they Coud procure a quantity of tools of which you will Send off as many as you Can Spare, you must take Care not to Leave your self destitute, I sent five tons of Lead forward, which General Schuyler Knew not of, however I woud have you exami⟨ne⟩ what quantity there is in Store, & if you Can Spare it Send up two tons more, as to the Cannon Ball & Guns, you will Consult with Colonel Knox, who must judge what Sort of each is necessary, & Send them up with the other articles—I have allready Spoke to the Commissary General to Send off as mu⟨ch⟩ Salt provisions as he Coud, but you must urg⟨e⟩ him on this head, as they are in very great want, & have no other place to depend on, but what goes from New york, he must Lay in all he Can get, to Supply the quantity

whi⟨ch⟩ he Sends up, for he must take Care to Keep up his Stock.
it was a misfortune indeed, that the vess⟨el⟩ with powder & arms shoud fall into the hand⟨s⟩ of the enemy—Let the Committee by all means have the Pettiauger to Cruise off the back of the Island, the Sooner She is out the better, as more vessels with them articles may be daily expected.
I have Said nothing of powder to be sent up which necessary Article shoud not be forgot you will please to send off two tons thereof which will Serve until we Can Spare a farther Supply. I remain with great regard Sir Your most H: Sert

Go: Washington

P.S. please to forward the inclosd by the first express or the first post which goes to Albany—it is left open for your perusal, you will please to Seal it & forward it.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 22 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir
Amboy [N.J.] May 2[2]th 1776.

Congress having been pleased to request My Attendance at Philadelphia to advise with them on the Situation of our Affairs, & of such Measures as may be Necessary to adopt for this Campaign, I had got thus far on my Journey, where I called to View the Ground & such Places on Staten Island contiguous to It, which may be proper for Works of Defence, when Your Favor of the 16th instant, with Its several Inclosures came to Hand.
I am exceedingly concerned for the Distress of our Troops in Canada, and as I informed You heretofore, have been very Importunate with the Commissary to forward all the Provisions in his Power, In Consequence of which he has sent a Good Deal on, & I shall again repeat my Orders & Enjoin him to Continue his Supplies as largely & Expeditiously as possible.
I wrote You on the 17th Instant & am hopeful the 27½

Barrels of Nails which were all that could be got, with the five Tons of Lead then sent, will have reached You or at least Albany, from whence they will be forwarded, & in a Letter to General Putnam, have directed him to examine our Stock of the Latter & to furnish You with a further Quantity If It can be spared, at Philadelphia I will try to get a Supply. I have also directed him to send You two Tons more of Powder & such Intrenching Tools as can be possibly spared or procured from the Convention in Consequence of an Application I made two or three Days since. We are deficient in these, Not having a sufficiency to carry on the Works for the Defence of New York, with the Expedition I wish or the Exigency of the Time Demands.
In Respect to Cannon Shot & Guns for the Vessels in the Lake, I have requested him to consult Colo. Knox, & with the Convention about Sail Cloth &ca & if any of them can be spared or procured, that they be immediately sent You.
Our Situation respecting the Indians is rather delicate & Embarrassing. They are attached to Johnson, who is our Enemy. Policy & Prudence on the One Hand, suggest the Necessity of seizing him & Every Friend of Government, On the Other if he is apprehended, there will be Danger of Incurring their Resentment, I hope the Committee will conduct the Matter in the least Exceptionable Manner & in that Way, that shall most advance the Public Good.
I observe from the Minutes of a Council of War, Genl Thomas’s Letter & that of Messrs Carroll & Chase to Doctor Franklin, that our Troops Cannot make a Stand at De Chambeau as I had hoped; I wish It were practicable, for most Certainly the lower down the River we Can maintain our Post, the more important will the Advantages resulting from It, be, Considering all the Country below us as lost, & that there may be some Prospect of gaining that above from whence we might draw Supplies in some Degree & have the Friendship & Assistance of the Inhabitants. It is Certain we should make a stand as low down as we Can, So as not to have a Retreat Cut off in Case of Necessity or an Opportunity of receiving Provisions. But unacquainted as I am with the Country, I cannot undertake to say where It should be, Not doubting & hoping that Every Thing for the best will be done. I am, Dr Sir, Your Affectionate Hble servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 23 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 23rd 1776
Parole Amboy.Countersign York.

The Sail Makers in the different regiments, are all to parade in front of the General’s Quarters, to morrow morning at six o’clock.
A reinforcement to be immediately made to the Main Guard at the lower barracks of one Sub. two Serjts, two Corporals, one Drumr and thirty Privates.
The order for doubling the Sentries at night to be strictly attended to.
All those men of the following Regiments (Vizt) Colonel Parsons’s, Webb’s, Baldwin’s, Nixon’s, Wyllys’s and Read’s, who have agreed to serve in the Whaling Boats with Lieut. Col. Tupper, are to repair immediately to him, and take their orders from him.


Title: To George Washington from Ensign Duncan Campbell, 23 May 1776
From: Campbell, Duncan
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fredericksburgh Dutches County [N.Y.] 23d may 1776

Having leave from General Schuyler last March, to come and settle some property I had at this place, he directed me to the County Committee for further leave: but not finding my affairs as I expected; I waited on the Committee and applyed to them for a pass to go to the Jerseys or Pensilvania, where the most of the Gentlemen that were taken prisoners in Canada were already sent to. there answer was, that they Cou’d not take it on themselves to send me any where but back again to Albany, without General Shuylers directions.

