Title: To George Washington from Ephraim Brown, 15 May 1779
From: Brown, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

                May it please your Excellency—
                Windsor Connecticut May 15th 1779

Having heard of that clemency which forms so distinguished a part of your excellencys character, I am encouraged to supplicate of your excellency a favor—to me the greatest in the world—the life of my son, Elias Brown, a soldier in your army, where had he fallen in battle in support of your honor & the cause you gloriously patronise, I should not have considered his fate as untimely; but he is condemned to die by the hands of publick justice. In violation of principles early inculcated, but weakned by the influence & habits of evil companions, he was brought, on the 5th of Octr last, in company with John Hurring since hanged & others to consent & be aiding in the plunder of a citizen of these states; for which he justly received sentence of death; and has hitherto avoided the execution of it by making his escape a few hours before the time prefixed therefor. He has since been & remains at labor as a mechanick in the service of the United States, remote from the army & unknown. But the sentence yet stands against him & he is liable at any time to be taken & executed. Wherefore, may it please your Excellency, thro’ me he most humbly & fervently implores your mercy & forgiveness—that your Excellency would be pleased to consider him as a youth—the hope & expectation of virtuous parents who early taught him the fear of God, but which, thro’ the baleful influence of bad company he had lost for a time—that your Excellency would be pleased to consider him now as he humbly hopes the searcher of hearts does, as a sincere penitent—that your Excellency would be graciously pleased to order that the awful sentance against him may be revoked, & he permitted to return again to his duty, & by good service & fidelity make some attonement to an injured publick & have oppertunity to evince those obligations & attachments to his General of which there is no mention in the grave. The enclosed letters written just before his expected fate & sent to his father, were to him so effecting & so descriptive of a penitental frame of mind, that he cannot forbear laying them also before your Excellency; & once more to intreat & implore your Excellency that the Life of his son may be spared & a pardon granted him. He begs leave to sign himself, with all submission your excellencies most dutiful but fe[r]vent suppliant
Ephraim Brown


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 15 May 1779
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philad. 15th May 1779.

I find myself under the necessity of expressing my wishes that it may be agreeable to your Excellency to transfer the non commissiond officers and Privates, Citizens of New York, late of Col. Malcolms Regiment, to one of the Battallions of that State. after the Resolution to the same Effect in favour of the Pensylvania Companies, of which at the time I much disapproved, it is difficult to assign any good Reason for a distinction among Troops of the same Corpse, & under Circumstances altogether similar: and we may be censured for not attempting at least to put them on an equal Footing: However had not the Men expressed so much dissatisfaction at being constrained to serve in the reformed Battallion, after so many of their officers had retir’d, I should have been silent: for your Excellency will do me the Justice to believe that I do great violence to my Feelings, & to the Maxim I have endeavor’d to inculcate when I in the most distant Degree interpose in a matter to which you alone, from a thorough knowledge of all it’s Consequences, are competent. I am uncertain whether a formal Act of Congress is necessary, I rather presume your Power’s are adequate: but however this may be, from a Reluctance to embarrass you on any Occasion, I shoud not reconcile it to myself to take any Step to accomplish the transfer without having previously consulted you.
If the obstacles are important in your Opinion, I flatter myself that the State of which I am a Citizen will be contented, from the unreservd Confidence they Justly repose in your wisdom Impartiality and attention to the general Interest, as well as from the lively Sense they entertain of your unwearied Exertions for their own more immediate Protection. I have the Honour to be—with every Sentiment of Respect and Affection—Sir your Excellency’s most Obedient & very humble Servant
Jas Duane


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 15 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 15th May—1779

Major General Lincoln’s ill state of health has induced Congress to permit him to retire from a Climate unfriendly to it’s Recovery—Your Excellency will perceive by the enclosed Copy of an Act of the 13th Inst., that Brigadier General Moultrie is to take the Command in his absence under certain Restrictions.
I also transmit a copy of a Letter from Governor Johnson to Coll Hollingsworth—And am With the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant
John Jay Presid.


Title: From George Washington to Major Justus Christoph de Meibom, 15 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Meibom, Justus Christoph de

sir.
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 15th May 1779

I am sorry that I cannot at this moment grant your request for an officer to go into New-York. But I shall pay a particular attention to any letter which you may write relative to the obtaining a present supply of money; and order the commissary of Prisoners Mr Beatty, to transfer whatever return may be made to your application. I am Sir &
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Scott, 15 May 1779
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Charles Scott, 15 May 1779. GW wrote to Scott on 29 May: “I have duly received your favour of the 15th Inst. dated at Williamsburg.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 15 May 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Millstone [N.J.] May 15th 1779

I have the Honor to Inclose your Excelly a Letter from Colo. Butler Respecting Doctor Jones who is very Desireous of going on the Western Expedition as I know nothing more of Colo. Butlers Reasons than are mentioned in the Letter & nothing at all Respecting the Call that may be for Mr Jones to Remain with the army I can only Inclose Colo. Butlers Letter & Submit the Matter to your Exceys wisdom for Determination—Should there be no material Reason agt his going I think that his Acquaintance with the Indian Countries his knowledge of their Customs & Manners as well as his knowledge in other matters will operate in favor of Granting Colo. Butlers Request. I have the Honor to be with the most perfect Respect Yr Excys most obedt Servt
Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 16 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Sunday May 16th 1779.
Parole South-Carolina—C. Signs Howe. Rutledge.

The Bonamtown Picket to be relieved tomorrow from the Pennsylvania line—The Morristown with an addition of a serjeant, Corporal and twelve men from the Maryland line, furnished with Ammunition and Provision as usual.
A General Court-Martial of the line to sit tomorrow half past 9 ôclock A.M. to try all such Persons as shall come before them—Colonel Greene President.


Title: To George Washington from Captain John Copp, 16 May 1779
From: Copp, John
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency,
Fort Stanwyx [N.Y.]May 16th 1779.

To excuse the Liberty I take as an injured Officer in representing my Situation to your Notice.
Since the Commencement of the War I have had the Honor to act in the Continental Service as a Subaltern—’till the 16th of April 1776, when I was in Canada appointed Captain of a Company in Colonel John Nicholson’s Regiment: Shortly after which Appointment, I was by the Committ⟨ee of the Pro⟩vincial Congress for arranging the Officers of this Sta⟨te enrolled⟩ in Colonel Goose Van Schaick’s Regiment, senior in ⟨rank to Cap⟩tains Hicks & Wendell of the same Regiment, in w⟨hich⟩ we are still continued.
These Gentlemen, since the 21st of November 1776 have served under me without Complaint, & are notwithstanding mentioned before me in the late Arrangement for the new Establishment.
If my being in Service before them, or the Arrangement by which I have hitherto commanded them, is of any Consequence, I have not the least Doubt of being reinstated in my former Rank, should your Excellency be pleased to notice my Situation. I have the Honor to be, with the greatest Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedt hume Sert
John Copp Captn 1st New York Regt


Title: To George Washington from William Lee Davidson, c.16 May 1779
From: Davidson, William Lee
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Lee Davidson, c.16 May 1779. On 17 or 18 May, Alexander Hamilton wrote to Thomas Clark for GW: “His Excellency received last night a letter from Lt Col. Davidson written by your direction, informing him of the enemy’s being at the New Bridge” (see Thomas Clark to GW, 17 May, n.1).


Title: From George Washington to Major Thomas Forrest, 16 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Forrest, Thomas

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 16 1779

I have received your two favours of the 16th of March and 10th instant.
My letter to you at Valley forge expressed the opinion which was at that time received in the Artillery, though I believe it had not been practiced upon. For some time past, a contrary idea has prevailed in that corps conformable to the general principles of promotion in the army and to the practice in the cavalry, which is on a similar establishment. This is, that all officers rise regimentally to the rank of Captain inclusively and from that in the line of Artillery. But on this principle you are intitled to fill the vacancy which happened by the death of Lt Col. Strobogh, and I have written to the Board of war accordingly. If your pretensions extend farther, they will have their due weight in a general settlement of relative rank. I am with regard Sir Your most Obedt servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 16 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir.
Head Quarters Middlebrook 16th May 1779

I have been duly honored with your Excellencys favor of the 10th instant; and the two resolutions of Congress which shall be properly attended to.
I herewith take the liberty to transmit several papers of a serious nature, which have passed between General McIntosh and myself. I thought it my duty to submit them to the consideration of Congress, that it might decide whether the reasons given in my letter from Col. Hamilton, are sufficiently cogent to pospone an inquiry for the present; or till the affairs, or situation of the army, will admit of entering fully into a subject that involves so many and remote evidences.
The inclosed extract of a letter from Lt Colonel Ford may perhaps contain more recent intelligence from the Southward than what Congress have received by land. I also send a Charlestown gazette of the 21 of April—three late New-york papers, and an English one of the 26th February Ultimo. I have the honor to be, with the greatest regard, your Excellency’s most obt and hble servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Laurance, 16 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Laurance, John

Sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 16th May 1779

As the tryal of General Arnold is to come on by the 1st of June, you will take measures to be at the head quarters of the army fully in time to make all the necessary arrangements on this occasion. I am Sir &
G.W.


