Title: To George Washington from Richard Varick, 21 August 1781
From: Varick, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Poughkepsie Augt 21. 1781.

                        Agreeable to your Excellency’s Directions I do inclose Copy of the unsigned Instructions which I recd from
                            you at New Windsor, with some Additions, perhaps yet incompleat.
                        With Respect to my Pay & Subsistence Your Excellency was pleased to put me on the footing with the
                            Secretary with You—I could wish to be allowed to draw forage for two Horses in Case I should find it convenient &
                            necessary actually to keep two—Colo. Trumbull will be good enough to suggest my Reasons.
                        I shall stand in Need of your Excellency’s written Orders, in your Name to promise Payment of fifty Dollars
                            in specie or its equivalent (without Rations) to the Writers to discharge me of any personal pecuniary Engagements to
                            them—I have requested Colo. Trumbull to solicit Your Excellency’s Directions permitting me to offer 60; Dollars to one of
                            the Writers (either Young Mr Rutgers or Captn Dunscomb) who besides the ordinary Duty at Office Hours, is to assist me in comparing all the Papers with the Entries, in the Absence of the other
                            Writers.
                        Inclose Your Excillency an Invoice of the Baggage which was left at New Windsor in my Charge without an
                            Inventory & which is now sent down, with the Boatman’s rect, to Captn Colfax at that Place.
                        The Original Inventory of the Kitchen Furniture is mislaid in one of the Chests, as soon as found I will
                            inclose It—I have requested Captn Colfax to call on Mrs Case for the Copy I delivered her, which will Answer the present
                            purpose.
                        I expect, the public will pay the Hire of the Room I have as an Office—I shall also soon
                            require fire Wood, for which, (as I have no Cash to advance for the Public) I by an Order on the
                            Quarter Master Genl or any of his Deputies. Candles I have drawn of Course for the Office specifying
                            for what Use—I trust your Excellency will have no Cause to apprehend any Abuse of that Liberty—but
                            during your Absence I will require an Order.
                        Perhaps it may be eligible to mention in my Instructions, that in Case I shall want any more blank Books, to
                            apply to the Q.M. Genl—or any Application may be fruitless. Wishing your Excellency’s Success in all your Operations, I
                            remain the most perfect respect & Esteem Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Richd: Varick

                     Enclosure

                                    c.21 August 1781

                            Instructions to the Recording Secretary at Head Quarters.
                            A.1.All Letters to Congress—Committees of Congress, the Board of War, Individual
                                Members of Congress in their public Characters & American Ministers Plenipotentiary at foreign Courts are to
                                be classed together & to be entered in the order of their Dates.B.2.All Letters, Orders & Instructions to Officers of the Line—of the
                                Staff—and all other Military Characters to compose a second Class & to be entered in like Manner.C.3.All Letters to Governors, Presidents & other Executive of States—Civil Magistrates & Citizens of every Denomination to be a third Class & entered as aforementd.D.4.Letters to foreign Ministers, foreign Officers & subjecs of foreign
                                Nations not in the immediate Service of America in Virtue of Commissions from Congress, to compose a fourth Class.E.5th Letters to Officers of every Denomination in the Service
                                of the Enemy & to British Subjects of every Character with the Enemy or applying to go in to them.F.6.Proceedings of Councils of War—in the Order of their Dates.The Secretary is to assort & prepare these Papers to be registred by different Clerks—He is to
                                number & keep a List of his Deliveries of them to those Persons—taking Receipts for them—The Lists are to specify the Dates & to whom the Letters are directed; By which, the Papers after they are
                                registered are to be carefully returned by the Clerks to the Secretary, who is to compare them with the Books of
                                Entries & to have them neatly filed in the order they are registred, or in such other Manner, as that
                                References may more easily be had to them.
                            Clerks who write a fair Hand; & correctly are to be imployed—And that there may be a similarity
                                & Beauty in the whole Execution, all the Writing is to be upon black Lines equi-distant—All the Books to have
                                the same Margin—and to be indexed in so clear & intelligent a Manner that there may be no Difficulty in the
                                References—The Clerks must be sworn or be upon Honor to be careful of the Papers—to give no Copies without
                                Permission or suffer any Thing to be taken with their Privity or Knowledge.
                            Letters to me are to be classed in the same Order as those from me, endorsed & filed in neat
                                Order & of easy Access.
                            N.B. I have filed the Letters recd of the 2nd & third Classification
                                together—will this do? Ans. Yes,
                            All files are to be upon Formers of the same Size that the Folds may be the same & the Stoage (in
                                proper Boxes) close & compact.
                            All Returns are to be properly assorted, arranged & treated in the same Way—so are Papers of
                                every other Class, and the whole to be organized in such a Manner as that easy References may be had to them.
                            If you are not already furnished with a sufficient Number of Books, you will apply to the Quarter Master
                                Genl for as many more as you shall find necessary to compleat your Entries.

                     Enclosure

                                    21 August 1781

                            Invoice of Articles of Baggage of His Excellency Genl Washington left in my Charge June 25th 1781—& sent to Hd Qutr Augt 21. 1781.
                            1.Large Chest with Red Oil Cloth Covering1.Large round Cover. Hair Trunk4.Black Leather Campaign Trunks with Leather Straps.1.Box with a Saddle & I think one or two
                                Bridles. A Pair of Canteens compleat with White Glass Bottles & brass topp’d Corks, &ca2.Small Leather Portmanteau Trunks.1.Tea Box with Cannisters.1.large Map of South Carolina & Georgia.
                                Richd Varick

                                N.B. No Inventory of these Articles was left with me.
                            Left in my Charge Augt 21. 1781.
                                4. Chests with Papers
                                1. With a Variety of French & English Books &ca.
                                1. with Blank Books
                                1. with Muster Rolls.
                                1 old Oil Cloth.

                                R.V.

                                2 Boxes of Colo. Humphrys.
                                1.Feather Bed, said by Mr Thompson, to have been borrowed at FishKill, with a Blanket covering it,
                                    (I suppose) the Property of the General.

                                Richd Varick


Title: To George Washington from James Mitchell Varnum, 21 August 1781
From: Varnum, James Mitchell
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            August 21st 1781.

                        Upon the foregoing System, each Battalion of Infantry consisting of five hundred Rank and File, a very
                            considerable Reduction of Officers, will be necessary. I have ever esteemed it a Misfortune that by the last Arrangement a
                            large Number of Officers retired upon halfpay, without being liable to a Recall into Service. Rapid Promotions are
                            extremely injurious to the Service. The Appointment of Ensigns upon every Vacancy detracts from regular Discipline; and
                            too often lessens the Number of Rank and File, by the Promotion of Serjeants, who cost the Public too much upon the
                            footing of Commissions. Besides there is something inexplicable in the Nature of military Gradation, by which a good
                            Serjeant seldom makes a valuable Officer. But the past we can not alter; happy will it be if we can introduce more
                            Propriety in future Establishments. If practicable therefore, I could wish that the Officers who become supernumerary,
                            might retire upon furlough; be intitled to halfpay; but liable to be recalled into Service without Prejudice to their
                            Rank; That those in and out of the Field might exchange Situations from Time to Time, with the Approbation, and under the
                            Direction of the Commander in Chief. But if any Officer should wish to retire absolutely, he might be indulged. I am
                            sensible of the great Objection, that the Officers remaining will think themselves deprived of the common Chances of
                            Promotion. But on the other hand, those who retire absolutely are totally deprived of Promotion, as well as Rank; To wit,
                            in the first Instance, they are equally intitled with others. Previous to the Moment of Reduction, the Idea of Promotion
                            is connected with the whole Number of Officers: If a part should be totally reduced, the others gain an
                            Advantage to the Injury of the former, whereas upon my Principle they loose nothing, except it be said that the Proportion
                            of Death increases with the extent of Number unequally. This Principle however, is not founded in Generocity—The Increase
                            of sinecure Establishments must be very disagreable, as the Nature of their Existence is incompatible with the Policy of
                            Republican Government. However, should this Mode be deamed ineligible, cannot we strengthen the military Establishment, by
                            permitting retired Officers upon this Arrangement to exchange Situations with those who remain in Service, in the same
                            Rank, and upon reasonable Composition, subject to proper Restrictions and Conditions? I am very anxious for fixing the
                            corps of Artillery and Horse upon a strictly continental Establishment, as the States will not have the it in their Power
                            to appoint the Officers. The joining the Pennsylvania and Virginia Regiments, will enable us to comply with your
                            Excellency’s views with respect to Coll Carrington which otherwise we cannot do, as the Right of the State of Pennsylvania
                            to appoint to Vacancies their artillery Regiment, accrued immediately upon ratifying the Articles of Confederation on the
                            first of March last; & Colo. Proctor’s Resignation was subsequent to that Period. Frequent Changes in military
                            Systems are too evincive of Instability. The Minds of the Officers may be affected by the Precariousness of their
                            standing, and your Excellency’s Delicacy will probably be wounded from the Intercourse of sympathetic Applications. These
                            Reflections give Me the most painful Concerns But I hope it will be considered that the wretched Situation of our
                            Finances, has happily occasioned essentials Reforms in our general Policy, & if the proposed Arrangement, or a
                            more eligible one, will greatly subserve those Purposes, I persuade myself it will be acceeded to without Reluctance. I am,
                            with the greatest Esteem, your Excellency’s most obedt & very humble Servt

