Title: From George Washington to Colonel Theunis Dey and Others of Bergen County, N.J., 26 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Dey, Theunis,Others of Bergen County, New Jersey

          Gentlemen
          New Windsor June 26: 1779

        I have received your petition, upon the subject of Nathaniel Brackitt’s remaining where he is, to discipline a party of Horse. I should be very happy to promote a measure of the sort whenever in my power; but Serjeant Brackitt cannot be employed in the business at this time—nor can he be capable, if circumstances would admit, of rendering any material service. I am Gentlemen with respect Yr Most Obedt sert

          G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 26 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Genl
          Danforths House [Highlands, N.Y.]June 26th 1779

        Upon being honored with your Command, on yesterday I immediately detached Lieut. Colo. Grosvenor with 200 Light Infantry to march to Robinsons Stores with proper Instructions conformable to your directions—I have received no reports of Consequence this morning should any be made worthy of notice they shall be transmitted.

        I think the forming the Light Infantry of this division into a Corps and holding them in ready to march at a moments notice will tend to promote the Service, If your Excellency approves of it permit me to propose That Colo. Meigs of Genl Parsons’s Brigade Lt Colo. Sherman of Huntingtons and Major Oliver of Nixons may be detached to Command the Corps Untill your Excellency may think proper to order otherwise. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to James and Horace Hooker, 26 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hooker, James,Hooker, Horace

          Gentlemen
          Head Qrs New Windsor June 26 1779

        The distress of the Army for Rum and the impracticability, or at least the difficulty, of procuring a Supply in any reasonable time, has induced me to consent that a quantity shall be drawn from the Hospital Stores, where I have been informed there is much more than can be wanted for the sick. I have therefore to desire that you will deliver to Colo. Wadsworth Commissary General, or to his order All the Rum you have in the public Stores under your care, except thirty Hogsheads, which I should hope, would be more than fully sufficient to answer every Hospital purpose. I am Genn &c.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 26 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Jedediah

          Dr Sir
          Head Qrs New Windsor June 26: 1779

        I have received Your favor—and am much concerned to hear of the uneasiness among the Captains and Subalterns of your Brigade. From the confidence I have in their zeal and attachment to the Interests of their Country, I am persuaded they will not indulge it—or permit it to rise, to an injurious height. They will reflect that there are a Thousand things which we all wish, but which from the peculiar nature of our circumstances, cannot be obtained. I have no authority to reduce and incorporate the Regiments; neither could the Officers,

who would be supernumerary on such an event, receive the pay you mention, under any regulations now existing. I should be happy as well as they, if their commands were more respectable, but they will consider the difficulties which attend the recruiting of Men—and that theirs in point of respectability are equal to any in the Army. There is not a command in the whole line by any means complete, when compared with the establishment—and if this was to operate as a reason—there would be no Officers left. You will I am assured, use your influence to compose matters. I am Dr sir with great esteem & regard Yr Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 26 June 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          west Point 26th June 1779

        I was honored with your Excellency favor of yesterday. The arrangement of the Massachusets line made by the Committee of officers was transmitted from Pecks-Kill some time ago—with remarks—and the objections to it by those who considered themselves injured. Least it should have miscarried, I inclose the only copy I have left; also Such of the sentence of death as I have in my Posesion. The others I have directed the Deputy Judge advocate to bring me. I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s Most obedient and most Humble Sert.


Title: General Orders, 27 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters New-Windsor Sunday June 27th 1779.
            Parole Halifax—C. Signs Jutland Kingston

          In Congress March 23rd 1779.Ordinance for regulating the clothing departmentfor the Armies of The United States.
          There shall be a Clothier General, a Sub or State, Clothier for each State and a Regimental Clothier.

          The Clothier General is to be subject to the orders of the Board of War and Commander in Chief: He is to furnish estimates of the supplies wanted for the Army; to apply to the Commander in Chief and Board of War for assistance therein; to make returns of such estimates to them respectively; to receive all supplies imported from abroad and purchased in the Country by Continental Agents; to superintend the distribution thereof to the State-Clothiers; to settle accounts with them at least every six months; to keep regular accounts of all the clothing he shall receive, as well as of the distribution thereof among the state-clothiers, and to transmit his accounts twice in every year to the board of Treasury and settle them in the Chamber of Accounts when required, and generally to take care on the one hand that justice is done to the Public and on the other that the Army receive whatever shall be allowed to them in a regular, direct and seasonable manner, and at the same time so to act between the Continent and each particular State that equal & impartial justice may be done on all sides.

          The Sub or State-Clothier.
          A Sub or State Clothier is to be appointed by each State respectively to reside with or near the Army or such detachment thereof in which the troops of the said state may be as the Commander in Chief shall direct the better to know & supply their wants—The State appointing him is to be answerable for his conduct: In case of neglect or misbehaviour he is to be displaced by the Commander in Chief and his Successor to be appointed by the State to which he belonged: He is to receive from the Clothier General the proportion of clothing assigned for the troops of his State out of the public clothing imported or purchased by Continental Agents, and from the State, for which he is appointed, all the clothing which may, at Continental expence, be purchased in such State; of the latter their quality and price, he shall transmit exact accounts to the Clothier General, and when required, submit the several articles to the inspection of the Clothier General, or any person for that purpose deputed by him: He is to issue all clothing supplied as aforesaid to the regimental clothiers on returns signed by the commanding officers of regiments.
          He is to keep exact returns with each regiment inspect those of the regimental clothiers; see that the articles delivered them are duly issued to the troops and that all the clothing procured at continental expence, above the allowance made by Congress, drawn by non commissioned officers and privates is charged to them and credited to the Pay-Roll; and that the commissioned officers receive what is credited to them, and no more: He is to keep exact accounts with the Clothier General in behalf of the Public charging the United States only with what is allowed to the officers and men.

          Whenever the troops of any State shall have received their proportion of clothing from the Continental Stores, the supplies purchased at Continental expence by the State to which they belong or from both, and there shall remain a surplus which may be wanted for other troops not fully supplied, the Sub-Clothier possessed thereof is to deliver over the surplus to such other State-Clothier as the Clothier General shall direct, taking duplicate Invoices & Receipts from the State Clothier to whom they shall be transfered, one sett of which he is to deposite with the Clothier General and the other to retain as his own voucher; the Clothier General on his part making proper entries in his accounts to do justice to all concerned.
          When from a deficiency in the public stores the troops of any States shall not have received their allowance of Cloathing, the State-Clothier is without delay to represent their wants, particularly enumerated in a return for that purpose to the Executive Authority of the State to which he belongs, requesting a speedy & adequate supply.
          And in case a State, at its own expence shall give and deposite with him, any clothing for the more comfortable subsistence of it’s quota of troops in addition to the allowance made by Congress, he is strictly to pursue the directions of such State, as well with respect to the distribution, as the vouchers for the delivery and the manner and time of settling his accounts; transmitting once in every six months a copy of such accounts to the clothier General and as often, and when required, to the State to which he belongs.

          The Regimental Clothier.
          The office of regimental Clothier shall always be executed by the regimental Pay-Master.
          He is to be furnished by Captains or officers commanding companies with returns, specifying the men’s names and the particular wants of each; these he is to digest into a regimental return which being signed by the officer commanding the regiment and countersigned by himself with a receipt upon it of the supplies delivered to the regiment, is to be lodged with the State Clothier and become to him a Voucher for the delivery in his settlement with the Clothier General.
          He is to keep an account with each officer & soldier for every article delivered taking a receipt from them as his voucher for the delivery; He is to credit them for the continental allowance and to charge them for everything they receive, making stoppages in the monthly pay-rolls for whatever they may fall in debt to the Public beyond the allowance.
          And to prevent in future unequal distribution of clothing either to the officers or soldiers and the confusion and complaints which

have been heretofore occasioned by irregular applications from commanding officers of regiments to public Agents in different posts, it is hereby strictly enjoined on those Agents, the Clothier General and the Sub or State-Clothier to issue no clothing on any pretence whatsoever, but in the manner before prescribed; nor shall any article be credited to either of them on settlement of their accounts which is not so issued and vouched.
          And whereas discretionary changes of the Uniforms of regiments have proved inconvenient & expensive; the Commander in Chief is therefore hereby authorized and directed according to the circumstances of supplies of clothing to fix and prescribe the Uniform as well with regard to the color and facings as the cut or fashion of the clothes to be worn by the troops of the respective States and regiments which shall as far as possible be complied with by all purchasing Agents employed by Congress, as well as particular States, by the Clothier General, Sub or State Clothiers and regimental Clothiers and all officers & soldiers in the Armies of the United States.
          And when materials can be purchased instead of ready made clothes, it shall always be prefered in order that they may be made up by the Taylors of the several regiments to save expence and prevent the disadvantages which the soldiers frequently suffer from their unfitness; and instead of breeches, woolen Overalls for the Winter and Linen for the Summer are to be substituted.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 27 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters [New Windsor] June 27th 1779

        I have received your two favours of the 24th and 25th. I am sorry for the accident, that has befallen the Militia.
        Some days since I directed General McDougall to send an hundred infantry to join Sheldon’s regiment of dragoons—and Col. Moylan has also been directed to join him with his regiment of cavalry—This corps I hope will be able to answer the purpose of countenancing the militia and assisting them to cover the Country.
        I am happy in the promise of a visit with which Your Excellency obliges me. With the truest regard & esteem I have the honor to be Your most Obedt servt

