Title: General Orders, 13 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Smith’s Tavern [N.Y.] Sunday June 13th 1779
            Parole Westbury—C. Signs Warwick—Wells.

          The officers commanding divisions will take the most effectual means to call in all the absent officers of their respective divisions not on essential public business to join their Corps immediately—This order must not be dispensed with or delayed on any account though the execution should be attended with expence: The good of the service and the honor of the officers where they are not absent by order, demand their immediate attendance and no excuse can or will be admited.
          The 2nd Pennsylvania Brigade is to march tomorrow morning at 5 ôclock to relieve the detachment under Colonel Williams at the Forest of Deane—It must go light and furnished with provisions to serve ’till thursday inclusively.
          Colonel Williams will communicate his instructions to Colonel

Johnson and make him acquainted with the Grounds, Roads &c.—which require his attention.
          The Inspection of the Light-Infantry is postponed ’till tomorrow afternoon, five ô clock.
          The Light-Infantry of the 2nd Pennsylvania Brigade agreeable to its’ formation in yesterday’s orders are to remain on the ground until they have passed inspection.

          After Orders June 13th 1779.
          The Honorable, The Congress have been pleased to pass the following Acts.

          In Congress June 5th 1779.
          Resolved—That Colonel Dubois, rank in the line of the Army of the United States of America after Colonel Van Cortlandt and Colo. Gansevoort.
          Resolved—That the Commission of Major granted to Captain Prowell in the 11th Pennsylvania Regiment be vacated, and that the rank of the officers continue the same as they were at the time of passing the resolution for incorporating Hartley’s and Patton’s regiments and the Independent Companies & rise according to the principle or rule established.


Title: Circular to the General Officers, 13 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Sir,
            Head Quarters Smiths Clove [N.Y.] June 13th 1779

          In case the enemy should march against West point, the inclosed is a general disposition for the army. which is to be varied according to circumstances and the particular movements of the enemy. I am Sir Yr Most Obet servant

            Go: Washington


Title: Enclosure: Contingency Orders, 12 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            [12 June 1779]

          General Disposition for the ArmyIn case of an attempt upon West point
          The alarm Guns or other Signals for calling in the Militia suddenly, are to be fired, or given the instant the enemys designs are discoverd.
          The Garrison is to attend principally to the defence of the Post—at the same time they are to spare all the Men they can with safety to that object to harrass & dispute with the enemy; every inch of ground leading to the Works; or to the heights above them.
          The divisions on this ground are to move by Different Routs to the Furnace of Dean—Lord Stirlings will take the Road from Junes’s Tavern. Baron de Kalbs take the Road which goes of[f] at Earls Mill—and General St Clairs will make use of the one at the Widow Van ambroes.
          A Battalion from the right division is to move on the Road leading

from Junes’s Tavern towards Haverstraw, to prevent our right being turned undiscovered.
          The remainder of that division is to endeavour to gain the enemys left Flank, if they should move on the Road from Kings Ferry directly to the Furnace—by Doodles town to the same place—or from Fort Montgomery thither.
          General St Clair in either of these cases is to attempt gaining the enemys right Flank.
          Baron de Kalb under these circumstances is to oppose them in Front.
          If on the other hand the enemy should rely more upon Water transportation, sending a part of their force early from Fort Montgomery by Land, along the River Road, in that case Lord Stirling will endeavour to fall upon their rear. Baron de Kalb upon their left Flank—While General St Clair opposes them in Front endeavouring to prevent them from taking possession of the heights back of our Works on Stony hill & Fort Putnam.
          Each division is to take especial care that they are not out flanked, & for this & other valuable purposes, are to keep as extended a line, and their Troops in as open order as they possibly can to be under proper command—Each division is to keep a reserve for the purpose of giving support, or in case of necessity to cover a retreat.
          It is expected that the Troops will advance boldly upon the enemy—and by no means, nor under any pretence whatsoever throw away their ammunition at long shot—A Musquet had better never be discharged than fired in so wasteful, shameful, & cowardly a manner.
          As the Country is covered with Wood—is close—& much broken, it will be necessary for the Major Generals to fix upon certain beats, or signals, for advancing in the whole, or part, retreating, &ca.
          In case individuals, or parties should get seperated from the main body (to prevent which every possible care should be used) Smiths Tavern (present head Quarters) is to be the first place of rendezvous—and Chester the second, if circumstances should so require.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 13 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters Smiths Clove [N.Y.]June 13th 1779

        I have been duly honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 7th. The high respect I bear to the State would make me silent upon a subject of such delicacy as that you have been pleased to communicate, did I not view the event which you suppose probable as pregnant with very unhappy consequences. I should regard it as one of the most unfortunate that could happen in our present circumstances—I beg leave to assure your Excellency as the result of the fullest examination of our resources and expectations, that no part of our force or supplies, can be diverted from the common defence without essentially injuring the common cause. The support of the army after every measure that can be adopted by our united efforts will be barely practicable—This I do not assert upon general and vague grounds, but from a minute inspection of the actual state and future prospects of our magazines—Much is to be apprehended, if this State on whose wisdom and energy I have always had the strongest reliance, should turn its resources into a different channel. An anxious concern for the public good will I flatter myself be admitted by your Excellency as

the only motive and a sufficient excuse, for so free a communication of my sentiments on the present interesting occasion.
        I shall give immediate directions for returning within the state the six Brass six pounders lent the Continent or others equally good. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect & personal attachment Yr Excellency’s Most Obet servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 13 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

          Sir,
          Head Quarters Smith’s Clove [N.Y.]June 13th 1779

        I yesterday received your letter of the 8th. Mine to you of the 11th will accompany this to which I refer you. No opportunity having offered, it has been delayed.
        I have directed General Knox to send you a reinforcement of Artillery men. One company he informs me is all that the general exigencies of the service will permit him to spare.
        By the establishment of the ordnance department, when you stand in need of supplies in ordinary cases, The Commanding officer of Artillery under you, with your direction and concurrence is to apply to The Board of War, with an estimate of your wants and they will give orders accordingly. In extraordinary emergencies, a demand may be made immediately on the nearest magazines.
        You will find that as soon as I received your former letter, I made an instant application to Congress for a supply of money to you. The President in a letter of the 7th instant says “The extract of a letter from Major General Gates to your Excellency is referred to the treasury, who will take order thereon.” I shall repeat the application.
        You will be pleased to address you⟨r⟩self to The Board of War and to The Clothier in Boston for the articles necessary from time to time, to supply the wants of the troops under your command.
        A report has prevailed for several days past of very important successes to the Southward. There are so many concurring circumstances, that but for the want of regular information, the fact could hardly be doubted. I send you the copy of a piece of intelligence transmitted me by the President of Congress on the 7th and the extract of a letter I have just received from Col. Mitchell. If true, it is one of the most glorious events that could have happened and will reflect the highest honor on our arms. I am Sir Yr most Obedt servant

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Officers of the Massachusetts Line, 13 June 1779
From: Officers of the Massachusetts Line
To: Washington, George

          West Point June 13th 1779

        The Remonstrance & Petition of the Subscribers, Officers in the Massachusetts line Humbly Sheweth.
        That to our great Satisfaction, Congress have Established a Rule for Promotion in the line of the Army; and we are eaquelly well pleased That Your Excellency was Authorized to Settle the Arrangement & fill the Vacancies.
        But We find Notwithstanding the Celebrated Rule which Congress have laid Down for promotion in the Army—That the Council of the State of Massachusetts Bay, did in Jany last (without knowing the Rank of the Captains in the line of the State) Commission Captain Pettingill a Major in Said line, to the prejudice of a Number of Senior Captains who are equally deserving promotion, and who are under the disagreable Necessaty of leaving the Army on that Account—Which We Humbly conceive will greatly injure the public Service.
        We therefore desire Your Excellency will be pleased to take this Matter into your Wise Consideration and grant redress, by having a regular promotion take place, which will remove the animossities & Confusion which Naturely result from unjust & irregular Promotion.

          John Bailey CollThomas Marshall Colo.Michael Jackson Colo.Noah M: Littlefield Lt Colo.Tobias Fernald Majr

Andrew Peters MajorBara. Bassett Lt Colo.Nathaniel: Winslow: MajrJohn Greaton Colo.Jotham Loring Lt Colo.Thomas Nixon Colo.Calvin Smith Lt Colo.Joseph Thompson MajrEzra Newhall Lt Colo:Jonathan Allen MajorRobert Oliver Major


Title: From George Washington to George Measam, 13 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Measam, George

          Sir
          Head Quarters Smiths Clove [N.Y.]June 13th 1779

        Your favour of the 9th instant came to hand yesterday—Three of the 6th 11th of May & 2d of June have been also received and through hurry of business lain by.
        The shoes overalls and shirts which were coming on to Fish Kill and stopped in consequence of the enemy’s approach, I have directed Col. Hay to have forwarded to the army.
        I am sorry to discover among a quantity of shoes delivered out yesterday a large proportion unfit for use. Some regiments had an inspection condemned and returned all they had received—I wish the most effectual measures to be taken to prevent the like in future—I need not enlarge on the loss to the public and injury to the service which attend instances of this kind. The shoes rejected were in some of the hhds marked & numbered RL 14. 15. 18—63. 65: 71—75—61. 72. 73—69 & 60.
        The blankets mentioned in yours of the 2d of June are to remain where they are ’till further orders.
        I am much obliged to you for the Register. It will be very useful to me. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt serv.