Title: General Orders, 17 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Monday May 17th 1779.
Parole New-Jersey—C. Signs Livingston Morris.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 17 May 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] May 17. 1779

We have the Honour to transmitt your Excellency Copy of a Letter to Congress from Brigadier General Irvine referred to the Board. As we think this like all other Disputes about Rank should go in the usual Line we request your Excellency will be pleased to lay it before a Board of Officers & on your Certificate we will report to Congress. As Col. Magaw who is absent may perhaps be affected by the Enquiry into this Matter we would beg Leave to mention that he is an elder Colonel also than General Hand & we believe Genl Irvine yields the Rank to him—Genl Hand was Lt Col: to the Regt of which Col. Magaw was Major in 1775. We have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect your very obedient Servants
Richard Petersby order


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 17 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

Dr Sir,
Middle brook May 17th 1779

Your favor of 4 Oclock yesterday afternoon came to my hands this morning. The suggestions contained in it, I had before heard from New York; but thank you nevertheless for your attention, & communication of them. I have no idea of the Convention Troops being rescued by the detachment from N. Yk but if it shd take Post at the nearest navigation to their cantonmt it would countenance desertion, & be a means of obtaining many of them in that way. I shall endeavour as much as possible to prevent this.
If the Gentn whose name I mentioned to you in my last, is inclined to undertake that business, & should be in want of a little specie for the purposes there expressd I will spare part of my small stock—To know the real strength & situation of the enemy—their detachments. reinforcements⟨—⟩designs—expectations—&ca—is essential. ⟨E⟩qually important may it be, to know, frequently, ⟨w⟩hat Ships of war & other armed Vessels are in the harbour of New York.
The inclosed was brought to me by Genl Thompson. If Mr Pintard will enquire into the truth of the representation, & give or destroy the pass as facts may appear I shall be obliged to him. I am Dr Sir Yr most Obedt Servt
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Thomas Clark, 17 May 1779
From: Clark, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Paramus [N.J.] May 17th 1779

Yesterday, on receiving information that a large body of the enemy had attacked and forced my Scouts from the New Bridge, I desired Lt Colonel Davidson to give your Excellency notice by express whilst I reconnoitered them, I found from my own observations and the best intelligence I could get that 500 had crossd the Bridge and taken possession of the hights on this side the river and a considerable body remaining on the other side. all I was able to do in this case was to keep my Light Infantry and a Captains Command joined by a few Militia as near them as possible to prevent pillaging—about 5 oClock in the afternoon, another express from my Scout at Tapan informed me that 500 men were on their march for this place—with two Gentlemen of this place I immediately reconnoiterd that road and found that at 7 miles from this they changed their rout and march’d to the New Bridge—The Continental Troops with a few Militia lay on their arms all day yesterday and last night—the enemy recross’d about 10 yesterday evening taking up the Bridge after them—The Militia came down in great numbers this morning and Seemd to be in high spirits—By two deserters, and other very good information the enemy’s force consisted of the 63, 64 Regmts Buskerks Corps, 100 Fergusons riflemen, the refugees, Some Grenadiers & Light Infantry making 1000 to march by way of Hackensack Bridge, and 500 others to Land at Closter dock and proceed thro Tapan to Paramus Church where they were to make a junction by day Light, but by the latter party’s missing their landing place & the vigilance of the scouts, the scheme miscarried—they were if possible, to have possessed themselves of my Artiliry, Baggage and taken or destroyed the whole regmt—they have carried off several Cattle and plundered a number of houses—I have not been able to learn whether they have lost any men in the different skermishes or not—three of mine are wound’d. I expect something of the same kind shortly, but your Excellency may be assured they never shall Surprise me, force me they may—I have the honor to be Sir your Excellencys most Obt Humble Servt
T. Clark

        The enemy have returnd to New york and their different Stations.


Title: To George Washington from James Clinton, 17 May 1779
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from James Clinton, 17 May 1779. On 28 May, GW acknowledged receipt of a letter from Clinton of 17 May.


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 17 May 1779
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Philad. 17th May 1779

I am honourd with your Favour of the 3d Instant & have communicated it to my Colleagues. when I wrote to your Excellency respecting the Exchange of Citizens in the power of the Enemy, I did not Attend to the distinction between Civil and military Prisoners: but conceivd your Authority competent in all Cases. I cannot think it adviseable to leave the negociation of the Exchange even of Citizens to Commissaries appointed by the several States: it may be productive of Confusion and mischief: nor can there be any possible Inconvenience in consulting the Commander in Chief on the manner & Terms of such Exchange; while it will at least keep up a Consistency & propriety in our Transactions with the Enemy: It can be no Encroachment on the Civil Authority of any State; because a Citizen in Captivity is treated and considerd as a Prisoner of War, and the whole Business on the part of the Enemy conducted in the military Line. However it is obvious from your Excellency’s Remarks that the Concurrence of the State is necessary to remove all difficulties I shall prepare a Resolution “to authorize the Commissioners of Indian Affairs for the northern Department with the Concurrence of the Commander in Chief & the executive Authority of the State whose Citizens respectively shall be the Subject of the proposd Exchange, to negociate & Settle the manner & Terms of the Exchange.” This will I think answer the present Purpose, & I hope will meet with Approbation. I have the Honour to be—with the utmost Regard & Esteem Dear Sir your Excellencys most obedient humble Servant
Jas Duane


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 17 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 17. 1779

I was yesterday honored with your favour of the 15th with the inclosed papers.
The fleet mentioned in Governor Johnson’s letter may contain the detachment, which lately sailed from New York, and the object may be, if not to rescue, at least to facilitate the desertion of The Convention troops—This is the prevailing opinion in New York ⟨counte⟩nanced among other circumstances by the Goodrich’s and other natives ⟨of Virgi⟩nia ⟨being⟩ of the party. A rescue, with common prudence on our side would be difficult—I hope this will not be wanting—But it may be no easy matter to prevent very considerable desertion. The enemy may possibly take some convenient and secure post, to afford opportunities. Our obvious policy on an emergency will be to remove the troops—perhaps to divide them.
But the present appearance may be only a diversion, to delay the reinforcements, going from Virginia to the Southward, while the detachment may ⟨in re⟩ality have proceeded on its voyage to prosecute the intended operations in that quarter. In this case, the vessels that have been seen may have a few troops on board the better to cover the artifice, and it may be will call at particular places which have been preconcerted to receive deserters, instructed to meet them there. We should be upon our guard against a deception of this kind, which may unnecessarily detain the levies to the injury of our Southern affairs.
In the present uncertainty, and at this distance it is hard to form any precise opinion of what ought to be done—I would only beg leave to observe, that the arms destined for the levies should be hastened on to them, that they may be enabled to act according to circumstances—and that if appearances continue without producing any thing decisive, the Convention troops ought to be effectually taken care of—and every provision made, that the levies may not be improperly detained.
The detachment which sailed from New York, according to the best information I have received consists of one batalion of guards Lord Rawdons corps, the 42d Highlanders a German regiment and fifty bucks county dragoons, estimated at about 2000 men. They were convoyed by the Raisonable of 64 the rainbow of 44 and a small frigate.
There remain now at New York two frigates of 20 two sloops of war, and a ⟨few⟩ privateers which is all the protection there is to a large number of transports—If our frigates to the Eastward could be speedily collected, I should hope a very important blow might be struck there without much risk. It seems to be well worth the experiment—If Congress view the matter in the same light, they will no doubt give the necessary directions with all possible secrecy and dispatch. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servant.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 17 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir.
Head Quarters [Middlebrook] May 17th 1779

Since I had the honor of addressing Your Excellency this morning, I received a Letter from General Gates, a Copy of which with the packet he mentions I transmit by this express. From Genl Gates’s account it appears indispensably necessary that a supply of money should be sent as soon as possible, if it has not been already done to pay the Troops. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servant
Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 18 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Tuesday May 18th 1779.
Parole Hackinsack—C. Signs Sullivan. Hammond.

The Officers are on no pretence to suffer the men to straggle from camp but are to keep them ready to march on the earliest notice.
Major Stevenson is appointed to relieve Coll Dabney in the superintendency of the hospitals in New-Jersey.
At a General Court Martial of the line whereof Colonel Gunby was President April 30th 1779—Thomas Carson, George Garnick and Thomas Cane of the 6th Virginia regiment; also James Johnston and William Hitchkock of Coll Gist’s regiment were tried for, “Breaking into and robbing the house of Mr Van Noorstrand an inhabitant, of a number of valuable articles, on the night of the 29th of March last” and found guilty of the charge exhibited against them being a breach of the 16th Article of the 13th Section of the Articles of War and also of General orders—Thomas Cane James Johnston and William Hitchcock sentenced to receive one hundred lashes each, and on consideration of Thomas Carson and George Garnick being more atrociously guilty than the others, the Court do sentence them to suffer death (two thirds concuring in opinion).
His Excellency the Commander in Chief confirms the sentences and orders Thomas Carson and George Garnick to be hung tomorrow morning eleven ôclock—Also Robert Perry now under sentence of death—The others to receive their stripes at the same time.
Joseph Brookfield having become a Witness on behalf of The United States is ordered to be released from confinement.

Fifty men from each brigade, properly officered, to attend the above executions.


Title: From George Washington to John Armstrong, 18 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Armstrong, John

Dear Sir,
Head Qrs Middle brook May 18th 1779.