                            J.M. Varnum


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 22 August 1781
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

                            Dear general
                            philidelphia 22 august 1781

                        i have been just now a Resolved of Congress about the exchange of prisonners by which the matter if Referred
                            to your excellency. in this Circumstance i take the liberty to Recall to your mind Colonel laumoy and lieutenant Colonel
                            Cambray. as my Countrymen, my friend i wish extremely to see them in liberty, but in this moment, i may add that the
                            public advantage if joined to their private and my own satisfaction. the acquantance they have with the southern states
                            may render them very useful. i shall have, dear general the greatest gratitude of what your excellency will be pleased to
                            do for them in this opportunity and i shall Consider it as a great favour for myself.
                        there are besides in my department Captaine shreiber and Captaine Vanfont who are also
                            prisonners. but if the exchange is a general one they shall probably be exchanged of Course.
                            nothwistanding i Qunmudd them to your excellency’s goodness. ihave the honour to be with the
                            greatest Respect and attachment your excellency’s the most obediant and humble servant

                            Duportail


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 22 August 1781 to 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters Kings Ferry 22nd-24 Augst 1781

                        The failure of the necessary Aids requested from the several States, together with some other Circumstances,
                            have determined me to abandon what was held as our first Object in the Operations of the present Campaign, &
                            Obliged me to an Alteration of my Measures.
                        A Detatchment from the American Troops, with the whole of the French Army, are now on their March to
                            Virginia: I expect to find the French Fleet under Command of Count DeGrasse in the Chesapeak. If the Arrival of the Fleet
                            should prove seasonable—& the British Troops under Lord Cornwallis should continue to hold their present Position,
                            our Expectations of Success against the Enemy, are very promiseing.
                        The American Troops which remain in this Department, consist of the two Regiments of New Hampshire, ten of
                            Massa. five of Connecticut—Infantry Sheldons Legion, Cranes Artillery, with the State Troops & militia. the Comand
                            of whom, during my Absence, is committed to Majr General Heath; who will have the Honor to correspond with the States on
                            every Accasion which may require their Attention.
                        How far this Alteration in our main Designs may affect the Security of your State, your Excellency will be
                            best able to determine—the other States are requested to send forward to the Orders of M. Genl Heath at least two thirds
                            of their Number of Militia, which have been called for by former Requisition—to come on as tho no Alteration had taken
                            Place in our Operations.
                        So long as the Count DeBarras, with his Squadron remains in the Harbour of Newport, it will be expected that
                            the Militia will be kept up for his Aid & Security—If those Ships leave the Island, I submit to your Judgment the
                            Expediency of keeping up the Port on Butts Hill, for the Protection of Rhode Island—I confess to you, that in my Opinion,
                            it is an adviseable Step—In Case of an Attempt from the Enemy, a Force of Militia may probably be drawn together in Season
                            for the Security of Providence, as Accasion may require. I have the Honor to be with every Sentiment of Regard Your
                            Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S.
                            24th Augst 1781.
                            Your Excellencys Favr of 13th inst: is just come to Hand—When I made my first Requisition for 500 Militia
                                from your State to be placed on Rhode Island, it was expected, the Fleet of our Allies would have soon gone to
                                Boston—that Event, had it taken place, would have relieved your Militia from their Tour of Service—The Fleet, contrary
                                to our first Expectation, remaing at Newport, has been the Reason of the Alteration in my Requisition, desiring the
                                Continuance of your Militia—the same Reason operated to calling on the additional 500 from Massa.—it being judged
                                neccesary to keep up a Body of 1000 Men, so long as the Fleet of our Allies continued in their present Situation—I
                                can only say, that I am very sorry for the neglect or Inattention of your Sister State, who have been repeatedly
                                requested to send on their Quota.
                            The State of Rhode Island, I think will be reconciled to my Requisitions, when they consider that had not
                                the Service turned up within their own State, their Proportion of Militia, with the other States, would have been
                                called for to operate with me in the Field.
                            P.S. Your letter of 21st is also this Moment received—should the Fleet have sailed, without your Vessel
                                with the salted Provisions—you’ll please to reland it & put it in Store for further
                                Orders.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 22 August 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,Upper part of Singsing August 22. 1781

                        Incumbered with much baggage, I put it in motion the day before yesterday in the afternoon, towards Croton. To
                            escape the flies, moved the army in the evening to the high lands south of Young’s, leaving strong pickets in our rear on
                            all the roads. Yesterday morning, before I moved from Young’s, I left colonel Putnam with three hundred and twenty four
                            rank and file (infantry), Sheldon’s dragoons, and the two companies of New York levies, to patrole and cover the country—also
                            sent a captain and fifty men to Tarry town specially to secure and assist in loading some flour belonging to our allies,
                            left at that place. On my march to this place, about six o’clock last evening, I received a signification of your pleasure
                            respecting the french baggage at Singsing, and immediately detached colonel Sprout with two regiments and a field piece to
                            cover the baggage, assist in loading it, &c. Have halted the army at the junction of the roads leading to the
                            church, where it will remain (or advance towards the Hudson should it be necessary) until the baggage is secured. I have
                            sent an express to know its present situation. The baggage of this army I have ordered on to Crompond where I shall
                            probably make my first encampment.
                        I have obtained nothing interesting from below—The day before yesterday, the enemy came out to Vallentine’s
                            hill, about 150 horse and foot, and returned again. I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s
                            Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste-Joseph, comte de Laumoy, 22 August 1781
From: Laumoy, Jean-Baptiste-Joseph, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            philadelphia August the . c.22 August
                                1781

                        I have the Honor to forward to your Excellency a Letter from Genal Du Portail, by wich he shows his Desire
                            of my being exchanged. Your Excellency can easily imagine how extreemly anxious I am to be in activity; how painfull it is
                            to me to be a Prisoner, when I could show, at least by my Goodwill, my Strong attachement to the Cause of America.
                        The particular Situation of america gives me the greatest Uneasiness; the British having
                            none or a very few full Colonels, we, of that rank, have no Hopes but either in an Exchange Settled by Tariff or in a
                            partial one. As to the first, your Excellency knows best what Terms of a General Exchange are more advantageous to the
                            united States and will certainly regulate his Conduct upon that Consideration alone. Happy those that So wise a Plan will
                            favour. But, if I could not be one of that Number, I should ardently wish and beg that your Excellency would, if
                            practicable; propose a partial one for me, or recommend it to Congress. It would be presuming too much
                            of my own Talents to think them equal to So great a favord; but your Excellency may be Sure that, what little I have, will
                            be exerted to the utmost of my Power to promote the Good of the Country and convince your
                                Excellency that I was not unworthy of his kindness. And my gratitude for it will be equally
                            Boundless. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient and humble Servant

                            Laumoy Colel of Engeers

                            Althoug I was taken to the Southern I hope that will not be an impechement to my being exchanged
                            here.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 22 August 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                        D. Sir