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Clinton, 27 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

          Sir,
          Hd qrs New Windsor June 27th 1779

        I yesterday received your letter of the 19th and the day before a copy of yours of the 22d to His Excellency the Governor. I find by the great quantity of stores and provisions you are transporting to the lake, that there has been a misapprehension with respect to that matter which I fear may be attended with bad consequences. The large Magazines directed to be formed at Fort Schuyler were principally with reference to an operation up the Mohock; it was my intention if you should proceed by Otsego that you should move with the greatest secrecy and dispatch unincumbered with more stores or provision than were necessary for your subsistence and security on the march to the place of rendezvous. Ample magazines have been formed on the Susquehanna for the support of the whole expedition. General Sullivan was fully apprized of my ideas, and I supposed would have given you directions accordingly. Indeed my letter of the 19th of April will be found to convey a similar meaning, though not expressed—in precise terms.
        By the transportation of so large a quantity of stores to the lake, you clearly announce your route; and it is to be apprehended that the enemy may collect their force and fall upon you; Unless you move with great circumspection, this may prove the ruin of your detachment & consequently of the Expedition. If you have not finished your transportation by the time this reaches you, I would wish it to stop, that you may not add any further to your incumbrance. As it may be attended with delay and risk to bring back any part of those stores which are already gone on, I shall not direct it to be done, though it is very important that your movements should be as light and rapid as possible. But I do not mean by what I have said here to contravene the orders you may have received from General Sullivan; which it is my desire you should observe. I am with great regard Sir Y. most Obedt ser.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 27 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

          Sir.
          Head Quarters New Windsor 27th June 1779

        Two days since I received your favour of the 21st.
        Two General Orders of the 7th & 12th of Feby 1779. founded upon a resolve of Congress therein mentioned designate the rules which are to govern the reinlistments during the war. This order was transmitted at the time by the Adjutant General to his assistant at Providence, and he tells me he had heard of its being received—Indeed it is a standing direction to him which I do not know that he has diviated from, to transmit copies of all Orders which establish regulations that are to have a general operation to every part of the Army; and I make it a constant practice to announce substantially all the Resolves of Congress which are necessary for its information and government. Where a prescribed rule is wanting, I shall certainly be always happy to give the most favourable construction to the conduct of Officers who act with honor and integrity according to the best of their judgment. Inclosed is a second copy of the abovementioned Orders.
        We have still further accounts of the success to the southward; but no official confirmation. The enemy have others of a different complexion which you will probably see by way of Newport. These wear to me an appearance that renders them suspicious. I am strongly inclined to beleive that they have met with a defeat. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. I have intelligence through different channels that the enemy intend drawing a part or the whole of their force from Rhode Island—The former is certainly not improbable—If it should happen, you will immediately detach a proportionable part of your force to this Army—If the whole should be withdrawn, you will be pleased to march yourself with all the force you can. I assure you the comparitive strength of the two Armies in this quarter will make it very dangerous if the enemy should receive a reinforcement, and we do not get an equal one; and if they materially diminish their present force at Rhode Island, an offensive operation on their part will be then an event hardly to be supposed.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 27 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths House [Highlands, N.Y.]June 27th 1779

        I do myself The honor to enclose your Excellency a line of Intelligence this moment come to hand with a Deserter from Robinsons Corps—perhaps a part of the Enemy are going to wards New York, I shall however be doubly on my Guard Untill I am assured of their departure, I had this morning ordered a Strong regiment to march on to Sugar Loaf Hill this Evening and to remain their Untill Seven oClock tomorrow morning, I have also ordered Parsons and Huntingtons Brigades to ly on their arms this night.
        The Lad which I have Sent up is of a very good family and I think his Intelligence maybe relyd on. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedt Servt

          W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 27 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Genl
          Danforths House [Highlands, N.Y.]June 27th 1779 7 oClock P.M.

        I do myself the honor to transmit the enclosed Intelligence this moment received from General Huntington I have written him to push his advance Parties nearer the Point if it can be done with Safety in order if Possible more fully to discover the movements of the Enemy. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 27 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 27th 1779

        It gives me infinite pain, that the circumstances of the service oblige me to trouble Congress with a frequent repetition of the same subjects—But every hour distracts my attention with fresh instances of the inconveniencies, that result from the want of system in a department which I have frequently mentioned. These compel me again to intreat that Congress will be pleased to take decisive measures to extricate it from the confusion in which it is involved.
        I am at a loss to know to whom I am to address myself, as head of the Clothier’s department. Every deputy seems to act by a separate and independent authority. There seems to be no person to take a general superintendency, to apportion the stock in hand to the different parts of the Army, their numbers and wants; and to preserve a common rule in the mode of delivery. For want of this, while the troops at one post are amply supplied, those at another are suffering the greatest distress. The pleasure of the commanding Officer is the only standard by which the supplies are regulated; and it has sometimes happened that particular officers either more attentive to the accommodation of the troops under their immediate command, than to the general convenience of the service, or unacquainted with the state of our resources, have taken steps of a very exceptionable nature for supplying their particular commands at the expence of the Army at large. Even the officers at some posts have been liberally furnished either from the public stores or from private ones by orders on public agents to pay for them, while those at others have seen their most pressing applications rejected. For my own part as there was no regular provision made, adequate to the wants of the officers in general, I have been deaf to their importunities, even when there have been a few articles in store. Congress will easily perceive how a discrimination of this kind must operate, and will feel the necessity of adopting some plans that will make the distributions more equal and uniform. This can only be done by having a proper head and regular subordination throughout the members with general regulations for the management of the department—I request to be informed if Mr Mease is continued Clothier General.
        The situation of the Sixteen additional regiments has been all along the most disagreable that can be immagined. They have been

destitute of every advantage the other troops have enjoyed. The resignations from the extreme necessities of the Officers have been numerous and the spirit of resigning is now become almost universal. Every expedient that could operate upon their hopes their patriotism or their honor has been exhausted—The Regiments for want of a sufficient numbers of officers and for want of zeal in the few that remain are dwindling to nothing. Several of those, Gentlemen of sentiment and much attached to the service, lately waited upon me to represent their case. They stated their sufferings in terms the most affecting and supported by facts that could not be questioned—Their expressions of regret at finding themselves obliged to quit the Army had every appearance of genuineness. I prevailed upon them with great difficulty to suspend their determination a little longer to see whether some measures would not be adopted in their favour.
        The resolve of the 15th March has hitherto had no operation nor will it in all probability answer the purpose for which it was intended. If the States should even interest themselves in behalf of these Regiments—the mixture of different men from different States in the same Corps will make the supply very troublesome and precarious. I se[e] no alternative but this—either Congress must make a special provision for them or they must in a little time gradually dissolve. The Cavalry and part of the artillery are upon a similar establishment. I am informed that some cloathing has been lately provided on Continental account for the officers and are coming on to the Army, though I have had no regular information on the subject—If this should be true, it is requisite some particular direction should be given for their distribution; I shall be glad to receive the commands of Congress on the subject.
        I have frequent applications from the officers for allowances of spirits, supported by a plea that it is done elsewhere: I am informed that the officers at Providence are supplied with rum at the rate of Nine Shilgs $ gallon. I think it highly reasonable and necessary, that they should be supplied at a moderate rate proportioned to their pay; but as there is no proper authority for doing it, I do not think myself at liberty to adopt the measure; at the same time I should be happy to see so reasonable a request gratified, and the whole put upon an equal footing by some general regulation. They cannot possibly furnish themselves otherwise. If Congress should think proper to direct any allowance of this kind, it will perhaps be expedient to make it conditionally to be given when the stock in store will permit and liable to be suspended by the commanding Officer. My situation as the affair now stands is delicate and disagreable. The Officers of this Army will not be satisfied with less indulgence than is enjoyed by those of the

other troops. They may view the refusal on my part as too punctilious and rigid. This concurs with other reasons to make me anxious a speedy determination should take place either to make the allowance general or prevent it everywhere.
        I was duly honored with your Excellency’s favour of the 20th. Previous to the receipt of it, in consequence of a Letter from the Board of War, I had directed The Commissary of Prisoners to send Capt. Featherstone into New York on parole till recalled or exchanged. He is to be considered as Lieutenant as it has all along been an admitted principle that the rank at the time of capture should govern. With the greatest respect and esteem I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s most Obedt humble servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. At or near the time the resolve of Congress was past for the establishment of the Inspectorship, another resolve was past, to the best of my recollection, providing for the former Brigade Majors, as Aide de Camps to the Brigadiers, and allowing the Brigadiers where they were not supplied in this manner to take Aide De Camps from the line. As I do not find these regulations among my papers, I am obliged to trouble Your Excellency with a request to forward me a copy.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 27 June 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          [Wyoming, Pa., 27 June 1779]

        Extract of a letter from Genl Sullivan Dated at Wyoming June 27th 1779.
        “Our stores are not yet arrived.
        “I am distressed on account of our Beef & hard bread being almost ruined. I wrote your Excellency fully on this head yesterday Court-landts & Spencers Regts have wore out all their Cloaths in clearing the Roads many of them have not even a piece of a shirt & those Corps which I find on the ground are nearly in the same situation. I wish the Cloathier might be directed to send on Shirts to Col. Hooper with orders to forward them on or many of the Soldiers must be totally useless during the campaign. I am surprised that after every measure has been taken by your Excellency to equip the army and every possible application has been made by myself There has been so total a neglect of this department.”


Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 27 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

          Sir,
          New Windsor June 27th 1779.

        Your letter of yesterday came safe to my hands, and by the Dragoon who was the bearer of it I send you Ten guineas for C——r. His successor (whose name I have no desire to be informed of, provided his intelligence is good, & seasonably transmitted) should endeavour to hit upon some certain mode of conveying his information quickly; for it is of little avail to be told of things after they have become matters of public notariety; & known to every body. This new agent should communicate his signature & the private marks by which genuine papers are to be distinguished from Counterfeits. There is a man on York Island, living on or near the North river, of the name of George Higday who I am told hath given signal proofs of his attachment to us, & at the same time stands well with the enemy. If upon inquiry this is found to be the case (and much caution should be used in investigating the matter, as well on his own account as on that of Higday) he will be a fit instrument to convey intelligence to me while I am on the West side the North river, as he is enterprising and connected with people in Bergen County who will assist in forming a chain to me, in any manner they shall agree on.
        I do not know who H——employs but from H——I obtain intelligence, and his name and business should be kept profoundly secret, otherwise we not only lose the benefits derived from it, but may subject him to some unhappy fate.
        I wish you to use every method in your power through H——& others, to obtain information of the enemy’s situation—and as far as it is to be come at, designs. C——r speaks of the enemys force up the River as not exceeding 8000 Men, but as I know he is mistaken if he comprehends their whole force, I should be glad if his successor was cautioned against giving positive numbers by guess. this is deceptions—let him ascertain the particular corps which can be no difficult matter to do, & he will soon by taking a little pains indirectly, come at the strength of them, & where they lie. I am Sir with esteem & regard Yr Very hum. Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 27 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

          Sir,
          New Windsor June 27th 1779.

        I observe what you say respecting your position at Bedford—and the fatigue of the horse—with regard to the first, when Bedford was pointed out, it was descriptive only of a central place between the two rivers, and as near the enemy as you could with military prudence take post for the purpose of covering the inhabitants, & preventing the ravages of small parties. The judgment of the Officer commanding, is, under the idea just expressed, to direct the particu⟨lar⟩ spot

& choice of ground which ought to ⟨be⟩ varied continually, while you are near enough the enemy to give assistance to the people—With respect to the second matter I have only to add that I do not wish to have the horse unnecessarily exposed, or fatigued, but if in the discharge of accustomed duties they should get worn down, there is no help for it. Col. Moylans regiment is on its march to join you, which will render the duty easier and Yr Troops there more respectable.
        The inclosed contains matter for own knowledge only. I am Sir Yr Mo. Obedient servt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 28 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Monday June 28th 79.
          Parole Lancaster—C. Signs Leeds. Norway.


Title: To George Washington from a Board of General Officers, 28 June 1779
From: Board of General Officers
To: Washington, George

          New Windsor 28th June 1779.

        The Board of General Officers orderd to sit the 25th to decide respecting a number of persons prisoners With the Enemy, who of them have broke their Parole, and who of them are Military Prisoners. Beg leave to Report the following state of their Cases and their Opinion upon them.
        Colonel John Hannom was a Militia Colonel in Chester County Pensylvania; was in actual service, and made prisoner by the Enemy on their way from Brandiwine to Philadelphia. He was afterward admitted to a limitted parole at the Golden swan in the City: That from an indulgence of walking the street, granted him by Serjeant Serrit without authority, he took the opportunity of a dark night of making his escape. The Board are of opinion that he broke his parole.
        Lieutenant Colonel Persival Frazer and Major William Williams belonging to the Continental army, were kept close prisoners, either in the State-house, or new Goal in Philadelphia. They were afterwards admitted to a limitted parole in the City for their health. In this situation they received a verbal summons left at their quarters to repair to the Golden Swan, where they were put under close confinement. Under these circumstances they made their escape, having never given any other parole, either verbal or written, which all the other prisoners in the Swan had done. The Board are of opinion therefore, that their escape was justifiable.

        Mr Bowne was not an Officer when he was made prisoner, which appears from the best information we can get. To decide positively upon this matter, it will be necessary to have the Muster-rolls of Colonel Bonds Regiment of Massachusets State. If it shall be found that he was an Officer, the Board are clearly of opinion, that he has broke his parole.
        Pardon Burlingham appears, by Major Skinners information to have been a private in Captain Vandyckes company of Granadiers in Colonel Lashers Regiment of New york five-months-men. He made his escape and cannot be accounted for except as a private.
        William Bowers being made a prisoner not under arms, nor in actual service, cannot be accounted for as a military prisoner, but only as a common Citizen.
        Lewelling Young being taken under similar circumstances with Mr Bowers, cannot be consider’d as a military prisoner.
        Lt Andrew Forest a prisoner on parole, taken from Long Island by Mr Mariner, with a party of Continental troops. The Board are of opinion that his release depend upon a future contract with the Enemy; whether all prisoners taken hereafter under similar circumstances shall be held by their paroles.
        Lt Daniel Cressop made his escape from a guard order’d by Colonel Axtell to take him into custody while he was a prisoner on parole. The Board are of opinion that his escape is legal; his parole being cancel’d by his being put under guard.
        Lt Thomas Mercer. The Board from enquiry can find no such person, ever having been in any of the Jersey Regiments, and therefore he cannot be accounted for.
        Isaac Warrel was a Citizen taken near Frankford from his own house not in actual service, and therefore cannot be consider’d a military prisoner.
        Lt Robert Cammell was not justifiable in coming away, and therefore ought to be accounted for.
        Lt Jonathan Porter made his escape from the State house while under guard in Philadelphia. The Board are of opinion his escape was justifiable.
        John McClure, James Fletcher, Jonathan Rogers, and Holderby Lankford, Navy prisoners, and therefore cannot be accounted for in the Land service.
        John Ogburn, Thomas Millard, John Blake, and Robert Rankin, all Citizens and not in service when taken prisoners, as appears by a subscrib’d list, taken of the prisoners in the possession of the enemy; given in by the prisoners themselves of their situation, Rank and

manner of being taken, a Copy of which list, was lodg’d in Mr Loring’s Office.
        William Marriner continued in New York when the Enemy took possession of the City; was not in service, and therefore cannot be consider’d in a military character.
        John Brown Surgeon. The Commissary General of prisoners can give no information, whereby the Board can decide in his case.
        Charles Roberts Commissary, made prisoner by the Enemy while in Philadelphia, was kept under confinement for some considerable time, and afterwards releas’d by the Enemy without parole for services render’d them in informing them of the manner in which our Officers made their escape. The board think he ought not to be accounted for.
        Colonel Thomas Thomas, West Chester Militia. It is doubtful whether he was a military prisoner; but if he was, his escape was unjustifiable.
        Colonel Hale has return’d.
        Colonel Swoop, Lt Colonel Frederick Bellenger and Lt Colo. Nicholas Luz, prisoners on parole, and not return’d agreable to the summons of the Commissary General of Prisoners. The Board consider them as breakers of their paroles.
        Lt Colonel Christopher Greene. The Board consider him as actually exchang’d; his parole having been given up. Nevertheless, if it shall appear hereafter, that the Cannadian Officer for which he was exchang’d, did not hold the Rank which he sign’d a parole for, than an equivalent shall be given in lieu of him.
        Major William Ellis appears from a Certificate of his Neighbours, incapable of obeying the summons of the Commissary General of prisoners and therefore to be accounted for when his right of exchange shall happen, or return when his health will permit.
        Major Brigade, Daniel Hamel, is consider’d a suspicious character, being now in confinement by order of Governor Clinton, to whom we think the matter should be refer’d; the suspicions appearing to us such as to render him an unfit person to be exchang’d.
        Captain Samuel Fisher has return’d.
        Captain John Spotswood is prevented returning from the State of his wounds. A satisfactory account of which has been made to the Commissary General of prisoners.
        Captain George Gilchrist, prisoner on parole, has never been order’d to return, being omitted in the enemy’s former list.
        Lt James Smith has return’d.
        Lt William Cohoon has been summons’d but not return’d, nor

given any satisfactory reasons for his conduct, which is consider’d a breach of parole.
        Jacob Bright cannot be consider’d a military prisoner being taken from his own house and not in service.
        Lt Henry Jeans and Peter Wiser, Officers on parole have been summons’d to return and have not obey’d, nor given any satisfactory reasons for their conduct, and therefore consider’d by the Board as breakers of their paroles.
        Benjamin Hickhock return’d as a Lieutenant. It is very doubtful whether he holds any Rank, or ever did in the Continental service. But if he was in Commission and in actual service at the time of his being taken, The Board are of opinion that he has broke his parole.
        Samuel Wilcox Lt a prisoner on parole, has been summons’d to return, and has not obey’d it, nor given any reasons for the neglect. The Board therefore consider him as having broke his parole.
        Mr Ryerson not being in Commission at the time he was made prisoner by the enemy, can be consider’d in no other light than a Citizen.
        Andrew McMinn being taken not in actual service cannot be accounted for only as a Citizen.
        Ensign John spoor, prisoner on parole, summons’d to ret⟨urn⟩ but has not obey’d the summons, nor given any reason for the neglect, is theref⟨ore⟩ consider’d as having broke his parole.
        Solomon Bush D. A. General, in the Militia service; ⟨pri⟩soner on parole, has furnish’d a certificate from Docr Glentworth of his ina⟨bi⟩lity to return; The Board think it sufficient, and that he return as soon as he is able; or that he be accounted for, when his right of exchange may happen.
        Daniel Kanady Adjt under similar circumstances with Major Bush; The Board are of the same opinion with respect to him.
        Lt William Brentnal, prisoner on parole, has been summons’d to return, but has not obey’d it, nor given any satisfactory rea⟨son⟩ for the neglect. The Board consider him as having broke his parole.
        The Board consider all prisoners on parole, that have made their escape from the enemy, and have not given satisfactory reason⟨s⟩ to justify their conduct, as having broken their paroles.