I have received your favor of the 10th Instt & thank you for it—Never was there an observation founded in more truth than yours of my having a choice of difficulties—I cannot say that the resolve of Congress which you allude to has encreased them—but with propriety I may observe it has added to my embarrassment in fixing on them inasmuch as It gives me powers without the means of execution when these ought to be co-equal at least—The cries of the distressed—of the fatherless & the Widows—come to me from all quarters—The States are not behind hand in making application for assistance notwithstanding scarce any one of them, that I can find, is taking effectual measures to compleat its quota of Continental Troops or have even power or energy enough to draw forth their Militia—each complains of neglect because it gets not what it asks—& conceives that no other suffers like itself because they are ignorant of what others experience—receiving the complaints of their own people only. I have a hard time of it & a disagreeable task—To please every body is impossible—were I to undertake it I should probably please no body—If I know myself I have no partialities—I have from the beginning—& I will to the end pursue to the best of my judgment & abilities one steady line of conduct for the good of the great whole—this will, under all circumstances, administer consolation to myself however short I may fall of the expectation of others—But to leave smaller matters—I am much mistaken if the resolve of Congress hath not an eye to something far beyond our abilities—they are not, I conceive, sufficiently acquainted with the state & strength of the army—of our resources—& how they are to be drawn out. The powers given may be beneficial, but do not let Congress deceive themselves by false expectations founded on a superficial view of the situation & cercumstances of things in general & their own Troops in particular—for in a word I give it to you as my opinion, that if the reinforcement expected by the enemy should arrive, & no effectual measures be taken to compleat our Battalions, & stop the further depreciation of our Money I do not see upon what ground we are able, or mean to continue the contest—we now stand upon the brink of a precipice from whence the smallest help plunges us headlong. at this moment our money does but pass—at what rate I need not add because unsatisfied demands upon the treasury affords too many unequivocal and alarming proofs to stand in need of illustration—Even at this hour every thing is in a manner, at a stand for want of this money (such as it is) & because many of the States instead of passing laws to aid the several departments of the Army have done the reverse, & hampered the transportation in such a way as to stop the Supplies wch are indispensably necessary & for want of wch we are embarrassd exceed[ing]ly. This is a summary of our affairs in Genl to which I am to add that the Officers unable any longer to support themselves in the Army are resigning continually, or doing what is even worse, spreading discontent & possibly the seeds of Sedition.
You will readily perceive my good Sir that this is a confidential letter & that however willing I may be to disclose such matters & such sentiments to particular friends who are entrusted with the government of our great national concerns—I shall be extremely unwilling to have them communicated to any others as I should feel much compunction if a single word or thought of mine was to create the smallest despair in our own people or feed the hope of the enemy who I know pursue with avidity every track which leads to a discovery of the Sentiments of Men in Office. Such (Men in Office I mean) I wish to be impressed—deeply impressed with the importance of close attention, & a vigorous exertion of the means for extricating our finances from the deplorable situation in which they now are—I never was, much less reason have I now, to be affraid of the enemys arms; but I have no scruple in declaring to you, that I have never yet seen the time in which our affairs in my opinion were at so low an ebb as the present & witht a speedy & capitol change we shall not be able in a very short time to call out the strength & resources of the country—the hour therefore is certainly come when party differences & disputes should subside—when every man (especially those in Office) should with one hand & one heart pull the same way & with their whole strength. Providence has done—& I am perswaded is disposed to do—a great deal for us, but we are not to forget the fable of Jupiter & the Countryman. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & affe. H. Ser.
Go: W——n.
P.S. I am not insensible of the propriety of the observn contained in the P.S. to your Letter & can assure you that the Person you allude to was not appointed from motives of partiality or in a hasty manner—after long & cool deliberation—a due consideration of characters & circumstances—& some regard to military rules & propriety I could do no better—I must work with such means as I have—You know I presume that the comd was offered to Genl G-tes who declined the acceptance of it.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 18 May 1779
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Philadelphia May 18th 1779

Yesterday I had the honor of receiveing your favor of the 15th Inst: I have not the least doubt of your Excellencys wishing to bring my affair to a speedy conclusion and of doing me ample Justice, I am extremely sorry my Cruel situation should cause your Excellency the least embarrasment, or uneasiness; I am sensible you have more than your share of difuculties already, and heartily wish I could lessen rather than add to them, I have not the least thought that you have any other object in View than doing Strict Justice to the Public, and to me, and as I am Concious of not haveing done any thing to forfeit your good Opinion, I have not the least Idea of your harbouring any Sentiments unfavourable to me.
I am sensible the Charges are of a serious Nature, and it is my Sincure wish to have the Matter fully Investigated, neither do I wish to precipitate the Trial in the least, But here I cannot help observeing that the Public Body who have assured your Excellency, that the Evidences are at Such a distance as to Require a Considerable time to produce them, have had near Four Months since they made the Charges to produce Evidence to support them, and it appears to me they Cannot with the least propreity or Colour of Reason wish for a longer time, It has already been sufficient to send from One End of the Continent to the other.
I have no Idea that If the trial comes on the first of June, the Impartial Public will suppose the affair in the least precipitated; It will then Rest with the Court Martial, who if Sufficient reasons Are given will doubtless Postpone the trial to a longer Period.
your Excellency observes haveing wrote to the President, Incloseing a Letter for me appointing the first of June for my trial, desireing him to send me the letter Provided He should not think that Period too soon, The Letter (dated 7th May) was sent to me by Him, by which I conclude the trial positively fixed to the first of June, and shall Attend at Camp for that Purpose.
I am fully Convinced of Your Excellencys Impartiality, and wish for nothing more than Justice. being satisfied that when the affair is fully Investigated I shall be acquitted with honor, and be still thought worthy of the favourable sentiments which your Excellency has expressed for me on many occations, I have the honor to be with great Respect & Esteem—Dr General Your most Obedient and Very Humble Servt
B. Arnold


Title: To George Washington from the Board of Treasury, 18 May 1779
From: Board of Treasury
To: Washington, George

Sir
Treasury Office, Philada 18th May 1779

Auditor Johnston has represented to this Board that several Pay Masters and other Officers have resigned and quitted the army; without previously settling their accounts. This is an inconvenience which will greatly embarrass and obstruct the system laid down by Congress for adjusting the army accounts through the Auditors: And we beg that your Excellency will be pleased to give the proper orders for preventing it in future. We have the Honour to be with the utmost respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble servants
Jas Duane Ch


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 18 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Gentlemen,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 18th 1779

Since I had the honor of writing to you on the 14th instant I have discovered a mistake relative to the succession of Major Forrest to the vacancy occasioned by the death of Lt Col. Strobock. I then had in eye another vacancy which happend by the Resignation of Lt Col. Oswald; and did not recollect that it had been filled by Lt Col. Stevens. A multiplicity of business caused me to forget this circumstance—It is necessary the mistake should be rectified—Major Forrest cannot succeed on the principle of regimental promotion because though the rule of promotion in the artillery has not been formally determined, yet that of lineal succession mentioned in my last is now so generally preferred, that it would convulse the corps to adopt a different one; and as Major Holmer of Harrisons regiment is elder in commission he must take precedence of Major Forrest on this principle—unless it should be thought best to supersede him on the ground of incapacity.
The Board will judge how far this is adviseable from the following extract of a letter of the 13th which I had received from General Knox previous to my last—”Major Holmer says he, is clearly the oldest Major—I wish I could add that his knowlege of his profession and his activity were such as that I could consistent with the duty which I owe my country and my conscience recommend him to fill the vacancy but I am sorry this is not the case. Major Forrest is next in rank—Your Excellency knows his zeal and activity. I think he is a proper subject for promotion. But should he be promoted care must be taken to distinguish the principle which influenced it”—It gives me pain to be under the necessity of declaring that the idea here given of Major Holmer is conformable to his universal character, which places his qualifications as an officer far below mediocrity. If Major Forrest is promoted on this principle, it is necessary that it should receive the sanction of Congress.

I transmit an extract from the proceedings of a Board of General officers in the case of Majors Mentges Murray & Nichols & Cos. Stewart & Craig—which has been confirmed in General orders. I have the honor to be With great respect & esteem Sir Yr Most Obedt servt.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 18 May 1779
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
E[lizabeth] T[own, N.J.]Tuesday Morning [18 May 1779]

Genll Maxwell just setting off for Camp, I improve the Opportunity, to acknowledge the reciept of your Excellency’s Letter of yesterday, and to assure you that I shall attempt every prudent measure in my power to accomplish your Wishes, and will endeavour to see your Excellency on the Subject, when any Plan is formed.
From a Calculation of a Gentleman whose means of Knowledge are great, there are now at New York Long Island & Staten Island about 7000 Men—Lord Rawden’s regiment of new raised Irishmen it is said sailed for Georgia since the Capture of the Jason &c. under Convoy of a 20 Gun ship—The fleet bound to Chesapeak, have on Board about 2500 Men Twelve hundred of which are of the Guards General Matthews Commands—There are at New York five frigates besides Privateers, but Admiral Arbuthnot with 5 or 6 Capital Ships are said to be expected, with Troops—The general Opinion in the City is, that their dependance is now on the depreciation of our Money and the disaffection of our People—Therefore that their Business now is to distress us by taking Possession of Georgia & Carolina in order to deprive us of foreign remittances in Indigo & rice, and to carry on a kind of plundering War along the Coast, to prevent a foreign Trade—That the most profound Secresy is aimed at, by the Principals in the City, and an amazing increase of Jealousy with regard to every Person who is not in the Cabinet—There also appears (intermixed with the most bitter enmity) an anxious desire in some principal People, to be assured, whether Congress mean to insist on the Independancy of all America, or only the thirteen united States.
I hope your Excellency will observe, that from Time to Time, I give you the Accounts just as I recieve them for your Excellency’s consideration, without undertaking to judge of their Propriety.
Mrs Boudinot joins me in the most respectfull Compliments to Mrs Washington And Am with great regard Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble Servt
Elias Boudinot


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 18 May 1779
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

