Title: From George Washington to Ann Fairfax Washington, September–November 1749
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Ann Fairfax

[September–November 1749]

Editorial Note The principal Washington documents extant for the years before 1752 are, in addition to the school exercises, a group of early surveys, a 1748 diary of a surveying expedition undertaken for Lord Fairfax in Virginia’s Northern Neck, and the journal kept by GW of his trip with his half brother Lawrence to Barbados in 1751–52.

 GW kept his diary entries for the Fairfax surveying trip, which he titled “A Journal of my Journey over the Mountains began Fryday the 11th of March 1747/8,” in a small notebook measuring 6 × 3¼ inches. Together with the daily entries for the journey, GW kept detailed surveying entries which are now relatively meaningless because of changes in the terrain. Also included in the notebook but obviously dating from a later period are copies of correspondence and random notes and memoranda: A “List of the Peoples Names that I have Warrants for,” several fragmentary poems, and eight undated letters. The recipients of four of these letters are indicated only by first names, two letters are unaddressed, and the two remaining are to Ann Fairfax Washington and Lord Fairfax. In addition to putting the small volume to use as a letter book, GW also made a few random fragmentary notes dealing with surveying and his reading. The items in the notebook printed in this volume are: GW to Ann Fairfax Washington, Sept.–Nov. 1749; to Thomas, Lord Fairfax, Oct.–Nov. 1749; to Robin, 1749–50; to ——, 1749–50; to John, 1749–50; to Sally, 1749–50; and to Richard, 1749–50. The four memoranda and two poems appear under the date 1749–50.

[September–November 1749]

I heartily Congratulate you on the happy News of my Brothers safe arrival in health in England and am joy’d to hear that his stay is likely to be so short I hope you’l make Use of your Natural Resolution and contendness as they are the only Remedys to spend the time with ease & pleasure to yourself. I am deprived of the pleasure of waiting on you (as I expected) by Aguee and Feaver which I have had to Extremety since I left which has occasioned my Return D[own].


Title: From George Washington to Robin, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To: Robin

Dear Friend Robin
[1749–1750]

As its the greatest mark of friendship and esteem absent Friends can shew each other in Writing and often communicating their thoughts to his fellow companions mak⟨es⟩ me endeavour to signalize myself in acquainting you from time to time and at all times my situation and employments of Life and

could Wish you would take half the Pains of contriving me a Letter by any oppertunity as you may be well assured of its meeting with a very welcome reception my Place of Residence is at present at his Lordships where I might was my heart disengag’d pass my time very pleasantly as theres a very agreeable Young Lady Lives in the same house (Colo. George Fairfax’s Wife’s sister) but as thats only adding Fuel to fire it makes me the more uneasy for by often and unavoidably being in Company with her revives my former Passion for your Low Land Beauty whereas was I to live more retired from yound Women I might in some measure eliviate my sorrows by burying that chast and troublesome Passion in the grave of oblivion or etarnall forgetfulness for as I am very well assured that’s the only antidote or remedy that I ever shall be releivd by or only recess than can administer any cure or help to me as I am well convinced was I ever to attempt any thing I should only get a denial which would be only adding grief to uneasiness.


Title: GW to ——, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To: Unknown

Dear Sir
[1749–1750]

I should receive a Letter or Letters from you by the first and all oppertunetys with the greatest sense or mark of your esteem and affection whereas its the greatest Pleasure I can yet forsee of having in fairfax to hear from my Intimate friends and acquaintances

I hope you in particular ⟨wi⟩ll not Bauk me of what I so ardently Wish for.


Title: From George Washington to John, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To: John

Dear Friend John
[1749–1750]

As its the greatest mark of friendship and esteem you can shew to an absent Friend In often Writing to him so hope youl not deny me that Favour as its so ardently wish’d and Desired by me its the greatest pleasure I can yet forsee of having in fairfax to hear from my friends Particularly yourself was my affections disengaged I might perhaps form some pleasures in the conversasions of an agreeable young Lady as there[’s] one now Lives in the same house with me but as thats only nourishment to my former Affa⟨ir⟩ for by often seeing her brings the other into my remembrance where as perhaps was she not often (unavoidably) presenting herself to my view I might in some measure eliviate my sorrows by burrying the other in the grave of Oblevion I am well convinced my heart stands in defiance of all others but only she thats given it cause enough to dread a second assault and from a different Quarter tho. I well know let it have as many attacks as it will from others they cant be more fierce than it has been I could wish to know whether you have taken your intended trip downwards or not if you wish what success as also to know how my friend Lawrence drives on in his art of courtship as I fancy you mgt both nearly guess how it will respectively go with each of you.


Title: From George Washington to Sally, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To: Sally

Dear Sally
[1749–1750]

This comes to Fredericksburg fair in hopes of meeting with a speedy Passage to you if your not there which hope you’l get shortly altho. I am almost discouraged from Writing to you as this is my fou[r]th to you since I receivd any from yourself. I hope you’l not make the Old Proverb good out of sight out of Mind as it’s one of the greatest Pleasures I can yet foresee of having in Fairfax in Often hearing from you hope you’l not deny it me.
I Pass the time of much more agreabler than what I imagined I should as there’s a very agreable Young Lady lives in the said house where I reside (Colo. George Fairfax’s Wife Sister) that in a great Measure chears my sorrow and dejectedness tho. not so as to draw my thoughts altogether from your Parts I could wish to be with you down there with all my heart but as it is a thing almost Impractakable shall rest my self where I am with hope’s of shortly having some Minutes of your transactions in your Parts which will be very welcomely receiv’d by Your.


Title: From George Washington to Richard, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To: Richard

Dear Richard
[1749–1750]

The Receipt of your kind favor of the 2d of this Instant afforded Me unspeakable pleasure as I am convinced I am still in the Memory of so Worthy a friend a friendship I shall ever be

proud of Increasing you gave me the more pleasure as I receiv’d it amongst a parcel of Barbarian’s and an uncooth set of People the like favour often repeated would give me Pleasure altho. I seem to be in a Place where no real satis: be had since you receid my Letter in October Last I have not sleep’d above three Nights or four in a bed but after Walking a good deal all the Day lay down before the fire upon a Little Hay Straw Fodder or bairskin which ever is to be had with Man Wife and Children like a Parcel of Dogs or Catts & happy’s he that gets the Birth nearest the fire there’s nothing would make it pass of tolerably but a good Reward and Dubbleloon is my constant gain every Day that the Weather will permit my going out and sometime Six Pistoles the coldness of the Weather will not allow my making a long stay as the Lodging is rather too cold for the time of Year I have never had my Cloths of but lay and sleep in them like a Negro except the few Nights I have lay’n in Frederick Town.


Title: Memorandum, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To:

[1749–1750]

Mem. To Survey the Lands at the Mouth of Little Cacapehon & the Mouth of Fifteen Mile Creek for the Gentlemen of the Ohio Com.


Title: Memorandum, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To:

[1749–1750]

Memorandom to Charge Mrs Ann Washington with 4/9 pd. the 20 of July to a Maryland Hou[se]wife as also Major Law: Washington with 1/3 ent[ered] the 15 of August 5/9 the 17 Do 2/6 Do. Read to the reign of K:John.


Title: Poetry, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To:

[1749–1750]

Oh Ye Gods why should my Poor Resistless Heart
Stand to oppose thy might and Power
At Last surrender to cupids feather’d Dart
and now lays Bleeding every Hour
For her that’s Pityless of my grief and Woes
And will not on me Pity take
Ill sleep amongst my most Inviterate Foes
And with gladness never wish to Wake
In deluding sleepings let my Eyelids close
That in an enraptured Dream I may
In a soft lulling sleep and gentle repose
possess those joys denied by Day


Title: Poetry, 1749–1750
From: Washington, George
To:

[1749–1750]

From your bright sparkling Eyes, I was undone;
Rays, you have, more transparent than the sun,
Amidst its glory in the rising Day,
None can you equal in your bright arrays;
Constant in your calm and unspotted Mind;
Equal to all, but will to none Prove kind,
So knowing, seldom one so Young, you’l Find.
Ah! woe’s me, that I should Love and conceal,
Long have I wish’d, but never dare reveal,
Even though severely Loves Pains I feel;
Xerxes that great, was’t free from Cupids Dart,
And all the greatest Heroes, felt the smart.
[N]
[D]
[E]
[R]


Title: Land Grant, from Thomas, Lord Fairfax, 20 October 1750
From: Fairfax of Cameron, Thomas Fairfax, sixth baron
To: Washington, George

20 Oct. 1750

 20 Oct. 1750. “The Right Honourable Thomas Lord Fairfax . . . for and in Consideration of the Composition to Me paid And for the annual Rent hereafter reserved I . . . do give grant and Confirm unto Mr George Washington of the County of King George a certain Tract of waste and ungranted Land in Frederick County, which he bought of Capt. Thomas Rutherford, known by the Name of Dutch George’s and is bounded as by a Survey thereof made by Mr George Byrne as followeth . . . Containing Four hundred and Fifty three Acres, Together

with all Rights Members and Appurtenances thereunto belonging Royal Mines Excepted And a full third part of all Lead, Copper, Tinn Coals, Iron Mines and Iron Ore that shall be found thereon . . . Yielding and Paying To Me . . . Yearly and every year on the Feast day of St Michael the Archangel the Fee Rent of One Shilling Sterling Money for every Fifty Acres of Land hereby granted . . . Given at my Office in the County of Fairfax within my said Proprietary under my Hand and Seal Dated this twentyeth day of October . . . One thousand Seven hundred and Fifty.”


Title: Court Case, 3 December 1751
From: Washington, George
To:

 3 Dec. 1751. “Ann Carrol and Mary McDaniel Servts of Fredericksburgh, being Committed to the Goal of this County by William Hunter Gent., on Suspicion of Felony, & Charged with robing the Cloaths of Mr George Washington when he was washing in the River some time

last Summer, the Court having heard Severall Evidences Are of Oppinion that the said Ann Carroll be discharged, & Admitted an Evidence for our Lord the King Against the said Mary McDaniel.
And Upon Considering the whole in Evidence, & the prisoners defense, the Court are of Oppinion that the said Mary McDaniel is Guilty of petty Larceny, whereupon the said Mary desired Immediate punishment for the sd Crime & relied on the Mercy of the Court, therefore it is ordered that the Sheriff carry her to the Whipping post & Inflict fifteen lashes on her bare back, And then she be discharged &.”