I have wrote General Schuyler twice, acquainting him of their ordering me back again, and begging that he woud be pleased to let me know where I was to go to; But received no answer tho’ I have wrote a month ago.
As this is my situation, I will take it as a particular favour, to have Your Excellencys directions; and an Order for Carriages for my self & Baggage as none will otherwise be provided for me. I wou’d be glad to have the indulgence of going to the Jerseys, as I am well known in that place: likewise as I have a large family of a wife and six Children, which will be sent the most of the way by water Carriage. I am Sir Your Excellency Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

Dun: Campbell Ensn & Q.M.to the 26th Regt & prisoner of war


Title: To George Washington from Captain Richard Varick, 23 May 1776
From: Varick, Richard
To: Washington, George

May It please Your Excellency
Albany May 23d 1776.

Agreeable to General Schuyler’s Directions to me, I send down (under Charge of Lieut. Van Waggenen) Lieut. Schalch & Dr Gill of the Royal Artillery made Prisoners at St Johns, to be disposed of as Your Excellency shall be pleased to direct. They are on their Parole.
I also send down Mr John MacDonell one of the Scotch Gentlemen made Prisoner at Johns Town, Tryon County, in January last, He has the General’s Permit to go to Reading in Pensylvania; & Join the Other Gentlemen made Prisoners with him. The Conduct of the two former Gentlemen during a Short Stay at Schenectady has proved Unexceptionable.
By the General’s Order I also inclose an Account of Money paid by him or by his Order to Mr Elijah Bennet, Post Rider, Genl Schuyler requests that Bennet may be charged with the Amount. I am Your Excellency’s most Obedt & most Humble sert

Richd Varick


Title: General Orders, 24 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 24th 1776
Parole Mifflin.Countersign Lynch.

The Brigadier Generals will settle the mode, and hours, for going the Rounds at night, every morning on the General Parade at Guard-mounting.
The following Sail Makers, are to embark this day on board a Vessel, in order to proceed to Albany, and from thence to Genl schuyler, and receive his further orders—Vizt Francis Howard[,] Samuel Holmes[,] Ebenezer Durkee[,] Daniel Van Der Pool of Col. Wards regiment[;] Lewis Lamb of Col. Little’s regt[;] George Lemot of Col. Bailey’s regt.
They are to be furnished, with ten days provision a man.

Capt. Harwood’s Company is to join Lieut. Col. Tupper, and do duty on board the whaling boats &c. &c.
Mr Livingston, who has hitherto supplied Col. McDougall’s Regiment with provisions, having declined doing it any longer; he is to order his Quarter Master, to apply to the Commissary General for provision for the future, who is desired to supply all those Corps, which were hitherto supply’d by Mr Abraham Livingston.
The removal of General Washington’s Guard, from his Head Quarters in Town, occasions the following alterations in the detail of guards (vizt) The seven Men lately added to the Provost, to be taken from it; and a Guard of one Serjeant, one Corporal, and fifteen Men to mount at the place where Genl Washingtons Guard was kept; who are to relieve the sentries at his door, General Gates’s, Pay Master General’s &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 24 May 1776
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Head Quarters N. York: May 24th 1776

I Received yours of the 22d from Amboy and waited immediately on the Provincial Congress they gave me the enclosed Invoice of Articles they had forwarded on for Albany. most of the Articles Genll Schuyler wrote for I have already ship’d—and will this day proceed up the River. Colo. Knox has sent Two Conductors to Kings Bridge to pick out 12 Cannon suitable for the Vessels and have them ready by the time the Vessel get’s up—Last Evening came to hand by Mr Cobbit the inclosed Letter and Invoice from Genll Ward, which I tho’t proper to keep by me till this morng as Mr Cobbit had an exact copy of it, with him—many of the Articles Colo. Knox says he wants very much for the Artillery.
The Commissary has ship’t from this place 1700 Barrels of Pork for Albany since the 5th of April. Three large Vessels are hourly expected in from Connecticut loaded with Pork—part of which he says shall be forwarded on for Albany immediately on its Arrival.
We have no lead to spare in this place Colo. Knox informs me there is a great plenty at Boston I have sent express to General Ward for Two Tonns to be sent Immediately on—likewise Colo. Putnams demand which I now enclose.
The Express is just seting of for Albany by him I shall advise General Schuyler of what I have sent forward to him.
We are compleating our Works as fast as Possible, shall endeavor

to comply with all your Orders. I am with Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Most Hume Servt

Israel Putnam

P.S. I have just Received advice that Capt. McCoy and his servt both Deserted from Hartford las[t] Sunday Evening ’tis suspected he is gone for Canada.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 24 May 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Fort George [N.Y.] May 24th 1776

On the 22d I was honored with your Excellency’s Favor of the 17th Instant, and the same Evening the Nails and Lead arrived here, 31 Boxes of the latter I gave in Charge to Colonel Wynd, who left this, with his Regiment Yesterday Morning. the Remainder is gone with General Sullivan who sailed hence with Irwin’s and Wayn’s at 8 this Morning. Dayton’s is not returned from Tryon County, nor have I heard what is doing there—I have Batteaux sufficient to move him, but shall construct fifty more to be employed on Lake George and Lake Champlain in transporting provisions &c. for the Army.
Inclose your Excellency an Estimate of the Men necessary to be employed in transporting and guarding the provisions between Albany and Canada, but if Flour can be procured there, nearly one half of the Number of Men mentioned for the Batteau Service may be dispensed with, when a considerable Stock

