Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 25 June 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Saratoga [N.Y.] June 25h 1777.

I had the Honor to receive your Excellency’s Favor of the 16h Instant at Tyonderoga on Sunday the 24th—It gives me infinite pleasure to learn that your Force is become so respectable as to afford you a prospect of making an Impression on the Enemy’s Lines. I wish, I could say that our’s was such as to create a reasonable Hope that we should be able to maintain both Sides of the Lake at Tyonderoga in Case of a serious Attack—The inclosed Letter and papers to Congress will advise your Excellency of the State of Affairs in this Department—Since writing my Letter to Congress, I have received one from General St Clair, Copy whereof I do myself the Honor to inclose—If the Enemy’s Object is not to attack Tyonderoga, I suspect this Movement is intended to cover an Attempt on New Hampshire, the Mohawk River, or to cut off the Communication between Fort George and Fort Edward, or perhaps all three, the more to distract us & devide our Force by drawing our Attention to so many different quarters—I wish the Reinforcement the General officers at Tyonderoga advised me to apply for to your Excellency may be sent the soonest possible—The Garrison of Fort George is much too weak and I have not a Man to send there or to make any Opposition in Tryon County.
I shall raise the Troop of Horse your Excellency recommends—That Business would have been considerably advanced if I had received the

orders of Congress, agreeable to your Excellency’s Advice.
Be pleased to forward to Congress a Copy of General St Clair’s Letter. I am Dr Sir with unfeigned Esteem and Respect Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: General Orders, 26 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Middle-Brook, June 26th 1777.
Japan.Jamaica. Jamestown.

The troops are to complete three days provisions of bread and flour, as soon as possible; and but one day’s provision of flesh, if it be fresh, or three days provisions of salt meat; if to be had, and to hold themselves in readiness to march at a moment’s warning—They will lodge themselves in the best manner they can this night, near the gaps of the mountains—From every gap, proper picquets are to be posted and patroles sent out during the night.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 26 June 1777
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

Camp at Quibble Town June 26th 1777

Mr Boudinot thinks it his Duty to report to his Excellency General Washington, that Complaints of the cruel Treatment of a number of our Prisoners, taken by the Enemy & confined in the Goals of the City of New York, are daily increasing—That Mr Boudinot as Commissary General of Prisoners, has made the best Inquiry into the Truth of the Facts alledged, that his Circumstances will admit—That on the whole,

he thinks there is Evidence of the greatest Cruelty being used towards several of our unhappy Prisoners, and particularly to Capt. Van Zant, Major Pain, Capt. Flahaven, Capt. Vandyck, all of whom are confined in close Goal together with the Honble John Fell Esqr. lately taken from Bergen County—That several of our Officers who have lately had the small Pox in the Goals, have been suffered to languish (one of whom died) with out the least aid either as to Physick, Provision or other necessaries—That in general the daily Rations are not sufficient more than barely to keep the Prisoners from starving.
Mr Boudinot would beg leave to suggest to his Excellency, his Sentiments on this melancholy Subject—That as the Evidence in general is such, as may possibly admit the Idea of the facts having been exaggerated from the too sensible feelings of the unhappy Sufferers, and as it is for the most part acknowledged that the Commander in Chief of the British Troops, is ignorant of this usage and that it is occasioned by the Iniquity of the under Officers, Mr Boudinot would therefore propose, an Application to General Howe for Passports for an Officer of the American Army, to visit all our Prisoners in Possession of the Enemy, and take their Examinations in presence of a British Officer, so that not only his Excellency, but General Howe himself, may also be certainly informed of these facts; at the same Time the Cloaths designed for our Prisoners may be properly distributed, and a meeting had with Mr Loring on the Subject of future Supplies for the Prisoners on each Side of the Question—This request cannot well be refused by General Howe, as a Hessian Pay Master has been permitted to visit & pay the Hessian Prisoners in our Possession.

Elias BoudinotCommissary G. of Prisoners


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 26 June 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Peekskill [N.Y.] June The 26. 1777

your favours of the 22d & 25 Inst. I have receivd. If I mistake not, yours Orders where that I should Order, Genl McDougal’s Brigade, back if they had not Advancd two far—Genl McDougal Crosd the River himself the morning, before I recd your letter and I thought, he could

not have got, with his Brigade more that four or five miles, but since I find he had Orderd his Brigade, to march the day before, he went himself—I shall go to General Clinton to day, & Will with his Assistants, do every thing in my power for the Immediate Removal of the Stores from Fish kill.
I wrote you Yesterday that Genl Glover had gone to white Plains to reconnoiter the ground on which he proposd to station his Brigd. he has not march yet, & I shall According to your directions detain him with his Brigade—But I think it Absolutely Necessary that a larger body of troops, than their now is, shoud be stationd there, if It did not amount to a Brigade, whould it not be proper to send down a Regement, leaveing their Baggage princepally here, that if the Enemy should make an Attempt this way, they whould be so little Incumbed, that they might Join me here with less delay, I shall (till I know your pleasure) keep, scouts Continually down in that Quarter—for their Rangers, Recruits, & Freebootys, plunder & distress, that country in a manner almost beyond discription—their situation on the West side of the River is some thing Similar—Gen. James Clinton, I think could prevent that in some measure by sending down parties from his command—I shall loose no time in getting every thing prepard for their Reception if they Should come this way. I am Dr Sir your Obt & Affectionate Hume Servt

Israel Putnam

P.S. As the troops are continually Comeing in, in Small parties who belong to the Regts which Compose Genl Parsons Brigade I whould be glad of your Advise whether I shall detain them here or forward them to their Regts.


Title: General Orders, 27 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Middle-Brook, June 27th 1777.
Kilkenny.Kingston.Kildare.

The commanding officers of corps, who have men in the provost guard, against whom sentences have been past, and approved, are, without delay to see those sentences executed.
It being necessary to determine the ranks of Col. Bland, & Col. Moylan, Colonels of Horse; Major Generals Sullivan, Greene, Lord Stirling, Stephen and Lincoln are appointed a Court to inquire into the matter, hear the pretensions of the parties, and determine their

rank. The court to sit this afternoon at 5 o’clock, at Genl Greene’s quarters; any three of them to be a quorum.
The Commander in Chief earnestly desires, that General Officers, in case of an action, or the appearance of one will (when practicable) send all their orders either in writing, or by an Aide-de-Camp, or Brigade Major—to prevent the unintelligible and contradictory directions, which are too often conveyed, and may prove fatal to the views and designs of the commanding officer.
Intelligence of the enemy’s movements, and approach they are also requested to communicate in the same manner to the officer commanding; otherwise it will be impossible for him to make a proper disposition, as the goodness of this must depend upon the certainty and precision of the information.
All officers at out-posts are to govern themselves by this order, so far as it will apply to their case.
The General directs an immediate return to be made to the Adjutant General of the killed, wounded and missing since Sunday last, inclusively.
For the future, the commanding officers of corps are, as soon as possible, to make exact returns to the Adjutant General of all the killed, wounded, and missing, belonging to their respective corps (specifying their ranks) and of the times when, and places where such events shall happen. Such commanding officers, and also, the commanding officers of parties, are, from time to time, to make the like exact returns of all prisoners they shall take from the enemy, and as soon as possible after the capture.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Aaron Burr, 27 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Burr, Aaron

Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook 27th June 1777

You are hereby appointed Lieut. Colo. to a Regiment in the Continental Service to be commanded by Colo. Malcolm. This Regiment is composed of eight independant Companies, most of wh. are already raised. As Colo. Malcolm goes directly up to draw the Regiment together, I desire you will join him and give every necessary Assistance towards forming the Corps. I have given particular Instructions to Colo. Malcolm, you are therefore to follow his directions. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 27 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dear Sir
Camp at Middle Brook June 27th 1777.

I have now before me your two letters of the 17th & 19th Instant. It is Strange Cols. Whitcomb & Phiney should have suffered their Claims to have remained so long unpaid. Their conduct is extremely reprehensible and must produce a great deal of Embarasments, if not some injustice. Have their Abstracts made out in such a way as shall appear agreable to propriety and the usual practice in such cases, to which they should annex an Affidavit to give them a greater degree of Authenticity. The Compy Rolls should be made out specifying the mens names, which should be affixed to the Abstract.
In respect to the Militia who have done duty at Providence, I have nothing to say. If they were call’d out by Public authority or by any having power for the purpose, I suppose they are to be paid by the States. At any rate you should be Extremely cautious in having the Abstracts properly adjusted—The Company Rolls ought to be specifye the Officers & mens names & time of service and ought to be sworn to & Certified by the commanding Officer. It might be well for you to submit the matter to Congress and to take their direction.
You will omit no pains or exertions to compleat the difi[ci]ency’s in the Regiments and to push the troops forward as fast as circumstances will admit. I have written to Genl Schuyler, that he cannot have any of the Feild Pieces at this time, as there are not a sufficient number for this Army, which has much more occasion for them.
Yesterday Morning the Enemy advanced with their whole force from Amboy to Westfeild about Seven or Eight miles—Where the whole or a large part of them now remain. This movement would seem to indicate an intention to make an Attack upon our Left Flank, As they came out, there was some Skirmishing between them & part of Lord Stirling’s Division without any great damage on either Side. I am Dr Sir Your Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: Orders to Colonel William Malcom, 27 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

Sir
[Middlebrook, 27 June 1777]

You are hereby appointed to the command of a regiment in the Continental service, to be composed of the eight following independent companies—the four raised under the direction of General George Clinton, and commanded by Major Pauling, and four others raised or to be raised by Captains Scott, McDougall, Hallet and Hunter. In case any of these last mentioned Captains should not have accepted or acted upon their appointments, you are to supply the place by nominating others, the nomination to be approved and ratified by me. Your field officers are to be Lieut: Col: Burr & Major Pauling.
You will immediately make yourself acquainted with the state of your reg: & collect as many of them as are raised under a proper proportion of officers to where Major Paulings party is now stationed—You will also keep out a sufficient number of officers, qualified for the business of recruiting, to make up the deficiency of your regiment and will do whatever else may be necessary to complete it for service as soon as possible. You and your field officers are without delay to take the field, at the head of those men who have been already recruited: I shall expect a speedy report of the strength and exact situation of your regiment. Given at Head Quarters at Middle Brook Camp this 27th June 1777.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 27 June 1777
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lebanon [Conn.] June 27th 1777.