                            Office of Finance 22d Augst 1781

                        I arrived in Town the Day before Yesterday—having taken the earliest Opportunity to acquire Information, I am
                            sorry to inform you that I find Money Matters in as bad a Situation as possible—The Exchange, by the Concourse of Venders,
                            has run down to five Shillings, & Bills are offered at that Rate in such great Numbers as to command all the Money
                            which is to be disposed of; so that reducing the Price of Bills still lower would not comand Money, or answer any other
                            good Purpose. The Paper of that State is indeed appreciating, but to issue it, in the present Moment would destroy all my
                            Hopes from that Quarter, cut off the good Resource which I have the Chance of Comandg—& shake a Confidance which
                            has been reposed in me, & which the public Interest calls upon me to cherish. I am sorry to observe Consequence
                            that you must expect to meet with Disappointments; but I assure you, that I will make every Exertion probable to place you
                            in the Eligible Situation which my Means will admit of. I am &a—


Title: From Robert Morris to The States, 22 August 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: The States

                        Sir

                            Office of Finance August 22d 1781

                        I have already, in a former Letter, forwarded to your Excellency an account of the Specific Supplies which
                            Congress had demanded from your State. It now becomes my Duty again to press for a Compliance with those Demands. The
                            Exigencies of the Service require immediate Attention, We are on the Eve of the most Active Operations, and should they be
                            in anywise retarded by the want of necessary Supplies, the most unhappy Consequences may follow. Those who may be justly
                            chargeable with Neglect, will have to Answer for it to their Country, to their Allies, to the present generation, and to
                            all Posterity. I hope, intreat, expect, the utmost possible Efforts on the Part of your State; and I confide in your
                            Excellency’s Prudence and Vigor, to render those Efforts effectual. I beg to know most speedily, Sir, what Supplies are
                            collected, and at what Places; as also the Times and Places at which the Remainder are to be expected. I cannot express to
                            you my Solicitude on this Occasion. My Declaration to Congress, when I entered upon Administration, will prevent the Blame
                            of ill Accidents from lighting upon me, even if I were less Attentive than I am; but it is impossible not to feel, most
                            deeply, on occasions where the greatest Objects may be impaired or destroyed by Indolence or Neglect. I must, therefore,
                            again reiterate my Requests; and, while I assure you that nothing but the Urgency of our Affairs would render me thus
                            importunate, I must also assure you, that while those Affairs continue so urgent, I must continue to importune. With all
                            possible Respect. I have the Honor to be. Sir your most obedient & humble Servant

                            Robert Morris

                            This is a Copy of a letter I have written to the Governors of New Jersey, Delaware &c. and I
                                send it to Your Excelly that You may enforce the Contents shou’d You have an opportunity.


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 22 August 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                        Sir
                            Peekskill the 22th August 1781 at five in the afternoon

                        We have been four days to perform the March that you had prescribed to be done in two. we have found roads
                            very bad and impediments without number, almost fifty waggons which we cou’d not abandon having been broken the first day.
                            the troops will this night for the first time lay in their tents. I have left them nearly arrived at  tavern four miles this side of Pines Bridge and three miles beyond Crompond. if they Set out to
                            morrow at day break as I have ordered, I hope they shall arrive at King’s ferry the Same day, the troops at twelve o
                            clock, and the Baggages, late in the Evening. I must Confess to your Excellency that all the horses and oxen are very
                            tired. I Am now arrived at this Place to give all necessary orders for the hospital And to leave all the
                                unnecesary baggages at Peeks Kill. I think that to morrow in the Evening it will be possible to have
                            Some part of the Service Cross the river, and that all the first division will be able to pass the day after. I have been
                            happy to hear at my arrival in this place, that some part of our Artillery had passed the river to day. I hope that the
                            rest will arrive to night and will be able to Cross to morrow morning if not to night. Ct. Fersen is not yet returned from
                            Newport. I have had no news from there, but I know by a letter that Ct. Wadsworth has received from Boston that
                                on the 13th the frigate la Magicienne had arrived there from france, and brought letters and
                            money for the army. I beg of your Excellency to Send me Some news if there is any, and to tell me if you will be So good as
                            to give me a dinner to morrow at your quarters. I am with the most respectful and affectionate attachment. your
                            Excellency’s obedient Servant

                            le cte de rochambeau

                            P.S. if your Excellency Chused I will go to morrow at nine in the morning to wait on you And take a
                                breakfast in order to be back here when the troops will arrive.


Title: From George Washington to George Washington, 22 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, George

                             22 August 1781

                        Questions proposed by His Excellency Count Rochambeau. the 22d Augt 1781 at King’s Ferry
                        1st Is Peekskill a place sure enough to have an Hospital in it, and to keep in store some important Articles
                            as Tents—shoes—shirts—Cloth &ca that will be left there now and that are coming from Boston and Providence—all
                            necessary things that will be sent to the French Army as they will be wanted.
                        2d If General Heath should be obliged to retire on Fishkill and on West point, could he give time to the
                            Magazine on Peekskill to be evacuated. In one word all the establishments made at Peekskill must they be conserved, or
                            must there not be left in it any thing but the Hospital which will be evacuated with the time, and is it necessary to send
                            up the most important Articles.
                        3d In this last supposition what place could be chosen for the stores that are wanted. should it be possible
                            for His Excellency to lend some Magazines at Fishkill and at West point.
                        4th The Communication from Boston and providence to the North River will it be sure enough by the Road at
                            Danbury to allow our using it, and especially in the case where money should be brought. should it not be necessary to take
                            the Road by Litchfield or the Green Woods. The communication with the North River by the high part will it not have the
                            two advantages of being more sure and shorter.
                        5th Has His Excellency taken measures for embarking the French troops on the Delaware, or must we procure
                            them ourselves.
                        6th To what points will the Boats carry us.
                        7th How will the Artillery and the Baggage be carried from the place of debarkation to the Head of Elk or any
                            other place where they shall embark on the Bay.
                        8th If the troops embark at Trenton to go down the Delaware what Road will the Waggons and Horses take—Must
                            they be sent to the Head of Elk to be embarked there, or will they be sent to Susquehannah Ferry to be brought down to
                            Alexandria.
                        9th May we depend upon some ships of the Americans for the transport of the troops upon the Bay—Would it not
                            be proper to write to the Chevr de la Luzerne and desire him to speak to Mr Danmour Consul of France at Baltimore.
                        10th It seems that it ought immediately to be sent to Philada to prepare this Hospitals and provisions for the
                            march to the Head of Elk and further.
                     King’s Ferry 22d Augt 1781.Answers to the Questions proposed this day by His Excellency Count de Rochambeau.
                        1st Peekskill may not be an improper place for an Hospital of Convalescents or such persons as may be able to
                            move themselves without the assistance of Carriages, but I should not think a permanent Hospital would be safe there,
                            since we have so large a detachment from the Army—For the same reason I think it an improper price for a deposit of any
                            kind of stores.

                        2d This answered under the first Head.
                        3d At either New Windsor—Newburg—Fishkill Landing or Fishkill Town—At the two first there are no public
                            Buildings but what are in use, but there are several private Stores which might be hired—At the third there are no public
                            buildings of any consequence—I make no doubt but part of the Barracks or some of the public buildings at Fishkill Town
                            might be shared—At West point we have not sufficient room for the stores which ought to be constantly kept there.

                        4th The shortest and safest Route from Boston to the North River is thro’ Springfield and to Claverac—At any
                            rate I do not think the Route ought to be below Litchfield and from thence to Fishkill.

                        5th I have not yet openly taken measures for procuring Vessels upon the Delaware, altho’ I have hinted to Mr
                            Morris that they will be wanted at a proper time—I would propose that the American Qr Mr General should engage all the
                            proper kind of Craft upon the Delaware for the transportation of the troops and Stores from Trenton and that the expence
                            should be paid by the French and Americans in proportion to the number of Men and quantity of Stores transported.

                        6. To Wilmington near the mouth of Christiana Creek to Newport, four Miles above Wilmington—or Christiana
                            Bridge nine Miles above it, as the circumstances of Wind and Weather will permit.

                        7. The number of Carriages necessary for the transport of the Artillery and Baggage is so much greater than
                            can be procured in the Country between Christiana and Elk, that I would propose that all the teams fit for further service
                            upon our arrival at Trenton should be sent across the Country to Wilmington—the deficiency may be made up in that
                            neighbourhood.

