Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 21 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

            Dear Sir
            White-plains Augt 21st 1778.

          On Wednesday afternoon I re⟨ce⟩ived your favor of the 12th & 13th
          Inst. by Mr Hulet the Pilot, who did not arrive in Camp till then. I am  much obliged by your particular
            relation of matters, and request that you will continue it from time to time whenever
            oppertunity will permit.
          There was one circumstance in your relation, of which I was exceedingly sorry to hear.
            You will readily know which it is. I wish the utmost harmony to prevail, as it is
            essential to success—and that no occasions be omitted on our part to cultivate it.
          Your operations have been greatly retarded by the late violent storm, but as it is now
            over, I trust things will go on prosperously, & that you will be rejoined by
            Count D’Estaign who has been kept out so long by it. Indeed, from General Sullivans
            Letter of the 17th, I flatter myself you will have made a compleat reduction of the
            Enemy’s force before this reaches you, & that the next advices I receive, will
            announce it. If the fact is otherwise, let me beseech
            you to guard against Sortees & surprizes—The Enemy, depend, will fall like a
            strong Man—will make many Sallies, & endea⟨v⟩our to possess themselves of, or
            de⟨s⟩troy your Artillery—and in one of these, should they put the Militia into
            confusion, the consequences may be fatal.
          By a Letter which I received yesterday from Genl Maxwell, inclosing one from Major
            Howell (whom I have stationed at black point for the purpose of observation) it appears certain, that Sixteen of Lord Howes fleet entered
            the Hook on the 17th—That on that, and the preceeding day, there had been heard severe
            Canonades at Sea—& that it was reported in New York that a 64 Gun Ship and
            several Transports had been taken by the French Squadron. I wish the fact may be so as to the capture, and that the Count may be with you to
            give a narrative of it himself.
          I cannot learn that Admiral Byron is arrived—nor do I believe that he is. It is said
            that one Ship only of the Corke Fleet is yet arrived. I have not time to add more, as
            Majr Blodget is in a hurry to proceed, than to assure you, that I am, with the most
            perfect esteem & regard Dr Sir Yr Obliged & Affecte Frd

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Patrick Henry, 21 August 1778
From: Henry, Patrick
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Patrick Henry, 21 Aug. 1778. GW wrote
            Henry on 13 Sept.: “I have been honored with yours of the 21st Augt.”


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 21 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

            sir
            Head Qrs White plains August 21st 1778

          Your Favor of the 16th, with the several papers to which it referred, came duly to hand
            on Wednesday Afternoon.
          I this minute received from General Sullivan the Letter I have now the honor of
            forwarding you, with One addressed to myself. A copy of the latter is also inclosed. The General seems to have been very near the Enemy’s
            lines—& on the point of opening all his Batteries. Things appear to be in a
            promising train.
          By advices from an Officer of rank and intelligence, who is stationed with a party in
            Monmouth County, I am informed, that sixteen Ships
            entered the Hook on the 17th, one having a Flag, & that on that & the
            proceding day a Heavy Canonade was heard at Sea. I have the Honor to be with the
            greatest respect & esteem sir Your Most Obedt servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 21 August 1778
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Cambridge [Mass.] August 21st 1778

          The situation of the Troops of the Convention of Saratoga being such as calls upon my
            earnest attention, will, I hope, plead for me in apology for giving you, Sir, the
            trouble of this Letter.
          By an Article of the Treaty made at Saratoga with Major General Gates it was to be
            allow’d that an Officer might be sent to Canada for the Cloathing for the Troops of the
              Convention—By application thereupon to Major General
            Heath he consented that an Officer might go by way of Halifax but did not allow any one
            to go by Land and the Lakes; I was obliged to accept this only alternative of procuring
            the cloathing; and Captain Willoe went with proper passports to Halifax and sailed from
            thence in April for Quebec; but he has not since been heard of, nor have I received any
            accounts what ever from Canada: under this description of the matter, and being in much
            anxiety for the welfare of the Troops I wrote a request to Major General Heath in the
            last month, which I repeated a few days since for permission to send an Officer by Land
            to Canada—Copies of my Letters and the Answers of Major General Heath I enclose to you,
            Sir, as fully explanatory on the Subject and will serve to offer as a reason for this
            direct application to you which Brigadier General Wilkinson going to your Army Affords
              me.
          I will take the liberty to most seriously request you will, Sir, have the goodness to
            allow of my sending an Officer by the Lakes to Canada, with permission that he may
            return the same way with accounts of the Cloathing for the Troops which is at present
            much wanted but in a short time will prove of the utmost consequence to men who are
            Almost naked.
          I will not intrude longer on your time but leave my request to the decision of your
            good Sense and humanity.
          I have a Pay Master and a Secretary in Canada to whom I writ by way
            of Halifax to Come here, the one to settle some public Accounts, the other to remain
            Some time with me in his way to Europe—May I offer my desire that should those two
            Officers be Still in Canada they may have leave to join me by way of Lake Champlain.
          I do protest, Sir, that if it did not appear to me that an Officer going by Land to
            Canada would be attended with no consequences either political or military I would not
            give you the trouble of my request, and my Parole however strict, shall be subscribed
            to.
          Should the Letters to New York contain no thing improper I will hope you may allow of
            their passing to that place. I am Sir, with great
            personal respect your most Obedient most humble Servant

            W. Phillips


Title: From George Washington to William Smith, 21 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, William

            Sir.
            Head Quarters [White Plains] August 21st 1778

          I received your letter of the 15th Inst. by Lieut. Colonel Burr.
          It gives me pleasure to find that the conduct of the flag was such as contributed to
            your ease; and I am much obliged to you for the attention shewn to the convenience of my
            officers.
          It was really altogether out of my power to take any concern, (without interfering with
            the civil authority) in the matter of your request, but I have transmitted the letter to
            Governor Clinton who I doubt not will do every thing proper on the occasion. I am Sir your Most Obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Stark, 21 August 1778
From: Stark, John
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir,
            Head Quarters [Albany] 21st August 1778.

          I am under the disagreeable Necessity of complaining of the Qr Mr General, of this
              Department, altho I could Cincerely wish, never to be
            under such Necessity, it is not only myself but almost Every Person, that has Business
            with him has Reason to Complain, as he seems very unwilling [to] oblige any Person
            whatever, he has no Tents, neither can I learn as he tries to provide any, by which
            means Colo. Aldens Regiment is in a suffering Condition, not having above Seven Tents in
            the Regiment, and no probability of their wants being supplyed, the Militia at this
            Place has not half Camp Kettles enough for their use, and Informed by the Qr Mr that he
            has none for them.
          The Troops at Otter Creek (our most Northern Frontier) has never been supplyed with
            Provisions, for more than five days before hand, and several times intirely out, and
            obliged to borrow Flour from the Inhabitants for their subsistance by the Negligence of
            the Qr Mr General.
          I have (after several Applications for some kind of Grain for my Horses,) been informed
            that I can have none unless I advance hard Money for the same, and you are very Sensible
            that I receive no such Payment which renders me unable to support them, & I
            think it a very surprising affair, if the Continental Money will not purchase a Little
               Grain for some Horses, but I am fully of opinion that such like
            Gentleman, by offering hard Money, has been very Instrumental, in Reducing the
            Continental Money, to its present low State.
          I must beg that if he cannot be removed or Reformed, that I may be recalled, and some
            other Officer sent (if any such there be) who can bear such Repeated insults. I am this
            Moment informed that part of the Troops has come from Otter Creek, for want of
            Provisions and Arrived at Bennington. I am Sir with great Respect—Your Most Obedient
            Very Humble Servt

            John Stark.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 21 August 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

            Dear General.
            Head Quarters before Newport [R.I.] Augt 21st P.M. [1778]

          I have within this hour had the honor of receiving your favor and am happy in having it
            in my power to relieve your Excellency from the state of anxiety you are in for the
            Counts safety. He last evening appeared of this harbour
            & I was soon after surprised with the inclosed letter from Count d’Cambis who
            was dispatched in a frigate by the Admiral for the purpose of more speedily conveying
            the intelligence it contains. From it your excellency
            will learn, the situation of the languedoc & another ship of the line—the former
            having lost all her masts, the latter her fore-mast in the late storm—as also the
            seperation of a 74 gun ship during the gale, which has not joined the squdron as yet.
            Thier success was by no means adequate to our expectations—The Senegal of eighteen Guns
            and a bomb-Ketch are the only prizes they have taken—In
            consideration (I suppose) of his loss Count d’Estain had almost determined to sail for
            Boston and refit without touching upon this Island & it is manifest from the
            letter I have the honor to transmit your excellency that to co-operate with us was not
            his motive for, or intention in calling—As soon as I discovered this, I detached General
            Greene & the Marquiss and Colonel Langden one of the Continental ship agents to
            confirm him in the validity of the following assurance—viz. That it was as practicable
            and more convenient to repair his ships in this harbor than in that of Boston—That the
            danger of being blocked up in either was the same, as a superior fleet could as easily
            effect it in the latter as they could in the former. That there was a certainty in our
            being able to reduce the Island in a few days with his  assistance—In
            short I made use of every argument that could incline him to desist from his purpose and
            partake of our glory and our danger—concluding with a request that should he
            notwithstanding what was offered persist in his resolution of sailing he would at least
            leave the land forces he had on board. I would feign hope my arguments have had the
            desired weight with him as he has since stood in and anchored near the Town. General
            Greene and the Marquiss have not yet returned—nor have I heard from them, but shall
            communicate the Counts answer as soon as it comes to hand—He could not have wanted water
            in his cruize as I had taken every possible method of supplying him with it. And I shall
            continue to furnish him with every necessary that he may want or I can procure. In order
            to do this I beg your Excellency would give orders that provisions should be forwarded
            as expeditiously as possible for their use, as it may not be in my power to supply them
            with such quantities as he may require.
          The enemy soon after we had opened a four gun battery (18 pounders) evacuated a redoubt
            that was most exposed to its fire—I have since raised
            batteries far advanced of this, and shall to-morrow morning have twenty eight pieces of
            heavy cannon playing at an inconsiderable distance, upon their works—These well served
            will (I doubt not) with what mortars I have at hand oblige them to retire from all their
            advanced redoubts and leave their lines open to o⟨ ur⟩ future operations which will be
            greatly accelerated should Count d’Estain conclude to divert them in another quarter. I
            am &c. &c. (a copy)

            Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 22 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters W. Plains saturday Augt 22nd 78.
            Parole Experience—C. Signs Enjoy—Esteem.

          Varick transcript, DLC:GW. Maj. Gen. Benjamin Lincoln’s orderly book for this date
            records the following orders: “Major Holdridge for two days guard, furnished with two
            days provision ready cooked & 40 rounds ⅌ Man—Twenty two light Dragoons to
            attend parade at guard mounting tomorrow Morning with a like quantity of
            Provisions—Southern, Northern & Eastern posts to set out on Monday” (MHi:
            Lincoln Papers; see also Alexander McDougall orderly book, NHi).


Title: From George Washington to James Caldwell, 22 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Caldwell, James

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 22d Augt 1778

          A few days ago I recd yours inclosing sundry papers relating to Capt. Randolph. I think him justly intitled to the pay of a Captain (in
            which rank he acted when taken) from the time Genl Sullivan took him into employ, untill
            he was released. When he returns, I will, upon application, give him a Warrant for the
            Amount of his pay.
          I would not have you employ the stationary Expresses upon common occasions, because, as
            you observe, they may be out of the way when dispatches of consequence are going on.
            Whenever you are under the necessity of using them, some persons should be engaged to
            remain at the stages till they return, lest it should occasion the delay of an important
            dispatch. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Silas Deane, 22 August 1778
From: Deane, Silas
To: Washington, George

            Dear sir
            Philadelphia Augst 22d 1778.

          I wrote you by Col. Bannister, which Letter You will have received before this; I now write by Capt. Webb, just to ask if any thing can
            be done  for the Exchange of Col. Webb Prisoner as I learn on Long
            Island, I am very desirous of seeing him before I leave Philadelphia not only on Account
            of the Affection I bear him, but on Business of some Consequence to Us both, if an
            exchange cannot be effected at present, can he by no means obtain Liberty, to come out
            for a few Weeks, on his Parole? I am extremely sorry to Trouble You on the Subject, but
            I know your Freindship to both of Us, and I know not where else to apply. We are here in
            a kind of dead Calm, as to News, and very impatient for something favorable from
            NewPort. every thing that meets the least Opposition in Congress is subject to such
            delay that I really dare not hazard a Conjecture as to The Time I shall be detained
            here, I promise myself however To have the honor of waiting on You in about a Fortnight
            from This, in the meantime I am as ever Dear sir with the most sincere respect Your
            Excellencys most Obedt and Very humble Servt

            Silas Deane


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 22 August 1778
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene, 22 Aug. 1778.
            On 1 Sept., GW wrote Greene: “I have had the pleasure of receiving your several letters,
            the last of which was of the 22d Augt.”


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 22 August 1778
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Elizth Town [N.J.] 22d August 1778

          I have little to inform your Excellency of but even that will be more agreeable to you,
            I emajin than not to hear from us at all. I have intiligence almost dayly from the
            likelyest places for news. The Troops lyeth mostly as they did when I wrote you of the
            partys going to Cow neck which is still confirmed, & that a party had gone to
            Joyn Governor Tryon on the East of the Island. besides
            the Artillery that went to him, the rest was mostly Greens or New Levys. my informant
            says there is 4 or 5 Vessels has come up to New York (the Smallest of which is 40 Guns)
            to be repaired, they are much shattered Masts and riging tore to pieces. They try to
            brag of having done great things with the French Fleet but the Feathers have carryed
            away the Birds. Their rapid retreat from before the Harbour of New Port on the Counts
            steering for them, will not suffer their friends to believe they intended to fight.
          No news from black Point. We had a small alarm from Major Clow, that he had great
            reason to think the Enemy was to come two nights ago to take or destroy the Provisions
            at Acquackinac. they did not come, and upon examination I found there was two much
            provisions there, well worthy their notice, Viz. 1200 Barrels, my sittuation being such
            that I can give it  little or no support; I ordered the Provisions to
            be forwarded as soon as possable, and not to leave Such a temptation in their way again.
            I am Your Excellencys Most Obedint Humble Servant

            Wm Maxwell

            N.B. I had intiligence last night that confirms 3 or 4 Vessels coming up for
              repair some reports that the French Fleet lyeth off the Hook some says that Byrons is
              there, but I believe neither. no news from Black Point.

            W.M.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 22 August 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Westchester County, N.Y.] 22d of Augt 1778

          Previous to the rect of Your orders through Colo. Tilghman I had sent Colos. Butler and
            parker with an Escort of 12 D[r]agoons To the Neighbourhood of Frogs point, with orders
            To take every possable Means in their power To git the Very best Intelegence from
              thence, I mentioned to them, giting some inhabitant
            Who they Could confide in. I also desierd them to Make enquiery whether there was any
            troops on Board and from where, in short to leave nothing ondon that might Leade to
            infermation I have again Sent to Colo. Gist to do every thing in his power to git
            intelegence on the Land side, I have Detached a Capt. with forty men who is well
            Acquainted with all that Country to do every thing in His power also. I think if there
            be a Possability of Coming at their designs I Shall Shortly git it. I am Yr Excellencys
            Obt Servt

            Chs Scott


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 22 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dear Sir,
            Head Quarters White Plains Aug. 22nd 1778

          I have received information, which has the appearance of authenticity, that the enemy
            have from an hundred to an hundred and fifty vessels in the sound near Frog’s point.
            This intelligence, I think it necessary to communicate to you that you may be upon your
              guard. What may be the purpose of these vessels can
            only be matter of conjecture. On the supposition, that the enemy have reason to believe
            the French  fleet so remote, either in consequence of the storm or
            other circumstances as to afford them an opportunity to operate by way of the sound, it
            is perhaps most probable, these vessels are designed to transport a body of troops for
            the relief of those on the Island.
          On another hand, the enemy may think the present moment favourable for evacuating New
            York; concluding the French fleet may be so much in want of necessaries; as to oblige
            them when they get into port again, to remain there awhile for fresh supplies; and, at
            the same time, so much injured, by being several months at sea, and by the late storm,
            as to stand in need both of rest and repairs. In this case, they might deem it expedient
            to conceal their real aim, by creating a jealousy of the sound; while the ships sent
            there may also serve to facilitate their embarkation.
          They may perhaps meditate som incursions along the coast by way of diversion; or they
            may possibly have it in view to operate against this army, by way of the Sound, which
            however appears to me the least likely supposition.
          Whatever may be the meaning of it, the fact itself deserves attention; and I dare say,
            you will use every precaution in your power to obtain the earliest discovery of the
            approach of these vessels, if they should be destined your way; and to secure the troops
            under your command from any untoward accident. And I am equally persuaded, that you will
            not suffer any ill-founded or premature alarm to produce any change in your disposition,
            which may injure or frustrate the enterprise, you are carrying on. The present state of
            the wind makes me hope, that if Rhode Island is the enemy’s object, this letter will get
            to you before they can accomplish it. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

            Go: Washington

            P.S. I doubt not you have taken every measure in your power to secure the
              passage across to the Main on any emergency. If the
              expresses stationd between this place and you, go by way of providence as this route
              is productive of delay, you will give directions to have it changed. Your letter of
              the 19th was received yesterday.


Title: To George Washington from Major Alexander Clough, 23 August 1778
From: Clough, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Maj. Alexander Clough, 23 Aug. 1778. On
            24 Aug., GW’s aide-de-camp Richard Kidder Meade wrote Clough: “His Excellency commands
            me to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of Yesterdays date—& thank you for
            the intelligence it contain’d—He wishes you to continue your endeavours to collect the
            most perfect accots possible; the circumstance in particular which you mention is of no
            small importance & it cou’d be wished that you wou’d examine strictly evry
            person on that Head, when by comparing the whole together, you may pretty well determine
            on the truth—This or any other matter of consequence you will be pleased to transmit to
            His Excy” (DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 23 August 1778
From: Laurens, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Camp before Newport [R.I.] 23d August 1778.

          I am just returned from a fruitless pursuit of the french Squadron—General Sullivan
            will inform Your Excellency of the fatal determination of the counts officers in a
            Council of War—as well as of the several Remonstrances and final solemn protest made by
            the American Generals—The Admirals Ship being dismasted
            fore and aft, at the moment that he had overtaken the british fleet and was promising
            himself an important victory—another Ship Of the line being in like manner dismantled
            and a seventy four gun Ship being separated from the Squadron—all the effects of a most dreadful Storm which Suddenly
            arose—were regarded as sufficient reasons added to the expectation of Admiral Byrons
            Arrival—for abandoning the American troops in the midst of a very important
            expedition—and reducing them to the necessity of making a desperate attack, or a
            precipitate Retreat—The honor of the french Nation, the honor of the Admiral, the safety
            of his fleet, and a regard for the new alliance required a different conduct—but the
            Counts hands were tied—the Cabal of marine officers who wish his destruction because he
            was introduced from the land Service into their Corps left him it is said, no choice—I
            cannot however but be of opinion that a solemn protest might by affording a
            justification for his acting in direct contradiction to the unanimous voice of his
            officers—have induced him to remain here—he might have been furnished at this place with
            all the means of refitting which he can expect at Boston—he might have been as well
            secured against a superior force—and in case he had chosen to fight he wd have been in
            better condition in still water with dismantled Vessels—where every one knows that with
            springs upon his cables, he might fight his Artillery as well as if he had masts and
            Sails—whereas at Sea, in case of a separation from his fleet, the Languedoc may fall a
            prey to a Vessel of half her force.
          As I find that I am detaining the express—and I am sure General Sullivan will have
            written your Excellency more fully than my present hurry, and confusion of ideas for
            want of Sleep will permit me to do—I must entreat your Excellencys excuse for closing my
            letter abruptly. I have the honor to be with the greatest r⟨espect⟩ Your Excellen⟨cy’s⟩
            most obedt S⟨ervt⟩

            John La⟨urens⟩


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 23 August 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

            My Dear General
            Camp before Newport [R.I.] Augt 23d 1778

          The Fates have Decreed that you Shall receive nothing but Disagreable Intelligence from
            this Quarter. Major General Green & the Marquis Returned the night before Last
            from the French Admiral. my Letter their Intreaties & General Greens written
            Remonstrance Drawn up on Board the Languedoc have only produced the Letter which I
              Inclose. it Seems That the Captains of the French
            Fleet are So Incensed at the Count Destaings being put over them he being but a Land
            officer that they are Determined to prevent his Doing any thing that may Redound to his
            Credit or our advantage—The Count himself wished to  Come in but his
            Captains were to a man for Leaving us I then Drew up a Letter in behalf of all the
            officers of the Army & Sent on Board but he Though the wind was not fair for
            Boston put off to Sea night before Last this Letter was followed by the Inclosed protest
            both of which I have ordered after him in a Fast Sailing Privatier—I am however well perswaded that nothing will alter the
            Determination of the Captains & that he will follow their Councill though he
            knows they wish his Ruin. This Sudden & unexampled proceedure Renders my
            Situation Exeeding Delicate The Enemy have twice attempted to Relieve the place by
            Reinforcements the Last Fleet had 4000 Troops on Board Should they make another attempt
            They must Succeed They will then have Near Ten thousand Troops on the Island &
            the Command of the water on Every Side of us as we have been oblidged to Dismantle our
            Forts at Bristol & Tivertown to forward our opperations against the Town I
            Inclose your Excy Copy of the Questions proposed by me to the General officers &
            Commandants of Brigades this Day—I also Inclose your
            Exccellencey Copy of the protest Sent after the Count D Estaing. As my Situation at
            present can promise nothing to advantage Except from a Sudden Attack I wish the opinions
            of the officers may Justify me in making this Last Effort. I have the Honor to be my
            Dear General yours most affectionately

            Jno. Sullivan

            I offered the Count in My Letter to make the Attack The moment he would Land
              his Troops & put them in the Boats I had prepared for them General Green
              & the Marquiss assured him that we would not request the Stay of his Fleet
              & Troops more than 48 Hours But nothing could Induce him to assist us with
              Either a Single moment.

            J:S:


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel William Butler, 24 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Butler, William

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 24 Augt 1778

          I recd yours of the 13th instant dated at Schohary, giving me an account of events in
            that quarter since your arrival there. I am very glad
            to hear of the success of your two scouting parties, and I hope that these checks, tho’
            small, and the appearance of a force upon the Frontier, will give spirit to our friends,
            discourage the disaffected, and establish the confidence and friendship of those who
            have been frightened  or deluded. I have desired General Stark not to
            send any Officer of superior Rank to interfere with you in command, as I have great
            reliance upon your activity and skill in conducting such an expedition as that which you
            are now upon. The inclosed were sent here by some of your friends to be forwarded. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Major Alexander Clough, 24 August 1778
From: Clough, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Maj. Alexander Clough, 24 Aug. 1778. On
            25 Aug., GW wrote Clough: “I recd yours of yesterday late last Night.”


Title: To George Washington from John Laurance, 24 August 1778
From: Laurance, John
To: Washington, George

            SIR,
            White Plains, August 24, 1778.

          AS the Congress have resolved that two Counsellors learned in the law should assist and
            co-operate with me in the prosecution of the General Officers respecting the evacuation
            of Ticonderoga, I am under the necessity, previous to my proceeding to the trial of
            Major General St. Clair, of requesting your Excellency to inform me whether those
            gentlemen have been desired to attend agreeable to the Resolution of Congress.
            I am, with much respect, Your Excellency’s obedient Servant,

            JOHN LAURANCE, Judge Advocate.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 24 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 24 Augt 1778

          I recd yours of the 19th inclosing the weekly Return of the Garrison. If you cannot spare workmen to assist Capt. Stephens in the
            construction of his Machine it must be laid aside for the present. I will not undertake
            to say how far the Gentlemen, who have given their opinions of the Machine, may be
            right, but some others who have seen and considered the plan, view it in a different
            light from them. If it will be a work of much expence, the probability of its answering
            the end proposed shall be well considered before it is carried into execution.
          Genl Knox informs me that altho’ he has sent but two Companies to relieve Colo. Lambs
            three, yet they consist of a greater number of Men, consequently you are better off in
            respect to Artillery Men than you were before. I am &c.


Title: General Orders, 25 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters White-Plains Tuesday Augt 25th 1778.
            Parole Oronoko—C. Signs Orr. Otway.

          The whole Army to have their tents struck & loaded into Waggons, their Packs
            slung and to be in every respect ready for marching tomorrow morning at six ôClock—The Quarter Master General, Commissaries  Clothier &c. will in like manner be ready to move with the
            affairs of their respective departments.
          At a General Court Martial August 15th 1778—Coll Hazen President Lieutt Lewis of the
            9th Virginia Regimt tried for disobedience of orders on the 27th of last June—found
            guilty of the Charge exhibited against him and sentenced to be reprimanded in General
            Orders; The good Character given Lieutenant Lewis by his Commanding Officer, has
            prevented the Court from being more severe in their sentence.
          The Commander in Chief looks upon Lieutt Lewis’s Conduct as an inexcusable breach of
            military discipline—The Plea of not knowing Coll Swift under whose immediate Command he
            then was, cannot be admitted, as Lieutt Lewis, if he was in any doubt, might very
            easily, and very naturally ought to, have asked from whom the order came.
          At the same Court Joseph Cooler of the 3rd Maryland Regiment & John Fowler of
            Coll Nixon’s Regiment were tried for desertion found guilty and sentenced to receive one
            hundred lashes each—The Commander in Chief approves the sentences and orders them put in
            Execution tomorrow morning at guard mounting at the head of the Regiments to which they
            respectively belong.
          At the same Court Augt 20th Lieutt Lane of the 2nd Jersey Battalion was tried for
            unofficerlike Procedure in opening a Packet from the British Commissioners to Congress,
            while on Command at second River, unanimously found guilty of the Charge exhibited
            against him, being a breach of the 5th Article of 18th section of the Articles of War
            & sentenced to be cashiered.
          At a Brigade General Court Martial Augt 22nd 1778. Coll Patten President, Lieutt Levi
            Gatlin of the 2nd North Carolina Battalion, was tried for neglect of duty and
            disobedience of orders, unanimously found guilty of the Charges exhibited against him
            & sentenced to be dismissed the service.
          The Commander in Chief approves the two last mentioned sentences and orders them to
            take place immediately.
          At another Brigade General Court Martial August 21st—Colonel Chambers President,
            Francis Murray a soldier in the 1st Pennsylvania Regiment was tried for desertion to the
            Enemy—The Court duly considering the Evidence, the Prisoner’s defence and the
            aggravating Circumstances, are unanimously of opinion that he is guilty of desertion to
            the Enemy and do therefore sentence him to suffer Death.
          His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the sentence.


Title: From George Washington to Major Alexander Clough, 25 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clough, Alexander

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 25 Augt 1778

          I recd yours of yesterday late last Night. I am very
            anxious to obtain a true account of what is passing in New York, and am therefore
            endeavouring to send in a variety of persons from different quarters who have no
            connexion or communication with each other. By comparing their accounts, I shall be able
            to form a pretty good judgment. I have desired them to attend particularly to some
            matters of which the inclosed are the Heads. I shall be
            obliged to you to procure some intelligent person to go into the City, and as it will be
            unsafe to give him a written paper, I desire you to impress the inclosed upon his memory
            by repeating them to him; when he returns, let me know his Answer to each head. If the
            person, who goes in, cannot make an excuse of Business, he must be allowed to carry a
            small matter of provision in, and bring something out, by way of pretext. I am
            &c.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Edward Hand, 25 August 1778
From: Hand, Edward
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Lancaster [Pa.] 25th Augt 1778.

          I have the Honour to inform your Excellency that I last Evening arrived here from Fort
            Pitt & in a very few days intend to wait on the board of war to give that
            Honorable Body a State of Affairs on the Western frontiers & settle the Accounts
            of that Departmt during my Command there, in the mean Time shall be happy to receive
            your Excellency’s orders & am Sir with the greatest respect Yr Excellencys most
            obedt & most Humble servant

            Edwd Hand


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 25–26 August 1778
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

            My dear general
            Camp before Newport [R.I.] 25[–26] august 1778

          I had expected for answering to your first letter that Some thing interesting would
            have happened that I might Communicate to your Excellency—every day was going to
            terminate our uncertainties—nay,  every day was going to bring the
            hope of a succés which I did promise myself to acquaint you off—such was the Reason of
            my differing what my duty and inclination did urge me
            to do much sooner—I am now indebted for two favors of yours which I beg leave to offer
            here my thanks for—the first letter Reach’d me in the
            time we expected to hear again from the french fleet—the second I have just Receiv’d—my
            Reason for not writing the same day the french fleet went to boston, was that I did not
            choose to trouble your friendship with the sentiments of an afflicted, injur’d heart,
            and injur’d by that very people I came from so far to love and support. do’nt be
            Surpris’d, my dear general, the generosity of your honest mind would be offended at the
            schoking light I have under my eyes.
          So far I am from a critical disposition that I will not give you the journal of our
            operations, neither of several instances during our staying here which however might
            occupy some room in this letter—I will not even say to you how contract’d was the french
            fleet when they wanted to come in at theyr arrival which according to the rapport of the
            desertors would have had the greatest effect, how surpris’d was the admiral—when after a
            made and agreed Convention, one hour after the American general had given a new writen
            assurance, our troops made the landing a day before it was expected—how mortified the
            french officers were to find out that there was not a gun left in these very forts to
            whose protection they were recommanded—all those things and many others I would not take
            notice of, if they were not in this moment the suppos’d ground upon which it is said
            that the count d’estaing is gone on to boston—believe me, my dear sir, upon my honor—the
            admiral tho’ a little astonish’d by some instances of Conduct on our part, did Consider
            them in the same light as you and myself would have done, and if he is gone off it is
            because he thought himself oblig’d by necessity.
          let us consider, my dear general, the motions of that fleet since it was propos’d by
            the count d’estaing himself and granted by the king in behalf of the united states—I
            wo’nt go so far up as to rembember other instances of the affection the french nation
            have for the Americans—the news of that fleet has occasion’d the evacuation of
            philadelphia—its arrival has oppened all the harbours, secur’d all the coasts, oblig’d
            the british Navy to be together—six of those frigattes, two of them I have seen
            sufficient for terrifying all the trading people of the two Carolinas, are or taken or
            burnt-the Count d’estaing went to offer the battle and be a check to the british Navy
            for a long time at new york—it was agreed he schould go to Rhode island an[d] there he
            went—they prevented him from going in at first—afterwards he was desired to come in, and
            so he did—The same day we land’d without his knowledge, an english fleet appears in
            sight— his being divided in three parts by our
              directions for tho’ he is a lieutenant general he never
            avail’d himself of that title—did make him uneasy about his situation—but finding the
            next morning that the wind was northerly, being also convinc’d that it was his duty to
            prevent any Reinforcement At newport, he goes out under the hottest fire of the british
            land batteries, he puts the british Navy to flight, pursues them, and they were all in
            his hands when that horrid storm arrives to Ruin all our hopes—both fleets are divided,
            scattered—the Cæsar a 74 guns schip is lost—the Marseïllois of the same size looses her
            masts, and after that accident is oblig’d to send back a ennemy’s schip of 64—the
            languedoc having lost her masts, unable to be govern’d, and make any motions, separated
            from the others, is attaqu’d by a schip of the line against which sche could only bring
            six guns.
          when the storm was over, they met again in a schattered Condition, and the Cæsar was
            not to be found—all the Captains Represented to theyr general that after a so long
            navigation—in such a want of victuals, water, &c. which they had not been yet
            supplied with—after the intelligences given by General Sullivan that there was a british
            fleet coming they schould go to boston—but the count d’estaing had promis’d to come here
            again, and so he did at all events—the news of his arrival and situation came by the Senegal a frigatte taken from the ennemy—general greene and myself
            went on board—the count express’d to me not so much as to the envoy from general
            Sullivan, than as to his friend, the unhappy circumstances he was in—bound by express
            orders from the king to go to boston in case of an Accident or a superior fleet, engag’d
            by the common sentiment of all the officers Even of some American
              pilots that he would ruin all his Squadron in differing his going to boston, he
            call’d a new council of war, and finding every body of the same opinion, he did not
            think himself justifiable in staying here any more, and took leave of me with that true
            affliction of not being able to assist America for some days, which has been Rewarded
            with the most horrid ungratefulness—but no matter—I am only speacking of facts—the count
            said to me these last words—after many months of sufferings, my men may rest some days,
            I will mann my schips, and if I am assisted in getting masts &c. three weeks
            after my arrival, I schall go out again, and then we schall fight for the glory of the
            french name and the interests of America.
          the day  the Count went off the general american officers draw a
            protestation, which as I had been very strangely call’d there, I
            Refus’d to sign, but I wrote a letter to the admiral—the protestation and the letter did
            not arrive at time.
          Now, my dear general, I am going to hurt your generous feelings by an imperfect picture
            of what I am forc’d to see—forgive me for it—it  is not to the
            Commander in chief, it is to my most dearest friend General Washington that I am
            speacking—I want to lament with him the ungenerous sentiments I have been forc’d to see
            in Many American breasts.
          Could you believe that forgetting any national obligation, forgetting what they were
            owing to that same fleet, what they were yet to expect from them, and instead of
            Resenting theyrs accidents as these of allies and brothers, the people turn’d mad at
            theyr departure, and wishing them all the evils in the world did treat them as a
            generous one would be asham’d to treat the most inveterate ennemys—you ca’nt have any
            idea of the horrors which were to be heard in that occasion—many leaders themselves
            finding they were disapointed abandonn’d theyr minds to illiberality, and
            ungratefulness—frenchmen of the highest characters have been expos’d to the most
            disagreable Circumstances, and me, yes, myself the friend of America, the friend of
            General Washington, I am more upon a warlike footing in the American lines, than when I
            come near the british lines at newport—nay, many worthy characters, gentlemen to be
            entirely depended upon, assure me that the french hospital was abandonn’d as soon as the
            fleet went off, and that they could not find any body who would give them what they
            wanted—however they have been now sent to boston, and by a french man who met them I am
            inclin’d to think they will be very unhappy all the Rout.
          Such is, my dear general, the true state of matters—I am sure it will infinetlly
            displease and hurt your feelings—I am also sure you will approuve the part I have taken
            in it, which was to stay much at home with all the french gentlemen who are here, and
            declare in the same time that anything thrown before me against my nation I would take
            as the most particular affront.
          inclos’d I send you the general orders of the 24th upon which I thaught I was oblig’d
            to pay a visit to general Sullivan who has agreed to alter them in the following
              manner—Remember, My dear general, that I do’nt speack
            to the Commander in chief, but to my friend, that I am far from Complaining of any
            body—I have no Complaints at all to make you against any one—but I lament with you that
            I have had a occasion of seeing so ungenerous sentiments in American hearts.
          I will tell you the true Reason—the leaders of the expedition are most of them asham’d
            to Return after having spoken of theyr Rhode island succés in proud terms, before theyr
            family, theyr friends, theyr internal ennemies—The others Regardless of the expense
            france has been brought in by that fleet, of the tedious, tiresome voyage so many men
            have had for theyr service, tho’ theyr Angry that the fleet takes three weeks upon the
            whole Campaign to Refitt themselves, Can not bear the idea of being brought to a small
            expense, to the loss of a little  time, to the fatigue of staying
            some few days more in a camp, at some few miles from theyr houses—for I am very far to
            look upon the Expedition as miscarried, and there I see even a Certainty of succés.
          if as soon as the fleet will be Repair’d which (in case they are treated as one is in a
            country one is not in war with) schall be done in three weeks from this time, the count
            d’estaing was to come arround, the expedition seems to offer a very good prospect—if the
            ennemy evacuates New york, we have the whole Continental army—if not we might perhaps
            have some more men, what however I ca’nt pretend to judge—all What I know is that I will
            be very happy to see the fleet Cooperating with general washington himself.
          I think I will be forc’d by the board of general officers to go soon to boston—that I
            will do as soon as Requir’d tho’ with Reluctance for I do’nt believe that our position on this part of the island is without danger—but my
            principle is to do every thing which is thaught good for the service—I very often have
            Rode express to the fleet, to the frigattes, and that I assure you with the greatest
            pleasure—on the other hand I may perhaps be useful to the fleet—perhaps too it will be
            in the power of the count to do something which might satisfy them—I wish, my dear
            general, you would know as well as myself how desirous is the Count d’estaing to forward
            the public good, to help to your Succés, and to serve the Cause of America!
          I instantly beg you would Reccommend to the several chief persons of boston to do any
            thing they Can to put the french fleet in situation of sailing soon—give me leave to add
            that I wish many people by the declaration of your sentiments in that affair, could
            learn how to Regulate theyrs and blush at the sight of your generosity.
          You will find my letter immense—I begun it one day and did finish the next as my time
            was swallow’d up, by those eternal Councils of war—I schall have the pleasure of writing
            you from boston—I am affraid the count d’estaing will have felt to the quick the
            behaviour of the people on this occasion—you Ca’nt Conceive how distress’d he was to be
            prevented from serving this country for some time—I do assure you his circumstances were
            very narrow and distressing.
          for my part my sentiments are known to the world—my tender affection for general
            washington has yet added to them—therefore I do’nt want apologies for writing what has
            afflicted me as an american, and as a frenchman together.
          I am much oblig’d to you for the Care you are so kind as to take of that poor horse of
            mine—had he not find such a good stable as this of head quarters he would have cut a
            pitiful figure at the end of his travels, and I would have been very happy if there had
            Remain’d so much of the horse as the bones, the skin, and the four schoes.

          farewell, my dear general; when ever I quit you I meet with some disappointement and
            misfortune—I did not want it to desire seeing you as much as possible—with the most
            tender affection, and high Regard I have the honor to be your Excellency’s the most
            obedient humble Servant

            the Mis de lafayette

            dear general
            I must add to my letter that I have Receiv’d one from general greene very different
              from the expressions I have Right to complain of, and that he seems there very
              sensible of what I feel—I am very happy when in
              situation of doing justice to any body.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 25 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

            Sir,
            White plains—Augt 25th 1778.

          If it be practicable, and convenient for Congress to furnish me with some Specie (gold,
            as more portable, would be most convenient) valuable purposes I think would result from
            it. I have always found a difficulty in procuring Intelligence by the mean of Paper
            money. and I perceive that it increases. The period is critical & interesting,
            and the early knowledge of an Enemys intention, and movements too obvious to need
            explanation.
          Having hinted to the Comee of Congress when at Valley forge this want I address this
            Letter to you now rather as a private than public one—because I
            do not wish to have the matter again mentioned if Congress hath been apprized of my
            wants & find it inconvenient to comply with them.
          I have the pleasure to inform you that Colo. Laurens was well on the 23d—I have had a
            Letter from him of that date. with great respect & regard I have the honr to be
            Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 25 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

            Sir
            Head Qrs White plains Augt 25th 1778

          Inclosed you will be pleased to receive a Copy of a Letter of the 23d Instant from
            General Sullivan, which came to hand about half after three OClock this morning, with
            the several papers to which it refers,  Copies of which are also
              transmitted. By these Congress will perceive, our
            prospects are much changed with respect to the operations against Rhode Island, and that
            the issue, as things are now circumstanced, whether we look to a continuation of the
            Siege—to an immediate attack or a Retreat, must be attended with great difficulty and
            risk. I trust the wisest measures will be pursued & I will hope for the best. I
            have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem sir Yr Most Obedt
            sert

            Go: Washington

            P.S. Genl Sullivan I think, must be under a mistake, as to the amount of the
              relief, which the Enemy had attempted to give from York. I have used every possible
              means to obtain information from time to time on this head, and I never could learn,
              either from Deserters or others who had been in the City, that any Troops had
              embarked, since the reinforcement sent up the sound long ago, except some drafts to
              act in the fleet as Marines.


Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 25 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

            Sir,
            Camp [White Plains] Augt 25th 1778.

          I shall be glad to see you upon the business mentioned in yours of this date. If Colo. Sheldon is acquainted with W—— and the circumstances
            as you have related them to me, let him come also—You should be perfectly convinced of
            the Integrety of W—— previous to his imbarking in the business proposed—this being done
            I shall be happy in employing him—but there will be an impropriety in his coming with
            you to head Quarters, as a knowledge of that circumstance in the enemy might blast the
            whole design.
          You will let me see you this afternoon—if you can come to Dinner at three Oclock I
            shall be glad of Yr Companies. I am Sir Yr Very Hble Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from a Board of General Officers, 26 August 1778
From: Board of General Officers
To: Washington, George

            Report of the Board of General Officers—
            White Plains, Augt 26. 1778.

          The Board recommend it to be inserted in General Orders, that half a Gill of Rice per
            Diem be issued, three Times a Week, in Lieu of one Quarter of a Pound of Flour; there
            being a large Quantity of Rice in Store; more in Proportion than Flour.
          The Board also request Your Excellency to repeat, in General Orders, the strict
            Injunction against any Horses being kept in, or near the Camp, by Persons unauthorised
            to have a Horse, or Horses maintained at the Public Expence. The Officers commanding
            Divisions, Brigades, and Regiments, to be answerable for an exact Obedience being paid
            to this Order.
          The Board further recommend it to your Excellency to order all Horses belonging to the
            United-States, now in Possession of any Person, or Persons not entitled to the same, nor
            allowed Forage from the Public Magazine, to be forthwith returned to the Qarter Master
            General, or his Deputy: and that it be forbidden all Persons whatsoever to make Use of
            any of the Waggon Horses as riding Horses, but by express Order in writing signed by the
            Officer commanding the Brigade to which such Horse or Horses may belong. This to be
            enjoined under a severe Penalty.
          The Board, in Consequence of Your Excellency’s Representation this Morning are clearly of Opinion that the Words, Take Sight, be
            introduced into the Manual Exercise instead of the Word Present: and that in sizing the
            Men by Companies, the shortest Men be placed in the Front  Rank; and
            the tallest in the Rear Rank: each Rank to be sized from Right and Left, to the
            Center.

            Horatio Gates president


Title: To George Washington from Captain Epaphras Bull, 26 August 1778
From: Bull, Epaphras
To: Washington, George

            May it Please your Excellency—
            Maroneck [N.Y.] 26th Augt 1778

          there has passed by this Place to the Wtward, to day 3 Sloops & one Schooner
            Loaded with Hay—& one Row Gally, 2 Brigs & one Sloop from the Eastward
            come to anchor this afternoon Just Et of Hempstead Harbour, and as far Etward as I can
            see, appears to be 8 or 10 Sail Vessels, believe shall be able to give an Acct of them
              Tomorrow.
          I have the Honour to present your Excellency with 20 or 30 wt Blackfish they are now in
            a ⟨Car⟩, shoud be glad to know when ’twil best suit to send them up, I am your
            Excellencys Most Obt Hble sert

            Epaps Bull


Title: To George Washington from Major Alexander Clough, 26 August 1778
From: Clough, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Sr
            [New Jersey] wedensday night 10 oClock [26 August 1778]

          I had the honour to recive your letter at ten last night, at two this morning I marcht for Bergan, to collect what
            intelligance I could. The Gentlemen mentiond in my instructions have not made any
            preparation to leave the town—the waggons are on long Iseland which prevents my
            informent giveing a perticular Acct of them. in a few days I Expect to be more fully
            inform’d—On Sunday morning a detachment from the  corps of Artillery
            with twelve field peaces march to join Genl Tryon, who is driveing cattle from the east
            end of Long Iseland, the Cheaf part of thayr heavy Artillery, & Ordinnances
            stores, are put on board transports laying at red hook, likewise a large quantity of
            forage. the whole of the transports are wooded, and watter’d, for six months. the above
            acct is conferm’d by three sailers who deserted from them last night I have not been
            able to learn that any regementall baggage has been put on board—The Greens are orderd
            to hold them selves in readiness to embark on the shortest notice, it is suposed for the
            west Indeas. Lord Howe saild yesterday morning from the Hook, it is said for rode
            Iseland, in the afternoon a heavy fireing was heard to the southward of Staten Iseland.
            the day before two frigates where chace’t in to the Hook by a part of the french fleet.
            nothing has been heard of Adml Byron. two of the cork fleet are come in, and thirty are
            taken by the french. there are no troops arive’d
            naither is there any expected—It is generly belived in New york the army will stay till
            other proposeles are made by the commisoners then to Embark with all Expedtion—the
            Gentleman who gives me this intelligance is a person of varacity and posest of A Gentell
            fortune which makes me rely more on his information then on that of many others. I am
            your Exellencys Most Obt

            A. Clough


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 26 August 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Head Quarters Boston 26th Augt 1778

          Nearly our whole time for several weeks has been taken up in forwarding provisions,
            Stores &c. to Rhode Island, and in order to accelerate the operations of the
            Expedition we have sent to that place all the provisions that could possibly be spared
            from the Magazines, in particular Flour, of which upwards of 1000 Barrels have been
            forwarded. The unexpected destination of the Count D’Estaing’s Squadron to this place
            will I fear be not a little embarrassing on that account, as it is reported that they
            are short of bread. I have wrote Mr Colt and desired him to send on a quantity of flour
            with the utmost expedition. The Cesar only has as yet arrived; the whole Fleet are
            hourly expected.
          It is truly unfortunate that circumstances would not admit this Squadron to have
            remained at Rhode Island to co-operate with our  Army in the
            reduction of that place—the prospect of which was promissing—the Seige will now most
            probably for a time be turned into a Blockade. But it is surprising to hear the
            unguarded and imprudent expressions & writings of many on this occasion, the
            severe reflections which are thrown out I fear will give umbrage and if care is not
            taken wound our great & good Cause. From the unthinking Multitude some
            indiscreet or unguarded expressions may be expected—I wish they may be from such
            only.
          I have offered every assistance in my power to the Officers who have already arrived. I
            shall extend it with every mark of respect to those who are expected. Every step is
            already taken to refit the fleet, a Vessel some days since was dispatched for Spars
            &c. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most
            Obedt Servt

            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant George Hurlbut, 26 August 1778
From: Hurlbut, George
To: Washington, George

            May it please your Excellency
            New Rochel [N.Y.] 26th August 78

          I am set down to report the occurrences of the Day—Early this morning discoverd 16
            Ships, Anchored off frogs point, Several of them appeared to be very large—upon my
            Return, two Boat loads, of the Inhabitants of City Island, attempted to cut off my
            Retreat—receivd sundry shotts from them—at 2 P.M. 2 large Briggs, & Sloop, from
            the Eastward, Anchored off, near Huntington Harbour, near the same time, 6 Small
            Vessels, supposed to be foragers—went to the Eastward—I have the Honor, to be your
            Excellencys most Obedient Hbl. Servt

            george Hurlbut, Lieut. 2nd Regt Lt D——


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 26 August 1778
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Elizth Town [N.J.] 26th Augt 1778

          Your Excellency may depend on the following; as I have it from a Gentle Man of Varacity
            that came from Long Island yesterday Viz. Lord  How went the day
            before yesterday off Barren Island out of the Hook and
            that day 4 Regts went down Long Island one of them Turnbuls, new levys, they said they
            were going on board of the Fleet to act as Marines but an express follow’d them that
            night, and they returned next morning. These Troops
            returning gives room for speculation there, either that Rhode Island is taken, or that
            they give asisting of it over. above 20 pieces of Cannon was fired yesterday out of the
            Hook, the Colours hoisted at the light House &C. and shortly after 15 or 20 Sail
            was seen standing into the Hook. General Tryon is returned to Jamica from the East of
            the Island with every thing he could find Eatable. I am your Excellencys Most Obedt
            Humble Servt

            Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Caleb Brewster, 27 August 1778
From: Brewster, Caleb
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Norwalk [Conn.] August 27th 1778

          When I left Long Island this Morning Governor Tryon was at Millers place with about
            three hundred Troops and the Main body at Brookhaven
            about nine Miles to the Westward under the Command of Genl Delancey; The whole party
            consists of a thousand men. The Party under the Command of Tryon are within half a mile
            of the Sound, those under  the Command of Delancey a mile & a
            half; the Parties arrived there yesterday morning and Pitched their Tents. They have
            large Droves of Cattle with them and are Collecting on their March all that are fit to
            Kill; I was so near them that I Saw them Pitch their Camp & also saw the
            Cattle.
          The troops Stationed at Huntington & Loyds Neck have Some of them Marched to
            the westward, and the remainder are under Marching orders.
          The Fleet That lay at Huntington harbour, Come to Sail this morning and are Standing to
            the Westward, in all Six and Twenty or thirty Sail; The above is the Fleet that was
            ordered to Rhode Island, but hearing on the Island that some of the French Fleet were
            coming into the Sound they have put to the Westward.
          On the first of this Week Several Regiments Crossed from Newyork to Brookline Ferry,
            and Encamped.
          There is no Arrival of Admiral Byrons or the Cork Fleet at New york or any other
            Vessels whatever—Admiral Hows Fleet have arrived at the Hook to the Amount of Twenty
            Sail, three of which have got up to Town (to witt) The Isis of fifty Guns, The Renown of
            Sixty four, The Appollo Thirty Six. The Isis and Renown attacked two Seventy fours and
            are Much Shattered; The Appollo Lost all her Masts and is otherwise Much Damaged. They
            have taken Many of their Heavy Cannon on board at Newyork. The Transports lie in the
            road with their Sails Bent, are Wooding and Watering, and it is the opinion of all the
            Inhabitants of the Citty, that they will soon evacuate the Town. I am with all due
            respect your Excelencys most obedient and Humble Servt

            Caleb Brewster Lieut.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Epaphras Bull, 27 August 1778
From: Bull, Epaphras
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Maroneck [N.Y.] Augt 27th 1778

          I have to acquaint your Excellency that the two Brigs & Sloop which Anchored
            near Hempstead Harbour Last Night, to day made Sail &  went
            down, the Sloop was Armed Carrying 12 guns, the Brigs were not, but deeply Loaded, two
            Sloops past Wtward with Hay—the Vessels which I discovered yesterday, far Etward have
            made very Little Progress to day, they this Evening appeard to be Standing in to Oyster
            Bay, near which there is a Small Encampment, which in some of my former Reports, I made
            mention of to your Excellency, there is about twenty
            five Sail of them four of which appear to be Ships—I am your Excellencys most Obt Hble
            Sert

            Epaps Bull


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant George Hurlbut, 27 August 1778
From: Hurlbut, George
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New Rochel, 27th Augst 78

          I am set down to inform your Excellency, the two Brigs, & Sloop, I mention’d in
            my last, have past this place, came to Anchor nere
            frogs  point, soon after—One Sloop of force, & three Sloops,
            with forrage, went to the Westward—Just before sunset, 24. Sale, came to Anchor off
            Auster [Oyster] Bay; three ships appeard to be of force, hope I shall be able to Report,
            in my next, more peticular—I am with Respect your
            Excellencys most Obdt Hbl. Servt

            Go: Hurlbut


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Malcom, 27 August 1778
From: Malcom, William
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Col. William Malcom, 27 Aug. 1778. On 29
            Aug., GW wrote Malcom: “I have recd yours of the 27th inclosing a weekly return of the
            Garrison.”


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 27 August 1778
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Elizth Town [N.J.] 27th August 1778

          I have the pleasure to Inclose to Your Excellency Major Howels Journal. I have it confirmed by another channel that the 7 Vessels of
            the Cork Fleet is arived, the day before yesterday; and that Lord How Sailed with his
            Fleet the same day to the Eastward; this is all I have at present only that I have Just
            got another Packet from the Commissioners to Congress and sent it on—I am Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servt

            Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 27 August 1778
From: Muhlenberg, Peter
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. Peter Muhlenberg, 27 Aug.
            1778. On 27 Aug., Tench Tilghman wrote Muhlenberg: “His Excellency has recd yours of
            this date.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Gold Selleck Silliman, 27 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Silliman, Gold Selleck

          Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Gold Selleck Silliman, 27 Aug.
            1778. On 14 Sept., Silliman wrote GW: “Your Favour of the 27th Ult. respecting a Guard
            at the Commissary’s Stores at the Landing in this Town I received the 2d Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 27 August 1778
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Lebanon [Conn.] 27th August 1778

          I received your favor of the 8th instant, requesting that the Fleet under the Command
            of Count D’Estaing might be supplied with Water from New-London, for which I gave
            immediate Orders; and sundry Vessels were employed in that business, by which conclude
            they were, and might still have been sufficiently supplied with that very necessary
            article, had they continued on that Station—but alas! contrary to our expectation, the
            Count, with the whole of his Fleet, are with drawn, and gone to Boston to repair the
            Damages they recieved in the late heavy gale, and this, notwithstanding the entreaties
            of General Sullivan, and the other General Officers, to the contrary—of which event Your
            Excellency hath undoubtedly been advised before this—The consequence I fear, will be,
            that we shall be obliged to evacuate Rhode Island—Thus are our raised expectations, from
            an Expedition, which had all the appearance of Success, damped—This shews us that we
            ought not to place our dependence too much on foreign Aid; but may such a disappointment
            teach us to place our trust and confidence in that Supreme Being who governs the
            Universe, and can, with infinite ease, turn those things which, we are ready to
            conclude, are against us, eventually to our advantage, in whose all-wise disposals may
            we chearfully acquiesce, and rest satisfied that whatever he doth is right.
          I must now beg leave to turn Your Attention to a case of peculiar, and accumulated
            distress—I mean the distressed situation of the Inhabitants of Westmoreland on the
            Susquehanna, who survived the more than barbarian cruelty of the Indians and Tories,
            which, in conjunction, they wreaked on that unhappy
            place, in beginning of July last, slaying above 300 Men, and driving more than 3,000
            Inhabitants,  mostly Women and Children, from their before peaceful
            Habitations, after having stripped and plundered them of all the necessaries of Life,
            burning and destroying all their buildings, and carrying off all their Cattle and other
            Live-Stock—leaving them in the most destitute, and deplorable circumstances—a particular
            representation whereof hath lately been laid before me by Messrs Jenkins, Gallup and
            Harding—Persons of integrity, who removed from the Eastern part of this State, and
            settled at said Westmoreland, and had the good fortune to escape the Carnage—they also inform, that at the time the Inhabitants came off,
            there was on the ground large and very valuable Crops of English and Indian Corn, which
            must inevitably be lost, unless speedy measures be taken to prevent it.
          Your Excellency hath undoubtedly been made acquainted with the Distresses of this
            People, and felt the tenderest emotions for them, and a willingness to afford them all
            the relief in your power, consistent with the safety and good of the whole.
          I have this day wrote to Congress on the Subject, and
            proposed to their consideration, whether it would not be advisable that a sufficient
            Force, to consist of 1500, or 2,000 men, be immediately sent into that part of the
            Country, under whose protection the Inhabitants would return, and secure their Crops,
            which would be an important acquisition, and also to pursue that detestable Banditti
            into their own Country—chastise them for their insolence and cruelty exercised towards
            the innocent Inhabitants aforementioned, and effectually prevent their making any
            further Depredations on that, or any other of our back settlem⟨ents.⟩ Such measure, I am
            persuaded, would produce ⟨ the ⟩ happiest effects—would recommend this Affair to Your
            Excellency’s Consideration; and wish, in case the state of the Army, and present
            appearances of things will permit, that Your Excellency would order a sufficient
            number—to be detached from the Continental Army, and employed for the purpose aforesaid.
            I am, with Esteem & Regard Sir your most Obedient humble Servant

            Jonth. Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 28 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

            Gentn
            Head Qrs White plains Augt 28th 1778

          Your favor of the 14th Instant has been duly received.
          The object which the Board have in view is desireable—and I wish it may be
            accomplished; however I cannot entertain a hope that accurate returns can be obtained
            here of the Officers who have served in the Army from the beginning of 1777 to the
            present time, and I am certain it will be impossible to ascertain the dates of their
            Commissions. The States never transmitted me lists of their appointments—and the
            perpetual changes which have taken place from death—resignations—the confusion of rank
            &c. &c. have put it out of my power to procure a competent knowledge of
            them. I believe the Board will not be able to form a Register with any regularity, but
            from the arrangemt now in contemplation; Nevertheless the Cols. & Officers
            commanding Corps will use, I am persuaded, their best endeavours to make the Returns
            requested by them, having received orders for the purpose. I have the Honor to be with great respect Gentn Your Most Obedt
            servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Captain Epaphras Bull, 28 August 1778
From: Bull, Epaphras
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Motts Mills [N.Y.] Friday 2 OClock P.M. [28 August 1778]

          I have to acquaint your Excellency that the Fleet from the Etward have now Past this
            place, there was in the whole Sixty Nine Sail Viz. 6 Ships, two of them Transports, 3
            appeard to be of 18 or 20 guns Each, & one which Bro’t up the Rear of the whole
            had two Tier of guns—10 Brigs, 3 of them Armed, 21 Schooners, one of them Arm’d 6 Loaded
            with wood 2 with Hay, 32 Sloops, 13 Loaded with wood 2 with hay—which I believe is a
            pretty Exact Acct—there did not appear to be more men on board than were Necessary to
            work them, It was Impossable to Assertain the Force of any of them as the Air was very
            thick, there does not now appear any Vessel to the Etward Except the Stationed Brig in
            Hempstead Harbour—the Transports which came from N. York are now lying betwixt Frogs
            Neck & City Island Except 3 or 4 which have come up as far as Hart Island, I Intend going farther below this afternoon to find out
            If Possable a more Exact Acct of them. Interim I have the Honour to be your Excellencys
            Most Obt servant

            Epaps Bull


Title: To George Washington from Captain Epaphras Bull, 28 August 1778
From: Bull, Epaphras
To: Washington, George

            sir
            Maroneck [N.Y.] 9 OClock Friday Evening [28 August 1778]

          I have to acquaint your Excellency that I did not Inform myself any better as to the
            Shiping by going below, as they lie Chiefly behind the Islands, therefor was not able to
            discover whether there was Troops on Board or not. there appears to be 30 or 40 Sail of
            them, (I mean of those Transports from N. York) Chiefly Ships—Lt Hurlbut is Just
            Returned from Et Chester and can give no further Account of them than what I shall write
            which he desires me to mention it to your Excellency the Fleet which came from the Et
            Ward came to anchor near those from the Wtward Except the wood & forrage Vessels
            who past on towards N. York—at Sun set this Evening a gun was fired, upon which the
            whole maid Sail and are now Standing to the Et Ward, 15 Sail have already Past
            Whortlebury Island and the others now comeing on—it is
            now got so dark that I am not able to discover any of them I Shall Look out for them at
            the dawn of the day. I am your Excellencys Most Obt Hble set

            Epaps Bull

            P:S. while I was at N. Roshel I discoverd between the Islands 2 Ships one of
              40 guns the other of 36 whi[c]h I Suppose to be the Largest there is amonge them.

            E.B.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 28 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 28 August 1778

          By a letter received this day from Colonel Malcom I learn that the time of service for
            which the militia in the Highlands is engaged is very near expiring. I am to request you will be pleased to order out a relief of
            from 500 to 1000 as expeditiously as possible. Besides the call for them to carry on the
            defences of the river, there is at this juncture an additional necessity for their
            services. Matters seem to be drawing to a crisis with the enemy and there is every
            appearance of their speedely making some very important movement. From various concuring
            accounts they seem to be in a general fermentation—They have been some days past
            imbarking cannon on board their transports—taking  in forage
            &c. and yesterday an hundred and fourty sail fell down to the hook—There is no
            small motion of vessels in the sound, and among their troops on Long-Island. It is
            difficult to ascertain what these appearances indicate; but it is our duty to be at all
            points prepared.
          I am sorry to inform you that the French fleet left Rhode Island bound to Boston the [
            ] instant. Our troops were still on the Island and of course in a very precarious
            situation. The reasons for this conduct were—the damage suffered in the late storm; the
            apprehension of Byrons being on the coast, and the orders of the french king, that in
            case of misfortune or a superior naval force the fleet was immediately to repair to
            Boston, as a secure port and a place of rendezvous for any reinforcement which should be
            sent.
          Different opinions will be entertained on the propriety of the measure; but we ought
            all to concur in giving it the most favourable colouring to the people—It should be
            ascribed to necessity resulting from the injury sustained by the storm.
          If we solve the present movements of the enemy by this circumstance; one of these two
            solutions will appear not improbable—either that they mean to seize the opportunity for
            quitting the continent, or have a superior fleet on the coast, and by transfering the
            principal seat of the war to the Eastward, intend to operate conjointly with their sea
            and land force for the destruction of the french fleet.
          If the latter should be their intention we must proceed Eastward—and there will be the
            more need of militia to reinforce the Highland garrisons. It is also possible some
            enterprize against this army may be in view—in that case succours of militia are equally
            essential. If your Excellency besides ordering out the number I have mentioned, could
            make any dispositions which might facilitate calling out the general body of the militia
            on any sudden emergency it would be a desireable circumstance. I have the honor to be
            with the most perfect respect and esteem Sir your most Obt & humble servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 28–31 August 1778
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Camp near Newport [R.I.] August 28[–31] 1778

          Your Excellencys favor of the 21st came to hand the evening of the 25th.
          In my last I communicated to your Excellency the departure of the Count de Estainge
            with his fleet for Boston. This disagreeable event, has
            as I apprehended ruined all our operations. It struck such a panic among the Militia and
            Volunteers that they began to desert by Shoals. The fleet no sooner set sail than they
            began to be alarm’d for their safety. This misfortune damp’d the hopes of our Army and
            gave new Spirits to that of the Enemy.
          We had a very respectable force as to numbers between Eight and Nine thousand rank
            & file upon the ground. Out of these we attempted to select a particular Corps
            to possess our selves of the Enemies Lines partly by force and partly by stratagem; but
            we could not make up the necessary number that was thought sufficent to warrant the
            attempt which was 5000 including the Continental & State Troops. This body was
            to consist of men that had been in actual service before not less than Nine months.
            However the men were not to be had; and if they could have been found there was more
            against it than for it. Col. Laurens was to have opend the passage by landing within the
            Enemies Lines and geting possession of a Redoubt at the head of Eastons beach. If we had
            faild in the attempt the whole party must have fallen a sacrafice for their situation
            would have been such that there was no possibility of geting off.
          I shall inclose your Excellency a plan of the Enemies Works & of their strength
            from the best accounts we are able to get. They have
            never been out of their Lines since the seige began till Night before last. Col.  Bruce came out with 150 men to take off a small Piquet of ours Posted
            at the neck of Eastons beach, he partly succeeded in the attempt by the carelessness of
            the old guard, he came over after dark and lay in Ambush that when the new guard went
            down to take their post the Enemy came upon their backs before they discoverd them it
            being very dark. We lost 24 privates & two Subs.—Ten of the Piquet got off.
          Our strength is now reduced from 9000 to between 4 and 5000. All our heavy Cannon on
            garrison carriages heavy & superfluous Stores of every kind are removd to the
            Main & to the North end of the Island where we intend to entrench and attempt to
            hold it and wait the chance of events. General Hancock is gone to Boston to forward the
            repairs of the fleet and to prepare the mind of the Count for a speedy return. How far
            he will succeed I cannot pretend to say. I think it a matter of some doubt yet whether
            the enemy will reenforce or take off this Garrison. If they expect a superior fleet from
            Europe they will reenforce, but if not they will remove the Garrison.
          Your Excellency may rest assurd that I have done every thing in my power to cultivate
            and promote a good understanding both with the Count and the Marquis and flatter myself
            that I am upon very good terms with them both The Marquises great thirst for glory and
            National attachmt often runs him into errors. However he did everything to prevail on
            the Admiral to cooperate with us that man could do. People censure the Admiral with
            great freedom and many are imprudent enough to reproach the Nation through the Admiral.
            General Sullivan very imprudently issueed something like a censure in General Orders,
            indeed it was an absolute censure. It opend the Mouths of the Army in very clamorous
            strains. The Genl was obligeed to explain it away in a few days—The fermentation seems to be now subsiding and all things
            appear as if they would go smoothly on. The Marquis is going to Boston also to hasten
            the Counts return and if possible to get the French Troops to join the Land forces here
            which will more effectually interest the Count in the success of the expedition.
          Five sail of British Ships has got into Newport within two Days past we have heard nor
            seen nothing of the Fleet of Transports your Excellency mentioned in your Letter to
            General Sullivan of the 23d. If they arrive with a
            large reinforcement our Expedition is at an end. Unless it is by way of blocade and that
            will depend upon the French fleets being superior to that of the British.
          General Sullivan has done every thing that could be expected and had the fleet
            cooperated with us as was at first intended and agreeable to the original plan of the
            expedition we must have been successful. I wish it was in my power to confirm General
            Sullivans prediction of  the 17th but I can not flatter my self with
            such an agreeable issue I am sensible he is in common very sanguine but his expectations
            were not ill founded in the present case. We had every reason to hope for success from
            our numbers and from the enemies fears. Indeed General Pigot was heard to say the
            Garrison must fall unless they were speedily relievd by a British fleet. If we could
            have made a landing upon the South part of the Town two Days would have put us in
            compleat possession of it. Nothing was wanting to effect this but the cooperation of the
            fleet & french forces. The disappointment is vexatious and truly mortifying. The
            Garrison was so important and the reduction so certain, that I cannot with patience
            think of the event. The French Ship that was missing has got into Boston, the rest of
            the Fleet have not got there yet or at least we have no accounts of their Arrival.
          We are very anxious to learn the condition of Lord Hows Fleet the French 74 that has
            got into Boston had an Engagement with a British 64. The Capt. & Lieut. of the
            former were both wounded one lost a Leg & the other an Arm.
          Our Troops are in pretty good health and well furnished with Provisions and every thing
            necessary for carrying on the Expedition.
          Our approaches were pushed on with great spirit while we had any hopes of the fleets
            cooperateing with us; but the People lost all relish for diging after that.
          People are very anxious to hear the issue of General Lees tryal various are the
            conjectures; but every body agrees he is not acquited.

            Augt 31—Camp Tivertown [R.I.]

            I wrote the foregoing and intended to have sent it by the express that went off in
              the morning but while I was writing I was inform’d the Express was gone and the change
              of situation and round of events that have since taken place, has prevented my
              forwarding what I had wrote as matters seemd to be coming to a crisis.
            On the evening of the 29th the Army fell back to the North end of the Island. The
              next morning the enemy advanced upon us in two Columns upon the East & west
              road. Our Light Troops commanded by Col. Livingston & Col. Laurens attacked
              the heads of the Columns about 7 oClock in the morning, but were beat back, they were
              reenforced with a Regiment upon each road. The Enemy still provd too strong. General
              Sullivan formd the Army in order of battle and resolvd to wait their approach upon the
              ground we were encamped on, and sent orders to the Light troops to fall back. The
              Enemy came up & formd upon Quaker Hill a very strong piece of ground within
              about one mile & a ¼ of our Line. We were well Posted with strong works in our
              rear and a strong redoubt in front partly upon the right of the Line.

            In this position a warm Cannonade commenced and lasted for several hours with
              continual Skirmishes on front of both Lines. About 2 oClock the Enemy began to advance
              in force upon our right as if they intended to dislodge us from the advance Redoubt. I
              had the command of the Right Wing after advanceing four Regts and finding the enemy
              still gaining ground I advanced with two more Regiments of regular Troops and a
              Brigade of Militia and at the same time Gen. Sullivan orderd Col. Livingston with the
              Light Troops under his command to advance. We soon put the Enemy to the rout and I had
              the pleasure to see them run in worse disorder than they did at the battle of
              Monmouth. Our Troops behavd with great spirit and the brigade of Militia under the
              command of General Lovel advanceed with great resolution and in good order and stood
              the fire of the Enemy with great firmness Lt Col. Livingston, Col. Jackson &
              Col. Henry B. Livingston did themselves great honor in the transactions of the Day but
              its not in my power to do justice to Col. Laurens who acted both the General &
              the Partizan. His command of regular Troops was small but he did every thing possible
              to be done by their numbers. He had two most
              Excellent Officers with him Lt Col. Fleury & Major Talbot.
            The enemy fell back to their strong ground and the Day terminated with a Cannonade
              & Skirmishes. Both Armies continued in their position all Day yesterday
              Cannonadeing each every now and then. Last Night we effected a very good retreat
              without the loss of men or Stores.
            We have not collected an account of the kild and wounded, but we judge our loss
              amounts to between two & three hundred and that of the Enemies to much
              more.
            We are going to be Posted all round the Shores as a guard upon them & in that
              state to wait for the return of the Fleet, which by the by I think will not be in a
              hurry.
            It is asserted that Lord How arrivd last Night with his fleet & the
              reenforcement mentioned in your Excellencys Letter to General Sullivan. If the report
              is true we got off the Island in very good season.
            The Marquis went to Boston the Day before the Action and did not return until last
              night just as we were leaveing the Island. He went to wait upon the Admiral, to learn
              his further intentions and to get him to return again and compleat the expedition if
              possible.
            I observe your Excellency thinks the enemy design to evacuate Newyork. If they should
              I think they will Newport also; but I am perswaded they will not neither for the
              present.
            I would write your Excellency a more particular account of the battle &
              retreat, but I immagin General Sullivan & Col. Laurens has done it already.
              and I am myself very much unwell have had no sleep for three  Night
              & Days; being severely afflicted with the Asthma. I am with great respect Your
              Excellencys Most obedient humble Servt

            Nath. Greene


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 28 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dear sir
            Head Quarters [White Plains] 28 August 1778

          I had the pleasure of your several favors of the 12th & 13th Instant.
          The packet for the president of Congress, was sent forward by express.
          I inclose you a letter from General Patterson respecting silk for a set of colors: You
            will be pleased to give directions to the clothier to have it transmitted to camp. I am Sir your most Obt and very hble Servt

            Go: Washington