          Nath. Greene Major Gene⟨ral⟩ Presid⟨ent⟩Stirling, Major GenlThe Baron De Kalb. M.G.Steuben M: GlH. Knox B.G. ArtilleryWm Woodford Brig: Ge⟨nl⟩

P. Muhlenberg B.G.Wm Irvine B: Genl


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 28 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 28th 1779

        I have the honor to inclose you an extract from my letter of the 21st to Genl Sullivan by which you will perceive I have informed him that Lieut. Col. Pauling with a part of his command will join Genl Clinton at Ononquaga and proceed on the ulterior operations of the expedition. As you left the matter to my determination whether the party should return or proceed on the western service after effecting the primary object—I have preferred the latter as the safest. By some intelligence from Canada received through Col. Hazen concurring with what Col. Van Schaick communicated some time since, it is said that 1500 Men were sent early in the spring to the posts on the Lakes. Though I do not give intire credit to this account, yet as it may be true, I am willing to strengthen the expedition as much as possible, to avoid an accident. I am to request your Excellency will give directions to Lt Col. Pauling accordingly. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect & esteem Sir Yr Most Obet, servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 28 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dear Sir.
          [New Windsor, 28 June 1779]

        I just now received your favor of to day. The Enemy are now indebted to us on the Score of privates and have been for a considerable time—or at least ever since last fall. This circumstance puts it out of my power to send in any new prisoners; but I shall cheerfully consent to apply the Militia taken the other day, to the credit of their Account if they will release them, and I will direct the Commissary to attempt to negotiate their exchange as soon as he can. This is all I can do at present.
        If they cannot be liberated in this way I shall not have the smallest objection to their Friends sending them Cloathing and other necessaries—and will furnish such permits as may be proper. perhaps they had better send ’em a few necessary Cloaths immediately. I am Dr sir with great esteem & regard Yr Most Obedt sert

          G. Washington

          P.S. I request that You will direct a List of the prisoners to be sent me—that the Commissary may be the better enabled to negociate the business. The Exchange can only operate as to those who were in Arms.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 28 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths House [Highlands, N.Y.]June 28th 1779

        I do myself the honor to Transmit Intelligence received about Ten oClock the last night from Brigr Genl Parsons. I have the honor to be very respectfully your Excellencys Most Obedient Servt W. Heath

          P.S. No report this morning.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 28 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths House [Highlands, N.Y.]June 28th 1779

        I Send up John Waters a Deserter from the 71st Regt who was this moment Sent to me, with his arms & accoutrements.
        waters informs me that the talk among the Troops was that the British army would move towards New London in order to draw our Troops from this Quarter, when they would return Suddenly and Seize the Fort—waters also reports that their Troops have had a Drubbing in Carolina. I have the honor to be with greatest respect your Excellencys most obedient Servt

          W. Heath

          P.S. a Hessian with a french Name, and a Deserter from the Irish Voluntiers are now come in Colo. Greaton request that He may [have] the horn for his Band and the Lad also if it be agreable to Your

Excellency, Lt Colo. Grosvenor who Sent the Lad in also request that Colo. Greaton may have the Horn as he is destitute.

            W.H.


Title: From George Washington to Major Henry Lee, Jr., 28 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry Jr.

          Sir,
          Head Qrs N[ew] W[indsor] June 28th 1779

        I have rec’d your letter dated yesterday & thank you for the information it contained I have now to request that you will endeavour to employ some person, in whom you can confide, & at the same time that is intelligent, to go into the works at stoney point, or if admittance is not to be gained, otherwise to obtain the best knowledge of them he can, so as to desc⟨r⟩ibe the particular kind of Works, the precise spots on which they stand, and the strength of the garrison. If you should succeed in this point, I must beg you will transmit me without delay a sketch of the works that I may be able to form an accurate idea of them. You will yourself take the best view you can, that you may the better know whether the report you get from the person sent in is to be relied on. Yrs &c.

          G.W.

          P.S. describe the number of Armed Vessels & their situation—& keep the contents of this letter to yourself.

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 28 June 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          West Point 28th June 1779

        Early in the Spring, when it was apprehend; a Scarcity of flour would take place; the Ration of a pound and a Quarter (published

at the Plains) Reduced to one Pound; and ordered half a Gill of Rice to those who should be on fatigue. And a Quarter of a Pound Salted beef to all as a Compensation for the flour stopt. The Rice is now expended; and the fatigue men Complain of the insufficiency of the Bread. I beg to be informed, what is the Ration of every species delivered to the Grand Army; and your Excellencies permission to Issue one pound and a quarter flour to the men o[n] fatigue, if I cannot get them Satisfied without. or any directions on the Subject which shall appear to you necessary to advance the Service. I have the Hono⟨r⟩ to be your Excellencies Hble Servant.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Stephen Moylan, 28 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Moylan, Stephen

          Sir
          [New Windsor, 28 June 1779]

        When you have crossed the North River with your regiment you will proceed to the neighbourhood of Bedford where Col. Sheldons horse and a few Light Infantry are stationed—these you will take under your command.
        The purposes of this command are to protect the Country and inhabitants give countenance to the Militia, & as far as it lies in your power gain intelligence of the enemy’s force, movements & designs, of which you will give me the most punctual information.
        I leave it to your own judgment from an examination of the Country & according to circumstances to take a position that will best answer these purposes consistent with the security & accommodation of your troops.
        Col. Armand’s corps I intend to order down who will also be under your command. Given at Hd Qrs June 28th 1779.

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 28 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters, New Windsor June 28th 1779

        I have duly received your several favours of the 18th & 27th of May one without date and one of the 10th instant—At the same time that

I am satisfied your best exertions have not been wanting I cannot but lament the difficulties you have met with. The services of the men at this critical period are so essential, that every moment is precious and every possible step ought to have been taken to get them on march as early as was practicable. But every hour brings fresh proofs that the most dangerous delays are entailed upon all our measures.
        As Blands & Baylors regiments are also destined to the Southward, if they have not marched before this arrives—I wish you to take them also under your direction and give them such instructions as you think proper for their future government. The sooner they can arrive at the place of their Destination the better. Lt Col. Temple has the following paragraph in a letter of his of the 6th instant “I am afraid we shall not be able to join the Southern army unless some one is furnished with cash to pay the expences. Certificates will not do here and we are all without cash.” You will be pleased to make the proper arrangements with the Quarter Master and Commissary for the subsistence of the cavalry on its march, that it may suffer no difficulty for the want of money.
        I am sorry you are like to suffer from a scarcity of officers: The regiments here are so thinly provided, that I find I cannot spare any more without injury to the service. This prevents my sending you Lieutenant Kelly—If you can meet with any young fellows willing to enter into the service whom you judge proper as Ensigns, I shall be glad you would endeavour to get them appointed by the state & transmit me a list of their names. They can be hereafter distributed to the different regiments & the service in general wants officers. I am Dr Sir with very grea⟨t⟩ regard Yr Most Obedt Ser⟨v⟩.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Temple, 28 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Temple, Benjamin

          Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 28th 1779

        I have received your favour of the 6th—Before this I suppose you have received marching orders from Col. Bland to whom they were transmitted—It is my wish the dragoons should get on to the place

of their destination, as soon as possible. You will be pleased to address yourself to General Scot for his directions for your future government.
        With respect to the expences of the regiment on the march I have directed General Scot to make the necessary arrangements with the Commissary and Forage master.
        The particular exigency justified the step you took with respect to Cloathing. I am, with great regard Sir Your most Obedt servt.