                        8. They will be sent to Wilmington for the reasons above assigned, which is exactly in the Route to the Head
                            of Elk—It will be determined upon our arrival at Elk whether they are to proceed by land or sent down the Bay by Water.

                         9. I have every reason to beleive that there are few or no Vessels at this time at Baltimore or at any place
                            in the upper part of Chesapeak Bay, and for that reason your Excellency will be pleased to remember that we in our joint
                            letter recommended it to Count de Grasse to send up all his Frigates and Transports to Elk River—But as it is a matter of
                            the utmost importance, it may not be amiss for your Excellency to repeat the request either immediately to Count de Grass
                            or through the Minister of France.

                        10th It will perhaps be more expedient to delay this untill our arrival at Springfield, lest doing it sooner
                            should expose our design.


Title: From George Washington to Arthur St. Clair, 22 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Kings Ferry Augt 22d 1781

                        I have to request you immediately to assemble all the Recruits in the State of Pennsilvania at their
                            respective places of Rendesvous, where they may be properly equiped to march on the shortest notice to the Southward; and
                            those Recruits that are raised in the State of Delaware, I wish you to inform whoever has the Direction of them, that they
                            assemble at Wilmington, and be in the utmost rediness, so as to march when they receive amy further orders. I am Dear Sir,
                            Your Most Obedt Humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Brodhead, 23 August 1781
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Fort Pitt Augt 23rd 1781.

                        Soon after Col. Gibson and two other officers, appeared as a Committee from the Council who favored his
                            claim, had waited on me with the message related in my letter of the 19th instant, I was desirous to know who the officers
                            were who had presumed to determine my Right to Command. I wrote a
                            note to Col. Gibson accordingly and received an answer with their respective names annexed. Copy whereof I take the
                            liberty to enclose.
                        I am informed by some of my officers that they conceive that no regard would be paid by the officers who gave
                            the above opinion, to any Arrest I might order to be made upon any of them.
                        It is my anxious wish to have my trial brought to a speedy issue; but it is clear that, my adversaries intend
                            to procrastinate it, by every means that may render my situation painfull.  I have therefore taken the liberty to send an Express with these Letters in hopes of being honored with an
                            immediate answer expressing your Excellencies intention by your Letters of the 5th of May & the 12th of June and
                            your further pleasure in the premises.
                        It seems that Mr Fowler is determined to take exparte depositions and proceed with them to Head Quarters as
                            mentioned in the Copy of his Letter to Col. Gibson. But he will not obtain leave of absence from me for that purpose. And
                            if I am, as I conceive your Excellency intended me the honor to be, the commanding officer, until the Deposition could be
                            taken by consent of parties, agreeable to the mode pointed out by the Judge advocate General’s instructions. I hope he
                            will be Arrested for being absent without leave.
                        I am determined to prevent as much as possible any difference of sentiments between Col. Gibson &
                            myself coming to the knowledge of the Soldiers, but I am apprehensive this precaution will not be so much attended to by some
                            other officers.
                        Provisions have been very scarce ever since my return. The Troops have received no Flour & only two
                            pounds & an half of Indian meal ⅌ man, for sixteen Days past and a scanty allowance of meat. Yesterday morning,
                            the Seventh Virga Regt came out of the Barracks with their packs made up, & grounded their Arms, they appeared
                            determined to leave the post but were at length prevailed on to remain a day or two longer by a firm assurance that they
                            should be well supplied.
                        The 8th P. Regt & the Maryland Corps are wretchedly naked but I hope they will soon be furnished with
                            Clothing.
                        An Expedition against the Sandusky is in contemplation. The troops will rendevous at Fort McIntosh on the
                            4th & 5th of next Month. The Country appears to be desirous to promote it; and I intend to command it if they the
                            Militia & Volunteers do not suffer themselves to be induced into a beleif that I have no right to command. If
                            they should, I shall be at a loss how to act, being unwilling to give up my command, and as unwilling to prevent the
                            expedition taking place. I will endeavor to be governed by prudence, and have the Honor to be with sentiments of exhalted
                            Respect & attachment your Excellenccies most obedt Servt

                            Daniel Brodhead

                     Enclosure

                                 14 August 1781

                            Greivances, Complaints and Accusations Exhibited against Colonel Daniel Brodhead, by the Citizens of the
                                County of Westmoreland, County of Washington, and Town of Pittsburgh, in their Remonstrance and Petition to Congress,
                                and the President, and council of the state of Pennsylvania. With the Depositions and Allegations in support
                                thereof—Stated by order of his Excellency the Commander in Chief—Pittsburgh the 14th day of August 1781.
                            The Petitioners complain that the Constitution & Laws by which all ought to be Govern’d seems to
                                have been inadequete to the Governing of one Colonel Brodhead—And Proceeds to specifie their Greivances, Complaints,
                                and Accusations, Under the following Heads viz.
                            1st That he Colonel Brodhead, has invaded their Rights as Free Citizens, and that their Property is
                                therby rendered uncertain, and Precarious.
                            2dly That he has Created a Monopoly in Trade.
                            3dly That he has formed a Jobbing Connection, with the Assistant Quarter-Master of the Westn D. Mr David
                                Duncan, and as a Writen Contract or Agreement Actualy subsist between Colonel Brodhead and the said David Duncan, they
                                have great reason to suspect that Public Money is not appropriated to the Purpose Intended.
                            4thly That he has sheltered from Punnishment a most Notorious Public Delinquent, and oppressd, &
                                Injured Innocence and Industry, from Motives Equally designing and Interested.
                            5thly They Complain that Military Dicipline is neglected and Relaxed: that no attention whatever is Paid
                                to the Accommodation of the officers and soldiers, Nor to puting the Garrison into a state of defence and tho a Number
                                of Artificers have been long Employd at high wages and a Large allowance of Provisions, Nothing appears to have been
                                Done, and the Fort still Continues in a ruinous, Untenable & Unmilitary State.
                            And sixthly and Lastly they Complain that he: Colonel Brodhead, has Neglected to Cover the frontiers by
                                small Detachments of the Army, Cantoned in the Country, while a Number of the soldiers have been Improperly Employd
                                By Mr Duncan the Assistant Quarter Master and others Unnecessarily retained at his quarters as a guard over his
                                Person.

                                A. Fowler A W.D.


Title: To George Washington from Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de Cambray-Digny, 23 August 1781
From: Cambray-Digny, Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia the 23d August 1781

                        Having heard of a Resolution of the Honble the Congress for exchanging the Officers of the Convention; I take
                            that Opportunity to reccomd myself to Your Excellency, being extremely anxious to go into the Field and to Show my good
                            will in being useful.
                        I Served ever Since the Invasion of General Provost in the Southern Departement, the different Events of War
                            in that part of the Continent gave to me an Opportunity of acquiring Some Knowledge of the ground of the Southern States,
                            which induces me to believe my Services might Be of Some Utility.
                        As I apprehend that the delays of a Negotiation and the length of the journey should make me reach the
                            Southern Army too late; I beg Your Excellency would be so good as to order my Certificat of Exchange to be Sent to me
                            without delay with an order for being furnished with horses, that I may repair to the Army with the utmost Speediness. I
                            am with the greatest Respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most hble mot obdt Servant

                            Cambray
                            Lt. Colo. Engears taken
                            prisonr in Charlestown


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 23 August 1781
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             Thursday the 23d Augt 81

                        The Fleete I had the Honr to inform your Excly Was in The Offing the 16th Inst. favored to be Admiral Graves
                            with The Ships as then described—The Same Evening Tow Ships supposed Fifty Guns Each Run up to New
                            York—The Next Day this London and five Other Ships of the Line Come within Sandy Hook, in The afternoone four of them went
                            up—The Adml Ship Struck all her Topmasts and appeared Very Busy in Overhauling her Rigging &c. &c.
                        Sunday it Was Reported in New York That the Arrival of Count De Grasse had drove Graves into port—Since that
                            the report appears more serious.
                        It is now said by deserters from the Enemy that Count Degrasse is Arrived at Rhod island with Twenty Ships
                            of the Line—Certain it is that four of the British Frigates have been Cruseing off Every day since
                            Saturday Last—Some of them Appear Every Evening to the Eastward—Yesterday Evening the London lay Betwene the East and West Bank Near the Narrowes.
                        The Other five Line ships and four Smaller ships of War lay in line Just Within Sandy Hook.
                        These Accts Joined to some of the same Noticed from Elisabeth Town & that your Excly With the Army
                            was Recrossing the North River Induces me to Request your Excly Information as far as may be Consistant. I have The Honr to
                            be Yr Exclys Most Obdt Humble Servt

                            David Forman


Title: To George Washington from Goose Van Schaick, 23 August 1781
From: Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

                        sir

                            Head Quarters Camp Near Kings Ferry 23 August 1781

                        My being Superceeded by Colo. Hazen lays me under peculier Embarrisments, and Confiding in the Justice of
                            Congress. I beg Leve to be permitted to go to Phelidelphia in order to lay my Case before Congress, for that Justice which
                            my Rank Intitels me too. I am with Respect your Excellencys Most Obedient Humb. Servt

                            G.V.an Schaick


Title: To George Washington from James Mitchell Varnum, 23 August 1781
From: Varnum, James Mitchell
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            August 23d 1781.