Title: From George Washington to William Fauntleroy, 20 May 1752
From: Washington, George
To: Fauntleroy, William

Sir
May 20th 1752

I shou’d have been down long before this but my business in Frederick detain’d me somewhat longer than I expected and imediately upon my return from thence I was taken with a Violent Pleurisie which has reduced me very low but purpose as soon as I recover my strength to wait on Miss Betcy, in hopes of a revocation of the former, cruel sentence, and see if I can meet with ⟨any alter⟩ation in my favour. I have inclos’d a letter to her which i shou’d be much obligd to you for the dilivery of it. I have nothing to add but my best respects to your good Lady and Family and that I am Sir Yr most Obedient Hble Servt

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 10 June 1752
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
King George Coty June 10th 1752

Being impatient to know Colo. Fitzhugh’s result; I went to Maryland as I returned Home He is willing to accept of the Adjutancy of the Northern Neck, if he can obtain it on the terms he proposes; which he hardly expects will be granted Him: The inclosed is his Letter, wherein I believe he inform’s of his intention. He told Me, he would, when conveniency admitted, build a House in Virginia, at which he should sometimes reside. If I could have the Honour of obtaining that, in case Colo. Fitzhugh does not, or either of the other two; should take the greatest pleasure in punctually obeying from time, to time, your Honours commands; and by a strict observance of my Duty, render myself worthy of the trust reposed in Me: I am sensible my best endeavours will not be wanting, and doubt not, but by a constant application to fit myself for the Office, coud I presume Your Honour had not in view a more deserving Person I flatter myself I should meet with the approbation of the Gentlemen of the Council I am Yr Honours most Obt & very Hble Sert

G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Mason, 29 July 1752
From: Mason, George
To: Washington, George

Sir
Dogues N⟨e⟩ck Ju⟨ly 29, 1752⟩

I came Home ⟨mutilated⟩ Yesterday, when I re⟨mutilated⟩ Me with the time of Yr Brother ⟨mutilated⟩ neral, & desiring my Attendance. I am very sorry it did not come to ⟨mutilated⟩ Hands sooner; had I known it in ⟨mutilated⟩ I wou’d by no means have refused the last peice of Respect to the Memory of a Gentleman, for whom, when alive, I had a sincere Regard.
I most heartily condole You on the Loss of so worthy a Brother & Friend & am Sir Yr most hble Sert

George Mas⟨on⟩


Title: Commission as adjutant for southern district, 13 December 1752 [letter not found]
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Document not found: commission as adjutant for southern district, Williamsburg, 13 Dec. 1752. For background to this document, see GW to Dinwiddie, 10 June 1752, n.2. On 6 Nov. 1752, some months after Lawrence Washington’s death, the governor and council “finding by Experience the Insufficiency of one [adjutant], fully to discharge a Business of so much Importance,” created four military districts and appointed an adjutant for each: Thomas Bentley for the frontier, William Fitzhugh for the Northern Neck and Eastern Shore, George Muse for the Middle Neck (between the Rappahannock and James rivers), and GW for the Southern District. GW’s commission as adjutant for the Southern District has not been located, but an entry in the Spotsylvania County Order Book for 10 Feb. 1753 states that “George Washington Esqr produced a Commission Under the hand and Seal of the Honble Robert Dinwiddie Esqr his Majesties Lieutenant Governor and Commander in chief of this colony, Dated the thirteenth day of December 1752 to be Major and Adjutant of the Militia, horse and foot, in the Countys of Princess Ann, Norfolk, Nansemond, Isle of Wight, Southampton, Surry, Brunswick, Prince George, Dinwiddie, Chesterfield, Amelia, & Cumberland, & took the oaths Appointed by law, & Signed Abjuration oath & repeated & Signed the test” (Spotsylvania County Order Book, 1749–55, p. 284, Vi Microfilm). His new post brought GW the title of major and a yearly stipend of £100.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Jackson, 1752
From: Jackson, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
[1752]

Last Night your Servt carried over what things were left also the last loaf of Double refind Sugar in my possession, if coarse single Refined will do for second rate gentry who may visit you as a Planter you may have 20 ct more. Your acct shall be transcribed as soon as possible from the beginning—but it so happens that my present Aid-du-Campe is a little intoxicated & incapable of Duty. You need not be anxious about the payment that will be left to your own convenience—I shall at all times take a peculiar pleasure in doing any thing that can oblige you—the intimacy long supported between your worthy Father & late Brother will I hope be revived in you & in some degree atone for their loss their acquaintance wth some others Dead were the greatest pleasure & Happiness—I was ever blessed with. I am wth sincere wishes for yr prosperity Dr Sr, Yr most obedt Hble Servt

Rob. Jackson

Since writing the above the Gout has seized me in the right wrist—can hardly hold the pen.


Title: From George Washington to William Nelson, 12 February 1753 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Nelson, William

 Letter not found: to William Nelson, 12 Feb. 1753. On 22 Feb. 1753 Nelson wrote to GW: “I have received yours of the 12th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from William Nelson, 22 February 1753
From: Nelson, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
York Feby 22d 1753

I have received yours of the 12th Instant, in which you express a Desire to be removed to the Adjutancy of the Northern Neck. I think the Thing so reasonable that I wish you may succeed: however, I presume You are not unaquainted, that two Gentlemen have apply’d for it, & both strongly recommended; yet, Reason I hope will always prevail at the Board over Interest & Favour, upon which Principle You may expect all the Service that can be done you in the Affair by the Secretary, as well as by, Sir, Your most Hble Servt

Wm Nelson


Title: Instructions from Robert Dinwiddie, 30 October 1753
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

[Williamsburg, 30 October 1753]

Instructions for George Washington Esqr.
Whereas I have receiv’d Information of a Body of French Forces being assembled in an hostile Manner on the River Ohio, intending by force of Arms to erect certain Forts on the said River, within this Territory & contrary to the Peace & Dignity of our Sovereign the King of Great Britain.
These are therefore to require & direct You the said George Washington Esqr. forthwith to repair to the Logstown on the said River Ohio; & having there inform’d Yourself where the said French Forces have posted themselves, thereupon to proceed to such Place: & being there arriv’d to present Your Credentials, together with my Letter to the chief commanding Officer, &, in the Name of His Britanic Majesty, to demand an Answer from him thereto.
On Your Arrival at the Logstown, You are to address Yourself to the Half King, to Monacatoocha & other the Sachems of the Six Nations; acquainting them with Your Orders to visit & deliver my Letter to the French commanding Officer; & desiring the said Chiefs to appoint You a sufficient Number of their Warriors to be Your Safeguard, as near the French as You may desire, & to wait Your further Direction.
You are diligently to enquire into the Numbers & Force of the French on the Ohio, & the adjacent Country; how they are like to be assisted from Canada; & what are the Difficulties & Conveniencies of that Comunication, & the Time requir’d for it.

You are to take Care to be truly inform’d what Forts the French have erected, & where; How they are Garrison’d & appointed, & what is their Distance from each other, & from Logstown: And from the best Intelligence You can procure, You are to learn what gave Occasion to this Expedition of the French. How they are like to be supported, & what their Pretentions are.
When the French Commandant has given You the requir’d & necessary Dispatches, You are to desire of him that, agreeable to the Law of Nations, he wou’d grant You a proper Guard, to protect You as far on Your Return, as You may judge for Your Safety, against any stragling Indians or Hunters that may be ignorant of Yr Character & molest You.
Wishing You good Success in Yr Negotiations & a safe & speedy return I am Sr Yr hble Servt


Title: Passport from Robert Dinwiddie, 30 October 1753
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Virginia[Williamsburg, 30 October 1753]
To All to whom these Presents may come or concern Greeting
Whereas I have appointed George Washington Esqr. by Commission under the Great Seal, My express Messenger to the Comandant of the French Forces on the River Ohio, & as he is charg’d with Business of great Importance to His Majesty & this Dominion.
I do hereby Command all His Majesty’s Subjects, & particularly require All in Alliance and Amity with the Crown of Great Britain, & all Others to whom this Passport may come agreeable to the Law of Nations, to be aiding & assisting as a Safeguard to the said George Washington & his Attendants: (viz.)
in his present Message to & from the River Ohio as aforesaid
Given under my Hand & the Seal of the Colony at the City of Williamsburg this Thirtieth Day of October, One Thousand seven hundred, fifty & three, in the twenty seventh Year of His Britannick Majesty’s reign.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, January 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

[Williamsburg, January 1754]

Editorial Note The reports that GW made to Dinwiddie upon his return from his mission to the French commandant reinforced the governor’s conviction that no time was to be lost in taking action against French encroachment on the Ohio. Dinwiddie had held a British vessel, the Speedwell, in port pending GW’s return from the Ohio and at once notified Holderness and the Board of Trade that the earlier reports of French infiltration had been confirmed. “Mr Washington had my Orders to make what Observations he cou’d on his Journey, & to take a Plan of their Fort, . . . He assures me that they have begun another Fort at the Mouth of the Creek, which he thinks will be finish’d by the Month of March. There were in the Fort where the Commander resided, about 300 regular Forces; & nine hundred more were gone to Winter Quarters (in order to save their Provisions) to some Forts on Lake Erie &ca but that they were to return by the Month of March; then they fully determin’d with all the Forces they cou’d collect, which he understood wou’d be fifteen hundred regulars, besides Indians, to go down the River Ohio, & propose building many other Forts, & that their chief residence wou’d be at the Logstown; & that they had near three hundred Canoes to transport their Soldiers, Provisions & Ammunition &ca.”
On 21 Jan. Dinwiddie presented the unaccommodating reply of the French commandant to the council, which advised the governor as an emergency measure to recruit 100 men from Frederick and Augusta counties to be placed under GW’s command and proceed immediately to the frontier. In addition, Capt. William Trent was to be ordered to raise “what Traders and other Men he can to annoy the Enemy”; presumably Trent’s recruiting activities would net another 100 men. The House of Burgesses, prorogued until the last Thursday in April 1754, should be called into immediate session. Dinwiddie’s most pressing need was for the money and supplies that only the burgesses could provide, but in the meantime he ordered Trent to the Forks of the Ohio to superintend the construction of a fort on the site and appointed John Carlyle commissary of provisions and stores with headquarters at Alexandria. The ordnance promised to Dinwiddie by Holderness in Aug. 1753 finally arrived in the colony and included 30 cannon and 80 barrels of powder, as well as other stores. Dinwiddie had hoped to use the cannon to protect the new fort at the