Title: General Orders, 29 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Tuesday June 29th 79.
          Parole Borneo—C. Signs Bergen. Baltic.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 29 June 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          [Wyoming, Pa., 29 June 1779]

        Extract of a Letter from Major General Sullivan dated Wyoming 29th June 1779.
        [“]I was this morning honored with your Excellencys favour (without date) Acknowledging the receipt of mine of the 12th coming to hand on the 19th Inst. I am happy to Inform your Excellency that

thirty six of our boats have arrived this morning with Stores & that the provisions are in a much better Condition than those which had Arrived before, should those yet at Sunbury and Estherton be in good Condition it will relieve me from the greatest distress. There are one hundred more Boats which Colo. Hubley informs me are now on their way to this place but as the waters are so very low I expect it will be ten days before they reach Wyoming, it gives me pain that we are likely to be so long delayed on account of the Boats but I will endeavour to make up for the loss of time by unremitting industry.
        “I rejoice that Colo. Spaulding is to Cooperate with us & to Join Genel Clinton at Ononquaga. Though I should be happy to have heard that Gove⟨r⟩nor Clinton was at the head of the Expedition. yet I think he will render more service to the public where he is. I hope more recruits will Join Genel Clinton as I hear the Enemy are Collecting at Chenowartatine twenty miles from the River & about nineteen miles above ononquaga I suppose they will if possible attack him to prevent which we have determined to march so as to reach Teaoga by the day he moves from Lake Otsego by a General Return of the whole Army including the forces under Genel Clinton made on the 27th Inst. the present fit for duty Amounts only to 3511 so that our numbers will by no means equal the number proposed as the party to march from this post after every deduction for Garrisons &ca was to be 3000 they will not amount to 1,500 after the necessary deduction, I hope they may prove sufficient, the only danger is before the Junction, after that is formed we shall have nothing more to fear.”


Title: General Orders, 30 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Wednesday June 30th [1779]
          Parole Copenhagen—C. Signs Cæsar Plato.

        All those soldiers who are Masons by trade in the line are immediately to be drawn out and sent to the Fort for a special and temporary service—They are to take their orders from Colonel Kosciuszko.
        The Drummers to practise from nine to eleven in the morning & from three to five in the afternoon.
        The New Regulation for the order and discipline of the Army being now arrived and distributed, The General hopes and expects that every officer will pay the strictest conformity to them and exert himself within the limits of his command to have them carried into immediate execution.
        The Inspector General will as speedily as possible have an inspection into the two divisions under the command of Major Generals Heath and McDougall & will introduce the new formation on the same principles which have been observed in the other divisions.
        He will please to begin with the brigades on the east side the river.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Clinton, 30 June 1779
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

          [Canajoharie, N.Y., 30 June 1779]

        Extract of a letter from General Clinton Dated Conojoharie.
        “Yours of the 27th instant, I just now received, I am unhappy to think, that any misunderstanding has happened with respect to the

quantity of provision, destined for the use of the detachment under my command.
        The instructions contained in your Excellency’s letters previous to your referring me for orders to General Sullivan were punctually obeyed. I had thrown into Fort Schuyler a Magazine of provision sufficient for 500 men until the 1st of January, and conceiving that I was to move very light—I omitted laying up any stores at Conojoharie, until I had received orders to move as I had collected a large quantity at Schenectady, where I had ordered one hundred boats to be in readiness, which I conceived would be sufficient to transport the necessary stores for the detachment. Of this, I advised General Sullivan whose directions by a particular order from Your Excellency I was to observe, requesting at the same time to know ‘what quantity of provision I was to take with me;[’] An answer to which I received the 13th instant a paragraph of which I shall transcribe for your Excellency’s satisfaction. ‘I am pleased to hear of your having collected such a quantity of provision at Schenectady, which with all the boats, I wish you to get across from Conojoharie to Lake Otsego, as soon as possible, in order to move down the Susquehannah to join us. I wish you to take all the troops, provisions and stores in your boats. There will be no necessity of your taking horses. The saddles you may take if you have room sufficient in the Boats; otherwise it will be of no great consequen⟨ce.⟩ I wish you to bring as much provision as possible.[’]
        “In consequence of the above directions, I found it necessary to augment the number of my boats, to two hundred and twenty, and as General Sullivan’s letter did not point out any precise quantity of provisions, I determined to take with me a sufficiency for three Months for two thousand men from the 15th instant, which from the consumption by Waggoners, Indians and volunteers, together with a failure in the Commissary of near 400 barrels will fall much short of the quantity at first proposed.”


Title: From George Washington to Bryan Fairfax, 30 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, Bryan

          Dear Sir,
          New Windsor June 30th 79.

        If a multiplicity of business is to be admitted as a sufficient excuse for delay in answering letters, few men can plead it with more propriety than myself. good or bad, it is the best I can offer for suffering your favor of the 14th of Jany to lye dormant so long.
        When my Sentiments respecting the discharge of the Sterling debt to Mr Custis were communicated to you, I was totally uninformed of any law then existing for the purpose of regulating matters, of this kind, otherwise I should not have given an opinion upon the Subject, taking it for granted, that however hard this Law might bear upon individuals, it was calculated for genl good, & ought to be acquiesced in, by all.
        I lament exceedingly the unhappy situation of poor Mrs Savage— whether she is living or dead I know not, the inclosed though old in date is newly to hand; & is but too lively a picture of an unfortunate Woman. It is unnecessary for me to add, that from my situation, it is impossible I can render her any service in matters relative to the trust Deed, & in the prosecution of her Suit against the villain her husband. If it is in your power to do it, I am sure you will. Honor, & every principle of justice & humanity requires that a man lost to every sense of virtue and honesty should (if there is law to do it) be compelled to fulfil an engagement, small in comparison of what he was bound to. by the highest obligation.
        A Contest which appeared last Summer & Fall to be verging fast to a prosperous end, is now likely to be prolonged, & may rage more violently than ever—owing to a want of public virtue—Speculation, pecculation, forestalling, monopolizing, with all their concomitants, seem to have taken place of everything else, & shews in a clear point of view the depravity of human nature, in suffering a thirst for riches

to absorb every other consideration, & get the better of every other duty.
        About the first of this Month the enemy made a movement in force up this River, & pointed so directly at our Posts in the high lands that I quitted my Quarters at Middle brook & Marched to their assistance— but whether finding them better provided than they expected—or whether they held no more in view than to possess themselves of a passage of the River just below the highlands (thereby rendering our communication between the East and West side more circuitous and difficult) I shall not undertake to decide, but the fact is, they stopped short of our Forts about twelve Miles, & began to fortify. leaving us a little in the field of conjecture for their next move, or plan of operations for the Campaign. I am with very sincere esteem and regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obt & Affecte Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 30 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

          Sir
          Head Quarters New Windsor30th June 1779. 12 oClock noon

        Yours of the 25th was delivered me an hour ago.
        Inclosed you will receive a duplicate of mine of the 27th least there should be a miscarraige.
        If you have not detached any troops from your command before this reaches you, you will be pleased instantly to dispatch Glover’s Brigade to Join this Army; with direction to make as much expedition as they can without injuring the troops. This order is on the supposition that the detachment you mention to have sailed from Rhode Island will not have returned, and are not acting in your vicinity. If they are destined for New York, which I beleive to be most likely, the enemy

have, in all probability, some serious attempt in contemplation this way; and after so considerable a diminution of their force at Rhode Island, ’tis hardly to be expected, they will do more than remain on the defensive; nor do I see any prospect that you would be able to act offensively against their remaining force, if no part of your’s were withdrawn. I wish you to inform me by express when your detachment marches and the route they take and to instruct the Commanding Officer to advise me every two or three days of his progress and proposed stages. The lighter the troops move the better. Their heavy baggage can follow. I am Sir Your most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 30 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 30—79

        In consideration of the scarcity of forage, where you now are, and the plenty, which you mention to be at the Continental village, I think it will be best for one or both the Brigades, Parsons & Huntington’s to move to that place—Nixon’s will remain where it is.
        In this position it will be necessary to be very vigilant against a surprise, particularly from a sudden movement of the enemy by water. I doubt not you will use every proper precaution. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt serv.

          Go: Washington

          P.S. As I wish to have the works at West Point prosecuted vigorously as a primary object, perhaps if it can be done with safety it will be best to let Huntington’s brigade go to the village & Parson’s remain where it is to assist in forwarding the works—I leave this however to your discretion.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 30 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths House [Highlands, N.Y.]June 30th 1779

        I do myself the honor to Send your Excellency one Sugden a Deserter from the 33rd British Regt who left verplanks Point the day before yesterday.
        Colo. Putnam has gone down this morning to reconnoitre the Enemys Posts as Soon as he returns which I do not expect will be before tomorrow, report shall be made to your Excellency.
        In conversation the last evening with Some of the Principle officers of this Division on the Subject of the Divisions removing to Gallows Hill it was observed by Some well acquainted with the Ground, that If the whole Division Should remove to that place the Enemy should be at or near Kings Ferry with shipping that might with a Fair wind reach and effect a Landing at Robinsons—and get Possession of the Strong Grounds before our Troops Could possibly reach them, but that by advancing General Huntingtons Brigade, The Forrage at the village would be Secured, our left flank be well Covered and the Strong Grounds be kept in our possession. your Excellencys Superior wisdom will best determine. I have the honor to be very respectfully your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 30 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 30th 1779

        I wrote you this morning by General Woodford—I am glad to find the ideas of your letter correspond with mine—You will act accordingly—It is the more necessary to proceed with caution as I have just received advice from General Gates, that a considerable detachment sailed from Rhode Island the 25th instant, steering a Western course—This seems to indicate some serious design this way. I am Sir Your most Obed. humble servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 30 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 30th 79.