        Dear Sir.
Poughkeepsie [N.Y.] 18th May 1779

I was honored with your Excellency’s confidential Letter of the 3d Instant on the 12th at Kingston whither I was called by an Alarm on the frontiers of Ulster County occasioned by the Appearance of about one hundred Indians and Tories at Shendeacon a small Settlement in the Gorge of the Mountains about 20 Miles west of Kingston & 12 from Marble Town. They were joined at this Place by 27 Tories from the east of Hudsons River mostly Hessian Deserters from the Convention Troops. The sudden assembling of the Militia deterred them from penetrating farther into the Country and prevented them from doing any material Injury. It is needless to remark to your Excellency that the execution of Military Business by Militia Officers is (from their want of activity and knowlege) seldom attended with the necessary Dispatch—add to this, the raising of the Levies for the Defence of the Frontiers and for filling up the continental Battalions has been unavoidably much interrupted and retarded in the frontier Regiments by the (almost) continual Alarms since the Departure of Colo. Cortland’s Regiment from their former Station. I have therefore found it necessary to order the Levies in this County to rendezvous on the Western frontiers of Ulster and Orange Counties, to serve as a cover to the Settlements & to afford the Militia Leizure to make their Drafts. The officer who commands them has orders, the Moment this is accomplished to forward such part of them as are to be annexed to the continental Battalions with such additional Number as can be spared consistent with the Security of the frontier Settlements in that Quarter, to Albany by Detachments without the least Delay. From the best Information I have been able to obtain there is a Collection of Indians (consisting of those who are called the Esopus Indians & other Straglers) and Tories, at Shohawken and Kollitye on the Delaware, at one of which Places it is said they have erected a Block-House or some other small Works of Defence. Our Accounts were that they consisted of upwards of one hundred & we have the best Evidence of their having been lately joined by a very considerable additional Number of Tories and Deserters. It is this Banditti that have committed the most of the Mischiefs which have been done in the Counties of Ulster and Orange and have occasioned all the late distressing Alarms. They are supplied with Provisions from the different Settlements on the Delaware by the disaffected Inhabitants who live on the frontiers. They are perfectly acquainted with the back Country, and I am apprehensive will be very troublesome by rendering the Supplies to our western Army Precarious and by keeping the back Settlements in perpetual Apprehensions of Danger. The amazing Tract of uninhabited and Mountainous Country which lies between the intended Route of our Army and the western Settlements will afford them a secure Assylum as long as they can procure Provisions. I would therefore submit to your Excellency the propriety of marching a Body of Men into these Parts sufficiently large to scour that Country and rout the Enemy there and destroy the Settlements which feed and harbour them. As these Settlements are scattered and remote from each other and as the Enemy may be succoured from the contiguous Indian Settlements on the Susquehanna, not less than 500 Men will be competent to perform this Business effectually. If the Measure is approved by your Excellency I will most readily furnish that number from the Militia for this short Service and undertake to conduct the Business myself—Nothing will be wanted but the Means of transporting about Ten Days or Two Weeks Provision and some other little Matters from the Quarter Master’s Department which cannot be obtained otherways and which I presume may be spared from thence without inconveniency for so short a Period. The Horses wanted may either be impressed in the Country by the Quarter Master or if purchased returned before the Campaign is fairly opened on the Sea Coast. I am the more desirous of having this Business accomplished as it will relieve the Inhabitants of the frontier Settlements from any further Apprhensions of Danger and induce many who have already abandoned their Farms to return to them & also enable us to spare a greater proportion of the Levies raised for the Defence of the frontiers who are now stationed at the different Passes—where they at best afford but a very partial Security, for active Service. It may be thought most adviseable to delay this Matter until the Army intended for the western Service begin to move, in which Case, this may serve as a favorable Diversion. The intermediate Time may be only sufficient to get out the Men and make the necessary Preparations. I have the Honor to be with the most perfect Respect & Esteem your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt
Geo: Clinton


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Clinton, 18 May 1779
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Albany Tuesday May 18th 1779

Yesterday Evening I was informed by Lt Colonel Butler, that he had received a Packet of Letters from your Excellency directed to me, with Orders to forward them to this Place with dispatch from New Bourough if Circumstances did not permit of his coming up by land, or Business unavoidably delay him.

On his Arrival at New Bourough which he informs me was late on Friday evening last, haveing some Stores to forward on to his Regiment, and his Horses being tired, he thought it most prudent to come up by Water, and deliver the Packet to the Care of Mr Mitchel Quarter master at that place, which he immediately did, and ordered him to send them off that Evening by a careful Person, with all possible Dispatch.
This is the fifth day they have been on the Road, and have not yet been received, as I conceive them to be of importance, I have wrote to Mr Mitchell desiring him to make all possible Enquiry after them, and I have ordered the Bearer to ride night and day to Head Quarters, that Your Excellency may have an oppertunity, knowing the Circumstances, to favour me with a Duplicate of your Orders.
I have just received a Letter from Genl Schuyler directed to you, which I send by the Bearer. I have the honour to be respectfully Your Excellency’s most humble Servt
James Clinton B. Genl


Title: From George Washington to Conrad-Alexandre Gérard, 18 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gérard, Conrad-Alexandre

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 18th 1779

The obligation I felt for the visit which Your Excellency did me the honor to make me could only be increased by the manner in which you are pleased to mention the reception you met with. If there was any thing that deserved to give you pleasure, it was the sentiments which accompanied the marks of respect we were happy to have an opportunity of showing you. As the Minister of a Prince we revere, you had a title to every thing we could do; but you have another title, not less precious to your sensibility—all the true friends of America esteem it an honor to rank you among their number, and acknowlege the distinguished instances you have given of your zealous concern for its interests. The assurances of your esteem for me are too flattering to permit any other return than that of actions; and I shall ardently wish for occasions of giving you proofs of mine as convincing as they will be sincere.
Truly sensible of your politeness Mrs Washington entreats you to accept her most respectful thanks and compliments. I have the honor to be With perfect respect and the truest personal attachment Your Excellency’s Most Obedt hume serv.
G. W——n
        I have made inquiries on the subject of the memoir as yet without success—I shall continue them and communicate the result.


Title: From George Washington to Captain Bartholomew von Heer, 18 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heer, Bartholomew von

Sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 1[8] May 1779

I had not an opportunity to attend to your letter of the 7th, till this time.
I am vested with no authority whatsoever, by which it is in my power to attach your corps to any particular State. An adoption of this kind can only be made thro’ a recommendation of Congress, or by a voluntary act of the State itself.
I shall write to the board of war on the subject of Commissioning your officers and to know their sentiments on Baron Wolfen.
With respect to furnishing the articles mentioned in your return, it cannot be done at this moment—There are neither stockings nor shirts in Store, and what shoes we have on hand are for a particular occasion. However a supply of these articles are expected in a short time when a proper regard will be paid to the wants of your corps. I do not know of any use overalls can be to horsemen.
I return the papers you inclosed. I am &c.
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major Henry Lee, Jr., 18 May 1779
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

sir
May 18th 79 Burlington [N.J.]

In consequence of Captain McCleans request, I do myself the honor to mention to your Excellency, the very great satisfaction I should receive, on having the Captain and his company annexed to the Corps under my command.
Exclusive of the great advantage resulting from a small, choice, and alert body of infantry, I flatter myself with deriving particular assistance from the approved zeal, prudence and activity of the officer who commands them.
Altho’ fully confident from experience, that this connexion would give additional security and additional vigor to the small business that may fall to my lot during the campaign, yet, as it enlarges my command, I should not have troubled your Excellency with the proposition, had it not been for special reasons offered by Capt. McClean, which he will communicate in person.
I take the liberty farther to propose, that a sergeant & twelve of Major Gibb’s infantry be mounted for the performance of the ordinary business of Headquarters, by which means that business I presume, will be done with more ease, & the cavalry of the army benefitted, because all detachments called for, will receive the countenance & be under the daily inspection of commissioned officers. I have the honor to be with most perfect respect & esteem your Excellys obt servt
Heny Lee Jr


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 18 May 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Head Quarters Pecks Kill [N.Y.] May 18th 1779.

The pretentions of the Field Officers and Captains of the Bay-Line, were omitted to be inclosed in mine of the 14th instant; which I now beg leave to inclose. The Enemy are making frequent excursions at Closter near Tappan. The Troops at Paramus and Kings Ferry, are too remote to give succour in time. The Inhabitants call upon Me for aid, but before it can be sent, on such events, the mischief is done, and the Enemy move off. And I have so many parties out, which with those at Work, makes the duty rather hard. If I send one to remain there, it is doubtfull, whether they can arrive at these posts in time, shou’d the Enemy make a serious movement up the River. I wish for directions on this matter, whether the protection to that part of the Country is expected from me. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Humble Servant
Alexr McDougall


Title: From George Washington to George Measam or James Geary, 18 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Geary, James,Measam, George

sir
Head Qrs Middle Brook May the 18: 1779.

I request that you will send 5000 Shirts and five thousand pair of Shoes, as soon as possible to this camp. The public service demands them—and, that they should be here without a moments loss of time. You will apply to the Quarter Master Colo. Hay, for as many Waggons as may be necessary. If it should happen that you have not the number of Shirts required—you will send what there are; and if you have not a sufficiency of Shoes to answer the demand—you will apply to Mr George Starr at Middle Town and obtain ’em from him. The Waggons should come under a proper guard—and for greater security, the route thro Morris Town. I must repeat my request that the utmost diligence be used upon this occasion. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt servant
Go: Washington
P.S. The line to Colo. Hay is to supply you with Waggons.