Forks of the Ohio, but he wrote to the Board of Trade, 29 Jan. 1754, that “the guns are much too large to be transported so great a distance by land, and in bad roads. However, I shall make a tryal of ten; if we can get them carried to the fort they will be very serviceable.”
By the time the burgesses convened, Dinwiddie had already written to the governors of nearby states asking for cooperation in opposing the French. As he informed the burgesses, “their Eyes are fix’d on your Proceedings, and I hope you will engage them, by a laudable Example, to contribute sufficiently for the common Cause.” The response of the other colonies to Dinwiddie’s appeals was disappointing. Although Gov. James Hamilton of Pennsylvania supported Dinwiddie, the Pennsylvania Assembly, largely Quaker and influenced by the uncertainty of Pennsylvania’s claims in the Ohio country, refused repeatedly to vote funds for defense. Maryland governor Horatio Sharpe wrote Dinwiddie that the assembly “had come to a resolution that the Exigencies of Affairs was not such as required any Aid or Support from them.” The North Carolina Assembly did grant a supply of £12,000 for defense, and South Carolina promised to contribute proportionately to the other colonies.
On 14 Feb. 1754 the Virginia House of Burgesses met to consider Dinwiddie’s reports and on 22 Feb. passed an act authorizing £10,000 for the defense of the frontier. As Dinwiddie observed, the sum was secured “with great Applicatn: many Argum’ts: & with much difficulty.” Much of Dinwiddie’s difficulty in persuading the House of Burgesses to vote adequate sums for defense arose out of the governor’s disputes with the legislature over domestic matters, most recently the conflict over the pistole fee. However, some of the problems stemmed from a suspicion widely held not only in Virginia but in other colonies as well that the proposed military expeditions were designed to further the interests of the Ohio Company of which Dinwiddie was an ardent supporter. As GW later wrote, his report of French military activity on the Ohio “was yet thought a Fiction; and Scheme to promote the Interest of a private Company (by many Gentlemen that had a share in Government) . . . . These unfavourable Surmises caus’d great delays in raiseing the first Men and Money.”
Although Dinwiddie had been ordered by the crown to raise the militia, the situation was complicated by uncertainty as to whether the land around the Fork belonged to Virginia or to Pennsylvania. Since the militia law implied that militia could not be employed outside the boundaries of the colony, Dinwiddie encountered increasing opposition in the counties to conscripting troops and to the recruiting effort. As a result he was forced to rely on volunteers rather than regularly conscripted militia, but, as he observed to Lord Holderness, “I think

300 Men rais’d voluntarily will do more Service than 800 Men of the Militia forc’d on the Service.” With the £10,000 voted by the burgesses Dinwiddie began the process of raising 6 companies of volunteers of 50 men each. By mid-March he had appointed officers to begin recruiting and hoped to have a force of 300 troops at Alexandria by 20 Mar. to escort guns and supplies to the Forks of the Ohio. On 19 Feb. 1754, in order to encourage enlistment, Dinwiddie issued a proclamation promising grants of land to volunteers who completed a tour of duty.
After GW’s arrival in Williamsburg in January, Dinwiddie placed him on active pay as a captain, although as adjutant he still held the rank of major attached to that post.

[Williamsburg, January 1754]

 Instructs. to be observ’d by Majr Geo. Washington on the Expeditn to the Ohio
MAJR GEO. WASHINGTON
You are forthwith to repair to the Coty of Frederick, & there to take under Yr Comd 50 Men of the Militia, who will be deliver’d to You by the Comdr of the sd Coty pursuant to my Orders—You are to send Yr Lieut. at the same Time to the Coty of Augusta, to receive 50 Men from the Comdr of that Coty as I have order’d, & with them he is to join You at Alexandria to which Place You are to proceed, as soon as You have recd the Men in Frederick—Having recd this Detachmt You are to train & dicipline them in the best Manner You can, & for all Necessaries You are to apply YrSelf to Mr Jno. Carlisle at Alexa. who has my Orders to supply You—Having all Things in readiness, You are to use all Expedition in proceeding to the Fork of Ohio, with the Men under Yr Comd & there You are to finish & compleat in the best Manner, & as soon as You possibly can the Fort which I expect is there already begun by the Ohio Compa. You are to act on the Difensive, but in Case any Attempts are made to obstruct the Works or interrupt our Settlemts by any Persons whatsoever, You are to restrain all such Offenders, & in Case of resistance to make Prisoners of or kill & destroy them. For the rest You are to conduct Yrself as the Circumsts. of the Service shall require, & to act as You shall find best for the Furtherence of His M[ajest]y’s Service, & the Good of His Domn.
Wishing You Health & Success I bid You Farewell.


Title: To George Washington from William Trent, 19 February 1754 [letter not found]
From: Trent, William
To: Washington, George

	Letter not found: from William Trent, Forks of the Ohio, 19 Feb. 1754. A newspaper account of this letter reads: “Letters from Messieurs Trent, and Gist, to Major Washington, of Virginia, give some Account of their Situation near the Ohio. The first Letter is dated Feb. 19, at Yaughyaughgany big Bottom. The 17th Mr. Trent arrived at

the Forks of Monongohella (from the Mouth of Red Stone Creek, where he has built a strong Store House), and met Mr. Gist, and several Others: In 2 or 3 Days they expected down all the People, and as soon as they came were to lay the Foundation of the Fort, expecting to make out for that Purpose about 70 or 80 Men. The Indians were to join them and make them strong. They requested him (Major Washington) to march out to them with all possible Expedition. They acquaint him, that Monsieur La Force (ou, La Farce) had made a Speech to some of our Indians and told them, that neither they nor the English there, would see the Sun above 20 Days longer; 13 of the Days being then to come: By what Mr. Croghan could learn from an Indian in the French Interest, they might expect 400 French down in that Time: A Messenger sent from the French Fort had Letters for the Commanders of the other Forts to march immediately and join them, in order to cut off our Indians and Whites, and some French Indians were likewise expected to join them: When La Force had made his speech to the Indians, they sent a String of Wampum to Mr. Croghan, to desire him to hurry the English to come, for that they expected soon to be attack’d, and pressed hard to come and join them; for they wanted Necessaries and Assistance, and then would strike: They further write, that 600 French and Indians were gone against the lower Shawneese-Town, to cut off the Shawneese; 200 Ottaways and Chipawas came to Mushingum and demanded the White People there, and shewed them the French Hatchet; the Wayondotts, tho’ not above 30 Men, refused to let them kill them in their Town; but they expected every Day to hear they had cut off the Whites and likewise the Wayondotts.”


Title: To George Washington from Christopher Gist, 23 February 1754 [letter not found]
From: Gist, Christopher
To: Washington, George

	Letter not found: from Christopher Gist, Monongahela, Pa., 23 Feb. 1754. A newspaper quotation of this letter reads: “An Indian who was taken Prisoner from the Chickasaws by the Six Nations some Years ago, has been this Year to see his Friends there; in his Passage up the Ohio, fell in with a Body of near 400 French coming up the River; he parted with them below the Falls, and then came, in Company with

10 of them that were sent up to treat with the Shawneese at the lower Town; on their Arrival there, the English Traders had agreed to make Prisoners of them, but the French getting a Hint from some Indians, they fled away in the Night without discovering their Business: We have also News of 600 French and Indians gone down to fall on the Shawneese if they will not admit the lower Army to pass up the River to join that above; it would therefore be prudent to let the Governor know this, perhaps he might send a Number of Cherokees to join the Shawneese at the lower Town, and defeat them, or prevent their joining those above. Pray send a Line by Mr. Steuart, and let us know the exact Time you will be here, that we may Speak Truth in all we say to our Friends.”


Title: From George Washington to Richard Corbin, February–March 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Corbin, Richard

Dear Sir:
[February–March 1754]

In a conversation at Green Spring you gave me some room to hope for a commission above that of a Major, and to be ranked among the chief officers of this expedition. The command of the whole forces is what I neither look for, expect, nor desire; for I must be impartial enough to confess, it is a charge too great for my youth and inexperience to be intrusted with. Knowing this, I have too sincere a love for my country, to undertake that which may tend to the prejudice of it. But if I could entertain hopes that you thought me worthy of the post of Lieutenant-colonel, and would favour me so far as to mention it at the appointment of officers, I could not but entertain a true sense of the kindness.
I flatter myself that under a skilful commander, or man of sense, (which I most sincerely wish to serve under,) with my own application and diligent study of my duty, I shall be able to conduct my steps without censure, and in time, render myself worthy of the promotion that I shall be favoured with now.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 3 March 1754 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

	Letter not found: to Robert Dinwiddie, Belvoir, 3 Mar. 1754. On 15 Mar. 1754 Dinwiddie wrote to GW: “Yr two Letters of the 3d & 7th Currt I recd.”