                        Your Excellency’s Letters to Congress inclosing the Memorial from the Officers of the Rhode Island and
                            Connecticutt Lines, respecting Promotions in their District to the Rank of Brigadier General, is before the Committee
                            mentioned in my Letter of the 20th instant. Upon the present Arrangement their Claim appears well founded; But should the
                            proposed Alteration take Place, Promotions will probably be deferred. However, I am confident your Excellency’s Sentiments
                            upon these Subjects will have essential influence. I have the honor of being &c.

                            J.M. Varnum


Title: General Orders, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Haverstraw Friday August 24th 1781
                            Parole Countersigns

                        A Subaltern from Colonel Van Schaicks regiment will join the Light Infantry under Colonel Scammell to do the
                            duty of Quarter Master in that corps.


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                            Dear Sir
                            Kings Ferry 24th Augt 1781.

                        I have recd yours of yesterday—There is nothing in Count de Grasse having arrived at New port. I imagine the
                            fear of his coming upon the Coast has made Graves run in—You will continue to Watch the Motions of the fleet at the Hook
                            and inform me of any alterations in their situation. I am moving with part of the Army to Springfield. I am Dear Sir Yr
                            most obt servt.


Title: To George Washington from John Gibson, 24 August 1781
From: Gibson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters Fort Pitt Aug 24th 1781.

                        Just as I was closing the packet to your Excellency I Reced two letters from the Revd Mr ZeisBerger at the
                            Moravian Towns on Muskingum, a Copy of which I now inclose, the intelligence therein contained is very alarming. I have
                            sent to alarm the Country and hope they will turn out.
                        I am apt to Believe that part relative to Johnson is without foundation as the French Creek is so low that
                            they cannot possibly come down.
                        I shall use every means in my power for the Defence of this and the other posts and hope with the Assistance
                            of the Country to be able to oppose the Enemy shoud they advance. I am with respect, your Excellencys most Obdt Humble
                            Servt

                            Jno: Gibson Colo. Comd Ft Pitt

                     Enclosure

                                Dr Sir—
                                Toppaking Augt 18th 1781

                            By the Bearer I acquaint you, that a Number of Indians about 250 in all are approaching towards you, as much I
                                cou’d learn is their Intention to go to Wheeling. they also said to Fort McIntosh & Ft Pitt, the first place I
                                am apt to believe most, where they will go to—They will try to decoy the Garrison out where they lie in Ambush ready
                                for them, or drive some Cattle or Horses, that they shall be followed and so cut them off. The Party is headed by
                                Matthew Elliot and a few English and French, but I believe some will turn back from Gnadenhutten, where they are at
                                present, and not go to War, We wish they were gone from us, for they are very troublesome to us. You will have the
                                Indians to remove from the Island that they may not be in danger to be cut off in the night, at which they aim—Be on
                                your guard, at Fort Pitt, as well as the other Posts on your Boatguard & the New Store if they should venture
                                to come so far—Guy Johnston it is sd is coming down by Presquisle, with a Thousand men to make a diversion and stop Genl
                                Clarks proceeding down the River; because they had Intelligence that he wou’d come to Detroit with an Army—The party
                                consists of Wiandotts, Delawares, Monsies, & a few Shawnesse—They carry the English Flag with them—You will be
                                carefull not to mention abroad that you had the Intelligence from our Towns, for it wou’d prove dangerous for us if the
                                Indians shou’d get Intelligence of it, that might happen by a Prisoner if they shou’d take one—I am in haste yr Obt
                                Hbl. sevt

                                 D. Zeisberger

                                P.S. Please to let me know how matters are & if Genl Clark is march’d off & where,
                                    his march will I reckon Contribute much to our safety—This Messenger I sent off privately please to use him
                                    well—The messenger who was sent on an errand to Cap. Johnny at or about the Shawnee Towns, is returnd, and will come to the Fort as soon as possible, at present he cannot come,
                                    because the Warriors watch him—He brings good news from Cap. Johnny concerning his own person—The speech sent to
                                    him was Very Acceptable.

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                Tuppaking August 21. 1781

                            The Messenger I had dispatched two days, having been detained in my absence as I went to Gnadenhutten
                                where the Warriors encamp, which I was very sorry to hear and returned from thence immediately in order to dispatch
                                him.  Now Schoppehilla the Messenger who was sent with a Message to Captain Johnny will bring you now an Answer from him,
                                and tell you all the news he has heard in the Indian Country. Yesterday before I left Gnadenhutten, Six Warriors
                                brought in a prisoner and a scalp. By the former they got intelligence that General Clark with 1500 Men went down the
                                River yesterday 10 days ago, and that 100 of his Men had deserted, which was all the Intelligence
                                I learned he gave, and  Mathew Elliot wrote it down to send it to Detroit as I imagine. From
                                Sandusky we have a certain Account, of which however neither Elliot or McCormick mentioned a word of to me, or any body
                                here, that the Fort there had narrowly escaped being taken by the prisoners and French, who designed to give Arms to the
                                prisoners privately and half of the Garrison had joined in the plot when the matter was discovered, the Warriors I
                                think will go off in two or three Days, and I yet think for Wheeling, because the Prisoner told them that the
                                Garrison there consisted of 15 men only and if they attempt they should prove unsuccessfull, perhaps they may go
                                to the Inhabitants, or scatter in order to do mischief in several places. The half King of the
                                Wiandotts, has ordered us to move from hence but we will stand our ground, and I have good
                                reason to beleive they will say no more to us at this time. I hear a great many of the Delawares will come back
                                if we stay here, they are tired of the War and are starving; We likewise have intelligence of the french
                                Major Lauclot his arrival at Miami River below Scioto, with a thousand Men white and
                                Indians, and that 80 English, with some hundreds of Indians were gone to give him battle, before Genl Clark should
                                join him. but now I am in good hopes they came too late. pray dont publish my Letter for this is not a proper time
                                for it, make haste to secure Wheeling Fort first of all. I am with great esteem Dear Sir Yr Most obed. Hble Sevt

                                D. Z.

                                Please to give something to the Messenger Saml Nanticock is a true man he is poor & wants a
                                    little cloathing.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Kings Ferry Augt 24th 1781

                        Colo. Pickering is in want of Three Travelling Forges to compleat the number for the Troops on this side the
                            River, I wish you to supply them from your Command, and have them replaced from West Point, where there is a number that
                            may be fit for service with very small repairs.
                        I am Sir Your Most Humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 24 August 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Peeks-kill Augst 24th 1781

                        I am honored with another of your Letters of this date, have ordered one Travelling Forge from each Division
                            of this army, (Three in the Whole) with the Horses, drivers, and one workman to each Forge, to be immediately detached and
                            sent to Kings ferry, there to take the orders of the Adjutant General. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect
                            your Excellencies most Obedient Servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 24 August 1781
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Park of Artillery 24th August, 1781

                        Account of the Ordnance which will be attached to the American Army in the intended operations to the
                            Southward.

                                Field Artillery

                                2
                                —
                                12 pounders

                                6
                                —
                                6 prs

                                4
                                —
                                3 prs brass

                                3
                                —
                                5 1/2 inch howitzers brass

                        The above with implements, carriages complete, and 200 rounds to each piece, with the proper quantity of
                            small stores.