        Col. Morgan of the Virginia troops, who waits on Congress with his resignation will have the honor of delivering you this—I cannot in justice avoid mentioning him as a very valuable officer who has rendered a series of important services and distinguished himself upon several occasions. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt ser.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 30 June 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Philadelphia 30th June—1779

        Your Excellency’s Favor of the 23rd Inst., with the papers referred to therein, came duly to hand, & have been communicated to Congress.
        Herewith I have the honor to transmit a copy of a Letter of the 15th Inst., from Doctor Morgan to Congress, charging Dr Shippen with Mal-practice in Office, and an Act of Congress directing such Proceedings to be had thereon as that the charges alluded to in it be speedily inquired into and justice done.

        Copies of two other Acts of the 28th Inst., will also be found under cover with this—The one calling on the several States to fill up their Battalions—The other directs in what manner the vacancies, of Commissioned Officers in the Regiments raised, by the respective States, for the continental Army, are to be supplied. 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 Major Henry Lee, Jr., 30 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry Jr.

          Sir
          New Windsor June 30th 1779

        Yr favor dated 27th inst. was handed to me to day by Capt. McLane, inclosing your proposals for the incorporation of his company with your Corps—The measure is desireable, & I should be happy were it in my power at once to authorise you to proceed on the business, but not being vested with sufficient powers to change the establishment of a Corps—the plan must be referred to Congress In doing this no time shall be lost & I sincerely wish it may meet their approbation.
        When I ordered capt. McLane to join you, I had not an idea of the present plan, & only meant to afford you his aid with the few men of his company; sensible of the advantage to be derived from Horse, & Foot acting together.
        Should the corps be established as you wish, you cannot entertain a thought of making new Officers, (the reasons are obvious) but must furnish them from yr own Corps, or from the supernumerary officers of the line now unimployed—they are numerous & no doubt many fit ones may be found.
        The dismounting Dragoons inlisted for that particular service is a delicate matter & I hope you have considered it well before hand & that you do not think of taking any, but such, whose inclinations may lead them to prefer the foot service. Yrs

          G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Philip Schuyler, 30 June 1779
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

          from Gen: Schulyer.
          Saratoga [N.Y.] June 30th 1779.

        I have the honor to inclose your Excellcy copy of a paper written by a friend in Canada in a tory stile, and forwarded to me by a person I sent thither some time ago, the bearer left Boucherville on the 12th inst. and arrived here only yesterday having been detained by a sprained ancle, he says that from what he could learn Sir John Johnsons regiment is not more than three hundred strong—that the Indians called Les tetes, du beauf had been at Montreal but could not be prevailed on to go to the Westward—that the enemy continued to work at the fortifications at Sorrel, but no re-inforcements had arrived.


Title: General Orders, 1 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters New-Windsor Thursday July 1st 1779.
            Parole Harkimer—C. Signs Clinton Jay.

          The whole Army is for the future to undergo a monthly inspection, in which the State of the men’s arms accoutrements, ammunition, clothing and camp equipage is to be carefully examined: At these inspections the following returns are to be made to the Inspector.
          1st—A return of the strength of each company regimentally digested, accounting for all absentees, together with the alterations since the last inspection.
          2ndly A return of the different articles of clothing in possession of each company, with an account of the quantity received, lost, worn out, or otherwise deficient since the last inspection.
          3rdly—A return of Arms, Ammunition & Accoutrements of each company, accounting for the alterations and distinguishing such as are in the hands of the men absent on command &c.—from those present.
          4thly A return of the camp equipage delivered each company, the quantity on hand and the deficiencies since the preceding examination.
          5thly—A return from the regimental Quarter Master of all the articles he has drawn since the last inspection both from the brigade Quarter Master & brigade Conductor, the issues he has made to each company, the stock in hand, and the deficiencies which have happened.
          6thly—A similar return from the regimental Clothier of all the articles of clothing by him received, delivered & in hand.
          7thly—A return from the brigade Quarter-Master of the articles in his department, issued to the several regiments and returned to him by them.
          8thly—A similar return from the brigade Conductor.
          The result of these inspections are to be communicated to the officers commanding divisions and brigades so far as respects their commands, as well as to the Commander in Chief & commanding officer in the department.
          The Major Generals or officers commanding divisions are to communicate their division orders through the Sub-Inspectors; But as the duties of their office will be too numerous and e[x]tensive in many cases to permit their attendance for the general orders, they are to be hereafter exempted from this part of the duty assigned them which is to be performed by the Aide-De-Camps to the Major Generals; But as the Adjutant General will often have matters to communicate which

may not be the proper subjects of written orders, The Sub-Inspectors will attend at the Orderly-Office as frequently as their Occupations will permit.
          The Sub-Inspectors are to receive brigade returns from the Brigade-Inspectors which they are to digest into division returns for the Major Generals.
          The Commander in Chief having been informed that some commissioned officers hold appointments in the Commissary and Forage department, thinks it necessary to direct that the practice be discontinued in future.
          The demands upon the line for the Staff officers authorized by Congress are so numerous that it would be injurious to the service to permit any others than they have pointed out. The officers commanding divisions will see this order carefully executed allowing only sufficient time to supply their places by other appointments, which it is expected will be immediately done.
          Henry McCormic Esquire late Brigade Major to the 1st Pennsylvania Brigade is appointed to do the duties of Brigade Major and Brigade Inspector to the Light Corps under Brigadier General Wayne.
          The Honorable Congress have been pleased to pass the following Act.

          In Congress June 22nd 1779.
          Resolved—That it be recommended to the Legislative & Executive Powers in the several States, more especially those that are adjacent to Long-Island and other places in possession of the enemy to take the most effectual measures to prevent plundering the Inhabitants of such places, and all officers of the Army are directed to use their utmost exertions to prevent such Practices.
          As nothing can be more unwarrantable than plundering the Inhabitants, the General persuades himself that every officer of the Army will exert himself to prevent it in all cases whatever.
          At a General Court-Martial of the line whereof Lieutenant Colonel Ford is President June 23rd.
          Lieutenant Moody of the 2nd Virginia State Regiment was tried for, “Scandalous, infamous behaviour, unbecoming the Character of a Gentleman and Officer, also with breaking a former Arrest in being out of camp when notified to appear for trial altho he knew a Court was sitting.”
          The Court acquit Lieutenant Moody of the charge of scandalous, infamous behaviour in the instances exhibited against him—but they are of opinion that Lieutt Moody is reprehensible for the language made use of by him to Lieutenant Edmonston at Middle-Brook in May last which they consider as a breach of Article 1st Section 7th of

the Articles of War, which directs as a punishment, an Arrest, and as Lieutenant Moody has been arrested & tried they are of opinion he should be discharged of his Arrest.
          They are also of opinion Lieutenant Moody was not properly arrested on the 2nd charge.
          The General confirms the sentence, at the same time he feels real Pain at the indecency of the behaviour and language which passed between the Gentlemen concerned; utterly inconsistent with that delicacy of character, which an officer ought under every circumstance to preserve.
          The familiarity made use of by Lieutenant Moody to reinlist the soldier mentioned in Lieutenant Rudder’s deposition was intirely improper.
          Also Corporal Swan of the 2nd Regiment of Light-Dragoons was tried.
          1st—For insolent language.
          2ndly—Delivering his sword to one of the Inhabitants for the “purpose of insulting officers,” found guilty of using insolent language to some officers in the Maryland line being a breach of Article 5th Section 18th of the Articles of War and sentenced to be reduced to a private and to ask pardon of the officers he was insolent to—The Court do acquit him of the other charges.
          The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders the execution of it as soon as may be.
          Likewise Elihu Bellows and Philip Goldwait of the 2nd regiment of Light-Dragoons were tried.
          1st—“For insolent language.
          2ndly “Delivering up their clothing, arms & accoutrements to the inhabitants for the purpose of insulting officers.
          3rdly—“Coming into company in the disguise of country-men themselves”—acquitted of the charge of insolent language but severally found guilty of the other charges, being breaches of Article 5th Section 18th of the Articles of War and sentenced each to receive one hundred lashes.
          The Commander in Chief confirms the sentences and orders them executed at such time and place as Major General Putnam shall direct.
          The 1st Pennsylvania brigade to relieve the 1st Maryland at the Forest of Deane tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 1 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Sir
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 1st 79

        Major General Baron De Steuben will have the pleasure of delivering you this. He waits upon you to make some arrangements in your

division relatively to his department, in which I am persuaded you will chearfully cooperate. His important services intitle him to our confidence & esteem. I am Sir Your most Obedt servant

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 1 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Highlands [N.Y.] July 1st 1779