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 7 March 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Hble Sir
March 7th 1754 Belvoir

If the Vessel your Honour hir’d of Colo. Eyre has not left York, or Mr Carlyle’s Norfolk and Hampton We should be glad to have as many Tints sent up as can be spard, for there is no proper Linnen to make them of here and would be difficult to

get done if there was[.] We also are much in want of Cutlasses, Halbards, Officer’s half Pikes, Drum’s &ca which I am inform’d are in the Magazine that Drum which was sent up with the Artillery being very bad is scarcely worth the trouble of carrying.
The generality of those Men, who have enlisted for this Expedition are much in want of, and press greatly for Cloathings[.] They all desire so earnestly to be put into a Uniform dress that they would gladly do it at their own Expence to be deducted out of their Pay it was the greatest objection to enlisting and many have refus’d solely on that account after coming purposely to do it with Expectation of getting a Regimental Sute and if I may be so bold to offer my Opinion I can’t think but the good Effects that it may produce will sufficiently recompense for any trouble that will ensue. It is the Nature of Indians to be struck with, and taken by show and this will give them a much higher Conception of our Power and greatness and I verily believe fix in our Interest many that are now wavering and undetermin’d whose Cause to Espouse—If it was only a Coat of the Coursest red which may be had in these parts it would answer the Intention—red with them is compard to Blood and is look’d upon as the distinguishing marks of Warriours and great Men—The shabby and ragged appearance the French common Soldiers make affords great matter for ridicule amongst the Indians and I really believe is the chief motive why they hate and despise them as they do. If these are the Effects, the Cause may be easily, and timely remedied. I hope Your Honour will pardon this freedom, which I should not have assum’d but with a good Intention It is my acquaintance with these Indians, and a Study of their Tempers that has in some measure let me into their Customs and dispositions.
There is another thing the Soldiers enquire much about i,e, who is to be pay Master and the time for payment Your Honour’s answer to this will oblige me very much as I may thereby satisfie the doubts which arrise on that Head[.] I am with all due respect Yr Honours most Obt Humble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 9 March 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
Alexandria 9th of March 1754.

In my last by Mr Stuart I slightly mentioned the objection many had against Enlisting (to wit) not knowing who was to be Pay Master, or the times for Payment: It is now grown a pretty general Clamour, and some of those who were amongst the first Enlister’s; being Needy, and knowing it to be usual for His Majesty’s Soldiers to be paid once a Week, or at most every Fortnight, are very importunate to receive their Due. I have sooth’d, and quieted them as much as possible under pretence of receiving your Honour’s Instructions in this particular at the arrival of the Colonel.
I have increas’d my number of Men to abt 25, and dare venture to say, I should have had several more if the excessive bad weather did not prevent their meeting agreeable to their Officer’s Commands.
We daily Experience the great necessity for Cloathing the Men, as we find the generallity of those who are to be Enlisted, are of those loose, Idle Persons that are quite destitute of House, and Home, and I may truely say many of them of Cloaths; which last, render’s them very incapable of the necessary Service, as they must unavoidably be expos’d to inclement weather in their Marches &ca; and can expect no other, than to encounter almost every difficulty that’s incident to a Soldiers Life[.] There is many of them without Shoes, other’s want Stockings,

some are without Shirts, and not a few that have Scarce a Coat, or Waistcoat, to their Backs; in short, they are as illy provided as can well be conceiv’d, but I really believe every Man of them for their own Credits sake, is willing to be Cloathed at their own Expence: they are perpetually teazing me to have it done, but I am not able to advance the money provided there was no risque in it, which there certainly is, and too great for me to run; thô it would be nothing to the Country, as a certain part of their pay might be deducted and appropriated to that use: Mr Carlyle, or any of the Merchants here would furnish them with proper necessarys if there was a certainty of any part of their pay stopt to reimburse the Expence—But I must here in time put a kirb to my requests, and remember that I ought not to be too importunate; otherwise, I shall be as troublesome to your Honour, as the Soldiers are to me: there is nothing but the necessity of the thing could urge me to be thus free, but I shall no more exagerate this affair to your Honour, as I am well assur’d whatever you think for the Benefit, or good of the Expedition you will cause to have done. I am Honble Sir, Yr most Obt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 15 March 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Mar. 15th 1754

Yr two Letters of the 3d & 7th Currt I recd & the enclos’d from Messrs Trent & Cresap. I am surpriz’d from their Letters that the French are so early expected down the Ohio; which I think makes it necessary for You to march what Soldiers You have enlisted immediately to the Ohio, & escort some Waggons, with the necessary Provisions; Colo. Fry to march with the others as soon as possible. I shall send three Sloops with Recruits from York, James River, & the Eastern Shoar, so that I hope the Number of Men will be fully Compleated. By the first of these Sloops, I shall send 24 more Tents, which is all that’s to be had here. Picks, Cutlasses, or Halberts, none in the Magazine; so the Officers must head their Comps. with small Arms.
I have no Objection to the Soldiers being in an uniform Dress, on the Head You propose, but I am perswaded You have not Time to get them made, unless to be sent after You; in that Case, Care shd be taken of buying the Cloth at the cheapest rate—The Soldiers are to be pd from the Day they were enlisted, ’til the Day they march, after that every two Mos. to be pd by Mr Carlyle at Alexa. on producing a Certificate from the Comdg Officer & their Capt. which Certificate will be a Voucher to Mr Carlyle, & he will be supplied accordingly. Mr Muse was with me this Day, & will soon be at Alexa. I have appointed him Majr at 10/ ⅌ Day; & enclos’d You have a Como. for Lieut.

Colo. pay 12/ ⅌ Day, without any Trouble of Comanding a Compa.—I have sent to the Treasurer for Money, if he disappoints me, I shall nevertheless send You some immediately, which You may expect in 24 Hours after this Messenger. I recommend to You Dispatch to be with Capt. Trent if possible before the French come down the river; send a Runner before You for Intelligence that You may not meet with any Surprize. I hope the Colonies to the Nowd will assist Us.
His M[ajest]y has order’d two Independt Comps. from NY: & one from Carolina, to come here to be under my Comd—I have sent Expres[se]s for their immediate coming here, wn they arrive I propose sending them out to the Ohio. I wd gladly hope, as Capt. Trent has begun to build a Fort at Allegany, that the French will not immediately disturb us there; & wn our Forces are properly collected we shall be able to keep Possession, & drive the French from the Ohio. I hope the Cherokees and Catawbas are there by this Time. I intreat You to be diligent in Yr March, take wt Officers You see proper that are at Alexa., & keep up a good, Dicipline, ’till Colo. Fry joins You: He has my Orders to choose a Court Martial, to peruse the Articles of War, & select from them such the Court may think proper for the Dicipline of the Men.
Pray God preserve You, & grant Success to our just Designs. I am most Sincerely Sr Yr Friend & hble Servt


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 20 March 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
[Alexandria, 20 March 1754]

I was favour’d with your Honours Letter by Mr Steward, inclosing a Lieutt Colo.’s Commission; for which Promotion, I hope my future Behaviour will sufficiently testifie the true sense I have of the kindness; and as I intend strictly to adhere to all the proper Rules (as far as it is in my power) and discipline of the Profession I have now enter’d into; I am vain enough to believe, I shall not be quite an unfit Member for it; but in time, shall be able to recompense for the present indulgences—At this time there is abt 75 Men at Alexandria near 50 of which I have Enlisted, the others have been sent by Mesrs Polson, Mercer, and Waggoner to this place, there is very few Officers repaird hither yet, which has occasiond a very fatiguing time to me, to manage a number of selfwill’d, ungovernable People, I shall implicitly obey your Honour’s Commands, and March out with an Expedition: Majr Carlyle is now preparing Waggons for the conveyance of Provisions &ca which till now could not travel for heavy roads. I doubt not but your Honour has been inform’d before this of Mr Vanbraam’s ill success in Augusta by the Express which was sent from thence on that purpose.
Major Muse’s promotion, and Messrs Rose and Bently’s declining will occasion the want of Officer’s; in which Case, if I may be so bold I would beg leave to mention Mr Vanbraam who is the oldest Lieutt and an experienced Soldier for a Comd, unless the Officers come in, I shall be obligd to appoint him that Office till I have your Honrs further commands it would be confering a very great Obligation on him was yr Honr to confirm the place to him I verily believe his behaviour therein would not render him displeasing to you Sir—I have given Captn Stephen’s orders to be in readiness to Join us at Winchester with his Company as they were already in that Neighbourhood—raiz’d there; I have nothing further to trouble your Honour with at present, but my sincere thanks for the indulgent favour’s I have met with; and to declare, how much I am your Honour’s most Obedient & very Hble Servt

Go: Washington
20. March 1754


Title: From George Washington to Adam Stephen, 22 March 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Stephen, Adam

Dr Sir,
Alexandria [March] 22d 1754

I wrote to you in Frederick not knowing your Intention of going to Stafford, desiring that all your Men &ca might be in readiness to March by the middle or last of next Week at furthest for Ohio: I have just receiv’d the Governers Orders (which was sent upon the Arri⟨val⟩ of Captn Trents express) to dispatch with all expedition thither, with the Men that are already raiz’d, and such Officer’s as I see proper: therefore, I shall do myself the Honour of calling upon you for one, I expect several other’s up this Day, together with three Sloops from York, James River and Eastern Shore with Recruits[.] Those which cannot be in readiness to go are to stay and March with Colo. Frye who is to bring out the remainder of the Men, Artillery &ca I shou’d be glad you wou’d repair to Alexandria imediately upon the receipt of this in your way to Winchester that we may consult on proper Mean’s. I am Dr Sir Yr Affe Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I suppose you have read or heard of the Governor’s command requiring all officers to be and appear at Alexandria the 20th inst.