                                For a Siege

                                Iron

                                3
                                —
                                24 pounders

                                20
                                —
                                18 prs

                                Brass

                                10
                                —
                                10 inch mortars

                                2
                                —
                                8 inch do

                                6
                                —
                                5 1/2 inch do

                                3
                                —
                                8 inch howitzers

                        The above complete, with carriages, beds and implements—powder, shot, shells, fuses, tubes &ca
                            sufficient for 500 rounds to each piece.

                            H. Knox Brigr Genl Artillery


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                        My Dear Marquis

                            Head Quarters Kings Ferry Augst 24. 1781

                        I have sent Major Gibbs to join your Corps in the room of Major Galvan, as you are so well acquainted with
                            the former. I need say nothing more respecting him but that I am persuaded he will equal your most favorable expectations.
                            It was impossible with any propriety to have ordered that Gentleman you Mentiond on that service, after he had been
                            employed the whole of the last Campaign in the Light Corps. With every sentiment of affection & regard I am My Dr
                            Marquis Your Most Obedt. Servant


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 24 August 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                        My dear General

                            Mattapony River 24th August 1781

                        This letter will be Handed By cll Morris who waits upon Your Excellency with Gal Greene’s Sentiments upon
                            the different ways to Improve Count de Grasses assistance. I Have Been desired to Add my Accounts But the last letter I
                            Had the Honor to write Has Anticipated the Informations Which Gral Greene wanted me to give.
                        The Light Infantry are 850—the Pennsylvania 600—Virginia exchanged soldiers and new levies 400—the
                            Marylanders will be 600—We have 120 dragoons and a chance to obtain 60 more—Had we Accoutrements we could have 200 more
                            whom Colo. White has in Readiness with 200 excellent horses 60 of which I hope to equip By dismounting Volunteers—As to
                            militia we may in a few days have 3000—a demand from you upon the State of Maryland will procure 1000 well armed
                            militia—The Conduct of some people in that State appears to me very injurious to public interest—The New levies have been
                            every day detained—every petty pretence employed to prevent their joining either Gal Greene or this army—The danger of
                            Baltimore upon which I was not very Hasty to quiet them Brought on a Confession that the men were Ready—I then demanded
                            them in Most urging terms. At last I sent George there who writes me they make a Beautiful Battalion But He could not
                            obtain more than a promise to send them in three or four days. Portsmouth is evacuated with some precipitation—I wait for
                            a more particular Account Before I write officially—Yesterday Mr de Camus a French officer of the Navy has reconnoitered
                            the shipping in York River—There are 60 sails 10 of which armed vessels, the largest a 50 gun ship, their situation very
                            much exposed.
                        The ennemy are not yet fortifying at York—What is doing at Glocester is rather upon a contracted scale—They
                            do not appear very much Alarmed—Colo. dundas was Heard to say that an english and french fleet Had sailed in the same
                            time—The intelligence Concerning Count de Grasse Has Been kept a profound secret.
                        My Coming in this Country Has Attracted this side a large part of the enemy’s force. in the Mean while
                            Gal Wayne was filing towards Westover and the Remainder of the Army to Ruffins ferry—Should the enemy move southerly
                            we shall be at Westover Before Wayne has done crossing as the Cavalry will Be Hurried on—the Moment Count de Grasse
                            arrives I will collect our force about Soans Bridge and wait for Intelligences from him.
                        Colo. Gimat and the french officer I have mentioned are gone to Portsmouth under pretence to see the
                            fortifications (which I have ordered to be leveled) and will proceed to Cape Henry in order to deliver My dispatches to
                            the French Commanders, and give them every information in their power.
                        Heavy Artillery and every thing Relative to a seige from the cannon to the tools are not to be found this
                            side of Philadelphia—Cloathing and particularly shoes—Arms, dragoons and Horse Equipments, Ammunition of every kind are
                            articles which your Excellency will be obliged to send from the Northward—I may add Medicines and Hospital stores—Could
                            Lauzun’s Legion be forwarded with dispatch they will be extremely useful—They might Come with you and would in the mean
                            time serve to the safety of Your journey.
                        As to provisions my dear General, want of sistem will render our subsistance difficult unless intelligent
                            Commissaries are immediately sent on—If you intend, as I Hope, to Come yourself you might send on the Heads of
                                departments——an early application upon the State of Maryland may be productive of great good.
                        My expectations have not as yet Been Communicated to any General officer not even to the Executive—I will
                            however to day write a private letter to the Governor—Count de Grasse will no doubt arrive
                            Before long.
                        In case important operations are carried on in Virginia which I think cannot fail to succeed Mr Morris ought
                            to send some Hard Money. From the Moment I took the Command of this army their has not been a farthing sent from the
                            Treasury and this State money is good for nothing. With the Highest Respect and affection I Have the Honor to Be, My dear
                            General, Your Affectionate friend

                            Lafayette

                            Lord Cornwallis’s force at Richmond was 4000—There were then at least 1000 in Portsmouth—Some have been
                                killed and some are sick But if you add sailors he will have much upwards of 5000 men at the lowest estimate.


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 24 August 1781
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                            Monsieur.
                            APhiladelphie le 24. Aout 1781.

                        J’ai l’honneur de Vous adresser trois lettres qui m’ont été remises pour le Général
                            Duportail, Mrs de Laumoi et de Cambrai. Ces Officiers desirent infiniment d’être échangés et ils n’ont gueres de ressources
                            pour y parvenir que les bontés de Votre Excellence. Je la supplie de considerer que leurs services dans les Etats du Sud
                            pourroient être bien utiles dans les circonstances actuelles; les connoissances du pays qu’ils ont acquises pendant les
                            trois dernieres campagnes, leur donnent peutêtre quelques droits à des préferences. C’est au moins de cette manière qu’en
                            ont jugé les Delegués de la Caroline du Sud, qui m’ont paru disposés à proposer leur échange, si c’est l’opinion
                            particulière de Votre Excellence.
                        M. le Comte de Rochambeau Vous aura communiqué les dernieres nouvelles, que j’ai reçues du Cap et d’Antigue.
                                L’Aml Hood, qui a remplacé Rodney dans le Commandement Général, sera parti au plutôt le l5. de
                            ce mois; nous avons toutes sortes de raison d’espérer, qu’il sera prévenu par M. le Comte de Grasse et que les troupes des
                            deux nations reunies sous Vos ordres pourront frapper quelque coup décisif qui assurera à jamais l’independance de
                            l’Amérique.
                        J’attens avec bien de l’impatience le moment où Vous Vous rapprocherés de ce pays ci. Mon premier soin sera
                            d’aller Vous presenter mes respects et de Vous assurer des sentimens de l’inviolable attachement avec lequel j’ai
                            l’honneur d’être, Monsieur De Votre Excellence le très humble et très obéissant Serviteur,

                            Le che. de la luzerne


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                            Sir
                             24 August 1781

                        The detachment under your command is to march to Springfield in New Jersey by two Routes. The left Column
                            with which you will go is to be composed of the Light Troops and York Regiments (if Courtlands should get up in time) and
                            four light Feild pieces with the Baggage of these Corps. The right Column is to consist of the park of Artillery— O’dnance
                            Stores—The Quarter Masters and Commissary’s Stores—The Baggage of the Staff—The Cloathing—Boats and other things—covered by
                            Colonel Olneys Regt and the Corps of Sappers and Miners.
                        The left Column will march on the
                        25th—within three miles of Paramus.
                        26th two Miles below Acquaquenack Bridge.
                        27th to Springfeild.
                        The Right Column will march the same day three miles beyond Sufferens.
                        26th 5 miles beyond Pompton on the Road to the two Bridges at the Fork of Passaic.
                        27th Back of the Mountain to Chatham. In these positions the whole will halt till further Orders.
                        The Jersey Troops and Hazens Regt to be put in condition to march the moment you arrive at Springfeild.
                        When the march is to commence from Springfeild the following will be the Route and distances.
                        To Bound Brook
                        Rocky Hill
                        Trenton—
                        And when our destination is no longer a secret you will send forward an Officer of activity and resource to
                            Trenton to arrange matters for passing the covered and such other Waggons as the Quarter Master General shall think
                            necessary over the River, as also the Artillery and such of the Ordnance Stores as Genl Knox or the Officer commanding it
                            may chuse to send to the Head of Elk by Land—The troops—common Baggage and other things are to go by Water, if the means
                            of transportation can be provided, but as this is scarcely to be expected, a due proportion of what is provided must be
                            allotted to the French Army.
                        The Troops, Baggage and Stores which go by Water are not to halt at Philada but proceed immediately to
                            Christiana Bridge or as near to it as circumstances will admit, nor is there to be a moments unnecessary delay of any
                            thing that moves by land to the Head of Elk. The success of our enterprise depends upon the celerity of our
                            movements—delay therefore may be ruinous to it.
                        I do not hesitate in giving it as my opinion that every Horse and Ox should be swam over the Delaware. A few
                            Boats above and below the place they are made to enter the River, to give them a proper direction, will remove all
                            difficulty and greatly facilitate the passage across.
                        Given at King’s Ferry this 24th of August 1781.