is laid in, but even then I shall not have Numbers sufficient with Van Schaick’s and Wynkoop’s to clear Wood Creek cut the Roads, repair Tyconderoga, and do the Variety of Work necessary in this Quarter, I must therefore beg for a Reinforcement.
Two Mohawk Indians came on the 21st to the Landing at the North End of Lake George and after enquiring what News, and where the commanding officer at Tyconderoga kept they said they were going to see him, but they soon took another Rout to the Westward—We suppose these to be some of the Indians who went with Sir John Johnson, we have small scouting parties out, but if we should discover them we are unable to send after them, as we have so few Men here.
Mr McNeil, who left St John’s on Friday last informs me that the 8th Regiment, and a Number of Indians were coming down the St Lawrence, and that a Reinforcement was ordered to Colonel Bedel, who is at the Cedars, and that Warner’s Green Mountain Boys were also to go up there.
As Tyconderoga is to be repaired an Engineir will be wanted, and none is to be procured here.
Having not received a Line from Mr Price to advise me of what Flour can be procured in Canada, I have thought it expedient, least the Army should suffer, to order up a Quantity: about three hundred Barrels are gone on since the 13th Instant & 1191 of pork, 115 of which reached St John’s on the 17th in the Morning and I believe about a like Quantity arrived there on each of the four succeeding Days, so that all my Fears of the army’s Starving are vanished.
I have this afternoon experienced a very severe Fit of the ague—I was in Hopes it had taken its Farewell for this Season—I shall vigorously attack it with the Bark, and hope to eradicate it by that Means.
If such a Number of British and foreign Troops are destined for Canada as is said, more of our’s will be wanted there, & very soon too. I am most respectfully Dr Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Thomas, 24 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Thomas, John

Sir
Philadelphia May 24. 1776

I received your favor of the 8 Instant with Its Inclosures, confirming the melancholy Intelligence I had before heard of your having been Obliged to raise the Seige of Quebec & to make a precipitate retreat, with the loss of the Cannon in the Batteaus & Interception of the powder going from Genl Schuyler.
This unfortunate Affair has given a sad shock to our Schemes

in that quarter and blasted the hope we entertained of reducing that Fortress and the whole of Canada to our possession.
From your representation, things must have been found in great disorder and such as to have made a retreat almost Inevitable—But nevertheless It is hoped you will be able to make a good Stand yet and by that means secure a large or all the upper part of the Country—That being a matter of the utmost Importance in the present Contest It is my wish and that of Congress that you take an Advantageous post as far down the river as possible so as not to preclude you from a Retreat If It shou’d be ever necessary or from getting proper supplies of provision—The lower down you can maintain a Stand the more advantageous will It be, as all the Country above will most probably take part with us and from which we may draw some Assistance and support and considering all below as entirely within the power of the Enemy and of course in their favor.
This misfortune must be repaired If possible by our more vigorous exertions & trusting that nothing will be wanting on your part or in your power to advance our Country’s cause. I am &c.


Title: General Orders, 26 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 26th 1776
Parole Hancock.Countersign Trumbull

“In Provincial Congress, New York, May 25th 1776.
“Messrs John Berrien and Robert Harpur, two of the members of the General Committee of the City of New-York, delivered in the report of the said Committee, which was read and filed, and is in the words following. (vizt)
 “Committee Chamber, May 24th 1776.
“Doctor Foster appearing before the Committee says, that information was given to General Putnam, that several persons had been inoculated, at the house of one Fisher, in Stone Street, contrary to a resolve of the Provincial Congress of this Colony, he, the examinant (agreeable to Genl Putnam’s order) immediately went to the house of the above mentioned Fisher,

where he discovered that Lt Colonel Moulton, Capt. Parks, Doctor Hart and Lieut. Brown had been inoculated by Doctor Azor Betts.
“Doctor Azor Betts being sent for, appeared before the Committee, allowed the charge against him, and offer’d in his vindication—that he had been repeatedly applied to by the officers of the Continental Army to inoculate them, that he refused, but being overpersuaded, he at last inoculated the persons abovementioned.
“Resolved. That Doctor Azor Betts, be committed to the Goal of this City, and be kept in safe custody, until released by the Provincial Congress.
“Ordered—That a Copy of the minutes relating to Doctor Azor Betts’s case, be handed to the provincial Congress.
“Extract from the minutes.
 “Signed. Josh. Winter Secretary.
“Mesrs Berrian and Harpur further inform, that the wife of Azor Betts, on her examination, says That Lieut. Seymour from Long Island had informed her, that seven persons of the Army (Officers as she understood) on Long Island, were taking mercurial preparations, and as he supposed, were inoculated, or preparing to be inoculated for the small pox.
“Ordered. That a Copy of the report of the General Committee, to this Congress, be delivered to Major Genl Putnam—that he give such direction to the Continental Army, for preventing the Small-Pox among them on Long-Island, as he may think necessary.
“Extract from the minutes.
 “signed, John McKesson Secretary[”]
The General presents his Compliments to the Honorable The Provincial Congress, and General Committee, is much obliged to them, for their care, in endeavouring to prevent the spreading of the Small-pox (by Inoculation or any other way) in this City, or in the Continental Army, which might prove fatal to the army, if allowed of, at this critical time, when there is reason to expect they may soon be called to action; and orders that the Officers take the strictest care, to examine into the state of their respective Corps, and thereby prevent Inoculation amongst them; which, if any Soldier should presume upon, he must expect the severest punishment.