In my letter of the 12th instant I took the liberty to express our wishes for an exchange of our Prisoners, since which, I have received the most pressing request from a large number of them, to the same purpose, especially from Capt. Trowbridge, and Lieutenants Fitch and Fanning, whose circumstances are peculiarly difficult and distressing—Mr Loring Commissary of Prisoners has, by a message by Mr Webb of Weathersfield lately returned from New York (whither he went with a

Flag, to transact some business of great importance to him) acquainted me, that he is ready to give, in exchange for Mr Chew and Mr Bell Deputy Commissaries of Forrage, any two of our Subaltern Officers, or for Mr Chew, any Committee Man in their power—If any exchange of Prisoners can now be made, and you have no material objection against it, I should be glad of your permission to exchange Capt. Raymond Mr Chew and Mr Bell, Prisoners in this State, taken on Long-Island by Colo. Meigs, for Captain Trowbridge and Lieutenants Fanning and Fitch, who were all made captive on Long Island last Summer. I the rather wish Mr Chew’s exchange, as he is a Gentleman of sense and address, acquainted with Gentlemen in every part of this State and capable of doing as much hurt; much more, I beleive, by his residence here, than he could do in arms against us.
I am obliged again to trouble Your Excellency with a request much against my inclination, but our situation requires it—It is to desire we may have from the Laboratory at Springfield, five hundred or one thousand Small Arms, upon Loan or Purchase. We should prefer the latter.
In 1775 we armed upwards of seven thousand men and sent them into service—When they were discharged in Canada and at Boston, all the Arms fit for service were detained and paid for. Unfortunately, they have none of them found their way into this State again, or into the hands of Continental Soldiers raised in other States, in like circumstances are all the Arms purchased in this State for the Army in 1775 which were bought out of the hands of our Militia. Many Guns were left last year by our Militia Battallions and Regiments, all which belonged to such men as died, and to many that were sick—were left in Stores in the State of New York, and are to us irrecoverable—The Laboratory at Springfield has drawn off many, I am informed, most, of our manufacturers of Fire Arms, so that our Manufacture which was carrying on upon public account is almost at an end—We depended upon two Battalions of Continental Troops, agreeably to the Resolve of Congress, therefore have gone further in stripping ourselves to supply our Continental Battalions raising here, than we should have dared otherwise to have done—Altho’ many of the Arms which were in the hands of our Soldiers in years past were of a more ordinary kind than we could have wished, yet it is doubtless true, that we have more good Arms taken from us when the Continent were obliged to do it, and now in the hands of the Continent, or their Soldiers not belonging to this State, than would furnish our Quota of the Continental Army. We think therefore we have a just claim to consideration in this respect, whenever it is in the power of the Continent to supply us, if that is now the case you will judge—If we cannot obtain this favor, we must take Arms

out of the hands of Militia to supply our two Battalions raising for our defence, which, in effect, reduces our strength in case of an invasion, and loses us the service of just so many men as we are obliged to take Arms in this way. I am Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 28 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Camp at Middle Brook June 28th 1777

On Thursday Morning General Howe advanced with his Whole Army in several Columns from Amboy, as far as Westfeild. We are certainly informed, that the Troops, sent to Staten Island, returned the preceding Evening, and it is said with an Augumentation of Marines—so that carrying them there was a feint with intention to deceive us. His design in this sudden movement was either to bring on a General Engagement upon disadvantageous Terms considering matters in any point of view—or to cut off our Light parties & Lord Stirlings Division which was sent down to support them, or to possess himself of the Heights and passes in the Mountains on our Left. The Two last seemed to be the first Objects of his attention, as his March was rapid against these parties and indicated a strong disposition to gain those passes. In this situation of Affairs, it was thought absolutely necessary, that we should move our force from the Low Grounds to occupy the Heights before them, which was effected. As they advanced, they fell in with some of our Light parties & part of Lord Stirlings division, with which they had some pretty smart skirmishing, with but very little loss, I believe, on our side, except in three feild peices which unfortunately fell into the Enemy’s Hands, but not having obtained Returns yet, I cannot determine it with certainty—nor can we ascertain what the Enemy’s loss was. As soon, as we had gained the passes, I detached a Body of Light Troops under Brigadier General Scot to hang on their Flank and to watch their Motions and ordered Morgans Corps of Rifle Men to join him since. The Enemy remained at Westfeild till Yesterday Afternoon, when about Three OClock they moved towards Spank Town with our Light Troops in their Rear and pursuing. The Enemy have plundered all before em & it is said burnt some Houses. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 28 June 1777
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] June 28th 1777

By Order of the Board I enclose you a Letter from Monsr De Coudray which is submitted to your Consideration. The Board are of Opinion that the whole of the Artillery imported in the Amphitrite should be together, with the Grand Army, & the Officers who came from France should accompany the Cannon that they may give the necessary

Directions concerning them. But as your Excellency is the most capable of judging on the Matter the Board leave it entirely to your Discretion desiring that if you should not think the Order for the twelve Pieces from the Comdr in Chief of the Northern Department, a proper one You will be pleased to order the whole of the Artillery immediately to Head Quarters. I have the Honour to be Your most obedt humble Servt.
The enclosed Letter was taken from among the Papers of Lieut. Cameron & tho’ of no great Consequence I think it best to send it to your Excellency, Cameron broke his Parole & was taken in an Attempt to go on Board a Man of War at our Capes.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 28 June 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Please your Excellency
Head Quarters Peeks Kills [N.Y.] June 28th 1777

yours of the 25th Inst. came duly to hand, I congratulate your Excellency on the happy Success of your Arms in the Expulsion of General How from Jersey, also note the orders therein respecting the unadviseableness of detaching Genl Glover to the White Plains. Altho, I would be far from Saying any thing that has the most distant appearance of debating your Excellency in the general movement of the Army or any part thereoff, yet with Submission beg leave to Suggest Some Considerations which makes it appear to me not only Safe & prudent but necessary that Genl G[l]over be ordered to the white plains & places adjacent.
The distressed Situation of the Inhabitants, uncovered, exposed and daily ravaged by the Enemy, the inducement it will be to the Inhabitants to return to their allegeance were they Secured of protection, the vast quantities of grass & grain growing in that Country, unless taken by us will be taken by the Enemy.
beside their Situation will be Such, they can observe any Ships that come up the river and can be with us before the Enemy can disembark, and Should they fail of that they might Operate with greater advantage by falling on the Enemies rear—Should Genl How form an Expedition more Eastward, their march from the White plains, I think, might be performed as Expeditiously as from this—thus much, have presumed to intimate, with entire Submission to your Excellency’s Superior descretion.

had I known, Genl McDougle had advanced So far on his march, Should not have recalled him, at the Same time, I ordered a detachment of Two hundred men from his Brigade Joined by 100 Militia under Command of Col. Courtland to go upon Bergen—by letter from Col: Courtland of 27th Inst: am informed that he Surprised a Sergts Guard posted on his left at his entrance into Bergen took three prisoners what other dammage the Enemy Sustained he dont write—being informed that a strong party was on their march from Powless Hook accross the meadow, he thought proper to retreat, that he took two waggons loaded with Mutton fowls &c: brot of about 200 Sheep, Seventy head of Cattle and Some horses which are unfit for Service.
Also that he is informed by a man from Hoback that 100 Square Sail Vessels Sailed yesterday morning towards the Hook—that there is 20 Sail in Hudson—near the Town—one at Bulls ferry—one near fort Lee and one that Sailed up the River night before last.
was yesterday at Fort Montgomery, to vew the Situation there the Gallies, from Some unaccountable Cause, have been Shockingly delayed Capt. Cook, Sulky that he hasent the rank & pay of a Capt: of a man of war has done nothing for ten days past, he receaved my blessing due to his demerrets, and was dismissed from the Service—the Lieut: of the Frigate is appointed to Command his Gally—and one Lieut: Toogood from Genl Nixons Brigade is appointed to Command the other & Genl Clinton is ingaged to forward them with all possible dispatch.
The Redoubts there are in forwardness, Shall detach 200 men from this to Compleat them—The Booms are preparing with great Expedition, the Timbers are procured & locking together.
As Major Hughes accompanyed Genl G[l]over to the white Plains when he went there the Other day, refer you to him for further particulars respecting the Situation also the reasons for detaching Genl G[l]over there. With the highest Esteem & respect I have the Honor to be your Excellencys most Obedt humble Servant

Israel Putnam


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 28 June 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Albany June 28th 1777. Eleven O’Clock A:M.

Your Excellency’s Favor of the 20th Inst. I had the Honor to receive at Saratoga in the Evening of the 26h.

I am this Moment favored with a Letter of the 25h Instant from General St Clair, Copy whereof I herewith transmit—Should an Accident happen to the Garrison of Tyonderoga and General Burgoyne make a push to gain the South part of the Lake, I know of no Obstacle to prevent him, Comparatively speaking. I have not a Man to oppose him, The whole Number at the different posts at and on this Side of the Lake, including the Garrisons of Fort George and Skenesborough, not exceeding seven hundred Men, and these I cannot draw away from their several Stations, In every one of which they are already much too weak—It is therefore highly necessary that a strong Reinforcement should without Delay be sent me—If the Sloops are not yet sent to bring the Troops your Excellency has ordered to be kept in Readiness at Peek’s Kill, I shall push them off without Delay.
As it is not probable that we shall in Time be supplied with Field pieces from the Eastward I must entreat that the Reinforcements may bring some up with them.
I have this Moment also received a Letter from Mr Deane the Indian Interpreter, Extract whereof I enclose you—As the Information tallies exactly with what I had before it leads me to conclude that an Irruption will be made from the Westward.
I shall apply for the Aid of the Militia of this and the neighbouring States, but I fear it will not be very powerful, as many must be necessarily left at Home.
I have received a Letter from the Commissary General, which I think neither so temperate or decent as it should be—I shall take the first liesure Hour to transmit you a Copy, with my Answer in which, I believe, it will be evinced from authentic Returns that the Scarcity of provisions in this Departments is in a great Measure, if not altogether, to be imputed to a Want of Attention in the persons whose Duty it was to supply this Department. I am Dr Sir with great Regard & Esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient hble Servt

Ph: Schuyler

P.S. I have sent Express to General Putnam to hasten on the Troops your Excellency had ordered to be in Readiness for this Quarter.
Since writing the Above I have received another Letter from Genl St Clair Copy whereof is Inclosed I am in pain about Fort George, but have no troops to throw In and Some time will necessarily Elapse before the Militia can be got to March.


Title: To George Washington from Major Generals John Sullivan, Nathanael Greene, and Adam Stephen, 28 June 1777
From: Sullivan, John,Greene, Nathanael,Stephen, Adam
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Excellencey
Camp at Middle Brook June 28th 1777

In obedience To your Excellencys order we have met and Considered The Pretensions of Colo. Moylan and Colo. Bland to Rank in the Army of The United American States; And beg Leave to Report That we are Unanimously of Opinion That Colo. Moylan is Intituled to Rank in the Army before Colo. Bland; which is Humbly Submitted to your Excellencey by your Excellenceys most obedt Servants

Jno. Sullivan M.G.
Nath. Greene M.G.
Adam Stephen M.G.


Title: General Orders, 29 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Middle-Brook, June 29th 1777.
Manchester.Milton Medford.

The Quarter Master General is to make a proper distribution of waggons among the brigades and corps of the army, and in proportion to

their respective numbers, to ascertain which he will apply to the Adjutant General.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 29–30 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs Middle Brook June 29[–30] 1777 9 OClock. P.M.

I have not been able to ascertain yet with any degree of precision, the loss sustained by the Enemy in the Several Skirmishes on Thursday, though we have many reasons to beleive it was much more considerable, than what it was apprehended to be, when I had the Honor of addressing you upon the subject. The Inclosed Copy of a Letter from Lord Stirling contains the fullest and most particular information that I have received, and the Accounts given by Sundry Inhabitants to persons who have been in the Neighbourhood where the Skirmishes were and where the Enemy were encamped, countenance this Intelligence. As to our loss as reported by the Enemy, I am persuaded it is exaggerated beyond all bounds of truth or probability, being assured by Lord Stirling, that it was trifling, and by such Deserters as have come in, that they saw but very few prisoners taken. It would have been certainly known before this—(that is, the Number not yet returned)—had not some of the parties, and I beleive the most which were then out, joined the Corps since detached.
In respect to the Enemy’s designs or intended movements, they are not to be determined. It is certain they got into Amboy Yesterday Evening and from advices this Morning from Officers sent to South Amboy to observe their Motions, there were strong reasons to conclude they were evacuating the Town, as their Horse had gone over to Staten Island

and as several Boats were also passing with Baggage and Others with Troops. There were further circumstances favouring this Opinion—such as Apparent breaches in some of their Lines—Yet Genl Sullivan informs me by a Letter just now received, that from all the Intelligence he has been able to obtain to day, he does not think, they have any serious intention of quitting It, and that all their movements are a feint, calculated merely to deceive and to cover some plans they have in view. I have Two Brigades—Scotts & Conways—now lying at and near Woodbridge, as Corps of Observation and to act as circumstances may require. Genl Sullivan was down in the same Neighbourhood with his Division, till this Evening when he returned, it appearing to him unnecessary to remain longer, and that the Brigades, I have mentioned, would be sufficient for any Event likely to take place. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington

P.S. June 30th From Intelligence received last Night, the Opinion that the Enemy are evacuating Amboy, seems to be more confirmed.
As the Facts in Lord Stirlings Letter are rather taken up on Report, than from any certain knowledge of their having happened, I cannot consider them sufficiently authentic for publication—nor are they transmitted for that purpose—Though I am well persuaded, the Enemy’s loss was much more considerable than it was at first immagined to be. It has been reported to me to day, that the Enemy took Sixty four prisoners in the Whole—Whether they were all of our Army or in part Countrymen, I cannot decide—For having detached at that time a Number of Light parties, and many of them having fallen in with the Corps ordered out since, Returns could not be made with accuracy. The prisoners taken by us were Thirteen—Two of which are Light Dragoons—the rest Infantry. Genls Scott & Conway intended to move towards Amboy this Morning, but it is probable the Rain has prevented them. I am &c.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Langdon, 29 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Langdon, John

Dr Sir
Head Qrs Middle Brook June 29th 1777.

Your favor of the 16th Inst. has been duly received. The State of Massachusetts has been fortunate indeed in her Import of Arms, and it would have given great pleasure to have heard of your obtaining a Competent Supply, or that it was in my power to assist you in this instance—But the state of the public Magazines will not admit any to be taken or retained from them.
In respect to Cloathing for the Continental Troops raised in your State, you will apply to the Deputy Cloathiers General or Agents in that department. Messieurs Livingston & Turnbull are at Boston, who, I make no doubt, will take the earliest measures in their power to accomodate the Troops, as the Cloth imported has gone there.
I have but little to add on publick matters. The Enemy on Sunday last evacuated Brunswic & retreated to Amboy. Unhappily, but a small part of our Troops were able to come up with them. Colo. Morgans Corps of Riflemen did, before they had wholly effected their retreat and annoyed ’em a good deal, with only the loss of Two killed & Seven or Eight wounded on our part. It is generally conjectured that the Enemy are on the point of some New Enterprize, having transported most of their Baggage, if not the Whole, across to Staten Island, Yet on Thursday morning, their whole force made a sudden & rapid march some few Miles into the Country with intention, (most probably) to cut off some of our Light parties & Lord Stirlings division which were advanced to watch their Motions & to act as circumstances would justifie—or to gain the passes in the Mountains on our left. Another motive for this Manœuvre, which seems a probable One, was to give some éclat to their Arms, which were a little sullied just before by a retreat that was conducted rather precipitately and from their not

prosecuting their March through Jersey to philadelphia, as many were induced to expect from their great preparations & repeated declarations. There was some pretty smart skirmishing between them & our parties as they marched with but little loss on our side—nor can I ascertain what the Enemy’s was. They returned to Amboy again without attempting to gain the passes, plundering and despoiling the Inhabitants contiguous to their line of March of their Cloaths and every thing they could carry off—burning also Some Houses. We had a Brigade of Light Troops detached to annoy their Rear & flank, but the distance to Amboy being but short and the Enemy returning by a secure Route, they were not able to come up with them, so as to make an Attack with a prospect of success or without putting themselves in imminent danger. they are now lying in the Neighbourhood of the Enemy to avail themselves of any favourable circumstances that may cast up. I am Dr Sir with great esteem Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 29 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook 29 June 1777.

I am favd with yours of the 25 and 26th instt. As a few days must determine whether the Enemy really intend to leave the Jerseys, I think you should, instead of detatching any part of your force, keep it much together as possible, because if their View should be turned towards the north River, they will in all probability be sudden in their operations. I have no objections to your sending a Regiment for the purpose you mention down towards the plains, quite disincumbered of Baggage or even Tents, as they can upon the Movement of Shipping up the River retire directly to their posts again. The Officer that goes down must endeavour to obtain intelligence from N. York—Altho I wish to have the Regiments all drawn together, I would not have you, in the present situation of Affairs, send down any more detatchments to Parsons’s Brigade, for if the Enemy move up the north River or to the Eastward, the men will have to march back again. I would advise you to have all your supernumerary Baggage sent to some distance in your

Rear, you can then act easily & quickly which ever way occasion may require. The Enemy after having carried all their Tents, Baggage & Waggons over to Staten Island, came out from Amboy with their whole Force two days ago. They marched up as far as Westfeild, plundering and burning Houses and driving off what little stock remained. They returned Yesterday to Amboy again. Our light parties followed them, but found no opportunity of making any attack upon them.
We have now a considerable Body of Men laying near Amboy, in hopes of falling upon their Rear when they embark, but the Ground is so advantageous for their purpose, that I fear they will get off without any damage. I am Dear Sir Yr.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, 29 June 1777 [letter not found]
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, 29 June 1777. In his letter to John Hancock of 29–30 June, GW says that “Sullivan informs me by a Letter just now received, that from all the Intelligence he has been able to obtain to day.”


Title: From George Washington to John Augustine Washington, 29 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, John Augustine

Dear Brother
Camp at Middle brook. June 29th 1777.

Whether it is owing to your not writing to me, or to the miscarriage of Letters, I cannot undertake to say; but certain it is, I have not received a Letter from you for some considerable time.
Finding Genl Howe was Assembling his whole Force (excepting the necessary Garrisons for New York &ca) at Brunswick, in this State, I began to collect mine at this place; (a strong piece of ground) ten Miles distant from him, where I have now been (in my Tent) about 5 Weeks. On the Night of the 13th He March’d out of Brunswick, and advanc’d the head of his Column to Somerset Court House, Nine Miles, whilst the Rear Remaind at Middlebush about 4—In this Situation he lay till the 19th; his left Wing coverd by Brunswick—his Right by the River Millstone, & his Front by the Rariton, perfectly secure from any attempt of ours, if we had been, in other respects, ripe for an Attack.
Our conjectures of this move were two, either that it was designed immediately to Philadelphia—or, which was much the most probable, against this Army; as it was not to be conceived that Genl Howe would be rash enough to proceed across the Country with one Army in Front, whilst this, under my Commd was so situated as to fall, at any time, upon his Flank & Rear, without making an attempt to defeat and disperse it.

Be the real design which it would, certain it is, a disappointment, & much chagreen followed; for on the Night of the 19th a sudden retreat was made back to Brunswick, burning and destroying Houses &ca as they went—this Retreat, I am perswaded, was the effect of dispair at finding the Militia of this, & the State of Philadelphia turning out to oppose them; whilst they would have part of my force (if they had attempted to cross the Delae) to oppose them in Front, at the passage of the River, whilst I should be laying at them behind—& to attack my Troops, Situated as I am, they found impracticable, without great loss, and a probable defeat.
On Sunday the 22d they retired from Brunswick to Amboy; but having intimation of the design the Evening before, I detachd three Brigades to fall upon their Rear, from whom, I believe, they received a pretty good peppering—Some Accts make their loss in killed & Wounded near 500, but the truth of this I do not undertake to vouch for, as they are equal to Indians in concealing their loss, by a removal of their dead, & were they to take up the business of Scalping they would much resemble Savages, in every respect! so much is the boasted generosity, and glory of Britains fallen!
So soon as they got to Amboy they began to Transport their Baggage and Stores as fast as possible to Staten Island, and having divested themselves of all Incumbrance of this kind, they movd out their whole force on thursday last, and advanced rapidly towards us—What was the design of this New Manœuvre I know not—whether to attempt our strength on the left as they had before done on our Right—Whether to cut of the light Troops which had advancd towards their Lines—whether, finding themselves a little disgrac’d by their former move, they wanted to flourish off a little at quitting the Jerseys—or, whether by this sudden eruption they meant to possess themselves of as much fresh Provision as they could; plunder the Inhabitants; & spread desolation; as I have said before, I knew not; but certain it is they have left nothing which they could carry off, Robbing, Plundering, & burning Houses as they went—We followed them with light Troops back to their Works at Amboy, but could not prevent the Desolation they Committed.
I expect from appearances, & my Intelligence, they will be Imbarked in a few hours for Staten Island, or New York; for what other Expedition time, not I, can discover. By means of their Shipping, and the easy transportation that Shipping affords, they have it much in their power to lead us a very disagreeable dance. My best wishes attends my Sister & all the rest of the Family & with every Sentimt of regd I am Yr Most Affecte Br.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 30 June 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston June 30. 1777

I have not been honored with a Line from you since the 8th Inst. I have seen a copy of your Excellency’s Letter to Major General Putnam in which the then debilitated State of the Army in the Jerseys in mentioned which is truly surprising, as we have been constantly told that the Army under your immediate Command consisted of 15. or 16000. Men, and that you were vastly superior to the Enemy in Numbers—Your Excellency may expect a Reinforcement of between 800 & 1000 men in a few days, well accoutred, armed, & Clad, viz., about 300 from Colo. Putnams Regiment, the like number from Bigalow’s, and upwards of 100 each from Greatons, Aldins & Nixons, besides some other

small detachments. Part of this Reinforcement is now on the March, the remainder follows in a day or two, being detained for their Cloathing, which no time is lost in compleating.
Colo. Crane left this place on Thursday Morning last for Springfield for which place a Detachment of his Regiment Marched some days before. The Colo. intended when he left this place to move forward from Springfield on this day or to Morrow with the 31 Light field peices and the two heavy (as some time since ordered by your Excellency) with 15. Ammunition Waggons with fixed Ammunition &c., Compleat—We have purchased Horses Sufficient to take on the whole, Such a respectable addition to the Field Artillery with the Troops which I before mentioned I doubt not will animate our own Troops and depress the Spirits of the Enemy—I will push on every Man that I can Arm equip & Cloath without a Moments delay.
General Schuyler a few days since wrote me that some of the Troops from this State and some of those from other States in his Department were suffering for Blankets and earnestly requested that I would send him 3 or 400 immediately. We had none in the Continental Store, but I have obtained 400 Very good ones from the State Store and have sent them on.
We find many of the French Arms bad in the Locks, there are many complaints of the breaking of the main Springs the Cocks and in particular the breaking of the pin or Screw that fixes the Cock to the plate. Some of those purchased by this State are scandalously bad Colo. Crafts informs me that of 33, which he proved, 16 burst, The number of this Sort however was small but about 100 and add in the whole I suppose them to have been Made for the Gunea Trade.
We have had no prizes sent in of late, a number of the Enemies Cruisers are on our Coast. I have the Honor to be Very respectfully Your Excellency’s Most Humble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 30 June 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Sir,
Head Quarters Camp at Middle Brook June 30th 1777

I yesterday received your favour of the 28th instant with the inclosures.
Every proper measure has been already taken with respect to the Artillery, imported in the Amphitrite. The whole 52 pieces have been brought to Springfield, and the 31 of the Swedish light construction is ordered on thence to Litchfield; from which place they will be forwarded to camp as fast as circumstances will permit. The other 21 are made upon an old plan exceedingly heavy and unmanageable, intended to be used principally in embrazures, and requiring so large a number of horses to carry them, and men to maneuvre them, as must

render them very inconvenient for field service, and the more liable to be lost in an unsuccessful action. For these reasons, it has been judged expedient, to have them cast over, and constructed upon a lighter plan, which besides making them more portable and convenient for use, will be attended with the advantage of increasing the number. Each of those heavy four pounders, will nearly make three six pounders, sufficiently substantial for any purpose whatever. Congress have directed the Council of Massachusettes to establish a foundery, and have them new cast; and Springfield is the place designed for the purpose—It were to be wished, that a matter of such importance, may meet with no delays, that can be avoided.
The light pieces, will all join the army, as fast as the repairs they want can be completed; the necessary horses and tackling provided to convey them—and the ammunition and men to serve them prepared and collected. It will answer no good end to bring them forward faster than all the necessary matters can be adjusted: on the contrary, they would only be an incumbrance. General Knox informs me that a part of them will be shortly at camp properly equipped and manned. The rest will be on as expeditiously as they can come, in the same condition.
I have given orders not to send on the twelve pieces demanded by General Schuyler for the Northern department. As he is in a garrison, and has a sufficient quantity of garrison Artillery, I see not the propriety of his requesting such a number of field pieces, in addition to those he already has. They cannot be wanted in the garrison, and in case of any accident would in all probability be lost. I should not wish to have them hazarded with so little chance as there is of their answering any valuable end, to compensate for the risk, and when we have the greatest occasion for them in this quarter. I have however promised him a part of the next importation. When we have a great plenty, a few may be spared, and exposed, even where they are not essentially required; but in the present scarcity the good of the service will by no means permit it.
I could wish, that there was some uniform channel ascertained, th[r]ough which applications of this nature should always come. The present practice is productive of much confusion and embarrassment; and the service will be very likely to suffer, while officers in the different department can send orders to procure what articles and in what proportion they think necessary. Unless there is some general regulating hand to make the distribution, it may often happen, that articles may be drawn away to places where there is little need of them; when there is an absolute call for them at others, and the worst effects may result from the not having them. This was very near happening in a late instance with respect to tents. General Gates sent to me to request a

supply of two thousand for the Northern army. Every appearance convinced me that the army under me would be greatly straitened in this important article, having sustained so considerable a loss at Danbury; and as the Northern troops are in a stationary post, provided with barracks, and might easily raise comfortable huts to make good any deficiency of covering, which was not practicable to us in the desultory state in which we must necessarily be, It was not in my power to comply with his request in its extent; but I assured him that he should have as many as could possibly be spared after the indispensible demand for this army had been answered—I afterwards found that besides the application to me he had solicited the Council of the State of Massachusettes to send him 2000 from that state having heard of a quantity being arrived in the Amphitrite, though the number required was more than double the number arrived. The Council referred the request to General Heath, who suspended a compliance with it ’till my consent could be obtained. Had he not done this and had the tents gone on agreeable to General Gates’ requisition, very great inconveniences would have followed; for all we have been able to collect have not been equivalent to our wants.
General Schuyler has proceeded in a similar manner, Not contenting himself with barely applying to me, he has sent an order to the Commanding officer of Artillery at Springfield, desiring him to send the 12 pieces on immediately. You will easily perceive the ill-consequences that must flow from such an irregular indefinite mode of drawing supplies, I am not solicitous where the power of dispensing them is vested; but I should be glad to see it fixed somewhere, that when any demands are made, a knowledge of all circumstances may enable those to whom they are made to form a right judgement of their propriety and expediency.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 30 June–1 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dr sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook30th June[–1 July] 1777.

I rec’d yours of the 28th Inst. by Col. Hughes & thank you much for your kind congratulations.
The several reasons you mention for sending Genl Glovers Brigade to the white Plains had not escap’d me, Yet, I do not think they shou’d prevail against those, which appear’d more cogent & strong for keeping them where they are. But as you seem to consider it so essential, I

have no objection to their being detach’d on that service, without their Tents & Baggage & entirely light, If you are of opinion, that they, when so circumstanc’d, will be able to return in time for the defence of Peekskill and its dependant Posts on the approach & attempts of the Enemy to possess ’em. As to their acting on the rear of the Enemy in case they shou’d get above them, I do not apprehend any considerable advantage wou’d result from it, because I suppose whenever they undertake the Enterprize, it will be with a force too large for them to make an impression upon. If you judge it expedient to send Genl Glover down accoutred & equipped in the manner above mention’d—you will instruct him to return with all possible expedition with his force, on the earliest notice of the Enemy’s proceeding up the river, and that he may be timely advertized of such a movement, to keep good look outs & watches. The Highland passes are of such amazing importance in the present contest, that they must be defended.
I am sorry to hear the Gallies have met with such delay in equipping. do push matters & let no pains be spar’d to compleat the necessary Redoubts & Booms. We may not or may have occasion for ’em—But we shou’d be prepar’d at all Points & the sooner the better for our security.
From ev’ry appearance the Enemy are evacuating or about to leave Amboy—This indeed was expected a Day or two after their retreat thither—Yet on Thursday morning Genl Howe made a sudden & rapid March from the Town, with his whole Army as far as Westfield. His design, I’m persuaded, was to seize on the Passes on our left & to cut off if Possible, our light parties that were out & Lord Stirlings division that had been advanc’d as far as the Neighbourhood of Metuchin to support ’em. There were some smart skirmishes, but with little damage on our side, save the loss of three small Field pieces. What loss the Enemy sustain’d, remains to be ascertain’d—but from report they did not make this Maneuvre altogether with impunity. The next afternoon they return’d part of the way, ravaging & despoiling as they went, as it is confidently said, the effects of all without descrimination. Genls Scott & Conway are lying close to their lines with light Corps, to avail us of such opportunities of annoying them as may arise on their abandoning the Town—But from its situation & contiguity to Staten Island, we are rather apprehensive they will not be able to do ’em any great injury, shou’d an evacuation of the Town be their object. I am Dr sr with great esteem &c.

G. W——n

P.S. July 1st. The Enemy totally evacuated Amboy Yesterday Evening and are now encamped opposite to it on Staten Island. Genl Scot entered

it shortly after, & posting guards to secure any Stores they might have left—he withdrew his Brigade about Four Miles It being Night—He will reenter this Morning & bring off whatever he may find. You will be on your Guard.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 30 June 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Genl
Peekskill [N.Y.] 30th June 1777

In Consequence of Letters just received from the Northward, I have ordered Genl Nixon to embark his Brigade with their Baggage & on Board the Transports prepared for that Purpose; I have been collecting Shallops, and believe there are sufficient Number, if not, there will be, before the Brigade can be in Readiness or can receive your Orders for March, which I shall expect the Return of the Express.
I herewith transmit you Copies of the Letters alluded to, least those sent you by Genl Schuyler may by any Accident have been detained.
I have not the Honour of any Letter from you since of the 25th. I am Sir with the utmost Respect your mo. Obt Servt

Israel Putnam

I wrote you in a former Letter that the Ship Montgomery was at the Chain, she has not the Complement of Guns, nor can I get any for the other Ship, I have sent two Expresses to Govr Trumbull on this Subject. The following is Part of a Letter received since sealing the above in Answer to mine, “I wish it were in my Power to furnish the Cannon requested; altho the Furnace hath been in Blast some Weeks, those already cast are only 6 Pds not bored, the 12 Prs now casting are engaged for the Ship Trumbull, so cannot at present give any Encouragement to supply you.”
I know of no possible Way left but to dismantle the Forts, The Guns wanted are 12 & 18 Prs.

I.P.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 30 June 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Albany June 30h 1777

I am just now informed by a person from Tryon County, that the Enemy are actually got to Oswego with a considerable Body to make an Attack on Fort Schuyler, that I shall have authentic Information this Day—The Garrison is weak and but poorly supplied with Cannon—I have requested General Herkemer to keep his Militia in Readiness to

march to their Support—I have as yet only been able to march Colonel Bailey’s Regiment consisting of 255 Rank & File—Half of it is to reinforce Fort George and the other half Fort Edward—None of the Militia are yet moved.
Should our Troops at Tyonderoga fall into the Enemy’s Hands, I fear they will be able to march where they please, unless a greater Force is sent me than what your Excellency at first intended.
I shall be greatly distressed for Shelter for the Militia—If any Tents can be spared I beg your Excellency to order them up and whatever Cartridge paper you can, for we have next to none on this Side of Tyonderoga.
Inclose you Copy of Mr Trumbull’s Letter to me of the 21st Instant together with my Answer. I beg the Favor of your Excellency to peruse it and cause it to be delivered.
If it to be true that we may be so plentifully supplied with fresh Beef as Mr Trumbull positively asserts, his Agents manage badly, for we have none, and hardly any Thing else of the Meat Kind on this Side of Tyonderoga, altho’ I ordered his Deputy to send for Cattle to every Quarter soon after my Return from Philadelphia.
If any intrenching Tools can be spared, I wish to have two hundred Spades, and as many Shovels and pick axes sent up, and if any Field Artillery is sent up, be so good as to let it be accompanied by a Detachment of the Artillery, with a Sufficiency of fixed Ammunition. I am Dear Sir most respectfully Your Excellency’s obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. Charles Scott, 30 June 1777 [letter not found]
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. Charles Scott, 30 June 1777. GW’s letter to John Hancock of 1 July 1777 says that after the British army’s evacuation of Perth Amboy, N.J., on the previous day, Scott entered the town and then “withdrew his Brigade & halted about Four Miles from thence. . . . He wrote me, he should return this Morning.”


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Robert Magaw, June 1777
From: Magaw, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Flat Bush Long Island [N.Y.] June  1777

Your Excellency will receive this by Capt. Lieut. Randal of Genl Knox’s Regiment of Artillery who goes out on Exchange and can inform you of the state of the Prisoners on this Island. at the same time they bear their misfortune with proper Spirit & Magninimity we are surprized & concerned that not the least publick Provision has yet been sent in for our support. we are well informed that many of our Friends have been prevented sending supplies on information that every exigency would be relieved through Mr Pintard.
The first authentic information we received of his being in a publick Charecter was about the middle of May last, when he received a Bill of £600 St. which on a dividend would have amounted to about £4.10 ⅌ man This I suppose he has returned as he could not sell it.
I need not enlarge farther on this disagreeable Subject. I know your Excellys feelings of Humanity & that every thing in our favor will be done that the situation of Affairs & your important Occupations will admit of.
Ever since our Capture I had it in View to take the first Opportunity to recommend Capt. Lieut. Randal to your Excellency, in Justice to him & the Service I must beg leave to say that his Spirited & Officer-like

Conduct at Fort Washington on every occassion intitles him to perticular notice. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellencys Most Obdt Hble Servant

Robt Magaw


Title: General Orders, 1 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Middle-Brook, July 1st 1777.
Oronoque.Orange. Ormond.

A General Court Martial to sit to morrow morning, at 9 o’clock, at the usual place, for the trial of such prisoners as shall be brought before them—All witnesses to attend—Col. Walter Stewart is appointed president of this court. The late Court Martial of which Col. Stevens was president is dissolved.
The several troops and detachments of Col. Bland’s light-horse, are to assemble forthwith at their Colonel’s quarters. The Colonel will apply to the Quarter Master General to assign a place where the regiment may get forage to recruit their horses.
A return of the sick in camp, of the different regiments, to be made to the Surgeon General of the army, every Tuesday and Friday, at 9 o’clock in the morning, specifying the men’s names, diseases, and the companies they belong to. These returns to be signed by the regimental surgeons.
Jonathan Mifflin Esqr: & Henry Emanuel Lutterlo Esqr: are appointed Deputy Quarter Master’s General for this army, with the rank of Colonel, and are to be respected and obeyed as such.
Clement Biddle Esqr: is appointed Commissary General of forage for this army.
Notwithstanding the order of June 3rd The General is informed, that many officers are turning their horses into fields of grain and grass, and giving assurances to the proprietors of them, that the damage done shall be paid for by the Quarter-Master General—When he recollects the orders already given, and considers the variety of distresses under which the Inhabitants of New-Jersey are still groaning—The General is astonished to find that neither duty, honor, nor humanity can restrain officers from so cruel and unlawful a practice—He therefore once more, in the most pointed and positive terms forbids it, and orders that no horse be turned into any field whatever, without license first obtained from the Quarter-Master General, or some person acting under

his authority. After this second notice, any officers, offending, upon complaint being made, may rest assured that they shall not only be answerable for the damage done, but brought before a Court Martial for disobedience of orders.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 1 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Sir,
Head Quarters Camp at Middle Brook July 1st 1777

From intelligence just received from the Northward; there can be little doubt that the enemy are operating against Ticonderoga and its dependencies; and from the evacuation of the Jerseys, and the reason of the thing itself, there can be as little room to doubt, that General Howe will cooperate with the Northern army, and make a sudden descent upon Peeks Kill, in order, if possible to get possession of the passes, before the troops to defend them can be reinforced by this army. Indeed I am at this moment informed that all the enemy’s tents were struck to day at eight oClock, and ’tis supposed they have all embarked, as the ships have all sailed out from Prince’s bay where they lay—So that you may probably have a very hasty visit. The urgency of the occasion and the necessity of employing all our resources to baffle the first attempts of the enemy, obliges me to request in the strongest terms, that you will exert yourself to call forth a respectable body of the militia of your state to strengthen the force already at Peeks-Kill and its appendages, ’till circumstances will permit this army to be brought to their assistance. No time should be lost in doing this. The call is to the last degree pressing; and the least delay may be productive of the most fatal consequences. Let every nerve be strained to forward your preparations, and put you in the best posture of defence possible. I am Dr Sr Your most Obedt servant

Go: Washington

General Parson’s & Genl Varnum’s Brigade march tomorrow morning very early for Peeks-Kill.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Grayson, 1 July 1777
From: Grayson, William
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir.
Dumfries [Va.] July 1st 1777.

All the recruits of our regimt that have not yet gone forward are on the point of marching except a few sick & some stragglers which it has not been in my power to collect.
I expect that when those now about going joins the others, they will amount in the whole to 250.
The officers who have not yet made up their quotas I shall leave behind, though I have very little prospect of their succeeding in any great degree in recruiting.
I beg leave to enclose you the act of Assembly for draughting, to make up deficiencies in the six new regiments. I have nothing new to acquaint you of except that Col. R. H. Lee has got his Seat again in Congress with great Eclat. I am with great respect Yr Affect. frd & Most Obedt Servt

Willm Grayson


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 1 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs Middle Brook July 1st 1777

Yesterday afternoon the Enemy totally evacuated Amboy and encamped Opposite to it on Staten Island. General Scot entered directly after, and posting Guards to secure any Stores they might have left, he

withdrew his Brigade & halted about Four Miles from thence. This it was expedient to do, It being night when he entered, and his remaining there might have induced the Enemy, whose Boats were ready, to throw over a Superior force in his Rear. He wrote me, he should return this Morning and bring off whatever Stores he may find—Though there is little reason to expect, that they have left any thing valuable behind. When I am more particularly informed upon the Subject, I shall take the liberty of addressing you on the same. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Nathaniel Heard, 1 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heard, Nathaniel

Sir
Head Quarters ⟨Middle Brook 1st July 1777.⟩

The Enemy tota⟨lly abandoned Amboy Yesterday,⟩ I therefore shall be e⟨nabled to dispense with a⟩ much less Number of ⟨Militia than were deman⟩ded, which gives me ple⟨asure, as the peo⟩ple will have an Opportunity of collecting their ⟨Har⟩vest. Instead therefore of five h⟨undre⟩d ⟨men, a⟩ number not under one hundred⟨, nor e⟩x⟨ceeding one⟩ hundred and fifty will be suffici⟨ent, which are to be⟩ posted at Pompton and su⟨cc⟩aso⟨ny, to guard the⟩ Magazines and cover the Country. ⟨Return my⟩ thanks to the Officers and privat⟨es of the Militia,⟩ for their late spirited Behaviour, ⟨which has in⟩ a great Measure delivered their ⟨province from the⟩ hands of their oppressors, ⟨a⟩lth⟨o some few have suffered⟩ from their wanton depredations. I am ⟨Sir⟩ Y⟨our most Obedt Servt

G. Washington.⟩


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 1 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dr Sir
Middle Brook 1st July 1777.

At sunset this evening I receiv’d your letter of the 30⟨th. ulto—⟩the intelligence contain’d in the Copies of the letters you transm⟨itted,⟩ is truly interesting & it appears almost certain to me, that Genl Howe & G⟨enl⟩ Burgoyne design if possible to unite their attacks & form a junction of the⟨ir two⟩ Armies. I approve much of your conduct in

ordering Nixons Brigade to be ⟨in rea⟩diness, & I desire that it may be embark’d immediately with their Bagg⟨age to sail⟩ for Albany, as soon as Genl Varnums & Parsons Brigades are so ne⟨ar Peeks⟩ Kills, that they can arrive to supply their place before any Troops can come up ⟨the⟩ river & effect a landing, or as soon as a number of Militia equal to them can be ⟨got⟩ in. They will proceed up the river with the utmost dispatch on either of these even⟨ts⟩ happening. The Ships that were at Amboy, mov’d down round Staten Island this morning, & all the troops that were encamp’d opposite to the Town, struck their Ten⟨ts⟩ & March’d off. Upon the whole there is the strongest reason to conclude, ⟨that⟩ Genl Howe will push up the river immediately to Co-operate with the Army ⟨from⟩ Canada, which it appears from the accounts transmitted by Genl St Clair has cer⟨tainly⟩ in view an attack on Ticonderogo & the several dependant Posts. In this ⟨View⟩ of things, it seems absolutely necessary for you to pursue the most speedy & eff⟨ective⟩ measures to obtain a respectable reinforcement of the most Neighbouring ⟨Militia⟩. No time is to be lost—much may be at stake & I am persuaded if ⟨Genl⟩ Howe is going up the river he will make a rapid & vigorous push t⟨o gain⟩ the Highland passes. The Militia cannot object to turning o⟨ut, as⟩ the time of their detention cannot be long. Mr Howes movem⟨ents will be⟩ soon understood. you will not think of sending Glovers Briga⟨de down⟩ to the White plains in the present situation of affairs.
I cannot pretend to give directions about taking Guns f⟨rom the⟩ Fort for the Ships—I shall leave it to you and the other Genl Officers ⟨to act⟩ therein as may appear most expedient in your & their opinions.
The letter for Genl Geo. Clinton I have left open for your ⟨peru⟩sal, which you will dispatch to him by express after sealing it. I am Dr sr Yr &c.

G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Elmer, 2 July 1777
From: Elmer, Jonathan
To: Washington, George

 Philadelphia, 2 July 1777. Solicits GW’s aid in procuring the exchange or parole of Elmer’s brother-in-law, John Gibbon, or, “if Mr Gibbon cannot be released upon any other terms, his wife begs me to acquaint you, that she has engaged a man to go & remain a prisoner in his room, until an exchange can be effected. This to me is a new expedient, of which I can form no Judgment at present. If your Excellency concieves it probable that such a thing could take place, or any other more elegible mode of relief adopted, should esteem it a singular favour to be speedily informed of it.”


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Mordecai Gist, 2 July 1777
From: Gist, Mordecai
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore 2 July 1777

I had the honor of addressing your Excellency last from Philadelphia and have now to Inclose you a return of the continental troops

forwarded from this place since the 4th ultimo, amounting in the whole to 1694 Men Including Officers, I have likewise sent a return of my own Regiment, total at Camp 307.
the Assembly of Maryland have resolved to add an Additional Bounty of thirty dollars to the bounty allowd by Congress; excluding those from Military duty who furnish the Army with a Man to serve in his stead—which I hope will soon enable us to make up our quota. I shall be happy to have the honor of your Excellencys further orders and am with due respect Your Most Obedient Very Humble Servant

M: Gist


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 2 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Camp at Middle Brook July 2d 1777.

The Inclosed Copies of Genl St Clairs Letters, transmitted Yesterday Afternoon and last Night by Genl Schuyler, I have thought it my duty to send you. The Intelligence they contain is important and interesting—nor are there circumstances wanting besides these, to induce a beleif or at least to raise a strong presumption that the Enemy have in contemplation a junction of their Two Armies by way of the Lakes & the North River. If they have their whole Canada Force on the Former, it is certainly their Object. On receiving these Accounts, I wrote immediately to Genl Putnam to embark Nixons Brigade for reinforcing the Northern Army, to wait however the arrival or near approach of Genl Parsons & Varnum’s Brigades from this place, who march this Morning—or the coming in of an Equal number of militia to supply their place before they sail. This I have done by the advice of my Genl Officers & is all that is thought practicable in the present, uncertain—indeterminate situation of things. The rest of the Army here will be held in readiness to move according to information & circumstances. As I have observed, If we were certain Genl Burgoyne was approaching Tyconderoga with his Whole Army, I should not hesitate a Moment in concluding, that it is in consequence of a preconcerted plan with Genl Howe, and that the latter is to co-operate with him by pushing his Whole force up the North River and aiming a stroke in the first instance

and immediately against the Highland passes: But as the Appearance of the Enemy on the Lake may be a feint—calculated to amuse & distract, (though it may seem like a real Attack)—to draw this Army to Peeks Kills & more to the Northward, that Genl Howe may with more facility turn his Arms against Philadelphia, It has been determined unadviseable for us to move, till we have further proofs of his Intentions and that our Conduct must be governed by his. Our situation is truly delicate and embarrassing. Should we march to Peeks Kill, leaving Genl Howe on Staten Island, there will be Nothing to prevent him passing to South Amboy and pushing from thence to Philadelphia or in short by any other Route, Tho marching such of his Troops from the point opposite Amboy, that were encamped there, and the sailing of the Ships from Princess Bay Yesterday Morning, are circumstances indicating that an Embarkation has or will take place. On the Other hand, if the North River and the possession of the Highlands are his Objects—Our remaining here till his views are certainly known may subject ’em to a risk, that we wish to avoid. Thus, let us examine Matters as we will difficulties stare us in the face. We shall attempt to consult and to do the best we can. I have written to Genls Putnam & George Clinton fully upon the subject, urging them to put forth every exertion in their power and instantly to call in a respectable body of Militia to aid in the defence of those important posts at this critical conjuncture. I trust they will come out—their services in all probability will not be wanted but for a very short time.
I must earnestly request, that you will send Mr Stewart, the Issuing Commissary Genl to Camp immediately. There is reason to apprehend, the Army will be in great distress & confusion for want of Issuing Commissaries in three or four days. On saturday, those with Mr Trumbull declare they will leave him without they are put on a different footing from what they now are. I need not mention the consequences that will result from such an Event if there are not Others here to supply their places.
There is One thing more I would add, which is, that there are not more than Forty thousand Dollars in the Military Chest, and Two Months pay due to All the Army except Two or three Regiments which have just Obtained Warrants. One Hundred & fifty Six thousand out of the last Supply sent the pay Master, I was obliged to order to Peeks Kills for the Troops in that Quarter, whose demands are great & pressing also. I must earnestly entreat that you will forward a Supply directly to the pay master. Should we be obliged to move before the Troops are paid, much uneasiness & murmuring will be the certain attendants & I fear something worse.
As the Enemy will adopt every stratagem & device to deceive & distract

us, notwithstanding the present appearance in favor of their making an Expedition up the North River, I doubt not but you will have the most vigilant lookouts kept along Delaware Bay & proper Expresses & signals for communicating the earliest intelligence. I think it would be highly expedient that some sensible—judicious Men should be employed in that business at this time, who would view things as they ought to be and from whose Accounts certain inferences & conclusions may be drawn so as to form a proper line for our conduct. The most fatal consequences may flow from false information at this period—Things should be examined with all possible certainty. I shall not be surprized, to hear of Several Ships appearing in or off Delaware, tho Genl How’s destination should be elsewhere. their fleet give them the most Signal Advantages and an Opportunity of practising a thousand feints. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 2 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 2 July 1777. Putnam writes in his letter to GW of 4 July that “I have Received your several favors of the 30th Ultm. the first and second Inst.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 2 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook 2d July 1777.

I was last Night favored with your’s of the 25th & 28h June with the several pieces of Intelligence which you had received from General Sinclair. Immediately upon the Receipt of your’s, I ordered the Troops which had been drawn down from peek’s Kill, to return to that place and sent off an Express to General Putnam to embark the four Regiments of Massachusetts with all their Baggage, that they may be ready to push up the River whenever they heard that the Troops returning from hence were within one Day’s March of peek’s Kill. As they march

from hence this Morning, General Nixon will leave Peek’s Kill on Saturday at farthest—I would have ordered him to proceed immediately, but the State of the Garrison at Peek’s Kill would not admit of it as it would have been left in such a Situation as would have enabled General Howe, by suddenly pushing a small Force up the River, to have made himself Master of it, the Thing of all others, most fatal to our Interest, as the possession of the Highlands would effectually bar all mutual Assistance of our two Armies.
I am please’d to find by your Letter to Congress that a strong Supply of provisions has been thrown into Tyonderoga. As that is the Case, I see no Reason for apprehending that it can possibly fall into the Hands of the Enemy in a short Time, even were they to bring their whole Force to a point: but if they have divided it to make the different Attacks which you mention General Sinclair will, in all probability have an Opportunity of acting upon the offensive, and should he not be quite successful he may damage them so considerably that they will not be able to attack him in his Works, to which I dare say he will always secure a Retreat, in Case of an Accident.
General Howe, as you have been informed made a Shew of marching for the Deleware but suddenly turned back to Brunswic, and from thence to Amboy. He came out again with his whole Force a few Days ago, with a seeming Intention to make a general Attack upon us, but after marching seven or eight Miles parallel with the Sound, he returned again to Amboy burning many Houses and plundering all that fell in his Way. The Day before Yesterday he threw the whole of his Army over to Staten Island, and totally evacuated the State of New Jersey.
Before the Accounts from the Northward, we were much at a Loss to account for these strange Manœuvres, but it now looks very like a plan to amuse us, till Accounts should be received by them of the Movements of Burgoyne. If a Co-operation is intended General Howe must speedily throw off the Mask, and make his preperations for going up the North River. If he does not, I shall think that the Fleet and a small Force of Indians and light Troops are amusing you upon the Lake, while the main Body comes round and forms a Junction by Water. One Reason operates strongly against this, in my opinion, and that is, that a Man of General Burgoyne’s Spirit & Enterprize would never have returned from England, merely to execute a plan, from which no great Credit or Honor was to be derived—I shall therefore, till I see the contrary, believe that he will make a strenuous Effort to break thro’ by the Way of Ticonderoga.
I shall hold this Army in Readiness to move and have desired General Clinton to call in the Militia of Orange and Ulster, and General

Putnam that of Connecticut, which is most contiguous. If we can keep General Howe below the Highlands I think their Schemes will be entirely baffled.
I will just take the Liberty of mentioning what I have several Times done before. The Expediency of removing all Cattle and Carriages from the parts of the Country which you think the Enemy mean to penetrate. I am Dr Sir &c.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 2 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord,
Head Quarters Middlebrook July 2. 1777.

We have received intelligence from the Northward that the Enemy are operating against Ticonderoga and it’s Dependencies—I have therefore to request of you that you will keep your Division together as much as possible, except those two Regiments detached as parties of Observation—and that you will endeavour to obtain every intelligence of the motions of the enemy on Staten Island and if practicable on Bergen—to watch the Ships, observe their course, and whether they are aiming at the North River or elsewhere.
You will give no intimation of the news from the Northward, as it may transpire, and get to the knowledge of the enemy. I am My Lord Your Lordship’s most obedt hume servt

Go: Washington

N.B. Keep a good look out and get the best information you can from Staten Island and Bergen.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 2–4 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Sir
Head Quarters Camp at Middle Brook July 2d[–4] 1777

I had last night the honor of your letter of the 27th of June.
The proposition for the exchange of the Gentlemen you mention is entirely agreeable to me, as they are now entitled to a releasement, from the time of their Captivity; and fall within the right of Exchange I have prescribed to myself.
I am sorry it is not in my power to comply with your request for Arms. Nothwithstanding the many arrivals we have had, there is scarcely a sufficiency to supply the demand for the Continental Troops—What has become of them, I am unable to conceive. Every State complains of a deficiency—a great part of the several Quotas has come into the field very indifferently furnished; and yet the public magazines are very nearly exhausted. The importations from time to time, far exceed the number of Continental Troops raised to make use of them. These have not, and could not have, been all put into their hands, and yet there are very few of them now to be found undisposed of—If they are not, many of them, in possession of the Militia, it is impossible to imagine where they are, as a very [in] considerable part has ever fallen into the hands of the Enemy—The fluctuating State of the Army, and the irregular manner in which the Militia usually left Camp, rendered it impracticable, on their return home, to withdraw the Arms intrusted to them at their coming out; and gave them a fair opportunity of appropriating them to their own use, which every reason obliges me to beleive they did not fail to improve—It appears to me highly probable, that, upon a careful scrutiny, many individuals will be found to possess more than they have occasion for; and that the surplus will fully answer the purpose you have in view—It is painful to me to refuse any request of yours, but when, for want of being fully acquainted with all circumstances, you make one that happens to interfere with the general good, I am convinced it is your wish I should give the preference to that—You will easily be sensible, Sir, that it would be improper entirely to drain the public Arsenals, or to straighten the Continental Army, in order to accommodate the Militia—In case of emergency it will be much easier to draw them thence, and give them to the Inhabitants,

than if they were once distributed to them, and should be wanted by the Continental Troops, to recover them to answer the Call—Should your State be seriously invaded, and your Militia unprovided for defence, you cannot doubt they would be supplied with every necessary in the power of the Continent; and that any Arms in Store, not immediately required for the Army, would be given to those who were disposed to make use of them—But when Continental Arms are wanted for Continental Troops, it cannot be expected that those should remain unsupplied, and those Arms be dedicated to another purpose. They cannot, in any case, or at any time, be so useful as in their hands.
Since my last, the Enemy, disappointed in their attempt upon our right, have made an experiment upon our left, and frustrated in that also, have abandoned the Jerseys, and encamped upon Staten Island. There is a great stir among their Shipping, and in all probability, their next movement will be by water, though it is impossible to decide with certainty, to what place—But I last night received intelligence from General Schuyler, that General Burgoyne is beginning to operate to the Northward—If it is not merely a diversion, but a serious attack, of which it bears strongly the appearance, it is a certain proof, that the next step of General Howe’s Army will be towards the Peekskill, and that very suddenly, in order, if possible, to get possession of the passes in the High Lands before this Army can have time to form a junction with the Troops already there—To guard against contingencies, I have this morning sent off General Parson’s and General Varnum’s Brigades, to march with all dispatch towards Peekskill, and when they are arrived at or near that Post, a reinforcement will proceed thence immediately to Albany on their way to Ticonderoga—The whole Army are lying on their Arms, ready to move wherever the decisive operations of the Army may call them. I have also urged General Clinton, without loss of time, to call out a respectable body of the New York Militia to join Genl Putnam—I have the fullest confidence you will do every thing you can, to second my endeavours, by forwarding, as fast as possible, the remaining Troops of your State, or whatever else may be in your power. Our greatest exertions will be requisite to counteract the Enemy in their first attempts, on which their success, chiefly depends. I have the Honor to be with great respt Sir Your most obedient Servant

G. Washington

Morris Town July 4th 1777 Yesterday the Army marched to this place where they will be more convenient to succour Peekskill, should an attempt be made that way or further Eastward, and will be near enough Philadelphia, to oppose any design against that, should the Enemy resume the project of going there.

General Sullivan’s division is further advanced towards Peekskill.
If you effect the exchange you propose, you will inform Mr Boudinotte Commissary of prisoners with what has been done, which you will be pleased to do on every similar occasion, as without it, he could not know the true State of his Department.
On a second view, I must beg you will postpone the exchange of those Gentlemen till you hear from Mr Boudinotte to whom I will communicate your proposition, and who, I doubt not will do what you wish—But as he has been appointed to transact every thing relating to Prisoners, any interference with his Department will tend to throw it into confusion, and prevent the salutary effects to be expected from it.


Title: General Orders, 3 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, July 3d 1777.
Quibbletown.Queensborough Quincy.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Benjamin Lincoln, 3 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Benjamin Lincoln, 3 July 1777. Charles E. Tuttle Co. of New York reportedly sold in 1951 an autograph letter signed “addressed to ‘His Excellency Gen. Washington’, regarding the march of General De Hoar’s brigade to Morristown to join the main army. Washington’s reply (as written by his adjutant Timothy Pickering) is written at the bottom of Lincoln’s letter” (Charles E. Tuttle Co., 249 [1951], item 19).


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 3 July 1777
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Cross Roads on Westfeild Gap road [N.J.] July 3d 1777. 2 oClo.