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jotham Loring, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Loring, Jotham

                            sir
                            Head Quarters Kings Ferry 24th Augst 1781

                        Your Letter of the 15th instt is received—As the Matter of a second Trial requested by you, was fully
                            considered in my Reply to you of the 6th of April last, I cannot consent to order any Further Proceedings in your Case—and
                            have only to request that this Letter may close the Correspondence on the Subject. I am &ca

                            G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Kings Ferry 24th Augt 1781.

                        Immediately after you left Camp, I applied to Mr Tarlé the French Intendant and requested to know the
                            quantity of Flour which he could spare us and where he would wish to have it replaced. I have not been able to ascertain
                            either of these points, but from a conversation which passed yesterday between Mr Tarle and Colo. Stewart on the subject,
                            I do not imagine we shall obtain more than 1000 or 1200 Barrels in this quarter; and as the whole or the greater part
                            which is to be given in return will be wanted to the southward, I think you may with safety prepare a few hundred Barrels
                            in Philada at which place the French will have a quantity of Bread Baked, and the remainder at the Head of Elk and upon
                            Chesapeak. The Moment I know with more certainty, I will inform you.
                        We have been delayed here longer than I expected by the difficulty of crossing the North River—The American
                            Troops march tomorrow Morning and I hope by the time we reach Springfeild we shall hear of the arrival of the fleet in
                            Chesapeak. After that, our design may be unmasked—It will take a very considerable number of Craft to carry us down the
                            Delaware and I shall be obliged to you for keeping in mind my request that you would assist the Qr Mr in procuring them
                            and the Vessels in Chesapeak should he call upon you for that purpose. I am &c


Title: From George Washington to William Smallwood, 24 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Kings Ferry Augst 24. 1781

                        I have duly received your favor of the 9th Inst. together with the enclosure from the Marquis de la Fayette of
                            the 6th. Long before this time, I flatter myself the 3d Regt and all the Levies & Recruits which have been raised
                            for the Maryland Line have marched to join the Army—If by any accident they have been detained beyond your expectations, I
                            must urge in the most pressing Manner, that they should be ordered to march without a moments loss of time & join
                            the Marquis in the first instance, who has my directions respecting their future Movement.
                        As to the request of Capt. Hughs, I do not think it can be consistently complied with, or that
                            there can be sufficient reason to justify his resignation at this time, he ought therefore to join his Corps without
                            delay, especially as Colo. Hazen is now promoted & not immediately connected with the Regt. I am Dr S.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 25 August 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear general,
                            Peekskill August 25. 1781.

                        A few days before your departure from the camp near Dobb’s ferry, the report of a board of general officers
                            respecting the rank of subaltern officers in some of the New England lines was presented to your Excellency. It is a
                            matter in which the officers of those lines are interested and are enquiring what is to be done—Permit me to request to be
                            informed whether the opinion of the board meets your Excellency’s approbation, or not—and whether it be your pleasure that
                            a board be appointed to settle the rank of officers agreeable to the report of the general officers—or that matters remain
                            in their present state. I should have mentioned this to your Excellency before your departure, had it occurred to my mind.
                            I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 25 August 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                        My Dear General

                            Mrs Ruffin’s August 25th 1781

                        Independant of the Answer to Your letter of the 15th, I Have Been Very Particular in a Second letter
                            Instrusted to Clel Moriss. But at this Moment Wish to Send you Minuted and Repeated Accounts of Every thing that Passes in
                            this Quarter.
                        The Ennemy Have Evacuated their forts at Ivy, Kemp’s Landing, Great Bridge and Portsmouth. Their Vessels with
                            troops and Baggage went Round to York. Some Cannon Have Been left Spiked up at Portsmouth—But I Have Not Yet Received
                            Proper Returns.
                        I Have Got Some Intelligences By the Way of this Servant I Have once Mentioned—a Very Sensible fellow Was
                            With Him and from Him as Well as deserters I Hear that they Begin fortifying at York. They are Now Working By a Windmill
                            at Which place I Understand they will Make a fort and a Battery for the defense of the River. I Have no Doubt But that
                            Some thing will Be done on the land Side. The Works at Gloster Are finished. They Consist of Some
                            trifling Redoubts Across Gloster Neck and a Battery of 18 pieces Beating the River.
                        The Ennemy Have 60 Sails of Vessels into York River—the largest a 50 guns ship two 36 frigats—about Seven
                            other Armed Vessels. The Remainder are transports Some of them Still loaded and a part of them Very Small Vessels. It
                            Appears they Have in that Number Merchant Men Some of Whom Dutch prizes. The Men of War Are Very thinly Manned. On Board
                            the other Vessels there Are Almost No Sailors.
                        The British Army Had Been Sickly at Portsmouth. The Air of York Begins to Refitt them. The Whole Cavalry Have
                            Crossed on the Gloster Side Yesterday Evening a Movement of Which I Gave Repeated Accounts to the Militia there. But the
                            light Infantry and Main Body of the Militia are at this place. Gal Wayne on the Road to West over and we May form our
                            jonction in one day. I keep parties upon the Ennemies lines. The Works at Portsmouth are Levelling. The Moment I Can Get
                            Returns and Plans I will Send them to Your Excellency. The Evacuation of a Post fortified with much Care and Great Expense
                            will Convince the people Abroad that the Ennemy Cannot Hold two places at once. I Have Mentionned it in a letter to
                            Congress Wherein I Send them Copy of one I Have Received upon An other Subject—the Enlisting of Your Soldiers, and
                            Impressing them into British Service. I thought You Had Rather the Matter Should Be directly laid Before Congress, and
                            Consequent Measures Entirely left with them. Inclosed you will find an other Copy of that letter.
                        The Maryland troops were to Have Sat out on Monday last—But God knows if they will keep the Engagement.
                        There is in this Quarter An Immense Want of Cloathing of Every Sort, Arms, Ammunition, Hospital Stores, and
                            Horse Accoutrements. Should A Maritime Superiority Be Expected I would Propose to Have all those Matters Carried from
                            Philadelphia to the Head of Elk.
                        The Numbers of the British Army fit for duty I at least Would Estimate at 4500
                            Rank and file. Their Sailors I Cannot judge But By Intelligences of the Number of Vessels. There is an Amazing Quantity of
                            Negroes But (except at Working) they May Become an Uncomberance. In a Word this Part Affords the Greatest Number of
                            Regulars and the only Active Army to Attak, which Having Had no Plan of defense, must Be Less Calculated for it than Any
                            Garrison Either at Newyork or in Carolina.
                        I Have writen a private and Confidential letter (But Not Quite So) to the Governor. I speak in pretty General
                            terms, and just So Much as Was Necessary. No News of Any Sort Has Come to Hand. With the Highest Respect and Most Sincere
                            Affection I Have the Honor to Be My dear General Your Most obedient Hble Servant

                            Lafayette

                            I am Sorry to Inform you that Gal Campdell of the Riflemen—the one of King’s Mountain—lately died of a
                                fever at New Castle.


Title: From George Washington to Silvanus Seely, 25 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Seely, Silvanus

                        sir

                            Head Quarters 25th Augst 1781.