Title: From George Washington to Juan de Miralles, 18 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Miralles, Don Juan de

Sir
Hd Qrs Middle brook May 18th 1779

I take the liberty to trouble you with duplicate and triplicate of a letter which I did myself the honor to write to His Excellency The Governor of Havannah some time since, the original of which I am apprehensive may miscarry—and I entreat your care in forwarding them by the earliest and safest opportunities. I am anxious that this letter should get to His Excellency, as it conveys to him my thanks for the pleasure I have received in his friends acquain[t]ance and a testimony of my respect for himself.
I am happy in the opportunity this gives me of assuring you of the sincere respect and esteem with which I have the honor to be Sir Your most Obedt & most humble servant.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 18 May 1779
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburg [Va.] May 18th 1779

Your Excys favour of the 5th Instant Respecting the recruits marching to the Southward came to hand this day. Be assurd Sir that every attention that the nature of the Case will admit of, shall be paid, to Your instructions. but the arival of the enemy have so Totally deranged our affars with respect to Clothing the troops and indeed every other thing that it Will be impossable to say with any degree of Certainty when I shall be able to move them I have already wrote Your Excellency Repeatedly that the troops wear detaind for want of Cloths I cannot but still continue to mention it Being fearfull it might be thought that the Fault lay with me, however that difficulty Was like to be removed. but the arrival of the Enemy has thrown things in more confusion than before a Single Step was taken in colecting the Cloths. many of thim being sent from this & other places Chiefly by water, they are not all Yet arived at Fredricksburg. altho they have Been Sent off long enough to have gon ten times the Distance, I cannot suppose that they could have fallen into the Hands of the enemy, as they wear orderd off Several days before their arival, but am apprehensive that they have run up Some creek for security & god only knows when we shall be able to git them, as I make no doubt His Excy the Governor will give You the particulars respecting the enemys progress in this state. I would not wish To Trouble Your Excy with a Repetition of bad News However Least it Should Slip the Governors Memory, I murst inform Your Excy that a Small partie of not more than 70 or 80 from the best infermation that I can get Came up to Suffolk Set it on fire and immediatly returnd to portsmouth Burning almost every hous on the road without respect to Persons. we had in and near Suffolk about Five thousand Barrels of pork about two thirds of which we got away and is as Yet saved tho by no means out of danger. I have sent Colos. Lawson & parker over who has been very active in colecting the Militia in order to Cover the Stors & I am in hops that they may be Saved. during the whole of the enemys march to Suffolk or their return back to Portsmouth, they met with no opposition not even the fire of a Single gun, meeting with more Success than I am Shure they even hoped for, dose not leave a doubt with me that they will attempt Somthing of the kind on this Side the river & I have reasons to expect it will be this Night, & if so they will be Nearly as Successfull as on the other Side, for we Have but fiew men to oppose them and a large Propo[r]tion of them I am fearfull panick Struck However if they will favour us for one day more we Shall have in from Fredricksburg a Considerable number of the recruits, whom togather with what we now have, I have hopes of. at least covering our Most Valuable Stors. there are Various Accts Respecting the Strength of the enemy. they are Said [to] be from two to Six thousand, from what I have been able to Colect, I think there are about two thousand and not more, from every appearance Burning out the Inhabitance &c. I am led to believe that they dont mean to Stay with us Long, however that Much depends on their success which as Yet has Been very great, that togather with the Resolution of the assembly, has induced me to Call to our assistance (tho exceedingly fearful of gaining Your Excellencys Displeasure) Colo. Blands Regiment of Horse. Your Excellency Cannot but be Shure that I meant it for the Best and Should it be rong I hope for Your Excys Pardon. upon examining the List of officers I find a number of those mentiond have already or Shortly will resign, I therfore Shall be very Short of offi⟨cers⟩ if in that case Your Excy Should think proper to send any More officers. I should be extreamly happy to Have with me Mr William Kelly a Lt & adjutant of the fourth Regt he is Cleaver at business & would be of great use to me I am Your Excys Obt Servant
Chs Scott
        P.s. Inclosed Your Excy has a Copy of the Resolution of Both Houses.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 18 May 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Genl
Hickory Tavern [N.J.] May 18th [1779] 5 oC.

I met the Inclosed at this place & Take the Liberty to Inclose the whole to Your Excy that You may See our prospects & have an Idea of the Existing Difficulties The ⟨Ne⟩w Hampshire Regt Seems to be without Tents or any thing Else I was apprehensive that unless Tents was mentioned in the orders Sent for marchg they would Come without them Yr Excy will please to forward the Letter to Genl Green which is Directed to him. all the Evils which I can remedy Shall be done those which You Conceive out of my power Yr Excy will give the Necessary orders for.
The Difficulty of Forage Colo. Biddle will remove I have Seen him repeatedly on the Subject—The New Hampsre Regt did not march for Mohacomac agreable to orders if it had the Express would have met them. I have the Honor to be Dear Genl most Respectfully Yr Excys most obed. Servt
Jno. Sullivan


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 18 May 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Philadelphia 18th May 1779

I was honored with yours of the 8th Instant, & am fully convinced of the force, as well as propriety of your Objections to the plan which I took the Liberty to Suggest—Indeed the reasons against it are so just, & so pointed that had they sooner Occured, I certainly shou’d not have Intruded upon your Excellencies time & patience on that Occation.
I am now to Inform you that I have succeeded so well with the Legislature of this State in procuring a present, & future provision for the Officers & Soldiers of the Pennsa Line—& have also put my private concerns in such a train, as to be in a Situation to take the field, as soon as the Light Corps can be drafted—or that my presence can be the least necessary towards the formation of it until when I shall wait your Excellencies Commands & be at all times ready to serve you with the best Service of your Most Obt & much Obliged Hume Sert
Anty Wayne


Title: General Orders, 19 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Wednesday May 19th 1779.
        Parole Charlestown—C. Signs Cohas—Chamblee—

Captain Nathaniel Burril of Colonel Harrisons regiment of Artillery is appointed Aide-De-Camp to Major General Howe he is to be respected accordingly.
The executions and punishments which were to have been this day are postponed ’till the first fair day 11 oClock A.M.—The Parties from the several brigades will attend accordingly.
A conductor of military stores is to be appointed to each brigade; He is to have a traveling forge with suitable tools, an ammunition Waggon and a Waggon with an Arm Chest for each regiment as specified in the regulations of the Army as soon as they can be provided, and the Brigadier or officer commanding the brigade is to furnish him with five or six Armourers, or more if there be occasion who are under the direction of the said conductor to repair and keep in good order the Arms of the Brigade.
At this forge no other work except the repair of Arms is to be done under any pretence whatever—He will likewise be furnished with a quantity of spare ammunition &c. for extra occasions which he is not to deliver out unless by a special order from the Brigadier or officer commanding the brigade—These stores to be receipted for in the manner hereafter mentioned.
All Arms &c. belonging to the sick, absent, deserters and men who do no regimental duty are to be delivered into the care of the conductor who may redeliver them when called for on the order of the commanding officer of the regiment to which they respectively belong.
In future when supplies are wanted the Brigadiers or officers commanding brigades are to cause returns of all Arms, Ammunition, Accoutrements &c. good, bad and wanting to complete the regiments in their respective brigades, to be made and signed by the commanding officers thereof, in which all deficiencies occasioning the demand are to be particularly accounted for; they are then to be digested regimentally into Brigade returns agreeable to a printed form for that purpose and sign’d by the Brigadiers or officers commanding the Brigades; These returns are to be delivered to the aforesaid Conductors of military stores to be by them presented to the commanding officer of Artillery who will give orders for the Articles to be issued or a proportion of them according to circumstances or state of the stores and the wants of the Army at large.
The commanding officers of regiments are to receipt to the conductor for the Articles they receive for their respective regiments, taking receipts from the officers commanding companies for what are delivered them—For all deficiencies unaccounted for stoppages to be made according to the regulations, which are to be strictly observed in all other respects with the addition here directed.
The Commander in Chief orders that the Arms, Accoutrements, Ammunition &c.—of the respective regiments be carefully inspected every morning at roll-call; the Captains to be answerable for their companies and the commanding officers for their regiments.

The Waggons of the several brigades are to be sent very early tomorrow morning to Pluckemin for Arms &c. to make up the present deficiencies—All the Cartridge Boxes on the old construction are to be sent and exchanged for new ones.
The following Gentlemen,

Bebee
Du-Val—
Lawrence
Welch

McMurray
Gilloland
Mount
&

Little—
Glenny
Mix
Burnside

mentioned in the order of the 13th of March last, candidates for commissions in the companies of Sappers & Miners are requested forthwith to repair to Head-Quarters and present themselves to Brigadier General Du Portail, as it is indispensable that the companies should be immediately formed.
Major Generals Greene and De Kalb & Brigadier Generals Knox and Woodford will sit tomorrow morning ten ôclock at the Orderly-Room to consider of some further matters respecting the rank & arrangement of the officers in the Maryland line which will be laid before them: The General will furnish them with such papers as will be necessary upon the occasion & He hopes the affair will be easily brought to a final conclusion.
General Woodford’s brigade to be reviewed next friday provided the weather is fair, otherwise the next fair day, sunday excepted: The review to begin on the right at seven ôclock in the morning, to have ready the same returns as ordered for the 1st Pennsylvania brigade the 12th instant—The guards from said brigade to be relieived the preceding day from General Muhlenburg’s.
At a General Court-Martial of the line whereof Colonel Gunby was President May 4th 1779. Lieutenant Craven of the 1st North-Carolina regiment was tried for “Behaving in a scandalous, infamous manner unbecoming the Character of an officer and Gentleman.”

1st
“In positively (and with abusive language) refusing to deliver to the Inhabitants their horses that were stolen from them by persons unknown (and taken up by a patrole from his Picket on the night of the 14th of April) and threatning their lives.

2ndly
“For abusing & ill-treating Hendrick Hopper his Landlord.”

3rdly
“For expressing himself disrespectfully & contemptuously of his commanding officer when directed by him to give up said horses.”

4thly
“For exacting an exorbitant sum of money from the said inhabitants upon delivering them their horses.”

The court after mature deliberation are of opinion that the charges against Lieutenant Craven are not supported and do acquit him with honor.

The General is sorry to declare that he cannot but view Lieutenant Craven’s conduct as very blamable.
He founds his right to the horses which fell into his hands on a Law of this State, vesting the property of any thing taken going to, or coming from, the enemy, in the captors, and upon this principle justifies his disobedience of Coll Clark’s orders, and refusal to restore the horses to the owners unless they could prove themselves friends to their country—It cannot be supposed that the spirit of the law which was probably intended to prevent an improper intercourse with the enemy could comprehend a case of this nature, where the property of the subjects of the State had been stolen away by the enemy or their adherents and accidentally recovered by one of our parties; Neither did a discrimination of civil characters in this instance belong to Lieutenant Craven; It ought to have been sufficient that the claimants, subjects of the State, could prove they were the right owners and nothing more should have been demanded from them than the reward they had publickly offered for the recovery of their horses.
Lieutenant Craven is released from arrest.
At a Brigade General Court-Martial held at the Park of Artillery May 15th 1779—Major Holmer President, Mace Neville of Colonel Harrison’s regiment of Artillery was tried for “Desertion and attempting to go to the enemy” found guilty, being a breach of the 1st Article of the 6th Section of the Articles of War and sentenced to suffer death. His circumstances being similar to Baker’s and Fords of said corps already pardoned, The Commander in Chief is pleased to remit the sentence & order his release.


Title: To George Washington from William Fitzhugh, 19 May 1779
From: Fitzhugh, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Maryland May 19th 1779

I had the Honor to recieve your Acceptable favor of the 10th Ulto & am Happy to Hear of yours & your Ladys Health.
Be Pleas’d to accept Mrs Fitzhugh’s & my thanks for your Kind Attention to My Son; I did Expect that a Cartel wou’d have taken Place, & am Sorry the Flattering Hope is Pass’d away. I Cannot think the Enemy will be Able to Hold N. york & Rhode Island this Summer. Considering the Draughts they have Made, for the West Indias, Georgia & Virginia; with respect to the Last, I am this moment Inform, That they Have Landed about 4000 men at Norfolk and Portsmouth, & have taken there, between 4 & 5000 Hds Tobo which I Suppose has been Stor’d there for them By their Agents.
I am sorry to hear that Many of Our Officers Shew an Inclination to resign. It is true they have been under Great Hardships respecting their Pay, Considering the Value of Paper money, & the High Price of Necessarys. But Surely, The Several States, Seeing the Necessity, Will make Immediate Provission for their Relief: The Legislature of this State Has Lately Shewn a Liberal Disposition towards their officers & Men, & Will I believe Furnish them on the Terms You are Pleas’d to Mention, & your Excellency may be Assur’d, That as an Individual, I will do everything in my Power to promote it.

Speculating & Engrossing has now Got to Such a Pitch, That If it cannot be prevented, I fear will Disable Us, to Support Our Army, & in my Oppinion is the Principal Cause of the Drepreciation of Paper money: The Exorbitant Price of Goods, Obliges the Farmers to raise the Price of Provissions Proportionably, Encourages Speculation, & founds the Necessity of Constant & Large Emissions of Money, wch If Increas’d, or even Continu’d, will be Our Destruction.
High Taxing may be Useful, But I am of Oppinion, That Stoping all Trade by Sea Immediately, & Fixing a Moderate Limitted Price on all Goods, merchandize, Iron, Provissions, &c. in the Several States, with Permission to the Inhabitants, to Pay a Proportion of Their Taxes, in Well Cur’d provissions, & Necessarys for Our Troops, Wou’d be very Salutary, Raise the Value of Our money, Secure Ample Supplys for our Army, Save Our Poor from Starving, Keep Numbers of Our Able Bodyd men at Home, & Effectually Stop the Baneful Practice of Speculating & Engrossing: Our Trade by Sea has been Injurious, Tho’ it has furnish’d some Goods, they have been Chiefly Luxuries, not real Necessarys; It has on the Other Hand, Lost Us many Men, Supply’d the Enemy wth Provissions, Encourag’d Cruisers to Swarm on Our Coasts, & Enrich’d them by Prizes at the Expence of Our Citizens. I may Perhaps have taken up this oppinion too Hastily But am Convinc’d, Something of a similar Nature is Absolutely & Immediately Necessary to be Done.
I am much oblig’d to your Excellency, for your friendly Sentiments Regarding Capt. Smith, who cou’d not Expect any Provission but in Regular Course.
I have Great Hopes that Something will Happen in the West Indias favorable to Us. But If matters Shou’d Reman as they Are, It keeps the Enemy Still weaker Here.
I have had the Pleasure to Save for your Flocks in Virginia, Eight fine Ram Lambs, which If the Enemy Shou’d not take from us, will be carried away in August, & I have wrote Mr Lund Washington Accordingly.
Mrs Fitzhugh Joins with me in Affectionate wishes, & Compliments to you & your Lady. I Have the Honor to be with the Utmost Esteem & Regard Your Excellencys Most Affectionate & Oblig’d He Servt
Willm Fitzhugh


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hubley, Jr., 19 May 1779
From: Hubley, Adam Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp, at Millstone [N.J.] May 19th 1779.

By the resighnation of Colo: Hartley of the 11th Pennsya Regt—I, as eldest Lieut. Colo: of the line, considered myself, intitled to the same, and accordingly, wrote to the Hone the Executive Council of the State of Pennsya, requesting they would, recommend me to the Board of War, and procure the Appointment to which I was intitled.
The Council, in consequence of a certificate sign’d by Genl St Clair, as Commanding Officer of the Pennsyla line, certifying my pretentions, Resolved, that, I should be recommended, and accordingly, did re[c]ommend me, as being intitled, to the command of said Regiment.
Previous, to this resolve, His Excellency the President of Pena, inform’d Colo: Conner (at present Lieut. Colo: of the Regt) of my claim, and requested to know whether, he had any claim prior to mine, Colo: Conner inform’d his Excelly he had not, and insinuated he had no objections to my being promoted.
The, resolve being accordingly handed to the Board of War, not doubting, but a Commission, would be granted, in consequence thereof.

On the delivery, the Board objected to the granting of the Commission, and informed me that Colo: Conner, claim’d rank of me, I inform’d them of what had pass’d between the President & Colo: Conner, and believ’d, that matter was fully settled—but requested, before the[y] issued a Commission they would send to Colo: Conner, for further information in the matter, this they did, and received a Letter, wrote by your Excellency, Acknowledging the receipt of his claim of rank of me. The Board accordingly, concluded not to interfere in the matter untill they heard from your Excellency on the subject.
I am a total, stranger to Colo: Conners pretentions of claiming rank of me; unless it is because, he was appointed a Lieut. in the 1st Pena Regt and, on that account, considers himself an elder Officer, If that be his claim, he might with equal propriety, claim rank of every Colonel in the line.
All that, I shall say on my part, is, that, I was appointed (being then out of the Army and in a private station) a Major, to one of the additional regiments, rais’d in 1776, for the purpose of filling up the Quota of Pennsya—And in regular course promoted to the rank of Lieut. Colo: (my Comissn bearing date, as such, Octor 4th 76.).
I serv’d in the same Brigade, with Colo: Conner, for a conside[r]able time, he ever submitted to my rank, and never intimated he thought himself injur’d by my rank.
Several Gentlemen, in the line claim’d rank of me, upon the very same principals as well a Board of Genl Officers (met at the cross roads in Penna, for the purpose of adjusting the rank of the Pennsya line) as the Board of Arrangement (met for the same purpose at White plains) determined, in my favor, And I have ever since, held the same, undisturb’d, untill, the present claim of Colo: Conner.
I beg your Excellency will look into this matter, and take such steps, for the settlement of the same, as you shall judge proper. I am with greatest respect, your Excellencys most Obt hume Servt
Adm Hubley Junior Lieutenant Colonel10th P. Regt


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 19 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 19th May 1779

I have been honored with your Excellency’s Favors of the 11th—14th—16th—two of the 17th—and the one by General McIntosh with the several Papers referred to in them.
Congress concur with your Excellency in Opinion that an immediate Enquiry into the Matters of Complaint, preferred by General McIntosh, would at present be inexpedient.
Copies of three Acts of Congress are herewith enclosed—One of the 17th Inst., directing the Commissioners of Indian Affairs to obey your Excellency’s Instructions relative to a partial, or general Peace with the Indians—Another of the same date making further Provision for the Adjutant General And a third of the 18th Inst., permitting Brigadier General McIntosh to join the Southern Army. I have the Honor to be With the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Humble Servant
John Jay Presidt


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 19 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 19th May 1779

Herewith enclosed Your Excellency will receive a Copy of an Act of Congress of the 11th Inst. making further Provision for Officers in the Quarter Master’s Department. I have the honor to be With the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant
John Jay Presidt


Title: From George Washington to Theodosia Prevost, 19 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Prevost, Theodosia

Madam
Head Quarters Middlebrook 19th May 1779.

It is much to be regreted, that the pleasure of obeying the first emotions in favor of misfortune, is not always in our power. I should be happy, could I consider myself at liberty to comply with your request, in the case of your brother, Mr Peter De Visme. But, as I have heretofore taken no direction in the disposal of marine prisoners, I cannot with propriety, interfere on the present occasion; however great the satisfaction I should feel in obliging, where you are interested. Your good sense will perceive this, and find a sufficient excuse in the delicacy of my situation. I have the honor to be, Madam, your most obedient and hble servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Virginia Field Officers, 19 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Virginia Field Officers

Gentlemen
Head Qrs [Middlebrook] May 19: 1779

I have received Your report on the claims of John Allison and John Lee Esquires to the Lieutenant Colonelcy in the first Virginia State Regiment, and am exceedingly sorry the Board have been so concise in their proceedings. I must request that they will not only state their opinion of the parties rights, which they have done; but that they will give a summary, of the grounds on which they founded their claims. I mean to transmit the proceedings to the Governor & Council who must ultimately decide on the case, and therefore wish them to be more full than they are—and also that all the Members of the Court sign them; and that they may be returned as soon as possible, as I would willingly forward them by next post, if no Opportunity offers before. I am Gentn with great esteem Yr Most Obet sert
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 19 May 1779
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Lund Washington, 19 May 1779. GW wrote to Lund Washington on 29 May acknowledging receipt of “Your Letter of the 19th which came to hand by the last Post.”


Title: General Orders, 20 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Thursday May 20th 1779.
Parole Baltimore—C. Signs Boston. Brunswick.


Title: From George Washington to a Board of General Officers, 20 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of General Officers

Gentlemen
Head Qrs [Middlebrook] May 20th 1779

I have the Honor to transmit you such papers respecting the rank & Arrangement of the Maryland Officers, as concern the points meant to be referred by Yesterday’s Orders to Your consideration. After Your report and Arrangement on the 13th of April (No. 6 & 7)—the matters unfinished by you were submitted to a Committee of Field-Officers in that line. The papers No. 1 & 2 contain their Report & arrangement—& No. 4 their reasons more at large in Answer to My Letter No. 3 for some few alterations in the line of Captains as arranged by you.
You will perceive that the Committee have added to their list, the only one that requires your attention, and given those so added—precedence of some arranged by you. The Instances in which they have done it, are No. 24 John Smith over John Hawkins; This they found on the Nonacceptance of a Commission by a Capn Chew.

over Oldham

No.
26
John Morris

27
Lilburn Williams

28
Henry Gaither

29
Richard Grace

over Ghisenlin

31
Edward prawl

32
Walker Muse

The promotions of the above Gentn over Oldham & Ghiselin respectively the Committee found on vacancies that happened between their appointments as Lieutenants and those of Oldham & Ghiselin, as Captains which did not take place on a general arrangemt nor till some time after. The Two Latter do not appear by the Genl Roster of rank No. 5—dated the 1st of April 1777—to have been appointed Captains—and it would seem from the dates affixed to their Commissions in both arrangements (the same in this respect) that they obtained Captaincies by special appointments—after the vacancies to which the Others are reported to have had a right and after the General arrangement. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem Gentn
G.W.
P.S. You’l be pleased to return all the papers with your report as soon as you have finished.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Humpton, 20 May 1779
From: Humpton, Richard
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Richard Humpton, 20 May 1779. On 1 June, GW wrote to Humpton: “I received several days ago Your favor of the 20th Ulto” (DLC: GW).


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 20 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dr Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 20th 1779

I return you the papers relating to the officers at Springfield—I find by them that Major Ayres has avoided a trial by a resignation. This is a matter which it would be inconsistent with my duty to permit as the charge against Major Ayres is of a very serious nature and founded on the report of a public body. It is contrary to practice that the resignation of an officer while under arrest should supersede a trial and it is expressly precluded by a resolve of Congress of the 21st of June 76—I mean not to suppose any thing unfavourable to Major Ayres; but I am under a necessity of desiring that you will immediately take effectual measures to prosecute the intended trial and produce his appearance. You will therefore without delay appoint a Court Martial for the purpose. It will facilitate the business if the Court can be composed, wholly or principally of the same members who decided in the case of Lt Col. Mason & Smith. I have therefore written to General McDougall that at your call General Huntington or any other officers of his brigade who were on the former trial may attend. With great regard & esteem Dr Sir I am Yr Most Obedt servant.


Title: To George Washington from Israel Shreve, 20 May 1779
From: Shreve, Israel
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Israel Shreve, 20 May 1779. On 21 May, GW wrote to Shreve: “I have duly received your favor of yesterdays date.”


Title: General Orders, 21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Friday May 21st 1779.
Parole Susquehannah—C. Signs Scoharry. Squantum.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Brodhead, Daniel

Dr Sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 21 May 1779

Your favors of the 3d & 6 instant came to hand the 18th with the papers to which they refer.
The irregularity among the troops occasioned by the inhabitants selling them liquor should be stopped by such means as we have in our power. The establishment of military law where the civil prevails, is a measure of extreme necessity, and which I have no authority to recommend. On the present occasion the attention of the officers—strict discipline and exemplary punishment must be exercised on the soldiers; while on the part of the seller, we can only put in practice such seizures as are not legalized by the inclosed general orders of the .
The murder of the Delaware young man by the soldier of the Virginia regt is an unfortunate affair particularly at this juncture. The case appears embarrassing as the articles of war are not sufficiently explicit. Examplary punishment however, I conceive absolutely necessary; to keep the Indians from revenge and preserve the peace of the country—but under your representation this can only be effected by a military process. I am induced therefore to order a court martial on Col. Gibsons return or should a field officer be present when this reaches you. I would imagine the court will find no difficulty in giving a proper decision; as their oath directs them, where doubts shall arise, which are not explained by the articles, to act according to their conscience; the best of their understanding; and the custom of war in like cases.
That the punishment may be as extensively known to the Delawares as possible, it should be executed in the presence of some of their principal men. With respect to the design formed to way-lay, and massacre the Indians of this nation now on a visit of negociation to congress, you will take the most effectual and immediate steps for their safe return by affording an escort &ca.
It is to be lamented that the inhabitants shew such a disposition to emigrate; but we have no military remidy for its prevention.
Should you have received an authentic account of the seizure of the provisions in Monongahela county, you will transmit me the particulars of the transaction, and in the mean while pursue such measures for obtaining justice to the public as shall appear proper and warrantable.
In my letters of the 3d & 10th instant I have given my opinion on some of the objects now before me; and to which I refer. I have there spoken as decidedly as the nature of my information allowed, on those circumstances which should incline us to hold, or to evacuate fort Laurens. Should the latter have taken place before my letters reached you; or should you still hold it; but imagine an evacuation most expedient; you will apply its garrison elswhere and in such a manner as may appear most advantagious.
You ask me as to the extent of your district or department. I need not tell you that your command is comprehended in the troops under your direction. As to the question you will perceive by the resolve of Congress which I transmitted that the idea of seperate departments is done away.
The carrying our operations westward on a large scale, will greatly depend on the termination of those now on hand. In the mean time you will direct your enquiries to useful and authentic information of the country and proceed in the execution of my former instruction.
I shall communicate your want of shoes to the board of war, that you may be furnished with a necessary supply.
Your several observations appear to be well founded, and cannot but claim my attention. I am Dr Sir &
G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Daniel De Hart, c.21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hart, Daniel De

        Letter not found: to Daniel De Hart, c.21 May 1779. On this date GW wrote to Israel Shreve enclosing a “letter to Mr Daniel De Hart.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 21st 1779

I am duly favored with your letter of the 7th. Immediately on the receipt of it, I forwarded the inclosed packet to Congress and seconded your application. I have since learnt though not from authority that a supply of money must have reached you ere this. I am equally concerned and alarmed at the dangerous spirit which has appeared in the troops under your command from the unfortunate causes you mention; but I have no doubt of your utmost exertions, so far as depends on you to pacify and prevent a return. Discontents are too prevailing throughout the army and unhappily the remedies are hard to be found.
When I received your letter of the 12th of April, I lost no time in communicating the contents to Congress and urging a supply—I am sorry it did not procure more speedy relief—But our finances are so miserably embarrassed, that the complaints and distresses for want of money are universal—I know not where they will end.
I was induced to believe as well from your two letters of the forementioned date from the reports of the Commissary, that though your magazines were low, you would not be driven to the extremity which you have lately experienced—I am again encouraged to hope, that your distress was owing to a temporary cause which being removed will restore things, in this respect into a proper channel. I send you an extract of a letter of the 10th instant to this effect from Mr Flint who is the Commissary’s principal assistant here. I have written to Mr Wadsworth on the subject.
The order of General Sullivan respecting deficiencies of rations and the consequent practice of paying for them where the substituted articles have not been supplied are very unlucky circumstances. We cannot too cautiously avoid increasing the expenditures of Public money—The General seems to have mistaken the spirit of the resolve on which he founds his order, which appears to me to have been only meant to authorise the commanding officer to change from time to time the component parts of a ration, substituting plentiful articles for those which were scarce—and rather intended to exclude than allow pecuniary compensation. At this distance and in the present temper of your troops, I could not venture to prescribe a precise and positive line of conduct in this case, and must content myself with recommending it to you to bring the matter back as speedily as possible to its proper footing of which you now have my sentiments. The mode I leave wholly to your discretion, as it may require address and management. Perhaps it will be best to pay the certificates already given and to put a stop to them in future. I inclose you a copy of the resolve in question. I am Sir Your Most Obedt hum. Servant
Go: Washington
P.S. I send you an extract of a letter from Mr Mason of the 17th respecting a descent of the Enemy at Portsmouth in Virginia—I had had some account of it before, which added that they were marching toward Suffolk. I have received advice of the capture of a Vessel laden with rice from South Carolina to Boston—This is an unlucky event.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 21 May 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Head Quarters Boston May 21st 1779

In the month of September last Standing in need of an aid De Camp in conformity to the resolution of the Hon. Congress of the 27th May 1778 I appointed one from the line vizt Capt. Thomas Cartwright of Colo. Henry Jacksons Regt Since which in the new arrainging the officers of His Regiment Captain Cartwright was omitted, The Colonel apprehending as he has Since declared that Capt. Cartwright was provided for by being in my Family. Under these Circumstances I request your Excellencys Opinion and direction, whether Capt. Cartwright can Continue as one of my aids, or must quit the army. He is an officer of abilities and to me appears quallified to discharge the duties of the office with reputation to himself and Honor to his Country which makes me desireous to have him Continue in my family if Consistant with the establishment of the army.
Four vessells have lately arrived here from Carolina with Rice having but in the whole about Twelve hundred & thirty Tierces Several other vessels which were expected with rice have not yet arrived, which makes it probable that they may have fallen into the hands of Some of the Enemys Cruizers. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedient Servt
W. Heath
P.S. the Brigt. Lusane with about 320 Tierces of Rice is arrived at Bedford, the Continental Sloop Providence, has retaken a Schooner laden with the Same Comodity, and Sent her into the Same Port.
W.H.