Title: From George Washington to James Hamilton, 24 April 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, James

Honble Sir
[Wills Creek, Md., c.24] April—1754

It is with the greatest concern I acquaint you that Mr Ward Ensign in Captn Trents Company was compelld to surrender his small Fort in the Forks of Monongehele to the French on the 17th Instant: Who fell down from Venango with a Fleet of 360 Batoes and Canoes with upwards of one thousand Men and eighteen pieces of Artillery—which they planted against the Fort, drew up their Men and sent the enclos’d Summons to Mr Ward, who having but an inconsiderable number of Men and no Cannon to make a proper defence was oblige to surrender they sufferd him to draw of his Men, Arms, and Working Tools and gave leave that he might retreat to the Inhabitants.
I have heard of your Honour’s great zeal for His Majestys Service; and for all our Interest’s on the present occasion—You will see by the Inclos’d Speech of the Half Kings that the Indians expect some assistance from you and I am perswaded you

will take proper notice of their moving Speech and of their unshaken fidility.
I thought it more advisable to acquaint your Honour with it imediately than to wait ’till you could get Intelligence by way of Williamsburg and the Young Man as the Half King proposes.
I have arriv’d thus far with a detachment of 150 Men; Colo. Fry with the remainder of the Regimt and Artillery is daily expected. In the meantime we advance slowly across the Mountains making the Roads as we March, fit for the Carriage of our great Guns &ca and are design’d to proceed as far as the mouth of red Stone Creek which Enter’s Monongehele abt 37 miles above the Fort taken by the French from whence we have a Water Carriag⟨e⟩ down the River—And there is a storehouse built by the Ohio Company which may serve as a recepticle for our Amunition and Provisions.
Besides these French that came from Venango we have credible accts that another party are coming up Ohio—we also have Intelligence that 600 of the Chippoways and Ottoways are Marching down Sciodo Ck to join them. I hope your Honour will excuse the Freedom I have assum’d in acqt. you with these Advises. It was the Warm Zeal I owe my Country that influenced me to it and occasiond this express. I am with all due respect & Regard Yr Honours most Obt & very Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Horatio Sharpe, 24 April 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Sharpe, Horatio

Wills Creek [Md.] 24th April, 1754
May it please your Excellency,

It is with the greatest concern I acquaint you, that Mr. Ward, ensign in captain Trent’s company, was obliged to surrender his small fortress in the Forks of Monongehela, at the summons of captain Contrecoeur, commander of the French forces, who fell down from Venango with a fleet of 360 canoes and battoes, conveying upwards of one thousand men, eighteen pieces of artillery, and large stores of provisions and other necessaries. Mr. Ward having but an inconsiderable number of men not (exceeding 30,) and no cannon to make a proper defence was forced to deliver up the fort on the 17th instant. They suffered him to draw out his men, arms, and working tools, and gave leave that he might retreat to the inhabitants with them. I have heard of your excellency’s great zeal for his majesty’s service, and for all

our interests on the present occasion; therefore I am persuaded you will take proper notice of the Indians’ moving speech, and think their unshaken fidelity worthy your consideration.
I have arrived thus far with a detachment of 159 men; col. Fry with the remainder of the regiment and artillery is daily expected. In the mean time we shall advance slowly across the mountains, making the roads as we march, fit for the carriage the great guns, &c. and are designed to proceed as far as the mouth of the Red Stone Creek, which enters Monongehela about 37 miles above the fort (the French have taken) from whence we have water carriage down the river: there is a storehouse built by the Ohio company at the place, which for the present, may serve as a receptacle for our ammunition and provisions.
Besides the French herein mentioned, we have credible information that another party are coming up Ohio. We also have intelligence that 600 of the Chippoways, and Ottoway Indians are marching down Scido Creek to join them.
I ought first to have begged pardon of your excellency for this liberty of writing, as I am not happy enough to be ranked among those of your acquaintance. It was the glowing zeal I owe my country that influenced me to import these advices, and my inclination prompted me to do it to you as I know you are solicitous for the public weal and warm in this interesting cause—that should rouse from the lethargy we have fallen into, the heroick spirit of every free-born Englishman to assert the rights and privileges of our king (if we don’t consult the benefit of ourselves) and resque from the invasions of a usurping enemy, our majesty’s property, his dignity, and lands.
I hope sir, you will excuse the freeness of my expressions, they are the pure sentiments of the breast of him who is with all imaginable regard and due respect, Your Excellency’s most ob’t and Very humble serv’t.

Geo: Washington

N.B. I herewith have inclosed for your Excellency’s perusal a copy of the summons from the French officer, and also the Indians speech which was delivered to, and brought by Mr. Ward.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 25 April 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir,
25th April 1754 Wills Creek [Md.]

Captain Trents Ensign Mr Ward this Day arrived from the Forks of Monongehele, and brings the disagreeable account that the Fort on the Seventeenth Instant was surrender’d at the summons of Captain Contrecour to a Body of French consisting of upwards of one Thousand Men, who came from Vena[n]go with Eighteen pieces of Cannon, Sixty Battoes, and three Hundred Canoes: they gave him liberty to bring off all his men and working Tools, which he accordingly did the same Day.
Immediately upon this Information I called a Council of War to advise on proper measures to be taken in this Exigence; a Copy of whose resolves, with the proceedings I herewith inclose by the Bearer, who I have continued Express to your Honour for more minute Intelligence.
Mr Ward has the Summons with him, and a speech from the Half King which I also inclose with the Wampum: He is accompanied by one of the Indians that is mentioned therein, who were sent to see where we were, what was our strength, and to know the time to expect us out; the other Young man I have prevailed upon to return to the Half King with the following Speech.
“Sachems Warriours of the Six united Nations; Shanoahs and Delawares, our Friends and Brethren:
“I received by the Bucks Brother your speech, who came to us with the two young men five sleeps after leaveing you; We return you thanks from Hearts glowing with Affection for your steadfast adherence to us, for your kind speech, and for your wise Councils, and directions to the Bucks Brother.
[“]The Young man will inform you where he met a small part

or our army advancing towards you, Clearing the Roads for a great Number of our Warriours that are immediately to follow with our Great Guns, our Ammunition, and our Provisions.
[“]I could not delay to let you know our Hearts and therefore have sent back one of the Young Men with this speech to acquaint you with them; while I have sent the other according to your desire to the Governour of Virginea with the Bucks Brother to deliver your speech and Wampum, And to be an Eye witness of the preparations we are makeing, to come in haste to support you, whose Interest is as dear to us as our Lives. We resent the usage of the treacherous French, and our Conduct henceforth will plainly shew to you how much we have it at Heart.
[“]I cannot be easye without seeing you, before our Forces meet at the Fork of the Roads, and therefore have the greatest inclination that you and Esscruniata or one of you meet me on the Road as soon as possible to assist us in Council. To Assure you of the good will we bare you; and to confirm the truth of what has been said, I herewith present you this string of Wampum that you may thereby remember how much I am Your Brother and Friend

      [“]Go: WashingtonalsConnotaucarious

[“]To The Half KingEsscruneata & the Belt of Wampum[”]

I hope my proceedings in these affairs will be Satisfactory to Your Honour, as I have to the Utmost of my knowledge consulted the Interest of the Expedition and good of my Country: whose Rights, while they are asserted in so just a Cause I will defend to the last remains of Life. Hitherto the difficulty I have met with in Marching has been greater than I expect to encounter on Ohio where probably I may be surround’d by the Enemy; and this occasion’d by those who had they acted as becometh every good Subject, would have exerted their Utmost abilitys to forward our just designs Out of Twenty four Waggons that were impress’d at Winchester, we got but Ten after waiting a week, and some of those so illy provided with Teams that we could not travel with them without the Soldiers assisting

them up the Hills. when it was known they had better Teams at home. I doubt not but in some points I may have strained the Law, but I hope as my sole motive was to Expedite the March, I shall be supported in it should my authority be Questioned which at present I dont Apprehend will, unless some busy body intermeddles.
Your Honour will see by the resolves in Council that I am destin’d to Monongehele with all the diligent dispatch in My power. We will endeavour to make the Road sufficiently good for the heaviest Artillery to pass and when we Arrive at Red Stone Creek Fortifie ourselves as strongly as the short time will allow off. I doubt not but to maintain a possession there till we are Reinforced (If it seasonably Arrives) unless the waters rising admit their Cannon to be convey’d up in Canoes and then I flatter myself we shall not be so wanting for Intelligence but to get timely notice of it and make a good Retreat.
I hope your Honour will see the absolute Necessity there is for haveing as soon as our Forces are collected a Number of Cannon (some of heavy Mettle) with Mortors Granadoes &c. to attack the French, and put us on an equal footing with them.
Perhaps it may also be thought adviseable to Invite the Cherokees, Cawtabas, and Chicasaws to March to our Assistance (as we are informed that Six Hundred Chippoways & Ottaways are Marching down Sciodo Creek to join the French that are coming up Ohio). In that case I would beg leave to recommend their being Orderd to this Place first that a peace may be concluded between them and the Six Nations for I am informed by several hands that as there is no good harmony subsisting betwixt them that by comeing first to Ohio it may create great discords and turn much to our disadvantage.
As I had oppertunitys to the Governour’s of Maryland and Pensylvania I wrote to both acquainting them with these advices, and inclosed the Summons and Indian speech, which I hope your Honour will not think me too forward in doing: I consider’d that the Assembly of Maryland was to sit in five days time, and the Pensylvania Assembly now Sitting and that by giveing them timely notice something might be done which would turn to the advantage of this Expedition which now requires all the Force we can Muster.

By the best information I can get I much doubt whether any of the Indians will be in to treat in May. I am with all due respect and regard Your Honours most Obt & Very Humle Servt

Go: Washington

Query Whether the Indian Women and Children if they settle amongst us are to be maintained at our Expence or not, they will Expect it.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 4 May 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sr
[Williamsburg] May 4th 1754

This Day I recd Yr Advices by Mr Ward, which give me great Concern to experience that my Fears of the French geting Possessn before us of the Fork of Monongehela were too prognistic—The March of our Forces has been delay’d by unfortunate Circumstances. The Independt Compa. from So. Car. arriv’d two Day ago, is compleat 100 Men besides Officers, & will reembark for Alexa. next Week, thence proceed immediately to join Colo. Fry & You. The two Independt Compas. from N. York, may be expected in abt ten Days—The No. Car. Men, under the Command of Colo. Innes are immagind to be on

their March & will probably be at the Rendezvous abt the 15th Inst.—I have laid Yr Letters before the Council, & We approv’d of the Caution You have taken in halting at red Stone Creek, ’till You have assembled a sufficient Body to secure YrSelves & Cannon &ca & then to proceed to Monongehela—I have wrote to Colo. Fry directing him also to proceed to red Stone Creek, which being not far from the Place call’d the Fork of the Roads, where the Half King proposes to meet a select Body of our friendly Inds. You will have frequent Occasions of seeing each other, & agree in Council what is fittest to be done in the present Emergency—I hope Capt. McKay who Commands the Independt Compa. will soon be with You—And as he appears to be an Officer of some Experience & Importance, You will with Colo. Fry & Colo. Innes so well agree, as not to let some Punctillio’s abt Command render the Service You are all engag’d in, perplex’d or obstructed. The ill Conduct of Capt. Trent & his Lt Fraser, in leavg the Fort withot Leave meets with just resentmt here; I have order’d Colo. Fry to try them by a Court Martial, wn I hope they will meet with such Punishmt as this unaccountable Action deserves. I am with respect &ca