Any Officer in the Continental Army, who shall suffer himself to be inoculated, will be cashiered and turned out of the army, and have his name published in the News papers throughout the Continent, as an Enemy and Traitor to his country.
Upon the first appearance of any eruption, the Officer discovering of it in any Soldiers, is to give information to the regimental Surgeon, and the Surgeon make report of the same, to the Director General of the hospital.
The working party from Col. Nixon’s Regiment, are to be ordered every day to Long-Island, instead of Governours Island, as mentioned in yesterday’s orders.
The form of a morning report (which the Captain of the lower Barrack Guard is to make every day to the Field Officer) may be had, by applying to any of the Brigade Majors; and ’tis expected this form will be duly attended to.


Title: To George Washington from the Great Barrington, Sheffield, and Canaan Committees of Safety, 26 May 1776
From: Great Barrington, Sheffield, and Canaan Committees of Safety
To: Washington, George

Sir,
G. Barrington [Mass.] May 26: 1776

A Convention of the Committees of Berkshire and the parts adjacent, have lately, by two Expresses, communicated to your Excellency their Suspicion of a Plot being formed for the Destruction of these United Colonies; by a Combination of a number of Persons among ourselves for that Purpose; with the Evidence upon which that Suspicion was principally grounded. Amongst other Persons accused General Schuyler was one; whose Important Station, would give him peculiar Advantages to distress us, by withholding Support from the Army in Canada, if he was Inamically disposed. The said Convention therefore took all those Methods they could devise to find out the Sentiments of the General. And it is with the greatest Pleasure we are now able to acquaint your Excellency that said Convention are Satisfied that their Suspicions respecting him were wholly groundless. That there has been a Plan forming among our Enemies in the Colonies, is beyond Doubt. & we hope the whole will be Soon brought to light: But that some Wicked Designing Men have greatly magnified it, and falsely asserted divers persons of Distinction, & merit to be concerned in it in order to influence the Timid, and Ignorant, and promote Jealousies amongst us, is Indisputable. The Committees of this Town Sheffield & Canaan, Thought it their Duty to acquaint your Excellency with the above, as perhaps it might have Some

Influence upon your Orders or Conduct relating to these matters. And they have ordered me to inform you accordingly This goes by Express. By order of said Committees I am your Excellencys most obedt Humle Servt

Mark Hopkins


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 26 May 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Fort George [N.Y.] 26th May 1776

Since my last of the 24th I have received sundry Letters from Canada, of which the inclosed are Copies.
The five Batteaus sent with provisions on the 14th arrived at St John’s on the 17th, as I have already observed to your Excellency in my last.
I have now three hundred Barrels of pork here, part of which will go in the large Boat, which I momently expect, but I cannot send any in Batteaus for Want of Men, nor can Colonel Wynkoop to whom I sent for two Companies, supply any without stoping all there—I have sent for Troops to Albany but do not expect to procure many.
Mr Deane, who left Montreal on Thursday last informs me, that a part of the eighth Regiment with about 170 Indians had actually arrived near the Cedars; that the Caghnawagas are friendly, but refuse to take up arms in our Favor.
I wish it could be so managed that the Indians on the Visit to your Excellency were detained, as long as possible, and by some Means or other induced to go to Philadelphia and other places, that they might serve as a Kind of Hostages, for the peaceable Demeanor of the others.
Yesterday I received the inclosed from Colonel Dayton. From the Declaration of Lady Johnson, that we shall soon hear where he is, I suspect he is only gone towards Oswego to meet with Major Hamilton, who I find from an intercepted Letter to one

of our prisoners was to fall on the Colony in that Quarter, this has induced me to order Colonel Dayton to remain in Tryon County until farther Orders, altho’ he is much wanted in Canada—Your Excellency will please to signify your pleasure on this Measure.
The two last Corps of General Sullivan’s Brigade have thrown all the Communication on Hudsons River in the greatest Confusion: they took the Waggons stationed at the different Carrying places, and consequently stopped the Transportation in Batteaus, and all this directly contrary to clear and explicit Orders given them before I left Albany and in Spite of the Quarters-Masters & Commissaries who shewed and read my Orders—This infamous Maneuvre has greatly retarded the provisions in their way up—I am fully determined to suspend the next Officer that shall offend, until the pleasure of Congress is known: I know this to be a Stretch of power, but Necessity will oblige me to it. I am—Dr General with the most respectful Sentiments Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 26 May 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Fort George [N.Y.] May 26th 1776

Since my Letter of this Morning Mr Livingston my Aid de Camp whom I sent to Albany to hasten up to this place, whatever of V. Schaick’s and Wynkoop’s Regiments might be there, more than were wanted to mann the Batteaux employed in transporting provisions, is returned here, and informs me that the Men of both those Regiments at that place are not sufficient to mann the Batteaus; this Information is corroberated by a Letter from my Secretary, and gives me great Uneasiness lest our Army in Canada should again be under Difficulties for Want of the necessary Supplies—By the inclosed Return your Excellency will see that I have only 91 Rank and file fit for Duty, twenty eight of these are constantly employed in the Batteaus that bring the Timber for building others: eight in the large Boat; and ten in various other Services, so that I have only 45 left for Duty, and all raw & undisciplined. A Force so trifling that it leaves us exposed to the Insults of any very inconsiderable party who may destroy our Boats and Buildings, and thereby greatly distress if not totally render useless our Army in Canada: permit me therefore to beg your Excellency to order me a Reinforcement the soonest possible, and should I find myself hereafter in a Situation to dispense with them Colonel Van Schaick will then be immediately sent into Canada.
I forgot to mention to your Excellency that the small Note I inclosed you this Morning, I received with the other papers, but do not know whether intended for the Commissioners or me, if for me I am not in a Condition to comply with it, as I have not a person here that understands the Construction of Gundaloes. I wrote for such persons to the Congress in the Course of last Winter but if I had proper persons here it would be needless to build them as the Waters in a few Days, if not already are too low to get Vessels of that Construction down the Falls of Chamblé.
I shall try to procure Batteaumen at Albany and its Vicinity, they are cheaper at eleven Dollars and a Quarter per Month, than Soldiers with the additional pay of one Shilling per Day; because they are more to be depended on.