As I was in the General Orders of Yesterday Nominated Major General of the Day, I thought it my Duty to Attend at head Quarters this Morning for orders & to be in the way to see them executed, but I found your Excellency & the Cheif of the Army moved off, on the Road I received the Order of March wt. Colonel Pickerings explanation of them; as my I find it was your Excellency’s Intentions I should take Care of my own division, I returned to this place and have given orders for its March at Sunrise to Morrow Morning.
I send your Excellency four letters I have this day received from General Maxwell, I have taken every means in my power to Obtain Intelligence from Staten Island and of the Enemy’s Motions, but from any thing I have yet learnt it is uncertain wether any part of their Army is yet embarked, this Morning their Encampm’t on the North Side of Staten Island, was very large, at noon this day it was very small; I will endeavour to reduce the Intelligence to some Certainty, and as Genl Maxwell must lay by tomorrow, I believe it be best to see the division off in the morning under Genl Conway & go down myself to Elizabeth Town & New Ark in order to get all the Intelligence or at least get proper people out to Obtain it. I have not heard any particulars of the News from the Northward, but is it possible that there can be any which will Justify our Leaving this Quarter & the Road to Philadelphia open; before we know that General Howe is not waiting to take advantage of this very movement. I hope your Excellency is well advised and that gives me Consolation & Confidence that all is Right. I am your Excellency’s Most Obt Humble Servant

Stirling,


Title: General Orders, 4 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, July 4th 1777.
Ridgefield.Ringwood Raway.

The Commander in Chief approves the following sentences of a General Court Martial, held the 2nd Inst:, whereof Colonel Stewart was president, and orders them to be put in execution forthwith—viz:
George Deal of Col. Armand’s Independent Corps, charged with “Desertion” found guilty, and sentenced to receive 39 lashes.
Charles Mulley of the 1st Pennsylv: regt charged with “Deserting, and in-listing in another corps”—It appearing to the Court that he had been already tried, and acquitted, by virtue of General Washington’s proclamation; they were of opinion that the prisoner should be released from confinement—It is ordered to be done accordingly.
Charles Grifinger of Col. Armand’s Independent Corps, charged with deserting from that corps; and likewise with having deserted from

the 11th Pennsylv: regt found guilty, and sentenced to receive 100 lashes on his bare back, for deserting from Col. Armand’s Independent Corps, and also to receive 50 lashes for deserting from the 11th Pennsylv: regiment.
John Gunsell of Col. Armand’s Independent Corps, charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive 39 lashes on his bare back.
David Klein of Col. Armand’s Independent Corps, charged with “Desertion”—pleaded guilty—and was sentenced to receive 39 lashes.
Wilhelm Dorn of Col. Armand’s Independent Corps, charged with “Desertion”—pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to receive 39 lashes.
Michael McGuire Serjeant in the 1st Pennsylv: regiment, charged with “suffering his guard to sleep, and sleeping himself, by which means a prisoner deserted to the enemy, with arms and accoutrements”—found guilty of suffering his guard to sleep and sleeping himself, by which means a prisoner escaped from his guard; and sentenced to be reduced to the ranks.
William Fogg a soldier in the 15th Virginia regiment, charged with “Desertion”—The Court are of opinion the prisoner is not guilty of the charge brought against him—he is forthwith to be released from confinement.
The same Court Martial is to sit again to morrow, at 9 o’clock in the morning, at the house where Capt. Dickinson formerly kept tavern.
As it is impossible to tell with certainty how soon, or how suddenly the army may be called upon to march (as it is an event dependent upon the enemy’s movements) The General orders that no officer, or soldier shall be absent from Camp, but that every thing be held in the most perfect readiness, except striking of tents.
As no opportunity can be more favorable than the present, to get rid of all heavy baggage; the General once more strongly urges the officers to store what they can possibly spare, at Morristown—If after this second notice they continue to fill and ’cumber waggons with old tables, chests, chairs &c: they are not to be surprised if they are left in the field: This must be the inevitable consequence of a scarcity or failure of teams.
No fences are to be destroyed, nor horses turned into fields of grain, or grass, before they are appropriated by the Quarter Master General, who will also direct where wood is to be had, that some of the waggons of each brigade may be employed in hauling of it to their encampments.
After Orders will issue at 4 o’clock this afternoon, for the better regulation of the troops, waggons &c. upon a march, at which time all the Brigade Majors will attend the Adjutant General, that they may distribute them as soon as possible.

The General observed yesterday, that waggons were very unequally loaded—The Waggon-Masters have now an opportunity of attending to that matter; and for the future to see the loads properly adjusted.
After-Orders
When the order is given to march, and the men are paraded for that purpose, the rolls are to be called; and the commanding officer of each corps is to see that his men are all present, or know with certainty where, and why they are absent.
When they are told into sub-divisions, or platoons, and officers assigned to each, such officers are to abide constantly with them; and upon a march see that no man is suffered to quit his rank, upon any occasion, without a non-commissioned officer with him, who is to bring him to his place again.
Whenever a halt is made, and the ranks are suffered to be broken, in order for the men to sit, or refresh themselves, the officers commanding each division, as above, is, so soon as they are ordered to Arms again, to see that they have every man of their division in his place.
If either of the Major Generals, in their respective divisions, should see any apparent cause for a halt, before the time, or place, designed for it; he is to send an Aide-de-Camp to the commanding officer, with his reasons for it, who, if he judges it expedient, will order it accordingly.
When a march is to begin, after a halt, the drummers are to beat the first division of the foot march, to be taken from front to rear; and upon the last flam of the first division being struck, the whole are to move.
If any man falls sick, or lame, and is therefore unable to walk, the officer commanding the sub-division or platoon in which he is, is immediately to send notice thereof, to his Brigadier, or officer commanding the brigade, who is to order the Waggon Master of his brigade, to provide a birth for him in some waggon under his care.
And as it is impossible that good government and order can be preserved, unless every officer will take his share of duty, and be attentive to the discharge of it—The Commander in Chief directs, that upon a march, the Major Generals do not quit their divisions; the Brigadiers their brigades; the Colonels their regiments; nor other officers their respective divisions; unless it be in cases of absolute necessity, by order, or with leave; each watching with a careful eye, the conduct of all those under his command. It is unreasonable to expect regularity and good order in the common soldiers, if the example is not set by the officers; nor can an officer with propriety punish a soldier for a disregard of any order, which he dispenses with himself—It would be a happy pride, and a most laudable ambition, to see the commanding officers of corps vieing with each other in discipline and good behaviour.
As much irregularity in many instances was observed on the march

yesterday, particularly with respect to the guards, women and waggons; The General further orders that the following regulations be observed—viz:
1st That when the baggage waggons accompany the army, and form part of the line of march, no regiment do allot more than two men as a guard to each waggon; and that these men be under the care of a subaltern, or non-commissioned officer; as the Colonel, or commanding officer of the regiment may choose, and the case may require: That each brigade furnish a Captain, to superintend these; and (where the baggage of the whole division moves together) each division a field officer.
2nd That the two men assigned to each waggon, shall march on the sides, but as far back as the tail, of each waggon, that if any thing falls out, they may discover, and pick it up—The Subaltern, or noncommissioned is to be about the center of his regimental waggons; the captain about the same place of those of the brigade, and the field officer in that of the division.
3rd That no women shall be permitted to ride in any waggon, without leave in writing from the Brigadier to whose brigade she belongs: And the Brigadiers are requested to be cautious in giving leave to those who are able to walk—Any woman found in a waggon contrary to this regulation, is to be immediately turned out by the Quarter Master General, Waggon Master General, or any of their Assistants, in the division or brigade to which the waggon appertains; as also by any of the officers who command the baggage guard of such waggons. If any interruption is given to the execution of this order, the name and regiment of the person giving it is to be reported to the General.
4th None but spare arms, and such as belong to sick and lame men, shall be suffered to go in waggons, as they are almost certain of receiving some injury: Or if any drummer presumes to put his drum into a waggon, unless under similar circumstances—The soldier or drummer so offending, shall be immediately flogged by any officer commanding the baggage guard of such waggon.
5th To prevent the enormous abuse and loss of kettles, by slinging them to waggons, from which numbers fall, the General positively orders that each mess in turn carry their own kettle; as usual in all armies, and can be little burthensome in this.
The Waggon Master General is to be permitted with a copy of the order of march, or at least so much of it, as relates to his department, by the Quarter-Master General, and in common would do well not to quit the encampment, from whence the army is moving, ’till he sees the waggons in motion; and Waggon Masters assigned to the different brigades of waggons as they march.
The Deputy Waggon Masters are, when they have got their waggons

on the move, to see that the head of one waggon is close to the tail of another, and that no stop that can possibly be avoided is suffered, even to water horses, unless at a general halt—They are not to stir from their brigades.
They are also to prevent women from getting into waggons, unless licensed in writing, as before mentioned, by the Brigadier: Nor are they to suffer idle and lazy men, or others to do so, without orders from the officer commanding the brigade to which they are annexed as before mentioned, after the march is commenced.
In all marches they are to restrain the Waggoners from destroying fences, grain or grass, unless first appropriated by the Quarter Master General, or his Deputy (under whom they act) that restitution may be made the owners.
No officer or soldier, is, under any pretence whatsoever, to impress either horse, or waggon, but by order from the Quarter Master General, one of his deputies, or his Brigadier, unless he happens to be upon a seperate command when such application cannot be made, and the service must suffer without. In this case a certificate must be given, specifiying the service &c.—Any impressments contrary to this mode, will bring officers into a disagreeable situation and severe punishment to the soldiery.
That these orders may be well known and duly attended to, the General directs that every officer, and other persons concerned, provide themselves with copies of them; as the plea of ignorance will be altogether inadmissible.
A General Court Martial is to sit to morrow morning, at 9 o’clock, at the house where Capt: Dickinson lately kept tavern, for the trial of Major Steward of the 2nd Maryland regt. Col. Johnston of the 5th Pennsylv: regt is appointed president of this court.