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 13 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

          Dear Sir
          Smith’s in the Clove [N.Y.]June the 13: 1779

        I received last night your favour of the 8th Instant. I hope General Clinton is now moving by the Routes and according to the Orders he has received from General Sullivan, under whose command he has been entirely placed for some time past—and of which I advised him by Two different conveyances, besides writing to him through the hands of General Sullivan: As it was conceived best, that the Troops composing his command should not collect at Conajoharie till the main body of the detachment with General Sullivan was nearly ready to move towards Wyoming, he was only directed to have things in such a train as to be able to assemble there upon the shortest notice—as

the point of rendezvous in the first instance and to proceed from thence either to form a junction on the Susquehannah at Tioga—or to move up the Mohawk River as he might be ordered. He is entirely as I have observed under Genl Sullivan’s direction.
        With respect to the Company of Gansevoorts Regiment remaining to guard the Stores, as General Sullivan has been promised these Troops and I would not willingly afford the most distant ground for complaint, I would wish it to rejoin the Regiment if the Troops have not proceeded so far as to render it hazardous or impracticable if other Circumstances will permit it to be done. This is my wish, however, if a tolerable number of the late drafts have joined the Regiments with General Clinton, I shall have no great objection to the Company remaining, though the Troops should not be out of reach if an equal number of Militia cannot be easily procured to answer the purposes for which it was left. I will leave the matter with you, being perfectly convinced that you will do in it as circumstances shall require, and request that you will inform the Officer commanding the Company of the line of conduct he is to pursue.
        The situation of the Enemy on the North River is much the same as it was when I wrote you on the 9.
        We have had for some days past very flattering reports through various channels, of the success of our Arms at the Southward—and I am very anxious for their confirmation. Mr Jay in a Letter of the 7th transmitted me the following, which he said was all the intelligence Congress had received from South Carolina, except what you will have seen before in the News papers.
        If this account should prove true it will be most interesting—and if it should not—or something like it—there has been a strange concurrence of lies. I have the Honor to be with great attachment & respect Dr sir Yr Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington

          P.S. You will be pleased to have the inclosed delivered to the Officer commanding the Company belonging to Gansevoort’s Regiment. I have informed him that he will receive Orders from you as to his joining his Regiment or remaining at Albany.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant William Scudder, 13 June 1779
From: Scudder, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Genl
          Albany [N.Y.] 13th June 1779

        I Wrote Genl Clinton a few Days after the New Arangement of Coln. Van Schaick’s Regt, from Fort Schuyler, that I was Superceded by Lieutenant Abraham Hardenbergh, the letter was by some means intercepted, which I did not know of till yesterday, by mentioning to the Genl relating My rank, who inform’d Me He feard it was too late, but advis’d Me to write to the Board of War imediately—In the Year 1776 I reciv’d an appointment for an Ensign & recruited Sixty four Men, Mister Hardenbergh was appointed to replace an Ensign who left us about two months after, I have ever taken rank of him & am plac’d so on the State Rank Roll. It is impossible for Me to serve My Country by being Superceded, which otherwise I would do with the Greatest Cheerfulness, was last Summer with Major Ledgard in the light Infantry in both Detachments & at the same time lost My rank Your Excellency & the Board of War Considering Me if not to late will much Oblige Your faithful & Obedient Sert

          W: Scudder Lieut: in 1s. N. York Regt

          I have not wrote to the Board of War by thinking it most proper to write Your Excellency.


Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 13 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

          Dear Sir,
          Smiths Tavern in the Clove [N.Y.]June 13th 1779.

        Your letter of yesterday with the inclosures from C——r came duly to hand—Should suspicions of him rise so high as to render it unsafe to continue in N—— Y—— I would by all means wish him to employ some person of whose attachment and abilities he entertains the best opinion, to act in his place, with a request to be critical in his observations rather than a mere retailer of Vulgar reports. To combine the best information he can get with attentive observation will prove the most likely means to obtain useful knowledge—A mode of conveying it quickly is of the utmost importance & claims much attention.
        When I can procure more of the liquid C——r writes for, it shall be sent, at present I cannot say when this may happen. I thank you for the information respecting long Island. The letter to Mr Deane shall be sent & I am Yr Most Obedt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 14 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Smith’s Tavern [N.Y.] Monday June 14th 1779.
          Parole North Carolina—C. Signs Norwales. Naples.

        As the Commander in Chief sets out this day for West Point and may be absent for two or three days, Major General Putnam will take the command of the troops in this camp ’till his return.
        Major General Putnam will assemble the General Officers and have the suspected persons lately taken up in the vicinity of this camp, brought before them and will examine into the circumstances of their case, and report to the Commander in Chief a state of facts with their opinion of measures proper to be pursued: The Adjutant General will take care to have the necessary Witnesses produced.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 14 June 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          War-Office [Philadelphia]June 14. 1779 6 o’clock P.M.

        The inclosed is a copy of a letter we have just dispatched to Lt Colo. White. We thought if these suspicions were well founded that it was of consequence your Excellency should be made acquainted with the facts; & they might coincide with other circumstances which may fall

within your immediate knowledge. If any satisfactory intelligence should be recd it shall be forwarded without delay. We have the honour to be your Excellency’s most obedt servants.

          By order of the boardTim. Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Clinton, 14 June 1779
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Albany [N.Y.] June 14th 1779

        This Day I had the honour to receive your favour of the 10th instant: as also one from Genl Sullivan of the 11th containing

Intructions for me to move up to Connojoharie & transport my Boats &c. across to Lake Otsego there to wait farther orders to join him.
        I have ordered one hundred Batteaux loaded with Stores to be transported up the River to Connojoharie by the 3d N.Y. Regt & the Detatchment under Col. Butler the former set off yesterday, the latter will set off this day.
        Upon tryal I find the hundred Boats will be entirely inadequate to transport the Army Stores & Prov[i]sion—necessary for the Expedition, I have therefore ordered one hundred more to get ready immdiately.
        As the road is difficult between the River and the Lake, it will require a great Number of Waggons to transport the Boats &c. across. I have ordered the Q.M. to collect three or four Hundred, which I am in hopes will be effected.
        The Genl advises me not to take Horses with me, but to imbark all the Troops in Boats & later the P. Saddles if there is room for them— he requires me to store the Brigade Field Peices, & take the Grasshoppers from Fort Schuyler, arming the Artillery men with Musquets, which I have ordered to be done—he also informs me that I can have a supply of Military Stores when I join him, which will be much wanted as those destined for this place have not yet arrived.
        On Consulting Genl Schuyler & considering the Difficulties which arrise in this Place during my Absence for want of a proper Officer to command I have ordered Col. V. Schaiick to take the Command here, as he is the eldest Officer in the Department leaving Lt Col. V. Dyc to command in the Fort—as Captain Graham is appointed Major.
        I enclose your Excellency a Certificate relative to Captain Graham and in the mean time shall appoint as Major in B. Orders.


Title: From George Washington to Simeon DeWitt, 14 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: DeWitt, Simeon

          Sir,
          Head Quarters Smiths Clove [N.Y.]June 14th 1779

        The inclosed letter and the map which accompanies it came to Head Quarters the day before yesterday—I wish them safe to your hands.
        I could wish you as soon as possible to furnish each of the Genl Officers with a draft of the Country in this neighbourhood, rough ones will answer the purpose fully.
        I thank you for the draft sent last—the one for the Engineers, was delivered to them. I am Sir Yr Most Obet servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 14 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          sir
          Smith’s in the Clove [N.Y.] June the 14: 1779

        On Saturday Evening I was honoured with Your Excellency’s favor of the 7th Instant and with the papers to which it refers.
        The intelligence from Carolina is very interesting as related, and I should hope from it’s coming through so many channels & from its being told so circumstantially, that it is not destitute of foundation.
        I have nothing to communicate to your Excellency respecting the Enemy. They have made no movements since my Letter of the 11th and I believe there situation is the same that it was then. I have the Honor to be with sentiments of the highest respect & esteem Yr Excellencys Most Obedt &c.

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Your Excellency will be pleased to receive three N. York papers. If we should be so happy as to receive a confirmation of the South Carolina News—when it is published—I think it would be well for the printer to subjoin the piece inclosed in black lines in Rivington’s paper of the 9th.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 15 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

          Sir,
          West point Tuesday eveng June 15th 1779

        I am very desirous to know as soon as possible what quantity of stores there is on the East side the River at Fish Kill and in the

vicinity. You will be pleased to furnish me with an estimate of those in your department—the several deposits and the quantity at each. You will also procure for me in virtue of this letter a like return of those in the Clothier’s and Commissary of Military store’s departments—I do not want a detail of particulars but a gross estimate of the most essential articles; and it is necessary I should have them by tomorrow night. Your Letter will find me then at West Point. I beg you will not fail.
        I shall be glad also to be informed whether the ordnance has been removed, if it has, to what place—if it has not I would have the twelve pounders detained. I am with great esteem Sir Yr Most Obedt servt.

          P.s. Besides furnishing the estimates, I wish you to inform me as nearly as you can the number of Waggons, that would be necessary, to remove the whole.


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

            Head-Quarters Smith’s Tavern [N.Y.] Wednesday June 16th 1779.
            Parole East-Greenwich—C. Signs Eastham. Enfield—

          Major Archibald Anderson is appointed Brigade Major to the 1st Maryland Brigade and is to be obeyed and respected accordingly.
          The Light-Companies as they are to be ready to embody on the shortest notice, are to be excused from all duties except camp and quarter guards.
          The General officers are desired to meet at Genl Putnam’s quarters tomorrow morning nine ô clock.