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 9 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
Little Meadows [Md.] 9th of May 1754

I acquainted your Honour by Mr Ward with the determination’s, which we prosecuted in 4 Days after his Departure, as soon as Waggons arrived to convey our Provisions. The want of proper Conveyances has much retarded this Expedition, and at this time, unfortunately delay’d the Detachment I have the Honour to command—Even when we came to Wills Ck my disappointments were not less than before, for there I expected to have found a sufficient number of pack Horses provided by Captn Trent conformable to his Promise, Majr Carlyles Letter’s and my own (that I might prosecute my first intention with

light expeditious Marches) but instd of tht, there was none in readiness, nor any in expectation, that I could perceive, which reducd me to the necessity of waitg till Waggon’s cd be procur’d from the Branch (40 Miles distant) However in the mean time I detach’d a party of 60 Men to make and amend the Road, which party since the 25th of Apl, and the main body since the 1st Instt have been laboriously employ’d, and have got no further than these Meadows abt 20 Miles from the new Store; where we have been two Days making a Bridge across and are not gone yet: The great difficulty and labour that it requires to amend and alter the Roads, prevents our Marchg above 2, 3, or 4 Miles a Day, and I fear (thô no diligen⟨ce⟩ shall be neglected) we shall be detaind some considerable time before it can be made good for the Carriage⟨s⟩ of the Artillery with Colo. Fry.
We Daily receive Intelligence from Ohio by one or other of the Trader’s that are continually retreating to the Inhabitants with their Effects; they all concur, that the French are reinforced with 800 Men; and this Day by one Kalender I receiv’d an acct which he sets forth as certain, that there is 600 Men building at the Falls of Ohio, from whence they intd to move up to the lower Shawno Town at the Mouth of Sciodo Ck to Erect other Fortresses—He likewise says that these forces at the Fork’s are Erectg their works with their whole Force, and as he was coming met at Mr Gists new settlemt Monsieur La-Force with 4 Soldrs who under the specious pretence of hunting Deserters were reconnoitreg and discovering the Country. He also brings the agreeable news that the Half King has receiv’d, & is much pleas’d with the speech I sent them, and is now upon their March with 50 Men to meet us.
The French down the River are sending presents and invitations to all the neighbouring Indians, and practiseing every means to influence them in their Interest.
We have heard nothing from the Cawtaba’s or any of the Southern Indians thô this is the time we mostly need their assistance I have not above 160 Effective Men with me since Captn Trent⟨s⟩ have left us, who I discharg’d from this Detacht & order’d them to wait your Honour’s Comds at Captn Trents for I found them rather injurious to the other Men than Serviceable to the Expn till they could be upon the same Establisht with us and come under the rigr of the Martial Law. I am Honble Sir

with the most profound respect yr Honour’s most Obt & most Hbe Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I hope yr Hr will excuse the papr & w[ritin]g the want of conveniences obliges me to this.


Title: From George Washington to Sarah Carlyle, 15 May 1754 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Carlyle, Sarah

Letter not found: to Sarah Carlyle, 15 May 1754. On 17 June 1754 Sarah Carlyle wrote to GW: “I Received your letter dated the 15 May.”


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 18 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Gt xing of Yaughyaughgani [Pa.]May 18th 1754
Honble Sir

I receiv’d your Honour’s favour by Mr Ward, who arrivd here last Night just as two Indians from the Ohio Did—Which Indian’s contradict the Report of the French having receivd reinforcements, thô they agree that 800 Men are very shortly expected: those that are there, are busily employd in Erecting the Fort which they have remov’d to the point I recommended for the Countrys use, whose Walls they have now made two fathom thick, and have raizd it Breast high.
They are daily sending Scouts out, some of which, abt 5 days ago was seen within 6 or 7 Miles of our Camp; but as I did not receive timely Notice of it, they have escap’d, unless they have fallen in with a party I sent out abt 8 Days ago to Red Stone, to Reconnoitre the Country thereabouts, and to get Intelligence of the motions of the French.
It is imagin’d the Half King will be here in two or three Days; but to hurry him, I have sent the Indian that came up with Mr

Ward, with a short speech acquainting him with my desire of his coming as expeditiously as possible to receive the speech which your Honour sent by Mr Ward and that Colo. Fry wrote me I was to deliver: when he arrives I will endeavour to send him on to meet your Honour at Winchester.
These Indians, and all the Trader’s that I have been able to get any information from of late, agree that it is almost impracticable to open a Road, that a Waggon can pass from this to Red Stone Ck: but most of them assure me, that (except one place) Water Carriage may be had down this River, which will be a most advantageous discovery if it proves so—as it will save 40 Miles Land Carriage over almost impassible Roads & Mountns.
The Water is now so high, that we cannot possible cross over with our Men, which likewise secures us from any imediate attacks of the Enemy: therefore, I have Resolv’d to go down the River to this Fall, which is at the Turkey foot: to inform myself concerning the Nature and difficulty attending this Fall; in order thereto, I have provided a Canoe, and shall with an Officer and 5 Men set out upon this discovery to morrow Morning.
Captn Trents Men, who by their refractory Behaviour did oblige me to seperate them from the other Soldiers, has now left the new Store and dispersd contrary to my positive order’s till they receiv’d your Honour’s Commands—As I shall have frequent communications with the Indians which is of no Effect witht Wampum, I hope your Honour will order some to be sent—indeed, we ought to have Shirts and many other things of this sort, which is always expected by every Indian that brings a message or good report. Also the Cheifs, who visit, & converse in Council look for it: if it would not be thought too bold in me, I would recommend some of the Treaty Goods being sent for that purpose with, or after Colo. Fry: this is the method the French pursue, and a trifle judiciously bestow’d, and in season may turn to our advantage[.] If I find this River Navigable I am convinced it cannot but be agreeable to yr Honour building Canoes in order to convey our Artillery down; as the Roads to this place are made as good as it can be, having spent much time & great Labour upon it I believe Waggons may travel now with 15 or 1800 wt in them by doubling at one or two pinches only. I am Yr Honour’s most Obt Hble Serv.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 18 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

[Great Crossing of the] Youghiogany [Pa.] May 18, 1754.
Sir,

I am heartily concerned, that the officers have such real cause to complain of the Committee’s resolves; and still more to find my inclinations prone to second their just grievances.

I have endeavoured, as far as I was able, to see in the best light I could the trifling advantages that may accrue; yet nothing prevents their throwing down their commissions, (with gratitude and thanks to your Honor, whose good intentions of serving us we are all well assured of,) but the approaching danger, which has too far engaged their honor to recede till other officers are sent in their room, or an alteration made regarding their pay, during which time they will assist with their best endeavours voluntarily, that is, without receiving the gratuity allowed by the resolves of the Committee.
Giving up my commission is quite contrary to my intention. Nay, I ask it as a greater favor, than any amongst the many I have received from your Honor, to confirm it to me. But let me serve voluntarily; then I will, with the greatest pleasure in life, devote my services to the expedition without any other reward, than the satisfaction of serving my country; but to be slaving dangerously for the shadow of pay, through woods, rocks, mountains,—I would rather prefer the great toil of a daily laborer, and dig for a maintenance, provided I were reduced to the necessity, than serve upon such ignoble terms; for I really do not see why the lives of his Majesty’s subjects in Virginia should be of less value, than of those in other parts of his American dominions; especially when it is well known, that we must undergo double their hardship.
I could enumerate a thousand difficulties that we have met with, and must expect to meet with, more than other officers who have almost double our pay; but as I know you reflect on these things, and are sensible of the hardships we must necessarily encounter, it would be needless to enlarge.
Besides, as I have expatiated fully (and, perhaps, too warmly) in a letter to Colonel Fairfax, who, I suppose, will accompany you to Winchester, upon the motives that occasion these my resolves, I shall not trouble you with them; for the subject leads me too far when I engage in it.
Another thing resolved by the Committee is, that only one sergeant and one corporal be allowed to a company; with whom it is as much impossible to do the necessary duty, as it is to conquer kingdoms with my handful of men.
Upon the whole, I find so many clogs upon the expedition, that I quite despair of success; nevertheless, I humbly beg it, as

a particular favor, that your Honor will continue me in the post I now enjoy, the duty whereof I will most cheerfully execute as a volunteer, but by no means upon the present pay.
I hope what I have said will not be taken amiss; for I really believe, were it as much in your power, as it is your inclination, we should be treated as gentlemen and officers, and not have annexed to the most trifling pay, that ever was given to English officers, the glorious allowance of soldier’s diet—a pound of pork, with bread in proportion, per day. Be the consequence what it will, I am determined not to leave the regiment, but to be amongst the last men that quit the Ohio, even if I serve as a private volunteer, which I greatly prefer to the establishment we are now upon. I am, &c.


Title: From George Washington to Joshua Fry, 23 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Fry, Joshua

[Great Crossing of the Youghiogheny, Pa.] 23 May, 1754
Sir,

This day I returned from my discoveries down the Youghiogany, which, I am sorry to say, can never be made navigable. We traced the watercourse near thirty miles, with the full expectation of succeeding in the much desired aim; but, at length, we came to a fall, which continued rough, rocky, and scarcely passable, for two miles, and then fell, within the space of fifty yards, nearly forty feet perpendicular.
As I apprehended there would be difficulty in these waters, I sent the soldiers forward upon the road, when I left the camp, which was as soon as they could cross; therefore, no time has

been lost; but the roads are so exceedingly bad, that we proceed very slow.
By concurring intelligence, which we received from the Indians, the French are not above seven or eight hundred strong, and by a late account we are informed, that one half of them were detached in the night, without even the Indians’ knowledge, on some secret expedition; but the truth of this, though it is affirmed by an Indian lately from their fort, I cannot yet vouch for, nor tell where they are bound.
I would recommend, in the strongest terms possible, your writing to the Governor for some of the treaty goods, or any others suitable for the Indians. Nothing can be done without them. All the Indians that come expect presents. The French take this method, which proves very acceptable; besides, if you want one or more to conduct a party, to discover the country, to hunt, or for any particular service, they must be bought; their friendship is not so warm, as to prompt them to these services gratis; and that, I believe, every person, who is acquainted with the nature of Indians, knows. The Indian, that accompanied me down the river, would go no further than the Forks, about ten miles, till I promised him a ruffled shirt, which I must take from my own, and a watch-coat. He said the French always had Indians to show them the woods, because they paid well for so doing; and this may be laid down as a standing maxim amongst them. I think were the goods sent out, and delivered occasionally, as you see cause, that four or five hundred pounds’ worth would do more good, than as many thousands given at a treaty.
I hope I may be excused for offering my opinions so freely, for I can aver we shall get no intelligence, or other services from them, unless we have goods to apply to these uses. I am, &c.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 25 May 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Winchester May 25th 1754

I can assure You I am concerned & no less surpriz’d to find by Yr Letr of the 18th of this Mo. such ill timed Complaints & as I conceive not altogether founded in such real Cause as I am sorry to find You think they are—You certainly judge very rightly of the Importance of the Service & that Yr Honrs are engag’d too far to recede from it, which I hope an attentive reflection on wt I am going to observe will satisfie You & the other Gent. there is not so great Provocation to withdraw Yrselves from as You seem to think at present—The first Objectn to the Pay if made at all shd have been made before engaging in the Service. The Gent. very well knew the Terms on which they were to serve & were satisfied then with it, nor cd they be ignorant of the Numbers that as well as themselves & to whom they were prefer’d approved of the Terms & were desirous to serve on those Conditions. And as to the Canad. Expedition, it is I believe a Mistake to say, that those who served in it were found with Wine & Beer at the Public Expence, & that their Wages were higher or even so high as Yours. I agree with You about the second Article wherein the Allowance for enlisting is complained of, I do not approve of that & am very far from intinding the Officers shd raise recruits at their own private Expence, the 21/6 allowed, however it is greater than the Complainants mention who take no Notice of it. I am willing to think it was inadvertency in the Committee, & I will take care it shall be rectified. But as to Your Allowance being the same as the common Men, I must observe to You that it is so throughout His Majesty’s Army & Navy, & if any Officer indulges further it is from his own Pocket. And it shd be remember’d that an Officer in

England is obliged to many more expences than You are, that the Difference of his Pay is over ballanc’d by them. The number of Sergeants & Corporals is not sufficient & I will have more appointed. The Hardships complained of in the last Article are such as usually attend on a Military Life & are consider’d by Soldiers rather as Oppties of Glory than Objects of Discouragemt. They might have easily been foreseen & avoided but wd be now the worst reason in the World for quiting the Service or laying down Commos. that had been earnestly solicited & were granted on Public well Known Terms. In fine let the Gent. be assur’d I have them no less at Heart than the Cause to which they have devoted themselves, & that I shall not be wanting to make them easy, & reward their Merit as far as I find I have it in my Power. I have no Complaints of this kind from Colo. Fry or his Corps, & I hope You will take care not to let them know anything of Your Dissatisfactn—Communicate the above to Yr Officers with Yr usual good Sense, & endeavour to pacifie their ill timed Complaints. Thus much in answer to the Paper signed by Capt. Stephens & others. Now Colo. W: I shall more particularly answer wt relates to YrSelf, & I must begin with expressing both Concern & Surprize, to find a Gent. whom I so particularly consider’d, & from whom I had so great Expectats. & Hopes, appear so differently from himself, & give me leave to say mistakenly as I think, concuring with Complaints in general so ill founded. I am sensible of Yr Difficulties & You may believe I shall not let Your Merit pass unnotic’d. I believe You sincerely attach’d to Yr Countrie’s Wellfare & Prosperity, which You know very much depends on the Success of Your present Expeditn & this I perswade myself will sweeten the Toils, that You will hereafter reflect on with Pleasure & engage You to think of nothing less than resigning Yr Comd or countenancing in any sort the Discontent that cd never be more unseasonable or pernicious than at present. You seem to be unacquaint’d with the Allowance of £100 ⅌ Ann. to Colo. Fry, for a Table to himself & the Field Officers, & therefore I mentn it as I have done to him, & on junction of the Forces he no doubt will keep a Table agreeable to the Allowance given him—The Capt. of the Independt Compa. from So. Car. is now here, & his Corps consisting of 100 fine Men expected on Sunday; & I have Advice that a large Body of Inds. & white Men from No. Car. are on their

March & may be expected here in a Week, & the two Independt Compas. from NY: cannot I think be long behind them, I shall hasten them all to You as they arrive. I remn here in great Expectatn & Uneasiness for the Half King & some other of the Indn Chiefs, whom I desire You will hasten if not already pass’d You, & pray let me have the best Intelligence You can of the Twightwees, & whether I may expect to see them here—Mr Jno. Willis returns to the Service, & I recommend him to Yr favo. & Notice. I desire You will be particularly cautious in regard to the Disigns of the French, You know they are a cunning People, & may be apt to take the advantage of Yr small Number which I hope will soon be increasd to make a good Figure agst them. With great Sincerity & regard I wish You Health, & Success to our Arms & am with very great Esteem. Sr Yr humble Servt


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 27 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
Gt Meadws [Pa.] 27th May 1754

The 25th Ult. by an Express from Colo. Fry I receiv’d the News of your Honour’s arrival at Winchester and desire of

seeing the Half King and other Chiefs of the 6 Nations—I have by Sundry Speeches and messages invited him Monacatoocha &ca to meet me and have reason to expect he is on his Road as he only purposd to settle his People to planting at a place choose on Monongehele Yaughyaughgane for that purpose but fearing something might have retarded his March I imediately upon the arrival of the Express dispatch’d a Messenger with a speech he is not return yet—abt 4 Days ago I receivd a message from the Half [King] of which the following is a copy exactly taken.
“To the forist his Magesteis Commanden Offeverses to hom this meay concern.
“An acct of a french armey to meat Miger Georg Wassiontton therfor my Brotheres I deisir you to be awar of them for deisind to strike the forist Englsh they see tow deays since they marchd I cannot tell what nomber the hilf King and the rest of the Chiefes will be with you in five dayes to Consel—no more at present but give my serves to my Brother’s the English.”
“The Half KingJohn Davison”
This acct was seconded in the Evening by another that the French were at the xing of Yaughyaughgane abt 18 Miles—I hereupon hurried to this place as a convenient spott. We have with Natures assistance made a good Intrenchment and by clearing the Bushes out of these Meadows prepar’d a charming field for an Encounter—I detach’d imediately upon my arrival here small light partys of Horse (Wagn Horses) to reconnoitre the Enemy and discover their strength & motion who returnd Yesterday witht seeing any thing of them nevertheless we were alarmd at Night and remaind under Arms from two oClock till near Sun rise we conceive it was our own Men as 6 of them Deserted but can’t be certain Whether it was them or other Enemy’s be it as it will they were fired at by the Centrys but I believe without damage.
This Morning Mr Gist arrivd from his place Where a Detachment of 50 Men was seen Yesterday at Noon Comd by Monsr Laforce he afterwards saw their tracks within 5 Miles of our Camp—I imediately detachd 75 Men in pursuit of them who I hope will overtake them before they get to red Stone where

their Canoes Lie[.] Mr Gist being an Eye Witness of our proceedings hereupon, and waiting for this witht my knowing till just now that he intended to wait upon your Honr obliges me to refer to him for particulars—as I expect my Messenger in to Night from the half King I shall write more fully to morrow by the Express that came fm Colo. Fry.
But before I conclude I must take the Liberty of mentioning to Your Honour the gt necessity there is for having goods out here to give for Services of the Indians they all expect it and refuse to Scout or do any thing without—saying these Services are paid well by the French—I really think was 5 or 600 Pounds worth of proper goods sent it wd tend more to our Interest than so many thousands given in a Lump at a treaty[.] I have been oblig’d to pay Shirts for what they have already done which I cannot continue to do.
The Number’s of the French have been greatly magnified as your Honour may see by a copy of the inclosd Journal who I sent out to gain Intelligence—I have receivd Letter’s from the Governer’s of Pensylvania & Maryland Copys of which I also send I am Yr Honrs most Obt & most Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I hope your Honr will excuse the Haste with which I was oblig’d to use in writing this.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 29 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
From our Camp at the Gt Meadows [Pa.]the 29th of May 1754

The bearer hereof, Monsieur Druillong, with Monsieur LaForce and two Cadets I beg leave to recommend to your Honour’s particular Notice as Prisoner’s of War, and Officer’s whom I had the Honour of taking.
I have assur’d them they will meet with all the Respect and favour due to their Charactr and Personal merit: and I hope

they will do me the justice to acquaint your Honour that I neglected no mean’s that was in my power to render their confinement easy here.
Lieutt West is preferr’d to conduct these Gentlemen with 16 Private Prisoner’s to your Honour at Winchester who will acqt you with the profound respect with which I am your Honr most Obt & most Hbl. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Joshua Fry, 29 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Fry, Joshua

Sir
From our Camp at the Gt Meadws [Pa.]29 of Ma⟨y⟩ 1754

This by an imediate express, I send to infm you that Yesterday I engagd a party of French whereof 11 were kill’d and 20 taken with the loss of only 1 of mine killd and 2 or 3 wounded among which was Lieutt Waggener: by some of their Paper’s we can discover that large detachts are expected every day, which we may reasonably suppose are to attack us especially since we have began.
This is therefore to acquaint you with the necessity there is for a Reinforcet which I hope you will detach imediately as you can be in no manner of danger in your March, for the French must pass our Camp which I flatter myself is not practicable witht my having intelligence thereof especially as there will be Indian’s always scouting[.] If there does not come a sufficient Reinforcement we must either quit our gd & retn to you or fight very unequal Number’s which I will do before I will give up one Inch of what we have gaind—The great haste I am in to dispatch the bearer prevents me from being particular at this time—I shall conclude Sir with assuring you how sincerely concern’d I am for your indisposion which I hope you’ll soon recover

from and be able to join us with the Artillery that we may attack the French [in] their Forts I am Sir Yr most Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Augustine Washington, 31 May 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, John Augustine