        I have been honored with your favors of yesterday morning and afternoon have ordered Huntingtons Brigade to the Gorge of the mountains north of the village to take Post in the most advantageous Ground and to exercise every precaution for the Security of their Camp and to prevent a Surprise, have ordered the shortest and best Communication, from that Post to Parsons Brigade to be Carefully reconnoitred by the officers of both Brigades, that in Case the Enemy should advance each may support the other without loss of Time.
        I find upon enquiry such an Almost total deficiency of Instruments Bandages Dressings &c. &c. among the Regimental Surgeons as is shocking to humanity admiting the Least probability of the Troops Coming to action. I have thought it my Duty to make this representation to your Excellency.
        If the Intelligence from Major Genl Gates may be depended upon Sir Harry Clinton has drawn a Considerable part of the Garrison of Rhode Island to New York he probably has Something Serious in Contemplation, He may be mad enough again to move up the River, and will perhaps first make Some Manoeuvre to draw their army from their present Strong Posts. The more I view the Ground, and the probability of any advantage the Enemy could derive from a movement up the River the more I am Convinced, that their first and Principle aim will be to Possess themselves of Some Strong Grounds in this neighbourhood, and whether Considering the Present Position of the Enemy the nature of the Ground and the first advance He will most probably make if his intentions are against the Fort a Sufficient Force is now on this Side of the River your Excellency can best determine.
        permit me to request the favor that the Letter address’d to His Excellency the President of Congress may be forwarded by the first Express your Excellency Sends to Philadelphia. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 1 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir
          New Windsor July the 1st 1779

        I had the Honor Yesterday to receive Your Excellency’s Letter of the 24th Ulto. I have ever taken all the pains in my power to prevent plundering, and the practice has been constantly reprobated and prohibited by my Orders. I will continue to use my best endeavours to suppress it.
        I transmit a Copy of a Letter of the 25th and of Two Reports which I received Yesterday from General Gates, advising that a number of Vessels with Troops, had left Newport and directed their course up the Sound. It is difficult to tell what are the Objects Sir Henry Clinton has in view; possibly he means to concentre his force in this first instance—or to send a Reinforcement to the Southward. The Troops have fallen down from Verplanks & Stoney points to philips’s, except such Garrisons as are necessary to occupy the Works at those places. I am pursuing every means in my power to forward the defences at West point.

        As several very respectable Officers have undertaken the important and extensive duties of Sub and Brigade Inspectors, it is thought both just and politick in order to induce them to continue, as well as to engage Others of weight and character in the business, that the Sub Inspectors should be allowed three rations per day and forage for three Horses—and those of Brigade Two Rations per day and forage for the same number of Horses, in lieu of all former rations and forage, both as Officers in the line and as Inspectors. They have applied for this. Their allowance of subsistence as Officers in the line to remain the same. There were some Other priveleges which they requested, and which, being reasonable and within my authority, I have granted. The allowances of Rations & Forage must be decided by Congress. As I have observed they appear necessary—and in the latter case indispensible. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Philip Mazzei, 1 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Mazzei, Philip

          Sir,
          New Windsor July 1st 1779.

        Two or three Months ago I had the honor to receive your favor of the 27th of Jany. about the same time I was informed, that you either had Imbarked, or was upon the point of imbarking, for Europe; this induced me to suspend my acknowledgment of your polite Lettr till a more favourable juncture; but being lately told that you were in Virginia I address you accordingly.

        I thank you for your obliging acct of the culture of the Vine, and am happy to hear that your plantation of them is in so prosperous a way. I have long been of opinion from the spontaneous growth of the vine, that the climate and soil in many parts of Virginia were well fitted for Vineyards & that Wine, sooner or later would become a valuable article of produce—The relation of your experiments convince me I was right. With respect to the Olive, I have been much more doubtful—& with regard to The Lemon we know it is an exotic and requires a security against frost which must render the culture of them expensive precarious & unprofitable except for mere gratification & amusement.
        I am much oblig’d by the communication of your design of going to Europe & asking my dispatches for France or Italy. I have nothing to give you the trouble of, but wish you an agreeable & prosperous voyage & a safe return to your adopted Country in which & rural life I should be happy to meet you. I thank you for the flattering sentiments contained in your Letter & with esteem and respect have the honor to be Sir Yr most obedt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Steuben, 1 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von

          Sir,
          New Windsor 1st July 1779

        I have been favoured with four letters from you three of the 22d and one of the 27th.
        One of them incloses a representation from the Gentlemen in your department, requesting some additional privileges, in consideration of the additional trouble incident to the extensive duties of their offices—Their request appears to me so reasonable that I shall immediately take measures to have them allowed.
        For each Sub & Brigade Inspector a horsemans tent—to transact their business in—& small waggon or a pack horse to carry their baggage books and necessary papers—Blank books, paper and candles adequate to the necessary purposes of the office—The liberty of taking from the line two or three intelligent sergeants to act as Clerks, to do duty with their regiments as usual in time of action—The privilege of drawing on extraordinary occasions only & for temporary purposes—a horse from the public stables.
        For each sub Inspector three—rations ⅌erday & forage for three horses.
        For each Brigade Inspector—Two Rations ⅌erday & forage for three horses—The matter of rations and forage will demand the sanction of Congress to whom I will write on the subject. With respect to the exercise of the commands to which they are respectively intitled: whenever they conceive occasion may require it—it appears to me that this is placed upon its proper footing in the institution of the department and I cannot think it for the good of the service to recommend an alteration. If it should be left to the discretion of the inspectors they may prefer a command in their regiments, when it may interfere with the duties of their office: which require that in time of action they should assist their Generals in the execution of the field manœuvres—I do not mean to suppose that this would happen—but every institution ought to be consistent with itself and not to authorise even a possibility of one part clashing with another. It is not my intention to preclude the Gentlemen from opportunities of command; but I am of opinion the occasions of exercising it ought

to be determined by the officer commanding the army the division or the brigade to which they are attached.
        The proposals towards a monthly inspection contained in their representation & your letter of the 29th appear in general to be very eligible and shall be substantially adopted—A general order will be immediately framed for this purpose. It will comprehend the other regulations you recommend.
        I agree with you as to the impropriety of such numerous guards and the necessity of ordering them to join their regiments in time of alarm; and I disapprove of Commissioned officers exercising the civil functions you mention. I shall take measures to remedy these abuses. The other matters you suggest shall be duly attended to.
        Your recommendation of Mr Galvan confirms the opinion I entertained of his talents. If Mr Ternant has resigned and no other person has been employed in his place, I should have only one objection to Mr Galvan succeeding him, which is that according to the establishment of your department, the appointment would naturally devolve on an officer already in the line. I shall however give the matter further consideration and in the mean time shall be obliged to you to endeavour to ascertain Mr Ternant’s resignation.
        I shall be obliged to you for a sight of his work concerning regulations for the cavalry.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 1 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

            Dear Sir,
            New Windsor July 1st 1779

          Herewith you will be pleased to receive general instructions for your conduct—This you will consider as private & confidential. The importance of the two posts of Verplanks & Stoney points to the enemy is too obvious to need explanation. We ought if possible to dispossess them. I recommend it to your particular attention, without delay to gain as exact a knowledge as you can of the number of the garrisons—the state of the Creeks that surround the former—the nature of the ground in the vicinity of both—the position & strength of the fortifications—the situation of the guards—the number & stations of the vessels in the river—& the precautions in general which the enemy employ for their security.
          It is a matter I have much at heart to make some attempt upon these Posts (in the present weak state of the garrisons and before the enemy commence any other operations) if warranted by a probability of success.
          I must entreat your best endeavours to acquire the necessary information, after having obtained which, I shall thank you for your

opinion of the practicability of a surprize of one or both those places, especially that on the west side the River. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 2 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Friday July 2nd 1779.
          Parole Almeda—C. Signs Bagdat. Cork.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Smith, 2 July 1779
From: Smith, Samuel
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Balt[imor]e 2nd July 1779

        I Had the Honor to recieve your Excelly permission to resign, the obliging Expressions & Honor you do ⟨me,⟩ in which I shall ever esteem myself indebted to you for. I reg⟨ret⟩ my Incapacity of ever being able to repay your politen⟨ess⟩ or I should have been happy to have remain’d in a situation ⟨mutilated⟩ I might have indeavour’d to merit it. I ever shall regret ⟨my⟩ being oblig’d to leave the service, to which I had devoted my Life, & shall esteem myself happy when I can have it in my power to do an obliging thing to those who remain in it.
        at your Desire I have Inclos’d my Comn & am happy you permit me to retain it. It will make a pleasure to think I still hold that C. in which I have so long been proud of—I recd a Certificate of my having settled my Accots from the Auditor General which I w⟨as⟩ oblig’d to leave with the auditor of this state before ⟨mutilated⟩ with it could be settled. I will endeavour to procure ⟨an⟩ attested Copy & transmit it to your Excelly P⟨ermit⟩ me to be your Excelly Mo. Obedt servt

          S.S.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 3 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths [Highlands, N.Y.] July 3rd 1779

        Colo. Putnam returned yesterday afternoon from reconnoitreing the Enemy at Verplanks and Stony Point. He approached near those Posts and has made the best observations the Situation of the Ground would admit of. I do myself the honor to enclose a draught which he has given me.
        I also send a Frenchman who deserted from the British legion.
        The Parties from Huntingtons Brigade Patrole Some distance below Peeks Kill with proper precaution, this will I think encourage desertion. The Enemy keep closely within their Lines. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedient Servt

          W. Heath

        Fig. 1. Col. Rufus Putnam’s sketch of British works at Stony Point and Verplanck Point, N.Y. (The George Washington Atlas, 1932, plate 17. Original at Cornell University Library.)