          After Orders June 16th—
          General Woodford’s brigade to march tomorrow morning 8 ôClock furnished with four days provision to relieve the 2nd Pennsylvania brigade at the Forest of Deane.
          One of the largest battalions on the new formation from each division to march tomorrow morning seven ô clock to West-Point furnished with two days provision—They take their Arms and Packs, only, with them.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 16 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

          Dr Sir,
          West Point June 16th 79

        I wish to see you at this place as soon as possible to have your opinion on several matters of importance. I am Yr most Obedt serv.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 17 June 1779
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          Middlebrook 17 June 1779

        Our Assembly being adjourned, I take the Liberty to acquaint your Excellency that I purpose to reside in this Neighbourhood for about a fortnight or 3 weeks, & perhaps during the Summer so that if your Excellency will be pleased to direct your dispatches for me

accordingly. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys &c.


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

          Head-Quarters Smith’s Tavern [N.Y.] Friday June 18th 1779
          Parole Persia—C. Signs Pegu. Pitts-Town.

        The Light Infantry to parade tomorrow morning 7 ô clock near the Maryland camp with four days provision their packs and blankets.
        A General Court-Martial of the line to assemble tomorrow morning nine ôClock at Lieutenant Colonel Ford’s Markee for the trial of Lieutenant Colonel Pope and such others as may be brought before them—Colonel Morgan is appointed President.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Scull, 18–19 June 1779
From: Scull, Peter
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          War-Office [Philadelphia] 18[–19]th June 1779.

        A Captain Featherstone of the 21st british regiment, is one of the gentlemen mentioned in the list of officers, forwarded to your Excellency by General Thompson for exchange on parole. He yesterday arrived in this city with the inclosed letter from Colonel Bland; and is

anxious to have your Excellency’s determination on his case. He is directed by the board to continue here ’till favour’d with your answer.
        I transmit your Excellency by order of the board, a petition of Cap. Judd of the 3d Connecticut regiment; and a return of Col. Brodhead’s officers—With respect to the latter, the board would be glad to be favoured with it, if it meets with your approbation, and you think the commissions ought to issue. I have the honour to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s very hb. serv.

          P. Scull Secretary

          19th June. Since writing the foregoing Captain Featherstone is ordered by Congress to remain at Mount-holly in Jersey ’till your Excellency’s pleasure is known.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 18 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

          Dr Sir,
          Fish Kill [N.Y.] June 18th 1779

        Mr Starr, an agent for the Board of War in a factory at Middletown, has represented to me, that the public service is like to suffer very materially from the workmen employed with him being called out to serve in the militia. The business under Mr Starr’s direction is of so much importance, that I could wish if possible, it might meet with no interruption. I am therefore induced to request the favour of Your Excellency to grant an exemption to such of the militia as are engaged in this factory. They will certainly be more useful here than they can be in the field—But as I am sensible that an indulgence of this kind may be abused and extended too far, I beg leave to suggest to your Excellency that it will be proper to accompany it with restrictions that it will prevent its being made a sanction to excuse persons who are not really intitled to it. With the most perfect respect & esteem I have the honor to be Yr Excellencys Most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington


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

          Head-Quarters Smith’s Tavern [N.Y.] Saturday June 19th 1779.
          Parole Dorchester—C. Signs Danube. Dover.

        Colonel Morgan being unable to attend the trial of Lieutenant Colonel Pope, Lieutenant Col. Ford will preside in his room. Majr Deane is appointed an additional member.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Clinton, 19 June 1779
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

          Camp Canajoharie Creek [N.Y.] June 19, 1779

        This day I was honoured with your Favour of the 13th Instant. I wrote you some time since which I find you have not yet received—I would beg leave to inform your Excellency, that I arrived in this place last Wednesday and immediately commenced transporting the Batteaux and Stores to the landing of Lake Otsego—since which time I have sent off near 300 waggons, fifty-nine of which are loaded with Batteaux the remainder with provisions—I have posted detachments of the Troops along the Road, to repair the damages done by the waggons and escort them from Fort to Fort until they arrive at the landing. Col’l. Dubary, with his regiment are bringing up a Fleet of Boats from Schenectady which are not yet arrived.
        Col’l. V’Schaick waited on me just now on his way from Fort Schuyler to Albany to take the Command in my absence. He informs me that a party of Onondaga Indians has returned from Buck Island with two Prisoners who assert that the enemy had received no reinforcement from Canada this year, that their whole force in Canada consisted only of two thousand eight hundred so that no reinforcements were expected—that Butler was in Niagara and Brant in the Seneca Country.


Title: From George Washington to Major William Goodrich, 19 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Goodrich, William

          Sir,
          [West Point, 19 June 1779]

        You are hereby authorized & required to engage as many of the Stockbridge & Scatacoke tribes of Indians as you can; and with a few good woodsmen if to be had join the Army under the command of Majr General Sullivan.
        These men are to have not more than private Soldiers pay unless you should find it necessary to distinguish the chief of each tribe by some little pecuniary, or other encouragement.
        You will be allowed Captains pay & Rations, and may, if you shd obtain & march forty Men, or upwds appoint a lieutenant (who will be allowed pay and Rations as such) to aid and assist you in this command.
        These instructions will authorise you to draw public provisions where they are to be had, & to pass certificates where there are no Commissary’s stores for such as you obtain from the Inhabitants.
        I cannot give you a precise rout because I do not know the time you will be ready to move with this party from Stockbridge nor the Situation Genl Sullivan may be in when you commence your March but at Esopus you will be able to learn where the Army is and can shape your course accordingly. Given at West point this 19th of June 1779.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 19 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Dr Sir
          West point June 19th 1779

        I am just setting out for Head Quarters; but expect to return on monday and to remain at or near this post for a few days. I have not determined what troops shall be stationary in the Garrison for the present campaign—it will depend partly on future contingencies—at this juncture a change would be inconvenient as it would be attended with a loss of time, and delay the progress of the works. My intention with respect to yourself in the general arrangement of the army is— that you shall take the immediate command of the Forts. The sooner you are on the spot the better and you will therefore be pleased without delay to remove your quarters to West point—The troops on the East side are for the present to be disposed of as follows—Nixons Brigade to take post on the Island to carry on the works there—Parsons Brigade to take post opposite the point—to send fatigue parties daily across the river to assist in the prosecution of the works—The spot has been pointed out to Genl Parsons—Huntingtons to remain where it is to guard the main Fish kill road and those leading into it.
        There are three pieces of heavy Cannon 18 poundrs just arrived here from Maryland. There is a carriage for one of them, two are without—You will give direction to Col. Lamb to have carriages provided and mount them as quick as possible. You will have a return prepared of all the arms and accoutrements wanting among the troops

on the East side of the river—For dispatch I have directed Genl Parsons to do the same with respect to those at the Garrison. I shall give an order to have them supplied.
        Lest the Adjutant Genl should have omitted sending you a copy of the orders, I inclose you the substance, appointing the mode of all future drafts of Cloathing—You will be pleased to have all the troops immediately supplied in this manner with such articles as they really stand in need of to fit them for duty. With very great esteem & regard Dr Sr I am Yr Obet servant

          Go: Washington

          P.s. Be pleased to send about an hundred light Infantry to join Col. Sheldon.


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

            Head-Quarters, Smith’s Tavern [N.Y.] Sunday June 20th 1779.
            Parole Leonidas—C. Signs Medford. Nelson.

          Duty of Brigade Majors.
          The great importance of the duties of Majors of brigades rendering it necessary that those Posts should at all times be filled with old and experienced officers, The Honorable the Continental Congress did on the 18th of February last, resolve,
          That the Majors of brigade should be chosen by the Commander in Chief from among the Majors in the line & that the duties of Brigade Inspector should also be annexed to that office.
          They are to consider themselves at all times subject to the orders of the officers commanding the brigades to which they are respectively attached, and are to receive their instructions relative to the department from the Inspector General.
          They are to remain on all occasions with their brigades whether on a march in camp or quarters and not with their Brigadiers as was formerly practised.
          They are to keep the details of their respective brigades and see that every thing prescribed in the new regulations is carried into execution with the greatest exactness.
          They are to be present at the formation of all guards and detachments sent from their brigades, to see they are formed agreeable to the rules established.
          They are to receive the general orders from the Adjutant General and those of their division from the Sub-Inspector, both which they are to communicate to their Brigadier Generals, and having added those he may issue to the brigade communicate the whole thro’ the Adjutants to the several regiments in their respective brigades.
          They must pay particular attention that all orders are distributed with the greatest exactness and dispatch, & if from sickness or any

other cause a Major of Brigade is prevented from attending for orders, he must cause the Brigadier General to be informed thereof that another Major or the eldest Captain may be ordered to perform that duty.
          In camp the Majors of Brigade will have an orderly Serjeant from their brigades to communicate their orders.
          If any extraordinary order should issue the Adjutant General will send a copy to the nearest Brigade Major noting on the order the hour he sent it and the course it is to take—The Major of Brigade who receives it, having taken a copy, will immediately dispatch it to the next brigade, first noting the hour he received it and sent it forward and signing his name; and so thro’out the different brigades as noted on the order, the last Brigade Major returning it immediately to the Adjutant General.
          These orders are to be immediately communicated to the commanding officers of brigades and regiments in the same manner as the daily orders and by one of the Brigade Majors in turn to the Sub-Inspector who will immediately communicate it to the General commanding the division.
          Whenever a Major of Brigade leaves his brigade either to go for orders or for any other purpose he must leave an Adjutant of the Brigade to perform his duty in case any orders should come to the brigade during his absence.
          The Majors of Brigade must every day regulate their Watches by that of the Adjutant General that the different beats may begin and the guards be turned out at the same minute.
          The Brigade Major of the day will attend the formation of all guards & detachments in camp.
          In Action the Majors of Brigade will assist the commanding officer of the brigade in the Formation, Manœuvres &c. of the brigade.