please to order up some Flints with Directions to have them forwarded to this place, without Delay.
I am so weakened by the Ague, which still continues to torment me, that I cannot bear the Fatigue of visiting the Communication to Albany, where I am much wanted. I am Dear Sir most sincerely Your Excellency’s obedient & humble Servant.

Ph: Schuyler


Title: General Orders, 27 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 27th 1776.
Parole Killingly.Countersign Pomfret.

Nathaniel Stanley, of the 1st Company of Colonel Wyllys’s Regiment, tried by a late General Court Martial, whereof Col. Ritzema was president for “absenting himself from, and refusing to join said company, after he had received a months pay and blanket money”—The Court find the prisoner guilty of a breach of the 8th Article of the Continental Rules and Regulations, and do sentence him to be whipped Thirty-nine Lashes

on his naked back, and be confined seven days upon bread and water.
John Brown, of Capt. Scotts Company in Col. Wyllys’s regiment, tried by the above Court Martial for “Desertion”—The Court find the prisoner guilty of the Charge, and sentence him to be whipped Twenty Lashes on his bare back, for said offence.
The General approves the above sentences, and orders the execution of them, to morrow morning at guard mounting.
Capt. Harwood is not to take any other men more than his own company, at present, from Col. Learneds Regiment, to serve on board the whaling boats &ca—except by the consent of Lieut. Colonel Shephard; whose Consent, the General imagined Capt. Harwood had obtained, when he gave him the order this morning.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 27 May 1776
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General.
Head-Quarters. N. York. May 27th 1776

Nothing material has happened since I last wrote You. the Articles General Schyler wrote for are all forwarded they went from this last Saturday in a Vessel bound to Albany. Lord Sterling

Colo. Putnam & one Officer from the train went from this up the North River Yesterday—I could not think it prudent to send Colo. Knox as he was much wanted here—the Lead General Schuyler wrote for was not to be had—have wrote General Ward for the following Articles which were taken in the last prize. Viz.

            Sand Bags
            10,000

            Mantalets of cur’d Hides
            100

            Broad Axes
            100

            Hand Hammers
            50

            Hand Hatche[t]s
            500

            Felling Axes
            300

            Hand Bills
            500

            Spades
            1000

            Shovels
            500

            Powder
            25
            Tonns

            one half the spikes & Nails

            The whole of the Carpenters Tools

All the Carbines—compleat—& Two Tonns of lead out of the old Stock, Capt. Putnam I have sent on Express to forward the above Articles wt. all possible Dispatch—my proceedings in this matter I hope may be approv’d of by your Excellency—as I tho’t absolutely necessary for the good of the Service.
Last night an express from Cannada—with a lett⟨r⟩ from Genl Schuyler dated Fort George May 21st—which mentions he had forwarded on all the Provisions then on hand, a letter from General Thompson Dated Chamble 14th May—says matters are in a very confused state—he mentions Colo. Greatons & part of Colo. Bonds Reg’ts had gone forward, Colo. Patterson’s at Montreal—Colo. Poors at Ticonderoga waiting for Provisions—he expected to go down the Sorrel & join General Thomas that Evening.
These letters I should forward you—but expect your Exclly in town this day or tomorrow, have detained the Express till your Arrival. I am with Esteem & Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obed. & Very Hume Servt

Israel Putnam


Title: General Orders, 28 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 28th 1776
Parole Lynn.Countersign Salem.

Col. Prescott’s Regiment to be mustered at nine O’Clock, Thursday Morning, on their regimental parade.
Three men from each regiment in the three Brigades, of Genl Heath, Spencer and Lord Stirling, together with two Subalterns and two Serjeants—to parade at Genl Putnam’s quarters, to morrow morning at six o’clock—these men are to be such as understand rowing.
The General Court Martial of which Colonel Ritzema was President, is dissolved, and the Officers to return to their ordinary duty.
A Wheelwright from each regiment, in the three Brigades abovementioned, to parade in front of the Laboratory, at eight o’clock in the morning, and receive their orders from Mr Hughes, Assi[s]tant Quarter Master General.
After Orders. May 28th 1776[.] A Serjeant, Corporal and twelve men to be immediately detached from the upper Barrack Guard, to Powles Hook, who are to guard the works there, and secure the working tools: This detachment to be immediately

replaced by a like number from any one brigade; who will be allowed their quota in to morrow’s detail, from henceforward the guard at Powles-hook, are to take with them four days provision, and to be relieved every fourth day, commencing to morrow.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Jacob Bayley, 28 May 1776
From: Bayley, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Sr
Newbury [Vt.] 28th may 1776

The Seventeenth Instant I recived your Excelencys direction for makeing a road to St Johns[.] on the 18th Caled together the Committees of Haverhill and Newbury and Consulted them what wages to give to men, it was Concluded that good men at this Season could not be Had for Such labour for less than ten Dollars pr month, and that whoever Ingaged In that Servise, and were found Dilitory to be Dismised and recive no more Pay than the Days he Did Labour, the 21st Sent two men to Collect men for two or three months or untill the road Should be Done and if they Inclined to Enter the Continental Servise any longer to receive Soldiers pay I Directed to advance to Each man twenty Shillings, Mr Wallace Purch[as]ed what was needfull at Herford not yet arived but Expect the Stores in two or three Days—on my hearing of the retreat from Quebeck I thought it might be for the Continental Servise to Cut a bridle road at first that Men and Cattle might Pass freely. the 27th Sent ten men to do the work, I make no doubt but they will Compleat it, and return in twenty Days. I Shall begin the wagon road next monday our Provitions are Collected So that Can Supply those—that may be Sent this way Either with droves or other ways. any Directions or orders to me may be Sent by the bearer Colo. Mash or a gentleman he will Dire[c]t to. I am Your Excelencys most, obedient Humble Servant

Jacob Bayley


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 28 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Sir
Philadelphia May 28 1776

I received yours of the 24 Instant with Its several Inclosures and the Letter & Invoice from Genl Ward giving Intelligence of the fortunate capture made by our Armd Vessells, on which event you have my Congratulations.
I have wrote Genl Ward as you will see by the Inclosed Letter, which having read, you will Seal and send by post, to Send forward to New York Colo. Putnams demands & also such Articles as Colo. Knox may apply for out of the Cargoe taken—In like manner I have desird him to send me as soon as possible part of the powder and Eight Hundred of the Carbines which will greatly assist in making up the deficiency in this Instance.
As to the plan for employing the Armed Vessells I have no Objection to Its being adopted, provided It will not frustrate the main design for which they were fitted out—That I wou’d by no means have Injured, as It is a matter of much Importance to prevent a Correspondence between the disaffected and the Enemy and the latter from getting Supplies of provision, but If this end can be answered and the other Advantages in the plan you mentiond, It is certainly an Eligible one.
The great variety of business in which Congress are engaged has prevented our Settling what I was requested to attend for, tho we have made several Attempts and a Committee has been appointed for the purpose day after day; nor can I say with precision when I shall be at liberty to return, I must therefore pray your Attention and vigilance to every necessary work and further If you shou’d receive before I come certain advices and such as you can rely on of the Enemy’s being on the Coast or approaching New York, that you Inform me thereof by Express as early as possible. I do not wish an Alarm to be given me without foundation, but as soon as you are certified of their coming, that It be Instantly communicated to me and orders given the Express who comes to bespeak at the different necessary Stages on the Road as many Horses as may be proper for facilitating

my return & that of the Gentn with me, with the greatest expedition. I am &c.

P.S. I desire you’l speak to the Several Colonls & Hurry them to get their Colours done.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 28 May 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Fort George [N.Y.] May 28th 1776

This Moment I have received a Letter from General Sullivan, of which the enclosed is a Copy: Our Affairs begin daily to wear a darker Aspect in Canada, and I fear will not change for the better unless more Troops are sent in.
I dare not by any Means remove Colonel Dayton’s Regiment from Tryon County, for I am morally sure that Sir John Johnson would immediately fall upon that part of the Country and ravage it without Mercy: An Event that would so intimidate the people that I should procure very few to be employed on the Communication, lest they should be cut off by scalping parties of Indians.
As Colonel Knox took with him all the Guns from the Royal Savage, I have none left to arm her with, but such as she is, she will go off loaded with provisions in a few Days.
The Fort at Tyconderoga should immediately be put into a proper State of Defence, but I have unfortunately no Troops to set about it—I hope soon to see one or more Engineirs in this Quarter.

Your Excellency’s Letter of the 21st Inst: inclosing a Copy of the infamous Libel transmitted to you by the Committee of King’s District I received last Night—whilst this was only Report I treated it with Contempt without taking any Notice of it; but it [is] now a Duty I owe myself and my Country to detect the Scoundrels and the only Means of doing this is by requesting that an immediate Enquiry may be made into the Matter, when I trust it will evidently appear that it was more a Scheme calculated to ruin me than to disunite and create Jealousies in the Friends to America—Your Excellency will therefore please to order a Court of Enquiry the soonest possible for I cannot sit easy under such an infamous Imputation as on this extensive Continent Numbers of the most respectable Characters may not know what your Excellency and Congress do of my principles & Exertions in the common Cause.
It is peculiarly hard, that at the very Time that Assassins and Incendiaries are employed to take away my Life and destroy my property, as being an active Friend to my Country; at the very Time when I had taken Measures and given orders, some of which are actually executed to secure the Tories & to send them down to your Excellency, a Set of pretended Whigs (for such they are that have propagated these diabolical Tales) should proclaim me through all America a Traitor to my Country—I do not recollect that I have given a permit to any Officers whatever to go to Pennsylvania to settle their Affairs. Those that were sent from Canada in the latter End of February either remained at Albany, or were sent as far as Esopus in Ulster County, there to remain until the Navigation should open, to save the enormous Expence of Land Carriage to pennsylvania where the Remainders of their Corps were disposed of; to these and to no others, unless my Memory very much fails me, I have given permits to pass to their Corps—another party is now on the way down, who are under the Circumstances above mentioned, and a Captain Dundee, whom I confined in Kingston Goal, because he refused to give his parole has my pass also to go to Pennsylvania, after making proper Concessions and giving me his parole in writing—Several prisoners still remain at Esopus, who in the present Situation of Affairs ought to be sent elsewhere, as being too near the Indians. Major Campbell the Indian Agent and La Corne St Luc are of the Number & beg