                        On the 27th Instant you will commence Your March from Dobb’s Ferry—with your   Troops—on the
                            Road by the New Bridge, thro’ Aquacanack to Springfield—where you will receive further Orders from Major Genl Lincoln. I
                            am sir Your most humble Servant,

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Philip Van Cortlandt, 25 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Van Cortlandt, Philip

                            Sir,
                             25 August 1781

                        You will take charge of the Clothing, the Boats, Intrenching Tools, and such other Stores as shall be
                            committed to your Care by the Quarter Master General: With these you are to proceed (in the Order they are mentioned) to
                            Springfield, by the way of Suffern’s, Pompton, the two Bridges and Chatham.
                        When you arrive at Springfield you will put yourself under the Orders of Majr Genl Lincoln, or any other
                            (your Senr) officer commandg at that place. You will also, if occasion should require it alter the above Route agreeably
                            to Orders from either Major Genl Lincoln or the Quarter M. Genl.
                        You will be particularly careful to collect all your Men that are in a proper condition to march and will use
                            your best endeavours to prevent desertion. Given at Kings ferry this 25 Day of Augt 1781.

                            G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 26 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Ramapaugh 26th Augt 1781.

                        Yours of yesterday reached me at this place. The Report to which you allude is with my Baggage; but as I
                            imagine you have a Copy of it, you will be pleased to direct a Board to settle the Ranks of the subalterns who are
                            interested, upon the principles established by the Board at Phillipsburg Camp. With great Regard I am Dear Sir Yr most obt
                            sert

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 27 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                            My dear Marquis.
                            Chatham New Jersey 27th Augt 1781.

                        Your favr of the 11th did not reach me till yesterday morning—I so soon expect to see you that I shall defer
                            entering into a particular answer to the Contents, part of which is of a very disagreeable nature and must be handled
                            delicately.
                        The whole force intended for the southward will be assembled in this neighbourhood to day and tomorrow and
                            will proceed to Trenton as soon as Craft can be collected there to transport them down the Delaware to Christiana—The
                            celerity of their further movement will depend upon the arrival of the Count de Grasse and the means of transportation
                            which it may be in his power to furnish.
                        Supposing the enemy to be held blockaded in certain positions, it will be necessary for me to know, before
                            hand, what will be the proper place of debarkation for the French and American Troops, that we may steer immediately to
                            that point, and at which there should be a collection of draft Horses and Cattle and some Waggons to move the Artillery
                            and Stores which may be necessary for the immediate commencement of operations. I am endeavouring to send round (but I
                            doubt whether I shall be able to effect it) a small supply of salt provisions.Should I fail, the troops will have occasion
                            for Fresh the instant of their arrival in Virginia. I would therefore wish, to avoid disappointment, that some Cattle
                            might be prepared at the most probable place of debarkation, and I should also wish to know what are the chances or
                            prospects of our supply while in Virginia.
                        Your answer to these points will meet me at the Head of Elk or upon my way thither, and as there is a
                            possibility that I may be upon the Bay, you may, if the navigation is in our possession, send a Copy of your dispatches to
                            the Head of Elk by Water.
                        Let me know what position you intend to take after you have formed a junction with the Troops with Mr de
                            Grasse—and whether you do not think that James Town will be a proper place of debarkation for us supposing the enemy
                            remain in their present position of York and Gloucester? I am my dear Marquis sincerely & affecty yrs.

                            P.S. What number of intrenching tools have you and of what kinds.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 27 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

                            SirHead Quarters Chatham 27th Augst 1781

                        Official accounts which I have received, giving me Reason to expect the arrival of a powerfull Fleet of our
                            Allies very soon in Chesapeak, if not already Arrived—this Expectation, together with some other Circumstances not
                            necessary at present to detail to you have inducd me to make a total alteration in the concerted
                            measures of this Campaign—In Consequence, I am now marchg a very considerable Detatchment from the American Army, with the
                            whole of the French Troops, imediately to Virginia.As Our Hopes of Success against Ld Cornwallis in a great measure
                            depend on the Dispatch & Selerity of our movements—I have to request in the most earnest manner all the Aid
                            & Assistance from your Excellency, that we may have Occasion for & have Reason to expect from your
                            State—among these, the means of Transportation from the Head of Elk, to the Point of our Operations, will be among the
                            most Essential—all the Water Craft, that can be procured, suitable for the Carriage of an Army, with their Artillery,
                            Baggage, Stores &ca—will be needed, & should be ready at the Head of Elk by the 8th of Sepr—a Quantity of
                            Forage will also be necessary for the Cattle which will unavoidably attend the Army—as I shall probably be disappointed of
                            a Quantity of salted Provisions, which cannot with safety be transported from the Eastern States—I must beg your
                            Excellency to pay particular attention to that article, if any is to be obtained within your State.Other Aids as well in
                            Provisions as other Articles will probably be needed—which cannot at this moment be particularly specified—I communicate
                            my Intentions to you, & have confidence, that I shall receive every Aid & Assistance that is in your
                            Power, towards their Execution—I expect to have no Occasion to call on you for the aid of men, further than your State
                            Troops which are ordered to be raised, & which I hope you have already compleated.
                        Mr Robert Morriss will have the principal Agency in procuring the Water Transportation mentioned in this
                            Letter—perhaps nothing more will be expected from your Excellency in that Article, than to afford Mr
                            Morriss every Aid of Government which he may stand in need of in the Procurement of the Craft—which I am persuaded you
                            will do with the utmost Readiness & Decision.
                        The moment is critical—the Opportunity is precious—the Prospect most happily favorable—I
                            hope that no Supiness, or Want of Exertions on our part may prove the means of our Disappointment. I am &ca

                            G.Wn

                            P.S. Our Forage will be principally wanted at the Head of Elk—& from thence on the Rout to
                                George Town.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 27 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                        sir

                            Head Quarters Chatham 27th Augst 1781

                        I have the Honor to inform Congress, that my Expectation of the Arrival of the Fleet of Monser DeGrasse, in the
                            Chesapeak Bay—with some other Circumstances, of which Congress were informed in my Letter of the 2d of Augst & in
                            which very little alterations have since taken place—have induced me to make an Alteration in the concerted Operations of
                            this Campaign. I am now on my March with a very considerable Detachment of the American Army and the whole of the French
                            Troops, for Virginia.
                        As I expect a few Days will bring me to Philadelphia I shall then have the Honor to open my Motives &
                            Intentions to Congress, more fully than it may be prudent to do by Letter at this Distance. I have the Honor to be with
                            the Highest Respect & Regard Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Miles, 27 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Miles, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Head Qrs Chatham Augt 27th 1781

                        In consequence of a total alteration in our Plans, & the movement of a large Body of Troops to the
                            Southward, I have dispatched a Messenger for the sole purpose of having Provisions made at Trenton, for the transportation
                            of them to Christiana by Water. You will therefore be pleased to have the greatest possible number of Sloops, Shallops &
                            River Craft of all kinds, fit for the Transportation of Men, Artillery and Baggage collected from every Quarter where they
                            can be found, and brought to Trenton by the 31st Instant at which time the Head of the Column is expected to arrive: Let
                            others be procured & ordered to follow to the same place, as fast as may be until Orders are received to the contrary.
                        You will use every exertion to have this business carried into execution without loss of time. I have also
                            written to Mr Morris on the subject, with whom I wish you to Converse and advise respecting the places, mode &c.
                            of obtaining Craft; and I am persuaded he will afford you any assistance in his power.
                        I have delayed having these preparations made until this Moment, because I wished to deceive the Enemy with
                            regard to our real object as long as possible— our movements have been calculated for that purpose and I am still anxious
                            the deception should be kept up a few days longer, until our intentions are announced by the Army’s filing off towards the
                            Delaware.
                        These Arrangements would have been made through the Quarter Master General, but he having been left at Kings
                            ferry to execute some business in ths Department, & the time of his arrival being uncertain, I have thought proper to
                            write to you myself on the subject, and to desire in the most earnest manner, that neither Labour or expense may be
                            wanting in the performance of the important business now committed to you. I am, &c.

                            G. Washington

                            P.S. Be so good as to obtain Quarters for myself and Family (half a Dozen Gentlemen) at some convenient
                                Private lodgings without mentioning particularly who they are for. If one House will not accommodate the whole, the
                                nearer the Lodgings are the better. Also be pleased to forward the Letters to the Southward by Express.