Dr John
[Camp in the Great Meadows, Pa.,31 May 1754]

Since my last we have arrived at this place, where 3 days agoe we had an engagemt wth the French that is, between a party of theirs & Ours; Most of our men were out upon other detachments, so that I had scarcely 40 men under my Command, and about 10, or a doz. Indians, nevertheless we obtained a most signal Victory. The Battle lasted abt 10, or 15 minutes, sharp firing on both sides, when the French gave ground & run, but to no great purpose; there were 12 killed, among which was Monsr De Jumonville the Commandr, & taken 21 prisoners with whom are Monsieurs La Force, Druillong, together with 2 Cadets. I have sent them to his Honr the Governor at Winchester conducted by Lieut. West & a guard of 20 men. We had but one man killed, 2 or 3 wounded and a great many more within an Inch of being shott; among the wounded on our side was Lieut. Waggoner, but no danger will ensue.
We expect every Hour to be attacked by a superior Force, but shall if they stay one day longer be prepared for them; We have already got Intrenchments & are about a Pallisado’d Fort, which will I hope be finished today. The Mingo’s have struck the French & I hope will give a good blow before they have done, I expect 40 odd of them here to night, wch with our Fort and some reinforcements from Colo. Fry, will enable us to exert our Noble Courage with Spirit. I am Yr Affe Bror

Geo. Washington

I fortunately escaped without a wound, tho’ the right Wing where I stood was exposed to & received all the Enemy’s fire and was the part where the man was killed & the rest wounded. I can with truth assure you, I heard Bulletts whistle and believe me there was something charming in the sound.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 1 June 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Winchester June 1st 1754

Mr Gist brot Yr Letter & the very agreeable Acct of Yr Killing & taking Monsr Le Force & his whole Party of 35 Men on which Success I heartily congratulate You, as it may give a Testimony to the Inds. that the French are not invincible wn fairly engagd with the English; but hope the good Spirits of Yr Soldiers will not tempt You to make any hazardous Attempts agst a too numerous Enemy. When Colo. Fry’s Corps & Capt. McKay’s Compa. join You, You will be enabled to act with better Vigour. I am in daily Expectatn of seeing or hearing from Colo. Innes, & a Body of Cherokee Inds. which I shall direct to march with all Diligence. I have sent Colo. Cresap to bring away Monsr Le Force & the other Prisoners, which You will deliver him, & be thereby reliev’d from the Anxiety of guarding so many Prisoners with Yr small Number. I have caus’d an Assortmt of Indn Goods to be packt up in order to be sent You immediately; & have engag’d Mr Croghan as an Interpreter to attend the Commander in Chief, assist in delivering the several Presents, & advise You in all matters You may have occasion to consult him about, hoping his faithful demeanour will merit Yr & the Officers kind reception & Entertainmt—I have also sent out of my private Store some rum, which will be sent You with the Goods from this on Monday next—I wait with Impatience the return of Burney to know whether the Half King comes here.
Pray God preserve You in all Yr proceedings & grant Success to our Arms. I remain with great Esteem Sr Yr most humble Servt


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 1 June 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Win[chester] 1st June [1754].

Mr Geo. Croghan, a Gent. well acquainted with Indn. Affairs is engag’d by me to serve His My as an Interpreter. I therefore desire You to shew him a proper regard & in such Matters relating to the Delivery of Presents, wt You may have to negotiate with the Half King & the Inds. in the British Alliance & Int[eres]t You will consult him. I am Sr Yr most humble Servt


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 2 June 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Winr 2d June [1754]

I heartily wish that YrSelf & Officers had not at this Time discover’d an Uneasiness on Acct of Yr Pay especially as the long Delay of Colo. Fry’s Detachmt in not yet joining Yrs gives me too much Concern. You must all be sensible that if Yr present Establishmt is less than the first Estimate made; it was from a Calculatn of the 10,000 only granted to support the Expedition which if it had been greater my good Inclinatn wd have readily enlarged Yr Encouragemt—The Difficulties You have undergone are obvious, the prudent Measures taken approv’d, & Yr Success in taking Monsr. Le Force & the other Prisoners highly pleasing—As soon as I was acquainted therewith I engag’d Colo. Cresap then here to take a Guard & my Letter for the delivery of them, supposing You cd not spare a sufficient Number, but as they are already advanc’d under Lieut. West’s Care, Colo. Cresap may meet & receive them this Day, & Mr West sooner return. I have sent strict Orders to Majr Muse to hasten his March by leaving the Waggons, & carrying the most necessary Provisions &ca on horseback. Mr Croghan has undertaken to deliver You 10,000 of Flour immediately, & as the Half King Monacatoocha &ca intend to secure their Families with You. I shall take care to have You supplied with Provisions for their Sustenance; Those Chiefs having taken up & dispers’d the Hatchet will soon bring a good Number of Inds. to sustain You, & wn joined by the other of our Forces now on their March, You will be enabled to improve Your Success. I doubt not Yr continuing to act with Prudence & resolution, & You may depend on my duely representing Yr Merit, that of Yr Officers & faithful Soldiers, to His M[ajest]y & our next Genl Assembly to consider of. I have sent You some Medals for YrSelf, Colo. Fry, the Half King Monacatoocha, the Chiefs of the Delawars & Shawnesse to wear as Tokens of His Majesty’s Favo. Colo. Fairfax, Colo. Corbin, Colo. Ludwell & myself being alike adorn’d. You will also receive from Capt. Montour a Belt & String of Wampum—4000 Black & 4000 white Wampum to be dispos’d as You may have occasion to make Speeches. The Goods You desire for the Inds. & three barrels of rum will be sent off Tomorrow

& order’d to be carried with the utmost dispatch. I have likewise sent a Present of 4000 Wampum for, & a Speech to the Half King, whose reasons for not meeting me here at this Time are very allowable & I must hope for on some more favourable Occasion for I am most desirous of taking him by the Hand & assuring Him of my grateful Thanks for his firm & unshaken Friendship to the faithful Subjects of the British King his gracious Father & good Ally. I wish You the Officers & Soldiers perfect Health to overcome all Obstacles & the Honr of vanquishing all opponent Enemies & am Sir Yr assur’d humble Servt

P.S. The Speech is as enclos’d which You will deliver.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 4 June 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Winr June 4th 1754

On the Death of Colo. Fry I have thot it proper to send You the enclos’d Como. to Comd the Virga regimt, & another for Majr Muse to be Lieut. Colo. The eldest Capt. to be Majr & the eldest Lieut. to be Capt. the eldest Ensign to be Lieut. unless You shd have Objectn to them. I think You will want two Ensigns, if so, I recommend Mr Perroney if he has behav’d so as to merit it, the other I leave to You. I have no Como. now here, but send the Names of the Persons to succeed as above & I will send up Commos. to bear equal Date with Yrs so that they may act by Yr Orders ’till that Time. Colo. James Innes, an old experienc’d Officer is daily expected, who is appointed Commander in Chief of all the Forces, which I am very sensible will be very agreeable to You & the other Officers. The Capts. & Officers of the Independt Compas. having their Commos. sign’d by His

M[ajest]y immagine they claim a distinguish’d rank & being long trained in Arms expect suitable regards, You will therefore consult & agree with Yr Officers to shew them particular marks of Esteem, which will avoid such Causes of Uneasiness as otherwise might obstruct His Majesty’s Service wherein All are alike engag’d & must answer for any ill Consequence of an unhappy Disagreemt—You cannot believe the Uneasiness & Anxiety I have had for the Tardiness of the Detachmt under Colo. Fry’s Commd in not joining You some Time since, as all the Delay in the Provisions, & Ammunition; however I have given strong Instructs. on both these Heads, & hope You will soon be joined with proper Numbers to give the French a total Defeat. Continue in good Spirits, & prosecute Yr usual Conduct & Prudence, which must recommend You to the favo. of His My & Yr Country My Friendship & respect I hope you do not doubt. I therefore remn with great Truth, Sr Your real Friend


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carter, 5 June 1754
From: Carter, Charles
To: Washington, George

Sr
Fredericksburgh June 5 1754

We had the agreable news of the victory obtaind by the Partie under your Command I heartily congratulate you and all the Brave gentlen that were of the company. From this happy begining I am lead to hope you will soon make those cruel men know that numbers can’t support an unrighteous cause God grant you may be blest with the like success and drive them Out of our Colony I had this affair in the begining much at heart and you are a witness to the share I had in promoting the Bill for defending our Frontiers and you may depend I shall be always ready to serve such brave men to the utmost of my power.
We are told the officers are very uneasy on acct of some late resolves of the Comittee I am not yet satisfied what their complaint is as it comes from a youth in the service I hope much may be imputd to his not being well informd[.] While I was at the Committee I can aver there was the greatest readiness to promote and encourage the officers and men and make the most effectual provision no doubt any just complaint will meet with immediate redress for my part I shall always be a true friend to such deserving men I know the hardships you must suffer and I hope you will be amply rewarded and return crownd with Laurels. I should be glad to know the name of the unfortunate man that died in our Cause please to favour me with an Acct of every Important occurance and the grounds of the Complaint[.] You are so well satisfied of the importance of the trust reposd in you that it would be impertinence to use any Arguments to excite you to a courageous discharge of it My compliments to all the officers I am charm with their Bravery[.] I am Sr Yr most obligd hume Servt

Ch. Carter

PS The above was wrote in the dark but I could not omit an opportunity to congratulate you on this happy occasion.


Title: From George Washington to John Carlyle, 6 June 1754 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Carlyle, John

Letter not found: to John Carlyle, 6 June 1754. On 17 June 1754 John Carlyle wrote to GW: “I Received your favour of the 6th.” This was probably the letter to Carlyle described by GW in his letter to Robert Dinwiddie, 10 June 1754, in which he stated that he complained to Carlyle of the “tardiness” of the commissary’s deputies and requested that “suitable stores of Ammunition might be sent up speedily.”