Your Excellency will take some Measures with them. I am Dr Sir with the most respectful Sentiments Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Major General Artemas Ward, 28 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Ward, Artemas

Sir
Philadelphia May 28. 1776

On Saturday morning I was favoured with yours of the 17 Instt, giving the agreable Intelligence of the Important and valuable prize made by the Armed Schooner’s in the Continental

service & am hopefull, that If a vigilant lookout is kept, that others not less valuable will fall into our hands.
Congress having passed a Resolve respecting this Cargoe as you will see by the Inclosed Copy, I desire that you will immediately forward to New York, Eight Hundred of the Carbines and the residue have put into some good & secure place not to be disposed of ’till further directions, unless the recruits raising to complete the 5 Regiments left at Boston shou’d be in want, in which case you may supply the deficiency out of them—I also request that you will directly forward to New York 400 Hundred Barrells of the powder and have the remainder of It sent to some place of security in the Country not too contiguous to Boston there to be kept under a good & trusty guard, till It shall be disposed of, apprehending It imprudent that more shou’d remain in Boston than may be absolutely necessary for fear of Accidents, tho I do not think any Attempts will be made against It by the Enemy. You will forward too the Lead wrote for by Genl Putnam, and such Articles out of the Cargoe as Col. Knox & Col. Putnam shall respectively apply for and have the rest properly secured.
As to the Two hundred Carbines that are to remain at Boston, I do not mean that they are to be put into the hands of the Recruits raising to Complete the Old Regimts but in case of Absolute necessity such as the Appearance of an Invasion or the like and that every possible method shoud be used for ’em to procure Arms without depending on these.
I shall be glad of your Returng to the Massachusets Governmt the powder they have lent the Continent, as by this fortunate capture we are enabled to pay our debts in that way. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: General Orders, 29 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 29th 1776
Parole Chamblee.Countersign Thompson.

One Man from each regiment, to parade to morrow morning, at six o’clock, at General Putnam’s quarters, to go on board the Mifflin, armed Schooner—these men are to be such as best understand the business.
A reinforcement to be added to the upper barrack Guard, of one Serjeant, one Corporal, and twenty-four privates: The above Guard is to furnish four additional sentries over the Laboratory, and four over the Magazine of Forage, for the placing those Sentries, and the Orders they are to receive, application is to be made to Mr Hughes Assistant Quarter Master General.
A General Court Martial, consisting of one Colonel, one Lieut. Colonel, one Major and ten Captains; to sit to morrow morning, at nine o’clock, for the trial of all such prisoners as may be brought before them.
Col. Nixon President. Members. Lieut. Col. Shepard. Major Wells. Captains[,] Genl Heaths Brigade 4 Lord Stirling’s 2 Genl Spencers Brigade 4.
The names of the prisoners to be tried, together with their crimes, and evidences, to be given unto the Judge Advocate this afternoon—All Evidences to give due attendance on the court.
James Grant, of Capt. Waterhouse’s Company, in Colonel Parsons’s Regiment; tried at late General Court Martial (whereof Col. Ritzema was President) for “destroying his arms, abusing the Serjeants, and insolently affronting his officers”—is found guilty, and sentenced to pay for his arms, and receive Twenty Lashes on his bare back—The General approves of the sentence, and orders the Corporal Punishment to be inflicted to morrow morning, at the head of the regiment, at guards mounting.
Daniel Kitts, of Col. Ward’s Regiment, and Capt. Allen’s Company, tried at the above Court Martial for “Stealing a shirt”—The General thinks proper to postpone his sentence ’till further orders.
Joseph Lent, of Col. McDougall’s regiment, and Capt. Hoyt’s Company, tried at the above Court Martial for “Disobedience

of orders, and striking his commanding Officer, Ensign Young, when in the execution of his duty”—is found guilty of Disobedience of orders, and sentenced to be confined five days on bread and water, in the Provost Dungeon.
The General is not a little surprised at the Sentence of the Court, on the prisoner Joseph Lent, and thinks the punishment so inadequate to the crime, that he disapproves of the sentence—The General hopes this hint, will make future General Court Martials more particular, and severe on the henious crime, of a Soldier’s striking, or attempting to strike his officer, or disobey his commands.


Title: General Orders, 30 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 30th 1776.
Parole Virginia.Countersign Carolina.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Thompson, 30 May 1776
From: Thompson, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Chamble [Canada] May 30th 1776

Since my last Letter to your Excellency I have been stationed at the Mouth of the Sorel River which will in a few days be fortified as well as the situation of the Place will admit of. The havock made amongst the New England Troops by the small Pox and our want of ammunition, (expecially Lead) has prevented any thing being [done] below Sorel. That Place I do not think by any means tenable, but your Excellency may be assured I shall not abandon it unless I can give satisfactory Reasons for my procedure. The unfortunate retreat from Quebec and the late unguarded Truce and convention at the Cedars has involved us in many difficulties, tho’ I hope we shall yet be able to surmount them. By the Honorable Commissioners of Congress I transmit a return of the Troops that came with me from New York and likewise of those now under my command at Sorel. I am Yr Excellency’s most obt & very Hble Servant

Wm Thompson


Title: General Orders, 31 May 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, May 31st 1776.
Parole Portsmouth.Countersign Georgia.

The Provost Marshal to make a report in writing, every morning, at Head Quarters, of the prisoners he has in charge,

specifying their names, regiments, companies, by whom confined, crimes, number of nights confined, tried or not tried.
Edmund Britt of Capt. Butler’s Company, and Col. Nixon’s regiment, tried at the General Court Martial whereof Col. Nixon is President for “Desertion”—is found guilty, and sentenced to receive Thirty-nine lashes.
Ahimaas Sherwin of Capt. Butler’s Company, of Col. Nixon’s Regiment, tried at the above Court Martial for “Desertion”—is also found guilty, and sentenced to receive Thirty-nine lashes.
The General approves of the sentence, on the above two prisoners, and orders it to be put in execution, to morrow morning, at guard mounting.
After Orders, May 31st 1776. Genl Washington has wrote to Genl Putnam, desiring him in the most pressing terms, to give positive orders to all the Colonels, to have Colours immediately completed for their respective regiments.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 31 May 1776
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Head Quarters N. York May 31st 1776.

I had the pleasure of Receiving your Excellency’s letter of the 28th Instant pr Post, and shall forward on the enclosed to General Ward by the first safe conveyance. Soon after our Troops leaveing the plains of Abraham Sir John Johnson push’d off at the Head of his Scotch Gang. General Schuyler immediately ordered the Officers that were at Albany on their Parole to be sent to this place, I have sent them on this morning for Philadelphia—Lieut. McLean behaved so ill Genl Wooster sent him to Albany in Irons—for particulars I must refer your Excellency to Lieut. Vanwaggenen who has the care of them. In my last I mentioned Capt. McCoy’s Desertion from Hartford, he was taken last Week in the Habit of a Clergiman on his way for Cannada, he with Gove[r]nor Skeene are both Committed to Hartford Goal, the latter for refuseing to sign his Parole—The Signals on Staten-Island—Green Bluff & Governors Island are compleat—Our troops have taken a small Sloop for going on Board the Asia—there was ten Men on Board seven of which

have escaped the others are under Examination—The Vessels I mentioned are out cruising on the back of the Island—I think they will be of great use to Us. I am driveing on the Works with all possible dispatch and shall pay Particular Attention to your Excellency’s Directions in regard to sending an express—in case of a Fleets appearing in the Coast—I shall write Capt. Putnam to see the things forwarded from Boston to N. London as soon as possible. I have the Honor to be Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt Hume servt

Israel Putnam


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 31 May 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Fort George [N.Y.] May 31st 1776

Your Excellency’s Letter of the 22d Instant was delivered me last Evening—I learn with particular Satisfaction that Congress has requested your Attendance to advise with them on the Measures necessary to be adopted for the present Campaign—I foresee many salutary Consequences from this Step.
Altho’ I have transmitted you some farther disagreeable Accounts from Canada since the Date of your Favor, yet I hope they will be the last—By a Letter from General Thompson, I find he was ordered to reposses himself of Dechambault, with 1600 Men, and that he was to leave Sorrel (where General Thomas was arrived) on the 20th—He laments however that Colonel Greaton’s Regiment had been innoculated for the small pox. An Hour after I had dispatched my last of the 28th thirteen of our staunch Friends the Oneidas arrived here, with a Speech from the Sachems, informing me that some of the six

Nations had gone from Niagara in Order to join our Enemies, and that they were on their way to Canada, to prevent the Defection of the Canadian Tribes—They remained here a few Hours & then proceeded.
This Morning thirty Carpenters left this to repair to Skenesborough, by the way of Ticonderoga in Order to construct Gundaloes, altho’ Nothing is prepared for building them—I hope nevertheless to finish one in a short Time, at least I will do every Thing in my power to compleat it the soonest possible, and for that purpose, I shall leave this to Morrow to put all in Train—Since General Sullivan’s Departure I have finished sixty Batteaus, nor shall I cease until I am advised by your Excellency, that no more Troops are coming this way.
I wish a person that understood the Construction of the best Gundaloes was sent up Express to me, for altho’ they should not be able to get down the Falls of Chamblé, yet they will be of Service on Lake Champlain should our Army be obliged to retreat—The Vessels we have there (except the Royal Savage) are of very little Force.
Inclose your Excellency my Orders to Colonel Dayton his Letters and other papers relative to the Transaction in John’s Town: Mr Yates the Secretary of Indian affairs will transmit you the Speeches of the Indians and the Answers to them.
I am just informed that General Thomas has taken the small pox, is at Chamblé, and rather in a dangerous way.
I have not yet had any Return from Canada either of the Army, the provisions or Stores, nor the least Information from any Officer in Command of the Disaster that befel Colonel Bedel at the Cedars; but I fear it is too true, as it is confirmed by several persons arrived since I wrote this Letter, who left Montreal on Sunday the 26th.
I am informed by persons of good Credit that about one hundred persons, living on what are commonly called the New Hampshire Grants, have had a Design to sieze me as a Tory, and perhaps still have—There never was a Man so infamously scandalized and ill-treated as I am, and I hope Congress will publickly do me that Justice, which I thank your Excellency for having done me in your Letter of the 21st—If that respectable Body is convinced (of which I make no Doubt) of my Zeal and Attachment to the Cause of my injured Country. I am Dear Sir

ever most sincerely Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: General Orders, 1 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, June 1st 1776.
Parole Jay.Countersign Alsop.

A serjeant, Corporal and twelve men, to march to morrow morning, at Six OClock, at which time they will be directed where to march to, they are to be furnished with six days provisions pr man.
Eight men (that understand making Cartridges) from each of the five regiments, in General Spencer’s Brigade, and from Col. Nixons and Col. Webb’s Regiments, to parade to morrow morning at Six OClock, at the Bowling Green, before Col. Knox’s door, and receive their further orders from him.