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 20 June 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Philadelphia 20th June 1779

        I have been honored with your Excellency’s Favor of the 14th Inst.
        Herewith enclosed is a Copy of a Letter I lately received from Major General Philips, respecting the exchange of Capt: Fetherston of the Convention Troops, with a Copy of a Resolution of Congress of the 18th Inst. on that Subject.
        Your Excellency’s Orders will find this Gentleman at Mount-Holly. The Southern Express is not yet arrived. I have the Honor to be With the greatest Esteem & Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant

          John Jay Presidt


Title: From George Washington to John Pierce, Jr., 20 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Pierce, John Jr.

          Sir
          Smith’s in the Clove [N.Y.] June 20. 1779

        In the Course of the Winter sundry Warrants were granted to Virginia Officers in order to obtain Money for paying bounties given by

the State to such of their Men as should reinlist. I do not know the amount. Captain Moss the Bearer of this has come to Camp to replace the advances on the part of the State. You will be pleased to make out an account of them & settle it with him. If The Money Captain Moss has with him should not be sufficient to pay the whole, yet you will receive it as far as it will go.
        After you have settled with Captain Moss which you will accomplish as soon as you can, you will proceed to Chester in the State of New York & with the Money Chest—and if you should find when you arrive there that you can be tolerably w[e]ll accomodated for doing business where part of the Army lies in Smith’s Clove you will move there. you will advise me by the earliest opportunity of your arrival. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to John Augustine Washington, 20 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, John Augustine

          Dear Brother,
          State of Newyork (12 miles from our posts on the North River[)].June. 20th 1779.

        A day or two before I left Middle Brook I received a letter from you dated in Williamsburg (at what time I do not now recollect as the letter is with my baggage). The hurried state I was then, and ever since have been in, prevented my acknowledging it sooner; and to tell you three weeks after the event has happened, that the Enemy moved up the North River in force, is a little out of season.
        The apparent design however of this movement was an attack upon our posts in the highlands; but after dispossessing us of a small post at Kings Ferry, garrisoned by abt 40 men (Merely to prevent their Row Galleys and small picaroons from interrupting the passage of the river at that place,) they set themselves down on both sides and began to fortify with astonishing industry. The spots they have chosen are to all intents and purposes, Islands—strong by nature and almost inaccessible by land, but open and exposed to their shipping, which ever has, and ever will give us immense trouble till there can be a counterbalance. At present it is a source of much mischief & great perplexity to us as there is no counteracting them.
        So soon as these operations pointed evidently up the North River, I began my march (illy enough prepared Heaven knows,) for this place, in order to give succour to the posts; and whether this and the state of the Garrison, (better prepared for defense perhaps than they imagined) prevented the prosecution of their plan, or whether by taking possession of the best crossing place below the mountains, they meant to render the communication between the East and West side of the river more circuitous and difficult, and consequently our cover of the Country more intricate, dangerous, and ineffectual: or lastly whether by drawing our attention to the Fort, which is considered by us as a great and primary object, they do not expect to obtain by means of their canvass wings, and easy transportation by water advantages else where, is more than I can decide with any degree of certainty; though it is beyond a doubt that while the Enemy retain their present position I must hold mine.
        I am very sorry to hear that the plunder taken from Virginia by the detachment commanded by Genl Matthews was so immense; it is some consolation and indeed pleasure to hear that a large part of it belonged to speculators. I am equally concerned to hear that they have done this without opposition, Their own papers boast of the destruction and consequent injury to us, without the loss of a single man. This does not reflect much honor upon the spirit of my

Countrymen. They might, they ought to have bestowed a few guns if no more, upon the party that moved to Suffolk. Riches so easily and cheaply purchased will be a powerfull inducement to another visit. Wealth even among the boasting sons of Britain has charms more powerful than honor and glory acquired by hard knocks.
        We have waited so long in vain for a confirmation of the good news from So. Carolina, that we begin to despond, so far at least as to fear, that the advantages obtained on our side, are not so decisive as we were encouraged by various accounts to beleive.
        If there is any thing in your letter which required particular notice, my silence thereon must be accounted for by my seperation from the letters, and not recollecting the contents. My love and best wishes attend my sister, and every part and parcel of your family. With the most sincere regard and affection, I am yours.

          Geo: Washington.


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

          Head-Quarters Smith’s Tavern [N.Y.] Monday June 21st 1779
          Parole Framingham—C. Signs Freehold. Fairfax.

        As the Commander in Chief will be absent several days from this camp, General Putnam will take the command here ’till his return.
        Colonel Davies, as eldest Sub-Inspector will do the duty of Adjutant General during said time.

        Six Drums and Fifes from the Virginia, four from the Maryland and six from the Pennsylvania lines to be sent to join the Light, Infantry immediately.
        At the General Court Martial of the line whereof Lieutenant Colonel Ford is President, Smith’s-Clove June 19th.
        Lieutenant Colonel Pope was tried for, “Defrauding the Public of the services of one Joseph Hibbard a private soldier in the Delaware regiment, by employing him in his domestic business in the spring and summer of the year 1778.”
        The Court are of opinion the charge against Lieutt Colonel Pope is groundless and they do acquit him of it with honor. The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion of the Court and orders Lieutt Colonel Pope to be immediately released from Arrest.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 21 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentn
          Smiths in the Clove [N.Y.] June 21st 1779

        Your favor of the 14th arrived at Hd Qrs about 10 OClock on the night of the 18th but owing to my being absent at West point I did not receive it till yesterday. The Gentn of the light horse of Philadelphia and Lieut. Col. White will have made report upon the subject of it. If any circumstances should occur, indicating a design on the part of the enemy against Philadelphia—I shall communicate the earliest notice after they come to my knowledge; At present there is nothing that seems to point to such an enterprise. The Enemy remain nearly in the situation they were at Verplanks & stoney point.
        I inclose the Board an Invoice of some cloathes in the hands of Mr Hunter at Fredericksburg, which Genl Woodford gave me yesterday, that they may direct them to be purchased, if they should think it necessary.

          G.W.

          P.S. I return the Commission of Capt. Finney, it must be renewed & dated the 10th of Augt, 1776, which it seems is the time he succeeded to a company. I also return the memorial of Captain Keene—he is to be arranged in the 11th Pennsylvania—and his commission dated the 13th Jany 1777—If he is in Philadelphia he should be directed to join the Regiment.

            G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Richard Butler, 21 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Butler, Richard

          Sir,
          [Smiths Clove, N.Y., 21 June 1779]

        I have received your letter of yesterday. I imagine the complement of infantry has been completed since you left this, and have directed a proportion of drums and fifes to be sent you.
        On a more particular examination of the fort and its dependencies, I find that the forest of Deane is not an eligible post for your main body; but that it will be better stationed somewhere at A in the inclosed map—as the convenience of incampment may admit. You will be better situated here to oppose a movement of the enemy against the forts, as it is most probable they would land at Fort Montgomery and at B—to march by the River road with a strong flanking party on the heights that overlook it for the security of the main column in its march. This situation will enable you to possess every advantageous piece of ground before them and fall upon their front or left flank as circumstances may point out, preserving constantly a communication with the forts—But in order to prevent your right flank being turned, it will be proper to have a pretty strong picket at the Forrest—a smaller one at Rowe’s house and another at Fort

Montgomery⟨,⟩ one at the landing B will also be essential. From these, patroles should be continually going on the different roads leading to the enemy—to gain timely notice of any movement from below.
        The inclosed map is from actual survey and is intended for the use of the Commanding officer at the post—No copies of it are by any means to be taken lest by any accident one of them should fall into the enemys hands to whom it would be of the greatest utility. Just that part of it which will probably be your immediate scene of action may be communicated to the principal officers with you, with a caution to take the most particular care of it. I am with great regard Yr most Obed. servt.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 21 June 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          providence [R.I.] 21st June 1779

        Fryday Evening I had the Honour to receive Your Excellency’s Letters of the 11th, & 13th of this Month. When I took the Liberty to Suggest that a Glorious Opportunity presented itself for Attacking New York, I conceived the Detachments The Enemys General had made from thence, during his Winter Quarters, was much Greater than from Your Excellencys better information I was well warranted to believe—my intelligence was the best I could procure; and is, I find, only right in The Numbers sent from New York to Georgia, 3500. You will therefore pardon my Zeal for your Honour, which hurryed me into an Opinion, that you might by One Great St[ro]ke Triumphantly Finish the War.
        The Money which you were so Obliging to request Congress to Order to This Department, arrived on Thursday. I immediately Ordered 10,000 Dollars to be paid to each of the Continental Regiments, for the purpose of Recruiting; but being without the Late Resolves of Congress, or any proper information upon that Head, I can only give such instructions as by a Meeting held with the Commanding Officers of Regiments, has been Judged Sufficient—Your Excellency knows, in The Circumstances of Our Army, there was no delaying this business.
        I note with particular Attention what your Excellency says with regard to Our Allies—The Board of War, The Ordnance—& The Commissaries of Cloathing, to all which I shall pay due Obedience. The Nature of Our War is such, that Officers in High Command have Often no prescribed Rule to Govern their proceedings, if therefore, upon a General review of Their Conduct, They shall be found to have Acted with Honour, & Integrity, I can’t persuade myself to Doubt, That both Congress, and Your Excellency, will applaud their Actions.
        The Good News contain’d in The Extract from Mr Mitchels Letter, Fills me with Joy, and Admiration! I do most Heartily Congratulate Your Excellency upon the Signal Success of General Lincoln, & The Army under His, & General Moultrie’s Command; This Victory, Compleatly relieves the Southern States from the Miseries of The War, may they never again Experience The like Horrid Calamities.
        I have considered deeply The last paragraph of Your Excellency’s Letter, the 11th Inst.; which mentions particularly The post Sr H: Clinton has taken upon both sides of Kings Ferry, and The Advantages you believe he expects to Obtain from that movement of His Army—The Affairs of Britain are desperate; His Affairs, from The Losses to the Southward, are more Desperate; from the Character of

The Man, & The predicament he Stands in, I think he will put all to The Hazzard, and resolve to attempt The Reduction of West-point; to do which, it is Absolutely necessary he should first gain some Signal Advantage over your Army: If, by Skirmishing with your Light Troops and Rifle Men, you could draw Him upon a Field of Battle of your Own Choosing, He may Fall into the pit, He wishes to prepare for You. Be Assured, Sir, He will do all he can to bring you to Action; his Zeal to do that, may, bring Him to the very Spot you wish to Engage upon.
        The inclosed Letter to The Council of Massachusetts Bay, will convince Your Excellency that it is immediately necessary, some Measures should be taken to prevent the State Commissarys of prisoners, from sending, when, where, and as many prisoners to The Enemy, as they think proper. I am much deceived, if every one of those sent last Week from Boston, to New York, are not now working the Enemy’s boats upon the North River, which Strengthens their Files so many Men. I am &c.

          H.G.


Title: From George Washington to James Geary, 21 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Geary, James

          Sir
          Smiths Clove [N.Y.] June 21st 1779

        Yr favr of yesterdays date I have received & must refer you, for the issuing the several articles in yr possession to a general order which I transmitted to you from West point, two or three days past—It may

be well to remind you, that more than one pr of overall must not be issued to a Soldier, untill each has recd, that quantity. I am Sr Yr Mo. Obet svt

          G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Mordecai Gist, 21 June 1779
From: Gist, Mordecai
To: Washington, George

          sir
          Baltimore 21 June 79

        Your favor of the 3d Inst. covering letters to Colonel Rogers and Mr Daniel Bowers came to hand a few days ago and are since deliverd the latter is a Gentleman of German Extraction who I am Informd has Manifested his Attachment to the liberty and Independency of America on several Occasions among his Countrymen and his circumstances are such as would not admit an Offer from Your Excellency that carried the Idea of compensation; the Enemy left the State of Virginia Immediately after my Arrival at this place since which the Bay has been Infested with a Number of Brittish Privateers. in Compy with the other Sloop of War a Number of Letter of Mark Vessels under Convoy of the State Gallies are gone down to Attack and force their way to sea.
        Your Lady arrivd here Yesterday in perfect health and purposes continueing a few days in Baltimore after which I shall Immediately set out to rejoin the Army.
        We have no Confirmation of the Repulse said to be given the Enemy before Charles Town. I have the Honor to be with due respect Yr Excellencys Mo. Obdt Servt

          M. Gist


Title: From George Washington to Colonel David Hall, 21 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hall, David

          Sir,
          Smith’s in the Clove [N.Y.] June 21: 1779

        I have received your letter of the 17th.
        You will be pleased to comply with the requisition of the state for three or more officers according to the number of officers your regiment can spare in its present state without injury to the service.
        Capt. McLean & his Company is now attached to Major Lee’s corps and will not interfere with the officers of your regiment.
        So soon as the stores at Middle Brook and in the vicinity are so far removed as that the remainder is not an object with the enemy, you will proceed with your regiment to join the army. I am Sir Yr most Obedt hum. servant.


Title: To George Washington from Major Henry Lee, Jr., 21 June 1779
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          June 21st 1779

        Since my last, no Movement has taken place among the Enemy encamped on this Side the River.
        Two very intelligent Deserters this Morning from Stony-point, mention that Yesterday a Body of Troops (number unknown) embarked from the East Side of the River between the Hours of twelve & two.
        They confirm the Information communicated in my last concerning the 63d & 64th regiments being about to move from Stony-point. They also say, that two Days since, the sick & the aged Soldiers, the women with Children, and all the Baggage belonging to both Officers & Soldiers, were put on Board for N. York.
        The following is a very accurate State of their naval Force at King’s Ferry.
        one 50 Gun Ship—the rainbow
        Armed Sloops & Schooners
        Floating Batteries

        Gun boats
        Bomb ketches
        Row Galleys
        Transports & Victuallers—Numbers not ascertained.
        Their chief Work on Stony-point is a triangular Fort on the Summit of the Eminence exceedingly strong, & doubly abattied. On every Spot in their Camp which admits of it, they have erected Batteries. They talk also of opening a Canal, & forming draw-Bridges. They have in their several Works, seven twenty fours—2 medium Twelves— 2 long twelves and 2 threes all brass—They also have one Howitzer, two Mortars, and six Iron sixes not mounted.
        Genl Clinton is not yet returned from New York—Genl Vaughn commands in chief—Colo. Johnston of the 17th commands at Stony-point.
        It is reported in their Camp that Lord Cornwallis has arrived at the Hook with a reinforcement under Convoy of Admiral Arbuthnot. They do not credit the News from the Southward.
        I begin to apprehend that Genl Clinton has Designs up the East river—He certainly means to draw off all the Troops but a sufficient Garrison to possess the Ferry. This he keeps to distress us in the Conveyance of Support to our Troops should your Excellency follow him to the Eastward as expected.
        Your Excellency will pardon me for the Intrusion of my Opinion— it proceeds only from a Desire of exhibiting every probable Object that may engage the Enemy’s Attention.
        Many Deserters get in from your Excellcy’s Army. The Manner of sending Scouts by Detail from Divisions afford them good Opportunity. A Detachment seldom comes down without losing several of its Men before they return. There can be no Object in the reach of these parties adequate to their certain Loss. Good Intelligence cannot be obtained by flying parties. The Enemy continue so close within their Lines, that there are no Hopes of meeting with Marauders & protecting the people from their Depredations. Picquets of Armies stationary, & under Cover of Works cannot be easily carried. Officers on Command, anxious to perform some Service, are apt to engage in improbable Attempts. Accidents happen, & Soldiers are lost without Venture of Service. I lay these Observations before your Excellency because they originate from what I see & know. I have the Honor to be, &c.

          Henry Lee jr


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 21 June 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          West Point 21st June 1779 10 A.M.

        The inclosed Letters will inform you of what is passing with The Enemy. A movement will soon take place. Nixon and Parsons Brigades are on the Positions you were pleased to assign them. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency Hble Servant.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 21 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

          Sir,
          Head Quarters Smiths Cloves [N.Y.] June 21st 1779

        As I am removing Head Quarters for the present from this place to New Windsor you will have the immediate command of the troops in this camp. Should any letters arrive for me immediately from the forts or out posts, you will open them for your own information and then forward them to me—All others, you will forward directly on unopened.
        I wish you without delay to have the inquiry which was directed in the case of the suspected persons in confinement, brought to a conclusion, that they may be either punished, released or transferred to the civil law—For this purpose you will have the necessary witnesses called in, wherever they may be. If guilty, the sooner they are made an example of, the better—if innocent, ’tis a pity they should suffer a tedious confinement. I am Sr Yr Obedt serv.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 21 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

          My Lord
          June 21: 1779

        I inclose you a Memorial from Mr Drew and request that you will direct a Board of Field Officers in the Virginia line to sit to morrow and enquire into the facts stated by him & to report their Opinions of the Arrangement that should be made of the Captains & Other inferior Officers in the three incorporated Regiments of Gist— Grayson & Thruston. I would wish it to be a full Board. Your Lordship will perceive that it will not be proper for Colo. Gist to be a Member. I am with great regard Yr Lordship’s Most Obedt sert

          G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 21 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Smiths in the Clove [N.Y.] June 21: 1779

        I request that you will join the Army as soon as you can. I wrote you upon this subject before we marched from Middle Brook, but as you have not arrived—It is probable my Letter has miscarried or that it

did not come to hand till very lately. I am Dr Sir with great regard Yr Most Obedt servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Patterson, 22 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Patterson, William

          Sir,
          Head Quarters June 22d 1779

        I duly received your letter of the 29th of May, which hurry of business has prevented my acknowleging sooner.

        The present situation of affairs will only allow me time to request you will deliver the money you mention as remaining in your hands to the Pay Master General or his nearest deputy.
        I am much obliged to you for the intelligence you communicate and am Sir Your most Obedt humble servant.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 23 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Brodhead, Daniel

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 23. 1779

        I have duly received your several favours of the 14th 22d and 29th of May and 5th of June with their inclosures—The situation of affairs in this quarter prevented my acknowleging some of them sooner.
        With respect to the men raised in Monongahala and Ohio Counties—such of them as were raised without proper authority or contrary to the terms prescribed are certainly not intitled to pay from the public; but whether it may be expedient or not to pay them, I must leave to you who are on the spot and can best judge of circumstances—On one hand all unnecessary expence is to be avoided and irregular levies of men discouraged—on the other it is to be considered what effect a refusal of payment may have upon the minds of the militia and what influence upon their future services.
        With respect to the proposed incorporation of Heaths and Morehead’s companies with the regiments, as I am unacquainted with the establishment or terms on which they were raised I cannot determine its propriety. But if it could be effected consistent with their establishment it would be desireable, taking care to annex them to the troops of the state to which they belong—I would recommend however at all events the reinlistment of all the men of the independent companies, engaged for a limited term, who are willing to enter into the established corps during the war. The bounty to be given must be governed by what is allowed by the State—in whose troops they engage.

        I am very happy to see the favourable accounts you communicate of the friendly dispositions of some of those tribes who have been heretofore inimical—I hope they may be sincere and I doubt not you will do every thing in your power to conform them—I approve your idea of inflaming the rivalship which is said to subsist between the Wyondots and Mingoes—and I shall be glad it may be in your power to induce the former to aid you in some decisive stroke against the latter—If it can be done with a good prospect of success—the attempt ought to be made. Besides the happy influence it would have on the Indians you have more immediately to do with, by encouraging your friends and intimidating your enemies; it would operate as an useful diversion in favour of the expedition under General Sullivan.
        The authority for drawing out the neighbouring militia on an emergency must come from the States to which they belong—I would wish you to make application to them to know from what counties and in what manner it is to be done. In the mean time you will act as necessity and the good of the service may require.
        About three weeks since the enemy made a movement up the North River and took post at Kings ferry on the opposite sides of the river— at Verplanks and Stoney points. They have strongly fortified the latter and appear to intend keeping possession. ’Tis probable their ultimate design may be against the forts that protect the communication of the River—To counteract them if this should be their view—I have moved the main body of the army for the present into the Clove.
        For some time past a variety of flattering accounts have been circulating of a capital defeat of the enemy to the Southward near Charlestown—an official account has been long expected; but has not arrived—A late paper from New York seems to invalidate the report and lessen our expectations. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt hume servant.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 23 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 23d 79

        Two days since I removed my quarters to this place where I am more contiguous to the forts and best situated to attend to the different parts of the army. By my last advices the enemy at Kings ferry were embarking their baggage and some heavy cannon and preparing for a movement either up or down the river.
        Your Excellency will find in the inclosed New York Gazette of the 19th two or three pieces of intelligence of a very disagreeable nature and with too much an appearance of authenticity—There is a pretty wide difference between their representation of Southern affairs and ours. With very great respect and esteem I have the honor to be Yr Excellys Most Obedt servant

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Your favour of the 15th reached me yesterday. Lt Smith must comply with his summons.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 23 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Dr Sir
          45 Minutes past 9 P.M.Head Quarters [New Windsor] June 23. 79

        Half an hour ago I received your Note at eight P.M. In consequence of the intelligence Col. Butler communicates I have directed General Putnam to advance a brigade early in the morning to the Forest of Deane.
        If you receive any further advice, you will be pleased instantly to give me notice of it; and at the same time, send a messenger to General Putnam, that he may be the more certain of receiving the speediest information. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt. ser.

          Go: Washington

          I take it for granted you have given notice to the troops on the East side.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Scull, 23 June 1779
From: Scull, Peter
To: Washington, George

          Sir.
          War-Office [Philadelphia] 23d [June] 1779.

        I have the honour to send your Excellency herewith several commissions for officers in the ninth pennsylvania regiment, and one for an officer in the eighth Connecticut regiment whose promotion took place from the resignation of Ltt Hitchcock, forwarded to this office some time since.
        The New Hampshire line & Spencer’s and the german regiments are commissioned, and I only wait for an opportunity of conveying them to General Sullivan. I have the honour to be with profound respect Your Excellency’s most hbl. serv.

          P. Scull Secretary


Title: General Orders, 24 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Thursday June 24th 79.

        Captain Henry Hardman of the 7th Maryland regiment, intitled to a Majority, is appointed Brigade Major to the 2nd Maryland Brigade, and is to be obeyed and respected accordingly.

        The officers commanding Brigades will cause immediate application to be made agreeable to the general order of the 19th of May last for all deficiencies of Arms in their respective brigades.
        Colonel Williams of the Maryland line is appointed Sub-Inspector and is to be according[ly] obeyed and respected.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Richard Butler, 24 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Butler, Richard

          Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 24th 1779

        I have received your two favours of the 22d and 23d—I am obliged to you for your observations on the country and on the movements you conceive it possible for the enemy to make.
        My letter of the 21st contained general directions for your conduct in case of a movement against the forts, which is the main object of your present disposition. Your own judgment must point out to you the particular measures it will be proper to take in the variety of operations with which the enemy may attempt their reduction. With respect to any enterprises against them, if you find a good opportunity to strike some little stroke you have my permission to improve it. I would wish you to be cautious to prevent desertion, by employing as much as possible your most trusty men in the parties advanced nearest the enemy. I know it is difficult to discriminate but it may be done in some degree without appearing to do it.
        I approve the proposal for erecting a be[a]con; you will give notice to General Putnam & General McDougall.
        You may have as many tents brought down as you think absolutely necessary; but as they will be an incumbrance and somewhat in danger in case of action, you will have as few as possible. I shall direct a boat to be sent you. I shall endeavour to have you as well supplied with rum as our stock will permit—Doctor Cockran shall be directed to furnish surgeons.

        I think I desired you in my last to give instant intelligence to General Putnam in the Clove and General McDougall at West Point of the movements of the enemy.
        General Smallwood with his brigade was to march this morning, to the Forest of Deane—You will communicate & cooperate with him— and agree upon the piquets to be furnished to prevent an unnecessary number of Men being sent on duty. I am with regard D. Sir Yr Most Obedt servt.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 24 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dr Sir
          Head Qrs New Windsor June 24 1779

        That I might be more convenient to the Works at West point, I removed my quarters to this place on Monday last. I have only to add upon this subject, that I shall be happy to see Your Excellency here, as often as your leisure will permit.
        There has been no Official account received from Charles Town as yet that I know of; but I have no doubt but that there has been an Action there, and that the issue has been in our favour. The inclosed is a Copy of a Letter I just received from General Greene, in which the Affair is so particularly related, that it is hardly possible it can be destitute of foundation. I trust we shall have in a few days the fullest confirmation. I have the Honor to be with great regard & respect Yr Excellency’s Most Hble Servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Captain Charles de Frey, 24 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Frey, Joseph-Pierre-Charles, baron de

          Sir,
          New Windsor June 24th 1779

        I have received your letter of the 21st with the inclosed papers. It appears from the representation you make that you have been injured by the introduction of Capt. Celerone over you—But all I have it in my power to do at this distance is to give you a letter to General Lincoln, requesting him to have your affair regularly inquired into and arranged on military principles. This if you think proper I shall be ready to send you. I am Sir Yr Most Obed. ser.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 24 June 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Smiths Clove [N.Y.] June 24th 1779.

        There is a man now at my Tent whose name is Spencer with whom I am well acquainted. He has just returned from Ch’s Town in South

Carolina, and is on his way to Rhode Island from whence he sailed in a Brig of my Brother’s some time since for Ch’s Town, after a load of Rice on the public’s account and was taken by one of Goodriches fleet landed near that city.
        He says he was in the action that happened on the 11th & from my knowledge of the person I verily believe it is true. He was Mate of the Vessel & is a person to be confided in.
        His acco’t is as follows:—Genl. Pulaski arrived there the 7th; on the 8th he went out & surprised the advancd party of the enemy that lay at the quarter House, about six miles from the city, & took one hundred & eighty four prisoners, four of which were Indians. On the 11th the enemy made an attack upon the town, about six o’Clock in the evening; the attack was very severe & lasted three hours, when they were repulsed, leaving six hundred & fifty three upon the ground. They retreated back to the quarter house, where they remained when he came away. The town is fortifyed with two lines that runs across from Ashleys to Coopers river, Our troops were posted in these two lines. Gov’r Rutlige, Genl. Williamson & Genl. Moultrie were in the town. The Sailors belonging to the shipping were posted in the Batteries, Mr. Spencer who gave this acco’t, among others. The Inhabitants who were capable to bear arms were all ordered within the lines, and it was thought the soldiers, sailors & citizens amounted to seven thousand. Our Rowe Gallies & other Vessels of force were drawn up in each river upon the flanks of the works to scour the trenches.
        The enemy during the attack attempted to land 1500 men within the town in Ashley river; they went in between the shipping & the intrenchments. Our people discovered them as they attempted to land & gave them a repulse. They had passed the shipping undiscovered but the fire within the line discovered the manoeuvre to the fleet from which they kept up such a hot fire that they could not return and were obliged to retreat to Johns Island & from thence to James’ Island. The fortifications of that Island being blown up & evacuated by our people at the same instant of time. Here they remained when Mr. Spencer came away, being unable to join the main body & obliged to retreat (If they can make any) by the way of Buford [Beaufort] or Portroyal, The town was in high spirits & wished a second attack. Mr. Spencer left the town the 13th & found the road lined with people going in. There was no certain intelligence where Genl. Lincoln was that was known to the common people when he came away; some said that he was within three days march of the town, others that he was in Georgia. The Enemy had no fleet in the Bay. Our people had high expectations of making the whole of the enemy prisoners. We lost but

two men in the action. A major was killed afterward by accident by one of our own Sentinels. I am &c.

          Nat’l Greene.

          N.B. The common people were not allowed to go without the lines, but the report concerning the enemy that were left behind, was from Officers that had counted them. The reason why there has been no official accounts it is supposed the expresses have been killed on the road, as numbers of people have been killed in No. Carolina lately.
          Mr. Spencer has sworn to this acco’t.


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 24 June 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Philadelphia 24th June 1779

        Herewith enclosed Your Excellency will receive a Copy of an Act of Congress of the 22nd Instant, on the Subject of Plundering the Inhabitants of Places in Possession of the Enemy. I have the honor

to be With the greatest Respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant

          John Jay Presidt

          P.S: No Express yet from the Southward.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 24 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Dear Sir
          New Windsor June 24: 1779 7 OClock

        I shall be obliged by your informing me by the return of the Bearer, whether you have received any further accounts respecting the party of the Enemy, mentioned by Colonel Butler in his Letter of Yesterday—or whether you have heard of any other movements. I am Dr sir with great esteem & regard Yr Most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. I shall set out for West point about 12 oClock and am desirous of hearing upon the subject above before I leave this.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 25 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentlemen
          Head Quarters New Windsor June 25: 1779

        I was last night honoured with Your favors of the 18 & 19 Instant.
        I have directed the Commissary of Prisoners to permit Capn Fetherston (I believe he was only a Lieutenant when taken) to go to New York on parole, subject to be recalled whenever we think proper, unless his absolute exchange is effected, which I would prefer.
        I have examined and considered the petition of Captain Judd—and it appears to me, that his claim has no foundation. He has no right to precedence of the Officers arranged before him by the State, from the Majority he held in the Militia. The appointment of Officers was with the State—and they had an unquestionable right to promote any before him, who was only then introduced into the Army. Besides the Resolution of Congress of the 16 September 1776 which authorised this—those of the 24th of November last are explicitly against his pretensions in every point of view. He must stand at the point of rank in which he was placed.
        I return the Arrangement of Colo. Brodhead’s Regiment, which I suppose is generally right: However as there are Two Lieutenants and the whole of the Ensigns of new appointments, it will be proper for the Board to have it approved in these instances, by the State, previous to their issuing Commissions. Archibald Reed must be arranged

before Alexander Graham if these Commissions are dated when the Vacancies to which they are appointed happened. there is an inconsistency as they now stand. Colo. Brodhead mentions that Capn Swearingen & Lieut. Hardin intend to resign. I shall be very sorry if they do, as they are both exceeding good Officers—and particularly calculated as he observes, for a Frontier—desultory service; yet I do not know that any thing can be done for ’em—or that they have been injured in their promotion—indeed this is not suggested. The Board will see the appointments of Colo. Brodhead & his two field Officers in the Arrangement of the Field Officers transmitted in my Letter of the 23d.
        I am just now favoured with Your Letter of the 21st inclosing one from Mr Pettingill of the Massachuset’s line. The Arrangement of this will be entered upon as soon as possible, when his case will be considered. The promotion he received from the State is remonstrated against by a number of their Officers, among whom there are Sixteen Field Officers. I believe I shall never have done with disputes of this sort—scar⟨c⟩ely a day passes without applications on the subject. If in the course of events, it should become necessary to levy New Troops on account of the expiration of the inlistments of the Old, I trust that some mode will be adopted, by which the Arrangements made & making, will be held inviolate. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem &c.

          G.W.

          P.S. Capn Judd’s petition is dated 21st May 1779—It is probable that he is with the Army; but as he addressed the Board—he may expect an Answer from them. If Major Massie is in philadelpa, The Board will be pleased to have the inclosed delivered to him; if not, they will return it.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 25 June 1779
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Pittsburgh June 25th 1779

        About a Fortnight ago three Men which I had sent to reconnoiter the Seneca Country returned from Venango having been chased by a number of Warriors who were coming down the Allegehany in Canoes they continued the pursuit until they came some distance this side the Kittaning & the White men narrowly escaped, A few days afterwards Captn Bready with 20 white men & one Young Delaware Chief (all well painted) Set out towards the Seneca Country & some of the Indian Warriors Came in to the Inhabitants, they Killed a Soldier between Forts Crawford & Hand & proceeded towards Sewickly Settlement where they killed a Woman & Four Children & took two Children Prisoners. Captn Brady fell in with 7 Indians (who had done this Mischief) about 15 Miles above Kittaning where they had chosen an advantageous Situation for their Camp Surrounded them as well as the Situation would admit & finding he was discovered by the

break of day he attackd them & killed the Captn who was a notorious Warrior of the Muncy Nation & mortally wounded most of them but they being encamp’d near a remarkable thicket & having (as is customary with them) stopd their Wounds just after they received them they could not be found—Captn Brady retook Six horses, the two Prisoners the Scalps & all their plunder which was considerable & took Six Guns and every thing else the Indians had except their Bretch Clouts Captn Brady & most of his men Acted with great Spirit & intrepidity but it is confest that the Young Delaware Chief Nonowland (or George Wilson), distinguished himself on this Enterprize & I have the pleasure to inform your Excellency that the Delaware Chiefs are safely returned from Philadelp. & one of them agreeable to their Custom stepd forward to the party & receiv’d the Scalp in Triumph, Before Captn Brady returned, Lt. Hardin who has often distinguishd himself as a Partizan with 11 choice Men set out for the Seneca Country & I am convinced he will not return without Prisoners or Scalps. I have once more thrown in a small Supply of Salt provisions for the Garrison at Fort Lawrens & Lt. Coll Bayard with 120 Rank & file is now erecting a stockade Fort at Kittaning.
        The Mohickan & Shawnese chiefs have sent me a Speech by a String of Wampum requesting me to take pity on them & suffer them to enjoy the blessings of Peace I believe I have frightened them by bringing over to our Interest their chief Allies, the Wyandots, Tawas, Chipewas and pootiotemees By the inclosed Copys of Letters & Speeches Yr Excellency will discover the change & if I had but a small quantity of Indian Goods I would make them assist me in humbling the Mingoes up Allegany & the English at Detroit, but unfortunately I am not in possession of a Single Article to pay them for their services, I have enclosed the proceedings of the Genl Court Martial which your Excellency was pleased to order in expectation of receiving your directions respecting them—With great pleasure I can now inform your Excellency that I have upwards of four hundred head of Beef Cattle & near a Thousand Kegs of Flour with which had I your permission I conceive I could make a successful expedition against the Senecas I have the Honor to be with the most sincere regard & Esteem Yr Excellencys most Obt & most Hble Servt

          Daniel Brodhead


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 25 June 1779
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir,
          Pokeepsie [N.Y.] 25: June 1779

        I am much obliged to your Excellency for your Letter of Yesterday inclosg Spencer’s Relation of our Sucesses to the Southward—I now transmit a Copy of a Letter that I have this Moment recd from Colo. Drake who has unfortunately had two of his Pickets surprized by the Enemy—the one of them entirely cut off. I fear from the Tenor of Colo. Drake’s Letter that this will so dispirit the Militia as to occasion them to retire farther back into the Country and of Course leave it open to the uninterrupted Ravages of the Enemy & enable them to draw from us large Supplies.
        The repeated Misfortune we have experienced from the Inattention of our Guards have not yet taught the Militia to be sufficiently vigilant and careful to be intrusted with the Charge of our advanced Posts and I dread the worst of Consequences in that Quarter unless we can have a few Companies of well disciplined Troops under an Active Officer to give Countenance to the Militia and keep them together—As soon as I can get a letter thro’ the present Hurry of Business I shall do myself the Pleasure of waiting upon your Excellency at Windsor and am &.


Title: From George Washington to James Craik, 25 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Craik, James

          Dr Sir
          Head Qrs New Windsor June 25: 1779

        I received Your Letter to Mr Harrison. As nothing can be more disagreable—or more injurious to the public service than disputes and differences between the Army and people—I would wish to avoid them in every possible case. In the present instance—as the Inhabitants do or soon will, want their Barnes—and have applyed to the Governor & Council to have the sick removed; I wish that they may be carried to Pluckhimin—where I should hope, the Barracks may be made to afford them tolerable accomodations—and the more so, as it was thought at first on inquiry into the matter—that they would answer. I am Dr Sir with great regard Yr Most Obedt sert

          G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Fitzhugh, 25 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzhugh, William

          Dear Sir,
          New Windsor on Hudson’s Rivr June 25th 1779.

        Your letter of the 19th Ulto found me at my Winter quarters at Middle brook, but so much occupied in preparing to take the field, & for my March hitherwards as to put it out of my power to acknowledge the receipt of it sooner. The inclosure for your Son went by a Flag in 48 hours after it came to my hands, and I can assure you no letter of yours to him was ever with-held from the enemy’s lines after they were in my possession, a much longer time. what becomes of them afterwards I know not—certain I am they contained nothing which ought to have impeded their passage. I very often hear of his welfare.
        The publication of the report of the Commissioners, on our part, you Doubtless have seen—it is unnecessary therefore for me to trouble you with a recital of the reasons which rendered our endeavours

to settle a Cartel fruitless—I am sorry for the disappointment on account of the irksome situation of the officers though every means in our power is used to make their time pass as comfortably as we can.
        It would be unseasonable at this late hour to inform you as a piece of News that the enemy had moved in force to Kings ferry and possessed two strong pieces of ground, one on each side of the River; opposite—The positions they have taken are to all intents and purposes Islands—strong by nature—there being no approach by land but over narrow and difficult causeys, & which, by incessant labour, they soon rendered impassable—Their first movement from New York pointed so directly to our Posts in the Highlands that I repaired as quick as possible to their relief, but whether they found the garrisons in a better condition to receive them than they expected—or whether they only meant to possess themselves of the best, indeed (for us) only passage of the River below the highlands, thereby making the communication betwn the East & West side more circuitous & difficult, I shall not undertake to say, but it was certainly one of the wisest measures they have yet pursued to stop at, & fortify this place. Nothing but my distressed situation (at all times) for want of Men & means, prevented my taking a permanent hold on this ground long ago—but like many other things which have occurred in the course of this War, it has been the object of my wishes—not within the compass of my powers—I am now putting our fortifications in the highlands (which are the security of the River, & the communication between the Eastern & Southern States,[)] in the best posture of defence I can till the enemy by some further demonstration announce their Plan of operations for the Campaign.
        I am perfectly in sentiment with you respecting the pernicious effects of speculating, & the necessity of checking it by every human means—and I accord most fully & clearly in your ideas of the impolicy of our trade by Sea; the arguments adduced by you in support of that opinion, are sufficiently convincing, but there are two others which alone, to me, are absolutely conclusive—the first is, that we have actually fed the enemy in a very great degree with the provisions they have captured from us (as well as their Navy with Seamen & without which I am convinced they could not have supported the War). a second, by restraining our own people, and inviting foreigners, we should derive greater benefits than we do at present, without encountering any of the evils of Trade; for it would then be carried on in foreign bottoms & without any loss to us; and might, in its consequences, so far involve other powers in the dispute by the capture of their vessels (by the English) as to make common cause of it—To

these, a third reason may be added of equal importance—which is that it would be the most certain and speediest method to compleat our Battalions, & to retain the Men; for at present the spirit of Trade & privateering is such, that no Man (especially in the Eastern states) can be obtained for any other purposes; while the Soldiers in the Army (who have been Seamen) are deserting daily with a view to engage on board Vessels.
        I thank you my dear Sir for your kind intention of furnishing me with Eight Ram lambs, but I am really ashamed to accept so many as it may either disfurnish yourself, or put it out of your power to oblige some other friend. One half I should conceive might answer my purposes very well. Mrs Washington left me (for Mount Vernon) so soon as I began my March from Middle brook. My best respects attend your Lady—and with sincere regard & affectn I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Since writing the foregoing, I have accidentally looked over a former letter of yours of the 3d of April wherein a Mr Arthur Harriss (formerly of Hartley’s Regiment) is recommended by you for an Ensigncy—All new appointments by a resolve of Congress are left to the States respectively—Many very many vacancy’s want filling in the Maryland and we are as far as reports come to me, distressed for Persons to make Officers of, there can be no difficulty therefore of Mr Harriss’s getting in if the Executive power of your State is applied to. this I mention to you that you may take measures accordingly; to the best of my recollection, directly, or through Genl Smallwood, I have applied to Govr Johnson to see if Gentn cannot be had to fill the numerous vacancies that abd. Yrs &ca

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 25 June 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Providence [R.I.] 25th June 1779 7 o’Clock P.M.

        I am this moment informed, by the inclosed reports, from Brigr General Cornell, who Commands at Tiverton; and Colo. Christopher Greene, who Commands at Greenwich; That a Fleet of The Enemy’s Sailed this Morning from Newport.
        By the best Intelligence I can obtain, they have on board, the 54th British—the Landgraves German, and Colo. Fanning’s Tory Regiments, with a Detachment of Artillerists.
        By my Intelligences, and the Course they Steer, I am Confident they are either Bound for New London, to make a Diversion, Or to New York, to enable Sir Harry Clinton to Draw the greater Reinforcement from thence. I think it my indispensible Duty to give Your Excellency the Earliest Intelligence of this Event. I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Hume Servt

          Horatio Gates

          P.S. The last Letter I have received from Your Excellency, is dated the 13th Instant.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 25 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Highlands [N.Y.] Danforths HouseJune 25th 1779

        I do myself the honor to transmit the enclosed Intelligence received from Genl Huntington the last night about Ten oClock—and request your Excellencys direction respectg the arms brought out by Deserters.
        I take the Liberty to enclose Several Papers received from Colo. Allen the Day before I left Boston.
        I shall endeavour to have the Troops in this Quarter in readiness for any emergency. have the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 25 June 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Genl
          Danforths House [Highlands, N.Y.]June 25th 1779 8 oClock A.M.

        The enclosed Intelligence this moment Came to hand shall run down to Genl Huntingtons Brigade shall take Genl Parsons with me any Signification of your pleasure shall be immediately executed. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellency most obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 25 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          New Windsor June 25th 79.

        I received, my Dear Sir, Your favour of the 19th yesterday. I regret that your hurt proved more serious than you apprehended; but I am happy to hear the good effects produced by the application of the lancet and I hope it may so much accelerate the progress of your cure as to enable you in a short time to give us the pleasure of your company—I beg you however not to precipitate this event at the expence of your health and convenience.

        At present there is not an immediate prospect of action. The movements of the enemy seem to be in suspense; and their situation does not offer us any opportunity to act offensively. You may depend that you shall have the earliest notice when there is a probability of something to do.
        You have heard no doubt of the posts they have taken on the two sides of the River at Verplancks and Stoney points, positions naturally difficult of access and made more so by fortification. That part of the army which was with me at Middle Brook is incamped in Smith’s Clove about twelve Miles from West Point. If the enemy expect any considerable reinforcement, it is not improbable they are waiting its arrival and will then prosecute their operations on the River, and against the forts that protect its communication.
        We are anxiously hoping for a confirmation of the Southern news—The enemy’s accounts differ pretty widely from ours, though they really have an air of concealment and reserve—They assert that Charles town had offered to capitulate; but this is against all probability, even from their own relation of circumstances. Tis astonishing we do not receive some official intelligence.
        I have communicated your request to Col. Meade who writes by this conveyance. With great esteem & regard D. Sr, Your obd. servant

          G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 25 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Dr Sir
          New Windsor June 25: 1779

        In answer to your Letter of the 19th I request that you will send me All the proceedings of Court Martials in your hands in Capital cases, where the sentences have not been executed. If there are any sentences which have been approved by you; but yet remain unexecuted, you will be pleased to particularize them. I fully agree in sentiment with you, as to the impolicy of too frequent punishments.
        I shall be obliged by your sending me the Arrangement of the Massachusets line, made by the Committee of Officers. I am Dr Sir with great regard Your Most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 25 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

          Dr Sir,
          New Windsor June 25th 1779

        I send you an extract from the General orders of this day; which you will be pleased to announce. The letter to the Board transmitted to General Greene will inform you of the subject of their meeting—After reading, you will forward it to General Greene. I am Your most Obedt servant.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 25 June 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          Dr Genl
          Wyoming [Pa.] June 25th 1779

        I arrived here on the 23d & find the stores not yet arrived they are now thirty miles down the river I was unhappy enough to find on my arrival that scarcely a Barrel of the salted meat can be eaten and that more than two third’s of the Bread is so mouldy that it is impossible to eat it—I have ordered the meat to be smoaked which I hope will save it but I know not what we shall do for want of Bread—I have wrote to Mr Blaine—Col. Cox & to the Board of War. but fear it will be the means of the most injurious delay. I also find that the troops will fall f[a]r short of what was intended. I dont think I shall have a single man from Pennsylvania. the broken Corps have fallen far short of what they were estimated at Middle Brook & great part of the men in the German Battalion will leave us by middle of next month as their times will then expire so that I have every possible disappointment & difficulty to grapple with I will endeavour to surmount the whole but I cannot look upon myself answerable for Consequences which are but too likely to follow an inattention to this department. I have the Honor &c.

          Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 26 June 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Saturday June 26th 1779.
          Parole Waterford—C. Signs Wales. Zeland.

        Accurate returns of the Names of the Field Officers &c. in the several brigades agreeable to the annexed form to be sent to the Orderly-Office forthwith.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Clinton, 26 June 1779
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          H. Qrs Connojoharis Creek [N.Y.] June 26th 1779

        It is with singular Pleasure I can inform Your Excellency, that I have forwarded on to Lake Otsego one Hundred and twenty three Boats which are now at the Landing, thirty more are this day on the Road, and the remainder necessary to compleat the Complement of two hundred and twenty expected up in a few Days—I have also forwarded on all the Provision necessary for the use of the Detatchment for three months except about 500 Barrels which thro’ some disapointment had not arrived in Albany by the last accts, but I expect them by the remainder of the Boats and Waggons.
        I have given Genl Sullivan a similar account of my Situation and forwardness, and expect by the time I receive his Orders, I shall be perfectly in readiness to comply with them.
        I enclose a Copy of the Proceedings of the Genl Court Martial by which Mr H[enr]y Hare and NewBurrow were tried the former was executed last Monday, the latter is under sentence of Death.
        I flatter my self my Conduct on this Occasion will meet with your Excellency’s Approbation as I conceived Examples of this kind were absolutely necessary in our present Circumstances. I have the Honour to be with great respect Your Exell: humble Servant

          Jas Clinton