Title: To George Washington from Elijah Hunter, 21 May 1779
From: Hunter, Elijah
To: Washington, George

Sr
State of New york May 21: 1779

I have Just ariv’d from Newyork as I have Been Down with a Flag agreeabl to our Plan I have Been In the City for Several Days and have had Recourse to any Person I Chose and Peticular with Governor Tryon and General Clintons A.D.C. Capt. Andrew which I Was in a Conferrence Several Times with them Conserng The Ensueing Campain They were Very Peticular With me to obtain your Strength also the Strength of the Garrison at west Point and the Posts in the Highlands and Peekskill the Number of Guns in the Forts the Haghths [heights] that Might Command it also whether we Do Not Consider it an Important Post and Whether if they were to Make a Show with Shipping in the Sound with Troops a Board and Make Beleave that they was a going to attack Some Town in Connecticut whether General McDogal would Not Send Some or the Gratest Part of his Troops that way So that upon the whole I am as Sure that as Sertain as there is any Chance for them that a Vigarous attack will be made on the Fort and Posts up the North River as if they was to obtain they Say it would open the Country to them all the Troops from Long Island are Come over to york Island and Simcoes Coar Lies this Side the Bridge At Col. Cortlands Some others have Mov’d up this Side Fort Washington they were anctious I Should Inform them the Road that our Post and Express Rides Goes So that they might be waylaid and their Dispaches Taken from them they Give out that They Expect a Large Reinforsement In to Newyork Soon and another from the west Inges to George But our friends in Newyork Thinks that there wont be But Just a Few to fill up the Regments that are already over Charles Town South Carolina will be a Grand object and I Think there will be an Expedition against it if they Can Possibly Spare Troops as they Say if they Can Take it the State will fall in and Join them and then our Commerse will be So Restricted that we Shall Not be able to Carry on the war there was a Cork Fleet of Ten Sail arivd in Newyork Last Wednesday Four went to Georgia Two to Road Island So that there were Sixteen in the whole I Have as Near as Possible Laid Down their Plan and you in your Wise Judgment will be able to Judge of the Matter and act accordingly My Character Stands Fair with them and they to appearance Look upon me in the Character of a Gentleman as they Treeted me as Such they would wish me to be In the Continental Servise and in as high office as Possible they would be Glad to have me a State Comisory of Prisoners if Possible So that I might have Excuse to Come in often if I was with you Could Give you more Peticulars But Shall Give General McDogal all the Ideas of Matters that I Possibly Can if Sr you Should Think Propr I Should make a Return of your army To Newyork Please to have it Sent to me Peticular and any other News that you may Think of or any Thing that may have attending to Carry on the Plan as I think you have a Propr Idea of the Matter and you Can Let Me Know I have one Grand Matter to open to you when I See you But I Dont Love to Rite you on the Subject I wast Tempted to Let you Know when I Saw you but as I was a Stranger to you I Put it of[f] but I find out more and More of the Matter Every Day Mr Jay Can Give you A Hint of what I mean as I am Clear in my opinion I Expect to Go to Philadelphia Soon and Shall Call and Se you and from Time to Time Give you my opinion on Matters and my Reasons and then you will be able to Judge it is Difficult to Rite to you with Safety without Grat Expence I Send you this by the Bearer who will Call on you for any Letters that you may want to Send this way when he Returns from Philadelphia I am Dear Sr your Most obedient Humbe servt
Elijah Hunter


Title: From George Washington to George Morgan, 21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Morgan, George

Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 21st May 1779.

I thought it necessary to transmit you the inclosed extract of a letter from Col. Brodhead, that you may be on your guard with respect to the design formed against the Indians under your care. I have directed Colonel Brodhead in a letter of this date, to meet them with an escort on their return for their better protection. It may be proper in this case, to communicate to him, the route you mean they should take. I am sir your most hble servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir,
Head Qrs Middlebrook May 21st 1779.

The duplicate of your favor of the 27th Ulto (the original is also come safe) and of the 10th & 12th Instt reached my hands with their inclosures this day, and I thank you for the several articles of intelligence therein contained.
Lieutt McClelans acct of his Scout from Fort Schuyler to Oswegatchie is plain distinct, & pointed, so far as he undertakes to relate; but I can find no such water on the Maps as he denominates the River Scull; nor can I reconcile its course, as described by him, to my ideas of any River in that Country. It appears by his journal that after travelling 46 Miles from Fort Schuyler & crossing the Mohawk River twice, he came to the River Scull (where it was 40 yards wide). That he passed down this River 70 Miles when it became near half a mile wide. that from hence he steered a No. Et course, and at the distance of 18 Miles came to the head of the River Oswegatchie, down which he proceeded 70 Miles more & then passed through a level Country to the Fort of that name distant 12 Miles.
This River (Scull) must certainly empty, either into the St Lawrence or Ontario above, but I cannot reconcile with it, the idea of Oswegatchie’s heading within 18 Miles of so broad a part of it as is described—according to my usual custom therefore I am induced my dear Sir to request the favor of you, through the means of Colo. Vansoick, to obtain as particular answer’s to the following questions as you can.
First—What course did he steer from Fort Schuyler to the River Scull? how does the Oneida lake bear from it—Whether is the way interrupted by waters, or Swamps, difficult to pass? & whether in a word a good road can be easily made over the Hills he speaks of fit for the transportation of Waggons &ca.
Second—What kind of Navigation does the River Scull afford between the Carrying places is the water rapid or still—shallow or deep? what sized vessels will it admit? Is the Course of the River much interrupted by fallen Trees? are the carrying places very bad, or can the passage of them by land be made easy with a little labour? What appearance has the genl face of the Country from the place he first embarked on the River, till he debarked? Is it hilly, Mountainous & inhospitable? or has it the appearance of fertility? In a word, will it admit of a road for Horses, & feed for Cattle, in case an expedition should go that way?
Third—what kind of a Road can be had from the River Scull to the head of Oswegatchie, over the Pine ridge he speaks of? and what kind of a Country is it in Genel?
Fourth—The same questions in all respects relative to the Navigation of the River Oswegatchie—the carrying places—kind of Country &ca—as in the secd question, respecting the River Scull?
Fifth—The appearance of the Country about Oswegatchie Fort—The width of the River St Lawrence at that place &ca.
Sixth—Whether the Rout of McClelan, and that mentioned in Colo. Bradstree⟨t’s⟩ Journal by the way of Fish kill (at the So. Et end of the Oneida lake) is not for the most part the same?
I would send for McClelan in ordr that I might satisfy myself more fully of these Several points but it would immediately set the imagination of People a roaming & an expedition would soon be set on foot by this rout, whether one was intended or not—I prefer obtaining the knowledge therefore of these matters as the result (apparently) of your own curiosity. If upon examination of McClelan, it shall be thought an Expedition this way is practicable, it will be well for Colo. Vanscaick to send a party with one or more judicious Officers for the purpose of making observations with military exactness.
I am quite in Sentiment with you respecting your declarations to the Oneida & Tuscarora Indians on all the points mentioned in your letter of the 12th Instt—Unless circumstances, which I am unacquainted with at present, should appear I shall never consent to release the captive Indians unless we receive an equivalent for them. I shall expect very clear & satisfactory accts from my old friend Lewis who I know is sensible, & believe to be honest. I am most sincerely & Affectly Yrs
G: Wn


Title: To George Washington from Philip Schuyler, 21 May 1779
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Saratoga [N.Y.] May 21st 1779

Both Your Excellency’s favors of the 10th Instant I had the honor to receive last night. the letters which were Inclosed for General Clinton and Colonel Van Schaick were Instantly returned to Albany.
Immediately on receipt of Your favor of the 5th Instant I dispatched Instructions to Colo: V. Schaick and Mr Deane pointing out the mode I wished to have pursued In exploring the Country from Wood Creek to Oswegatchie, I have no copys here or would Inclose them. they were pretty full but not sufficently so to Obtain every Information your Excellency wishes In your letter of the 10th Instant I shall however Immediately and with great pleasure take measures to procure the best, fullest & Clearest Information on the Subject, and with all the requisite Secrecy, to which I have already Injoined Colo: V. Schaick & Mr Deane.
The present post at Oswegatchie is on the south East side of the St Lawrence but wether the Oswegatchie river disembogues above or below It, I do not certainly recollect; last War the French had a fort on an Island near Oswegatchie and Just above the rapids which General Amherst reduced in 1760, A fortification there I believe would Effectually cut of[f] all that Communication between Canada proper and the lakes which is carried on In Batteaus, the river In the part where the Island I allude to lays is about 3/4 of a mile wide the Island which is small nearly In the Middle Immediately above the breadth of the river Increases to near A mile and an half and is exceedingly streight for thirty Miles up without any Islands from thence to the lake It Increases to two three & four miles and is Interspersed with many Islands.
The Country from Fort Edward towards Oswegatchie, In which I have been to the distance of about fourty miles north of Fort George, is much the roughest I know of In this part of North America and by all the Accounts I Ever had Continues so a great part of the way. the mountains are numerous very high and Craggy and the Swamps Close and deep. thro that part which I have seen It would be next to Impossible to move an Army with artillery.
On the 18th Instant A Robert Brisbren a neighbour of mine who had suffered him self to be prevailed upon to Join the Enemy in 1777 returned from Canada he left St Johns (in Company with an other man who was last fall Captivated near Fort George) on the 30th ult. and Montreal a few days before that, he Informs me that not any preparations are making At Montreal or elsewhere that he could learn for moving troops to the westward or to any other quarter—that the Enemy are very busy In constructing the Fort at Sorrel, that they are daily employed in strengthning St Johns and Isle-au-noix that some Vessels were sitting at St Johns to enter lake Champlain that a few troops were to be put on board as sailors were Scarce—that the vessels were to be stationed at or near Crown point.
Inclose your Excellency Copies of two letters which I received Yesterday from Mr Deane I shall without delay write Governor Clinton on the subject of the disaffected people back of Katts-kill and recommend that they be apprehended & their families moved from thence.
I have this moment received a letter from Mr Lansingh covering copy of one from Mr Deane to Colo. V. Schaick, copy of which he Informs me is transmitted to Your Excellency and duplicate whereof I have the honor to Inclose. If Butler has Really left Niagara with the Intention mentioned In the letter we shall probably soon hear of him he most certainly will not be able If 300 Senecas are gone to the Southward to collect any body in force sufficient to retard the progress of either the troops coming up the Susquehanna or those under General Clinton should they act seperately. I have the honor to be My Dear Sir, with the Sincerest Affection & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant
Ph: Schuyler