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 3 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir
          New Windsor July 3: 1779

        I have duly received Your favors of the 1st 2d & the present date. I do not yet know in what light Captain Cole will be considered, whether as a prisoner of War, or a Citizen. I have written to Major Talmadge to inform me of the circumstances of his capture. The Deserters to Bedford, I think, had better go to Connecticut. Directions will be given for purchasing their Arms—and as to the sum to be paid for them.
        You will represent to Doctor Foster the purveyor—and Doctor Turner the surgeon General, the deficiency of Instruments, Bandages &c. and urge them to supply them as soon as possible.

        Inclosed you will receive the report of a Committee of Officers of the right Wing; in which they enter into a voluntary engagement, not to purchase certain Articles but at a limited price. This has originated with themselves, and though I do not expect much from it; yet as they have entered into the measure—and as its utility and success depend on its being general—I send it to you to take the sense of the Officers under your command. The experiment can do no harm and it may do good. I am Dr Sir with great regard Yr Most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 3 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Dr Sir,
          New Windsor July 3d 1779

        I intend in the orders of tomorrow to publish and approve the sentences of De Peu[,] King, and Bettis; but as we have had frequent examples latterly in the main army, I feel a reluctance at present to add to the number—I therefore propose as it is the aniversary of our independence to proclaim a general pardon to all the prisoners now under sentence of death in the army.
        I shall pass over the case of Heustes as he is a Soldier in the enemys service, and the punishment of him might involve questions of delicacy which it will perhaps be more prudent to avoid—I shall be obliged to you to inform me, under what circumstances he was taken that I may be the better able to judge in what light he ought to be considered. I am Dr Sr Yr Most Obet, servant

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Inclosed you will receive the report of a committee of Officers of the right wing; in which they enter into a voluntary engagement not to purchase certain articles but at a limited price. This has originated with themselves, and though I do not expect much from it, yet as they

have entered into the measure and as its utility & success depend on its being general—I send it to you to take the sense of the Officers under your command. The experiment can do no harm and it may do good.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Scull, 3 July 1779
From: Scull, Peter
To: Washington, George

          Sir.
          War-Office [Philadelphia] 3d July 1779.

        I do myself the honour to inclose your Excellency a resolution of Congress of the 2d instant relative to the resignation of Major Burkhardt, I am, with profound respect Your Excellency’s Most obedt & most hbl. serv.

          P. Scull Secretary


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 3 July 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Fort Montgomery [N.Y.]3rd July 1779 10. OClock A.M.

        In Obedience to your Excellencies Orders I have Reconnoitre the Situation of the Enemy at Stony point & the approaches to them in the best manner that Circumstances would admit & Returned late last evening to this place.
        The sketch herewith transmitted (which differs but little from that made the Other day by Colo. Butler) will give you a General Idea of the Strength of their Works on the West Side which in my Opinion are formidable—(I think too much so for a Storm) & to attempt to Reduce it by Regular Approaches will require time as there is no ground within less distance than a half a mile but what it commands.
        The Works on Verplanks point are by no means so formidable as those on this side—altho’ they consist of four Redoubts viz. the one made by us Called La Fayette—with fraise & Dit⟨c⟩h the second Situate to the N.W. on the Rising ground near the River in which is a block House—the third thrown up round a Strong Stone House East of Fort La fayette & on the Margin of a Rising ground Commanding the Causway from the Chu⟨r⟩ch—the fourth is Situate on the East Side of the Creek & Marsh, on a hight point of Rocks commanding all the Ground in its vicinity & overlooking the causway (it has also a block House) these last three are Surrounded with Abbatis but not paired nor cou’d I discover any Embrasures perhaps they fire in Barbet.
        I am clear that they have not more than [  ] men on Stony point & about [  ] on Verplanks point in all of which I am joined in Opinion by Colo. Butler & Major Stewart who were with me on this duty & on whose judgment I much rely.
        Upon the Whole I do not think a Storm practicable—but perhaps a Surprize may be Effected—could we fall on some Stratagem to draw them out—a thought has struck me that as no party of force has ever yet been down or Appeared to the Enemy—& as I have ground to believe that an Inhabitant being near Stony point acts a double part & of course will give them every Information in his power—which goes no further than to the usual rout & number of the Reconnoitring parties—they may be Induced to Attempt an Ambuscade—or if they shou’d not attempt this a few of our people Appearing near may bring a party out in pursuit which may give an Opening to enter with them.
        shou’d your Excellency Incline to Reconnoitre the works tommorrow morning or next day I will have a proper Disposition made of the Light Corps so as to Effectually cover you, or Attempt the surprize in case it meets your Approbation—the Troops at the forrest of D[e]ane

may Co-operate with us if thought necessary. Interim I am Your Excellencies Most Obt Huml. Sert

          Anty Wayne


Title: General Orders, 4 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Sunday July 4th 1779.
          Parole St Domingo—C. Signs Hadley. Haddam.

        At a General Court-Martial held by order of Major General McDougall in the Highlands the 19th of June last, Colonel Greaton President, Lieutenant Torey [Ivory] Holland of Colonel Putnam’s regiment

was tried for “Encouraging a Prisoner at Terry town to make his escape on the 22nd of March last, it being unbecoming the character of an officer and gentleman,” found not guilty and acquitted with honor.
        The General confirms the sentence and orders Lieutenant Holland released from Arrest.
        At another General Court Martial whereof Colonel Nixon was President the 6th day of April last, a certain Isaac Depue was tried for “Assisting to seize and secretly convey to places within the possession of the british forces Major Blauvelt and Hermanus Talman, loyal Citizens of the State of New-York” unanimously adjudged guilty of the charge exhibited against him and in pursuance of a resolution of Congress of the 7th of February 1778. unanimously sentenced to suffer death, by being hung by the Neck until he shall be dead.
        At the same Court John King was tried for, “Assisting to seize and secretly convey to places within the possession of the british forces said Blauvelt & Talman and also for aiding in the taking of William Sitcher an officer in the service of the United States, also a private Soldier in the aforesaid service, and conveying them to the City of New-York,” found guilty of that part of the charge which relates to the taking of Blauvelt & Talman and unanimously sentenced to suffer death by being hung by the Neck until he the said John King shall be dead.
        Likewise Joseph Bettys was tried for “Having been a Spy for General Burgoyne (in the service of the enemy) by coming within the American lines in the State of New-York in a secret manner and returning again to the enemies of the United States, and for having forged a certificate to facilitate the execution thereof,” found guilty and unanimously sentenced to suffer death, by being hung by the Neck ’till he shall be dead.
        The Commander in Chief confirms the aforegoing sentences.
        A certain Stephen Smith was also tried by a General Court-Martial whereof Lieutenant Colonel Loring was President the 6th of January last for “Being a Spy, by coming frequently within the American lines in the States of New-York and Connecticutt in a secret manner and returning to the enemies of the United-States”—found guilty and unanimously sentenced to suffer death.
        Which sentence was afterwards approved by Major General McDougall.
        This day, being the Anniversary of our glorious Independence will be commemorated by the firing of Thirteen Cannon from West-Point at one ô clock P.M.
        The Commander in Chief thinks proper to grant a general pardon to all Prisoners in this Army under sentence of death—They are to be released from confinement accordingly.

        At a Brigade General Court-Martial June 24th 79. Lieutenant Colonel Davidson President, William Shields Waggon-Master to the North-Carolina Brigade was tried.
        1st—“For exchanging a public horse as one of his own property.”
        2nd—“For stealing the Waggoner’s forage.”
        3rdly—“For having offered for sale (or to exchange) a public Mare (as his own property) which he drew out of the continental yard for the use of the brigade.”
        4thly—“For having sold (to the driver of Major Murphy’s private team) two collars which he drew for the use of the brigade, and
        5thly—“For selling to a soldier (at near double price) cloathing he drew out of the public Store and paid for.”
        The Court do acquit him of the 1st charge but find him guilty of the last four and sentence him to be dismissed the service.
        The General is sorry to differ in opinion, in part, from the Court— It appears to him that the first charge was better supported than the second.
        Shields had no right to take the horse in the first instance, but when he was taken and put into the public service, which appears to have been the case, he became a public horse and the public was responsible for him to the original owner, therefore as he afterwards took this horse and exchanged him as his own, the first charge appears well founded.
        His being Waggon Master and taking forage from the Waggoners under him for the use of his own horses even tho’ it may have been done irregularly or wantonly can hardly be considered as a theft which the charge declares.
        These reasons do not permit the General to confirm the sentence but as Mr Shields appears to have been very culpable upon the whole, the General recommends it to the Quarter Master General immediately to dismiss him from the service.
        The General requests the commanding officers of those regiments who have furnished men for his guard to send without delay to the Adjutant General, certificates of the time of service for which they are respectively engaged.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 4 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths [Highlands, N.Y.]July 4th 1779 10 oClock Evening

        I have this moment received the enclosed Letters from Colo. Sheldon and Major Talmage, by which your Excellency will preceive that a Skirmish happened with the Enemy on the morning of the 2nd Instant, with Some loss on both Sides.
        permit me in behalf of Major Talmage to request Some releif of Clothing from the Public Store if your Excellency should think it proper. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath