Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 2 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 2d Novr 1779.

        I have duly received your favor of the 1st instant, with its inclosures.
        The piracies upon the inhabitants of Long-Island of which you complain, are in their very nature injurious to our cause, and altogether injustifiable. For these and other reasons I wish to see

them effectually restrained; and shall, to this end communicate the recent instance you have mentioned to Governor Clinton and Governor Trumbul. I make no doubt but the former will take the proper measures on this occasion to punish the offenders, and prevent his subjects as far as in his power, from the like practices in future. I am Dr Sir Your obt & hble servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Wilkinson, 2 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wilkinson, James

          Sir
          Head Qrs West-point 2d Novr 1779

        I am informed that Very little of the uniform clothing has as yet got to the place of distribution. The advanced season of the year makes it absolutely necessary to employ such further measures as you may judge effectual to facilitate its arrival.
        There are at present a number of matters which claim your personal attention at camp. Besides the general distribution which should take place as soon as possible the pressing wants of the army call for an equal division of such blankets shoes &ca as are now in store. These and other objects of your department which will occur to your self renders your immediate presence here indispensible. I shall expect you after receipt of this letter and am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 2 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point [2 Nov. 1779]

        I have been favored this morning with your letters of the 29th Ulto and the 1st instant.
        Should you be able to find a proper position nearer Stoneypoint, you may adopt it in preference to the ground you now occupy.
        General Heath who has moved down to the neighbourhood of Verplanks-point received my instructions, in your absence, relative to the works proposed to be erected on Stoney-point; and Lt Col. Pawling of the New-York State troops, with a party of about 250 has been sent to aid in this business. As soon as you take your new position you will be pleased to send to Stoneypoint, parties to facilitate the works, which I wish to be completed as soon as possible. You will continue at the fascines as usual or till further orders. I am Dr Sir Your most obt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 3 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores House [West Point]Wednesday Novr 3rd [1779]
          Parole Frybourg—  C. Signs Savoy. Tunbridge—

        At the General Court Martial whereof Colo. Starr was President—Moses Carson formerly a Captain in the Continental

Army was tried for “Deserting to the enemy and carrying off a number of men with him in the year 1777.” found guilty of the 1st part of the charge and sentenced to be drumed thro’ the army, in the vicinity of West-Point, with a halter round his neck and a label pinned on his breast and back setting forth as follows—“Moses Carson late a Captain in the American Army this I suffer for deserting to the enemy of the United States of North America” and that he be confined during the present war between Great-Britain and America.
        The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence & orders it to be carried into execution—He is to be drumed thro’ camp tomorrow morning at guard mounting.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 3 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 3d Novr 1779

        I have been informed of two most flagrant Acts of marauding lately committed by persons from the Continent, upon Mr Seaton formerly of New York, and Colo. Floyd of Long Island. These Gentlemen and their characters are undoubtedly known to your Excellency. The persons, who committed the Robbery, are said to be Joseph Halce and Fade Donaldson who are also said to belong to the State of New York. Whether the Boats, to which they belong, are commissioned to cruise upon the sound, I will not undertake to say, but I am told, a proclamation of your Excellency’s strictly prohibits any of these Cruisers from landing on the Island and directs all property taken to be legally condemned before sale. The Robbery of Mr seaton I am informed extends to his furniture, plate—Cloathing—papers and in short every thing moveable—I am certain, if the persons above mentioned, belong to this State, your Excellency will direct proper measures to be taken to bring them to justice, and prevent such acts of Violence in future. I am &.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 3 November 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Morris Town 3d Novbr 1779

        Your Favour of the 1st Inst. I received this morning on this side of Pumpton, where my Brigade quartered last night. I am extreamly sorry if my march on the upper road should any way disconcert Your measures, Yet I am in good hopes that on Your finding how soon the Troops are arived at Suffrans they will in no way stop any of Your operations. Since the Armey Marched from Easton all Your Excellencys letters to General Sullivan, (the first excepted) fell in to my hands, and they all tended to push the Armey as quick as possable to Suffrans unless the Enemy was in this State which I was convinced they were not. If I get Waggons to morrow Morning which I make no doubt of I can be in the neighbourhood of Westfield in the evening.
        You will please to observe that had I turn⟨ed⟩ off by any other rout, when I was at Sussex Cour⟨t⟩ House, it must have delayed the Armey two d⟨ays⟩ longer in geting to Suffrans, so that I hope You will not experience the disapointments suspected. This I am shure of that I did every thing in my power to prevent any delay on our part. My Brigade Turned off by Ringwood a fine road I went myself to General Sullivans at Suffrans Yesterday Morning and the whole of the Troops would be in there by 2 oclock. I shall endeavour to put all Your Orders into execution with

respect to my destination. I shall acquaint General Sullivan with such part of Your Excellencys Letter as respects Aldens and the Rifle Corps.
        Colonel Hooper who has rendered us every service in his power, expected to wait on Your Excellency the day I left Warwick and in form You of our Departure and Rout. I am Sir With the utmost respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

          Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Enoch Poor, 3 November 1779
From: Poor, Enoch
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          [Smiths] Clove near Sufferans [N.Y.] Nov. 3d 1779

        As I have not yet had a Brigade Major and Inspector appointed on the late Establishment, I beg leave to recommend Major Scott of the 1st N.H. Regt to that Appointment, and wish that Capt. Fogg of the 2d Regt who has acted on the Western Expedition by Genl Sullivans Appointment as my Aid d’ Camp might have your Excellency’s approbation to continue.
        As a Station on this Side the North River renders the Transportation of State Stores more difficult, I likewise request, if it will not militate with any intended Operations, that my Brigade may return to its Geographical Station in the Line. I am with the greatest Esteem your Excellency’s most Obedt very h’ble Servant

          Enoch Poor


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Powell and the Massachusetts Council, 3 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Powell, Jeremiah,Massachusetts Council

          Gentlemen
          Head Quarters West point 3d Novemr 1779

        I have been honored with your favs. of the 12th and 16th ulto in answer to mine of the 4th and 7th You have my warmest thanks for your ready attention to the several requisitions contained in them. I am particularly obliged by the loan of 100 Barrels of Gun powder, which I would not wish to be removed from Boston, untill we are under a certainty of operating. I have heard nothing from the Southward since the 2d ulto to which time, the prints will inform you of the operations of the allied Arms. I flatter myself that, from the favorable prospects them, we shall soon receive intelligence of compleat success. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Gentn Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


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

          Head-Quarters Moores House [West Point]thursday Novr 4th 1779.
          Parole Nassau—  C. Signs Tyrol. Pomfret.

        The works at Fort Arnold and redoubts No. 2 & No. 5 to be carried on again—The superintending officers are desired to attend the works as heretofore.


Title: To George Washington from Benedict Calvert, 4 November 1779
From: Calvert, Benedict
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          Mount Airy Novr 4th 1779

        I have taken the Liberty to Inclose you a Letter for Sr Robert Eden in which we Inclosed one for the Lords of the Treasury which I have left open for your perusal. You will see upon the reading of them, the necessity I was under of writing, acquainting them, with the final Settlement of an Affair, in which, I was considerably concerned and at the same time to apprise them of Bills of Exchange drawn on them. As I have been carefull of saying nothing in those Letters but was absolutely necessary to explain the motives for agreeing to the Settlement, hope they will meet with your Excellencys approbation, and if you have no exceptions must beg you will be so kind as to put your Seal on Sr Roberts Letter and send it by the first flag or to the English Lines. I must beg your Excuse for this, as nothing but the necessity of a Speedy conveyance of the Inclosed, would have induced me to have given you this trouble and I am Dear Sir Your Excellency Most Obedt & Obliged Servt

          Benedt Calvert


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

          Dear General
          Camp Pecks kill [N.Y.] Novr 4. 1779

        Brigadier Generals Nixon & Glover have repeatedly represented the destitute Condition of the men belonging to their respective Brigades for Shoes, nearly one half of each Brigade

being bare footed. The weather is now become So Cold that it will be almost impossible for them to do duty in Such Condition, and a greater discouragement to the reinlistment of the Troops cannot at this time happen. If your Excellency has any means of relief that can be afforded I would earnestly request it for these men.
        Colonel Hazen desires to be informed if it be eligible and allowable for him to reinlist into the Regiment under his Command to Serve during the War, Soldiers belonging to the Regiments of any State engaged for a Shorter term. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedt Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 4 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir,
          West Point Novemr 4th 1779

        I have received information of the Guards (and some add other Troops) advancing to Kings Bridge—This though on the contrary side of the river, is in the vicinity of your Camp. Boats hid at Spiten devil and which can be brought up Harlaem river may under cover of Night land Troops at the Slote—Nyack or the Hook before Ten OClock without discovery unless a very good look out is kept They have every reason to wish for an opportunity to retaliate & finish the Campaign with some degree of eclat. I am Dr Sir Yr Mo. Obet servt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 5 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]friday Novr 5th 1779.
          Parole Burgundy—  C. Signs Buford Brest.

        Major Scott of the New-Hampshire line is appointed Brigade Major to General Poor’s Brigade and is to be obeyed and respected accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 5 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

        Letter not found: to the Board of War, 5 Nov. 1779. The Board of War wrote GW on 12 Nov.: “We have been honoured with your Excellency’s Letter of the 5th inst” (see also Joseph Reed to GW, 15 Nov., and GW to Reed, 25 Nov.).


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 5 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

          sir
          Hd Qrs West point Novr 5: 1779

        I would take the liberty of addressing a few lines to Your Excellency, respecting such of the Officers and privates of Blands and Baylors Regiments of Dragoons and of Harrisons Artillery, as belong to the state of Virginia. Their situation is really disagreable and discouraging; and it is perhaps the more so, from its being now almost if not intirely singular. It is said, that under the idea of their not having been originally a part of the Troops apportionned on the State in September 1776—the State provision of Cloathing and bounty for reinlisting their Men, is not to be extended to them—or at least that it is a doubtful point. This is the source of great uneasiness and indeed of distress among them; and it is the more felt, as most of the States, since the Resolution of Congress of the 15th of March last, of which I have the honor to transmit Your Excellency a Copy—have made no discrimination between Officers and Men belonging to them, in the same predicament—and those who were explicitly assessed on them—as their Quota, under the first mentioned Resolution; but on the contrary have permitted them to participate in every benefit and emolument granted Others of their Troops. The Regiments of Artillery & Cavalry which in the whole amount to Eight as well as Many Companies of Artificers and Other Corps—have never been apportionned in a particular manner on the States, so as to shew the exact proportion of Officers &

Men which each should furnish; but being absolutely essential to the public service, as they must be so long as the War continues, they have been raised in a promiscuous manner; and if the point was ascertained, it is highly probable the proportion from each State, would be found not very unequal. I have mentioned this circumstance that the Officers & Men of the State in these three Regiments, may not be considered as a Quota furnished, over & above what is done by the Rest of the States. And I would take the liberty farther to observe—that as several of the Regiments of Infantry apportionned on the State by the Resolution of Septr 1776, have been reduced, a circumstance which has not taken place with respect to the Regiments of Most Other States—there appears to me the more reason, for the benefits of Cloathing and bounty granted by the State, being extended equally to them with any Other of her Troops. They share with them in every danger—and in every burthen—both at home and abroad—and it seems but equitable that they should partake of every benefit. The terms of service for which the Men of these three Corps were engaged are expiring every day—and if it should be the pleasure of the State to give the Men in them belonging to it—the encouragements & benefits they have granted to their Infantry Regiments—the sooner the point is determined the better. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most obed. st

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 5 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

          Dear Sir,
          West-point Novr 5th 1779

        I am much indebted to you for your obliging favors of the 7th & 24th of last month, and offer my thanks for the several agreeable pieces of intelligence contained in the latter. No part of which believe me Sir, gave more sincere pleasure than the acct of your appointment to the States of Holland—No person (if you will permit me to say as much) is more impressed with the importance of those duties which I conceive to be the object of your mission, than you are—nor no one whose punctuality & close attention to business affords a happier presage of success, to any negotiation within the reach of our powers—and reasonable expectations.
        Your observations upon the resolve of Congress “to stop the press” are striking, and awakens those ideas which I entertained on this subject at the time of passing it—I reconciled myself however to the measure, at that time from a perswation that such previous assurances had been obtained—founded in clear & demonstrable evidence of the certainty of getting the necessary supplies by taxation & loans, as would leave nothing to chance To find the promoters of the measure impressed with doubts is not a little alarming, when we consider the consequences of a failure. A Virtuous exertion in the States respectively—and in the individuals of each State—may effect a great deal—But alas, virtue & patriotism are almost kicked out! Stock Jobbing—Speculating—engrossing—&ca—&ca—seems to be the great business of the day—and of the multitude—whilst a virtuous few struggle—lament—& suffer in silence—tho’ I hope not in vain.
        Your state of matters respecting the cloathing department is not less distressing—what pity it is that the work of a day should be postponed a Week! a month! a year! When not a possible good, but much evil is the inevitable consequence of it.
        Our sollicitude on acct of the operations at Savanna may easily be conceived when I add, that we have not heard a tittle from thence since the receipt of your obliging letter of the 24th & our anxiety for European news is little inferior—the present æra is big of events—We turn an impatient eye to the Sea-board, looking for the arrival of the french fleet; and begin to apprehend much from the Season &ca—It would be a most desirable thing

to be ascertained of the extent of Count D’Estaing’s intentions in this quarter, that not more than corrispondant preparations may be made—At present our situation is aukward & expensive.
        Nothing new has happened in these parts since the evacuation of Rhode-Island—report indeed informs us, that the Troops of that garrison did not disembark at New-York, but receiving an augmentation of Hessians proceeded to the Hook—and from thence to Sea—the truth of this, & of Transports Wooding and Watering, I shall soon have authentic Accounts of.
        I perswade myself, that it is unnecessary for me to have recourse to assurances, to prove the sincere pleasure with which I should receive my worthy Aid Colo. Laurens—It is an event however, I have little expected since I have heard of his late appointment—nor shall I suffer a selfish wish to come into the scale of determination—His abilities in whatsoever station they are employed will render essential services to his Country—My attachment therefore to him nor my desire of benefitting by his Aid shall not weigh in the ballance—For his past services and attention to me, he will ever have my warmest thanks. For his honor—happiness—& advancement in life—my unfeigned wishes. these in every step you take—in every station of life to which you may be called, will also attend you—as I can with truth assure you that with the greatest esteem & regard—I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 5 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

          Head Qua[r]ters [West Point] 5th Novemr 1779

        I have ordered Lt Col. Washington to Westfield with his cavalry you will be pleased to assign him such a position as you may judge best for the purpose of covering the forage I am sir Yr.

          P.S. In consequence of intelligence received from Govr Livingston, respecting preparations of the enemy on Staten Island—I have directed Gen: Wayne to move to Acquackanac and Gen: Sullivan to act according to circumstances.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Matthew Mead, 5 November 1779
From: Mead, Matthew
To: Washington, George

          Greenwich [Conn.]Nov. the 5th 1779
          May it please your Excellency

        I have recd your Letters of the 12th & 13th ult. & have been on to the eastward as far as Stratford & employed all the troops

in the towns between this town & that in getting Fascines &c. agreeable to Major Murnands directions an estimate of which I enclose your Excellency.
        The number of troops in each town that can be employed is about eighty & those on guard at night many of them I have in my Regiment but about 200 rank & file fit for duty out of which number about ⟨10⟩0 mount guard.
        The Country being much cleared is a great obstruction to our getting fascines the construction being very large which takes an amazing quantity of brush.
        I enclose your Excellency a Return of the fascines &c. already gotten. I am with esteem your Excellency’s very humble & most obedient servt

          Matt: Mead


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Stephen Moylan, 5 November 1779
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          North Castle [N.Y.] Novr 5th 1779

        I have received Coats and waistcoats for the 4th Regiment, and am just now informed by Captain Hunter of Bedford that he has as many pair of Leather breeches of the best quality as will cloath the Regiment which he will part with, if your Excelly will be pleased to give me an order I will purchass them from him on the best terms I can—if I have your approbation for procureing the breeches and an order for Shirts, Stockings & boots—the men will be enabled to Keep the field and I am convinced, will do as much duty if not more, than any equal number of men in the Service. I have the honor to be Dear Sir Your Most Ob. H. St

          Stephen Moylan


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 5 November 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Smiths Clove [N.Y.] Novemr the 5th 1779

        I was Last Evening honored with your Excys favor of yesterday am making Every preparation for Removing the Troops to the place your Excy has Directed unless the Express which I Sent Yesterday Should previous to our Departure Return with orders for us to March toward Elizabeth Town I Shall move for Conklings the Moment I can Collect Waggons to move with—I have Much Difficulty in moving as we have but ten Continental Waggons & the Delay arising from Collecting teams from the Inhabitants is very great I wish yr Excy to Direct the Quarter Master to Supply us in future. I have the Honor to be with the most profound Respect Dr Genl yr Excys most obedt Servt

          Jno. Sullivan


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 5 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 5th Novr 1779

        I have your favr of yesterday. I can hardly suppose that a total evacuation of New York can be in contemplation at this time. but it is not improbable that they may endeavour to throw a Body of troops over to the West Indies, and the preparations you observed and have heard of may be for that purpose. However, be it a partial or total embarkation, a very little time must discover it. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 5 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 5th Novemr 1779.

        Since mine of this morning, I have seen a letter from Governor Livingston to Genl Sullivan of the 2d in which he mentions the enemy’s having assembled on Staten Island in force, and from their preparation of Boats another incursion was apprehended. I imagine the Governors information is the same as that communicated to you by Colo. Seely, but as I would not wish to be behind hand with them in preparation, I think you may as well move down with the Infantry to Acquaquenack or that neighbourhood—keep up a correspondence with General Maxwell who is at Westfeild, and should the enemy come over, take the speediest method of cooperating with him, and with the troops under General Sullivan who will fall down to Pompton should there be occasion—You will correspond with him likewise—I have directed Colo. Washington to move with Baylors Regt to Westfeild, and have ordered the whole of the Marechausi Horse to join you. Should you receive any intelligence which you may think proper to communicate to me, let your Express come by

the Virginia encampment and by Clements as I expect to ride down that way tomorrow. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 6 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]saturday Novr 6th 1779.
          Parole Appenzel—  C. Signs Sydney. Zug.

        The State or Sub Cloathiers are to make immediate and the most exact returns to the Cloathier General of all the cloathing in their hands which may have been procured by their States, at continental expence, and they will also report to him what expectations they have of farther supplies both as to quantity and quality, and the time.
        If there are any states who have not appointed Sub or State Cloathiers, or the Cloathiers appointed have not joined the army or are absent, the commanding officers of the lines of the States under any of those descriptions are each to appoint a proper and fit officer, who is to be immediately reported to the Adjutant General to act as a Sub Cloathier, pro tempore.


Title: To George Washington from William Galvan, 6 November 1779
From: Galvan, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Camp [West Point] 6th November 1779.

        If your Excellency is not dissatisfied with the little Specimen (the only one it has been in My power to give) of my Services in training the Troops, I would be very happy to continue them,

or to devote myself to any other duty in which your Excellency would chuse to put My Zeal & My abilities to a trial. if your Excellency thinks that I can discharge those functions as profitably for the Service without a Commission as with one, then I ask none and Shall always look upon your approbation as the most flattering recompense. but Should Your Excellency be unwilling to employ an officer not Commissioned by Congress, then I humbly request that you will be pleased to recommend me to that body for a Commission of Lieutenant Colonel, which May qualify me to be employed occasionally in Such offices as your Excellency will think proper to in trust me with—I know, Sir, that this is not the usual mode of application to Congress, but it is the fairest, and as I mean to be employed according to my abilities and Not to extort unmerited favours, I Shall Never have the assurance to form any pretensions but what can be established upon your Excellency’s recommendations.
        I will not intrude So far on your time as to relate the different circumstances which add Some weight to my claim, it will Suffice to represent to your Excellency that I have been almost four years in the American Army, during which I have Seen Several of my brother officers below My rank in france, advanced to that of Colonel, who perhaps had no title above me but the assiduity of their application to Congress. as to Me, Sir, my whole dependance is on your patronage: I have been all this Campain and the last watching for opportunities of meriting it, but your Excellency knows that none have been within my reach; and I am finally reduced to the alternative of missing all occasions of being employed or of asking from your Excellency as a favour what I expected to receive as a justice.
        I am not ignorant with what judicious Caution your Excellency bestows your recommendations, but My Case is So particular that if the Many Sacrifices which I have made in this Country were known to you, the benevolence of your heart, alone, would interest you in my behalf, but, Sir, it is rather to your justice than to your feelings that I Mean to apply. I ask nothing but that you will be pleased to grant me a letter to Congress expressive of the opinion which your Excellency forms of me and of the Services which I may render in the inspector’s department, in which the baron Desteuben Seems desirous that I Should be admitted. Such an intrusion, if it is one, is not unprecedented—Congress

have Shewn in a late instance that they are always ready to relax from the Strictness of their rules in favour of Merit, and the merit of an officer Can be rated but by your Excellency. with the greatest respect, I am Sir your Excellency’s Most obedient and most humble Servant,

          Galvan


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 6 November 1779
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Fish Kill [N.Y.] 6th Novr 1779

          I this day went and saw a number of Canadians in the Provost who I understand have been making application to your Excellency for leave to work in the Country, I believe in lieu of granting that request if you should propose their working under me at the usual pay given to other fatigue men, they would easily be induced to accept the offer, and never had we more occasion for such men than at this moment.
          In the Provost there is a little sailor of 14 years of age who is willing to live in my family, he is a prisoner of war taken at Tarry town, and should he be of a good disposition and your Excellency will give an order for his being liberated I doubt not of making him an usefull subject to the united States. I have the Honour to be with the greatest respect Your Excellences most obedt & very humble serv.

            Udny Hay

          The boys name is William Jenarous.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Moses Hazen, 6 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hazen, Moses

          Sir
          Head Quarters West point 6th Novemr 1779

        I have your favr without date—I have written to Congress and inclosed your Memorial respecting Capt. Joseph Louis Gill to them. Untill I obtain their answer, I have, by the inclosed, given Genl Bailey directions to supply the Indians with provision. Inclosed you have a Warrant for 100 Dollars in your favr which sum your paymaster may give to Capt. Louis and receive from the Military Chest upon the Warrant the first time he has occasion to transact any Business with the pay Masr General.
        I will inform the Qr Mr Genl of what you say respecting the practicability of laying up forage at Coos. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 6 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 6th Novemr 1779.

        I have your favr of the 4th[.] Shoes for the Massachusetts Line must be drawn by the State Cloathier or his Assistant for the Line at large and distributed according to their wants. If he will apply, he may have an order upon the Cloathier General for a proportion of the public Stock, which is at present scanty.

        I have no power to give Colo. Hazen authority to inlist the troops of any State before their term of service is expired. Such an attempt would, I am convinced, create much discontent. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 6 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

          Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 6th Novr 1779.

        I have been duly honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 17th, and that of the 29th of last month. The memorial of the officers Steddiford and Becker, shall have due consideration.

        The repeated approbation of Congress, in their act of the 27th Ulto, cannot but give me the most sensible pleasure.
        Since Governor Clinton’s letter, which I inclosed your Ex[c]ellency in mine of the 30th of Octbr I have received no further advice on the subject; and am therefore induced to believe that the alarm from the Indians was premature. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s most obt servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. I inclose a new York paper of the 26 Ulto.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 6 November 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          West Point 6th November 1779

        The Sufferings of this Garrison last Winter, the present State of the Post and the advanced Season, constrain me to trouble your Excellency with this Address.
        The Supplies of Forage in this Vicinity are in the best Seasons, but small, compared to other Parts of the Country. And the most of the Inhabitants South and West of Crumpond, were deprived of an Opportunity of mowing their Hay, by the Incursions and nearness of the Enemy. The Consumption in that Neighbourhood has been very considerable, by the Cavalry and Teams on the East Side. On the west Side of the River above the Mountains

for some Distance, the Forage is exhausted by the public Horses in different Lines. We have been four Months consuming Hay at this Post, when a great part of the Time was good Pasture Season. This Supply has been furnish’d from up the River. During the last Winter and untill very lately, the most of the Horses belonging to the Officers of the Garrison were at a Distance from the Post: but as those of the other Officers of the Line at and near this, drew Forage, the former have brought in many of their Horses, which has increas’d the Consumption. It would notwithstanding have been improper for me to have ordered them out, as I should have been charged with depriving them of a Privilege which others enjoyed.
        We have already experienced the want of Forage, altho we have but the Beginning of winter—What will be the Consequence to the Service in the Course of it, and ’till new Hay comes in, is easier to conceive than describe, if the utmost Frugality is not observed with the small Portion that is left. This Garrison will not be able to subsist a single Team, to do the necessary Duty of the Post in winter, to carry on the works in the Spring, or an express Horse to carry Intelligence of the Approach of the Enemy. The Works have already been greatly impeded for want of Forage for Teams, and the Smiths Labor being mostly devoted to shoeing Horses. But the Evil will not rest here, The Cattle passing to Jersey for the Support of the Army will be without Forage—And the Supplies of Flour will be rendered extremely precarious for want of means to transport it.
        It has been my Lot to be in this Vicinity every Spring, since the Enemy got Possession of New York; and altho the Consumption was not near so great the preceding Campaigns as in this, the utmost Distress was felt—greater must be expected the next Spring. And If the Teams and Horses of the Brigades at Pecks Kill are kept there, it will be impossible to support a Post there in Winter.
        The bleak Situation of this Point, renders it extremely cold in winter; From the Experience the Officers of the Garrison have had of it last winter, they are very solicitous to know, whether they are to be of the Garrison this winter—As they would in that case, give all their Aid in Time to cover the men and make Preparations for themselves. The Masons now raising the Chimnies of the Garrison go on heavily, from the Uncertainty who will possess them—Such is the advanc’d Season, that if a

considerable Garrison is to be left here, they have not a Moment’s Time to spare to cover themselves. For they are not in a Condition of Troops who set down in a Wood, where they have all their Materials round them—Every Article, even the Water to make the Mortar, must be brought from a considerable Distance—And if the Bay Troops or any others in their Condition (as to their Time of service) should be the Garrison, it will impede their reinlisting, if they are in Tents all winter, which I fear will be the Case, unless they hut a great Distance from the works, as there are not Boards here to build barracks or a Prospect of getting them in Time, exclusive of those taken for boats.
        I wish however to know whether your Excellency approves the Report made by General DuPortail, on the Position of the Barracks.
        It will soon be Time to draw in the Chain, least we run the Hazard of losing it, which was the Case last year, from the lateness of the Season, besides employing the Garrison in the Ice during the severe weather to get it out.
        The Garrison will not be sure of being supplied unless there is three Months Bread laid in, as the Navigation or Transportation on the Ice cannot be depended on, from the middle of december till about the same Time in March.
        Colonel Hay is afraid he will not be able to get down the wood, for the Garrison, if a great Number of the row Boats are not sent up, to assist in the Transportation—If your Excellency approves of this Measure, they will require a considerable Number of men to man them.
        I have thought it my Duty to make this Representation to your Excellency, that I may not be held responsible for Consequences, which are not in my Power to prevent. I have the Honor to be Your most Obedient and most humble Servant

          Alexr McDougall


Title: From George Washington to John Mitchell, 6 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Mitchell, John

          Dr Sir,
          West-point Novr 6th 1779.

        Your favors of the 24th and 30th ulto are both at hand—accept my thanks for the trouble you have had in providing lodgings for Mrs Washington—I have no doubt of their being such as will prove agreeable to her—& shall write to her by the next Post to come up and occupy them till I shall be able to know where my own quarters will be & remove her to them—At present I am totally in the dark respecting this matter.
        I shall be much obliged to you for furnishing Mrs Washington with whatever she may have occasion for—Of Mrs Mitchells kind attentions I am sure she will have no cause to complain—I am sure also, she will hold them in grateful remembrance.
        If the Gentn to whom the inclosed letters are addressed should have left Phila. be plea[s]’d to forward them by the Post. or any other good conveyances. Mr Tournon [Ternant] talked of proceeding immediately to So. Carolina—if no express should be going from Congress that way the conveyance by him may be a good one.
        My compliments attend Mrs Mitchell—and I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Gouverneur Morris, 6 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Gouverneur

          Dear Sir,
          West-point Novr 6th 1779.

        Your favor of the 21st ulto did not reach me till a longer time after its date, than is usual between this and Philadelphia.
        I cannot for a variety of reasons which will occur to you, undertake to designate the persons who shd receive the provision of Congress—or to fix upon the Sums which might be adequate. They are points of too great delicacy for me to interfere in.
        The Committee on the business will of course have a list of all the appointments in the Army before them, with the pay and emoluments annext to each. they will also know the services of each Officer, and from thence they will be able to determine who are yet to be considered, and what present & future provision will be just.
        I am exceedingly happy in your postscript; for I am a great friend to harmony at all times, and especially in public Councils.
        I send a new York paper of the 26th ulto to the President of Congress—which will shew you according to the enemys Accts how matters were in August with respect to the combined fleets & Sir Chas Hardy, and that the Inhabitants on the coast of England seemed to be at least as much alarmed as we used to be—I hope the panic will extend pretty generally through the

Kingdom, and that we shall feel the good effects of it. I cannot say more, having, I cannot tell you how much, pressing business before me. I am sincerely & Affectly Yrs

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 6 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 6th Novr 1779.

        I have received your favor of the 4th with its inclosure from Governor Livingston dated the 2d, relative to the enemy’s preparations on Staten Island.
        Should your subsequent information look like a serious intention of invading the State, it may be proper to move to Pompton, and hold yourself in readiness to act agreeable to circumstances. The large collections of forage have no doubt attracted their notice, and its destruction may be a principal object with the enemy.
        I shall give directions to General Wayne to move towards Acquakanac; who will unite his force upon your information should it become necessary. I am Dr Sir Your obt & hble servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Should you receive any intelligence which you may think proper to transmit, let your Express come by the Virginia

encampment and by Clements as I expect to ride down that way tomorrow. you will forward the inclosed.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Woodford, 6 November 1779
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Genl
          Camp. Haverstraw [N.Y.] Novr 6th 1779.

        Knowing that Genl Sullivan & his Troops were in the Neighbourhood of Suffrans, I sent your Excellencies Letter immediately to him—allso the one for Genl Wayne—the inclosed came by return of the Horse Man.
        I moved the Division to the high Ground below Haverstraw Forge, about four Miles from the point.
        The Engineer informs me he cannot imploy any of my Men till Tomorrow or next Day, when I shall send the Number required; two Hundred Men are now imploy’d in makeing Fascines &c. We have no State Clothier come up—Qur Master Terry will apply for the Blankets for the Division, & bring them down.
        I have some business at West point, with your Excellencies permission, I would be glad to come up the first of next week—I am with great Respect Your Excellencies Most Obedt humble Servt

          Wm Woodford


Title: General Orders, 7 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]sunday Novr 7th [1779]
          Parole Coventry—  C. Signs Hampden Ury—

        Ensign Hezekiah Ford of the 2nd Maryland regiment is appointed Adjutant to the same from the 10th of June last.
        The officers and privates composing the rifle corps under the command of Major Parr, are all to join their respective regiments—The Major will see that all the rifles and their proper bullet moulds &c. are collected & numbered to prevent their being mixed or separated, and have them then delivered to the Commissary of Military Stores & take his receipt for the same—The Commissary is to cause the rifles &c. to be carefully boxed up and is not to deliver any of them without an order from the Commander in Chief. Muskets are to be drawn for the men in lieu of the rifles—The General cannot dissolve this corps without offering his particular thanks to the officers and soldiers remaining in it for their long, faithful and important services.
        At a Division General Court Martial whereof Colonel Vose was President the 12th of October last—Lieutenant William Crosman of the 15th Massachusetts regiment was tried for “Being frequently absent from camp without leave of the commanding officer of the regiment and being very inattentive to the company of which he had the command, but in particular for disregarding the general orders of the 20th & 25th of August in absenting himself from camp two nights and part of two days between the 5th and 9th of October last, while the troops were under marching orders, and when general orders were particular for officers to be very attentive to their several commands.”
        The Court acquit Lieutenant Crosman of inattention to his company but are of opinion that he is guilty of being frequently absent from camp without leave of the commanding officer of the regiment, and also that he is guilty of disregarding the general orders of the 20th and 25th of August in absenting himself from camp two nights and part of two days between the 5th and 9th of October while the troops were under marching orders, being a breach of the second article, 13th section, and of the 5th Article, 18th section of the Articles of war and do therefore

sentence Lieutt Crosman to be dismissed the service of the United-States; but in consideration of Lieutenant Crosman’s having continued long in the service of his country and his being cut off from receiving any benefit of a resolve of the State of Massachusetts-Bay in which the depreciation of the currency is engaged to be made good to their troops—the Court do therefore earnestly recommend Lieutenant Crosman to be restored.
        The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence & orders it to take place, and is sorry that he cannot think the reasons urged by the court sufficient to justify him in restoring Lieutenant Crosman to his rank.
        At a division General Court Martial whereof Lieutt Colonel White was President the 30th ultimo, Josiah Edwards, James Robinson and John Ward of the Cavalry were tried for “Theft and desertion”—found guilty & unanimously sentenced to suffer Death, but from the characters of James Robinson and John Ward given by Captn Edgar under whose command they have ever been since in the regiment, the Court unanimously recommend the said James Robinson and John Ward to the General for mercy.
        His Excellency the Commander in Chief confirms the sentence of the Court but in consideration of the unanimous recommendation of the court, pardons Robinson and Ward & directs the execution of Edwards on friday the 12th instant at such place as Majr General Heath shall direct.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 7 November 1779
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

          My Dear General,
          Chas Town [S.C.] Novem: 7th 1779

        I had the honor of your very obliging favor of the 28th of September the last evening—I wish it was in my power to give you such an account of matters in this department, as would afford you some satisfaction in the perusal—but unfortunately for me, and perhaps it may soon be more so for the public, I cannot do it—We remain unsupported by troops, unsupplied wt. many essential articles, and uncovered wt. works—and what adds to the unhappiness, is the little prospect that our affairs will speedily be in a better channel—for, with regard to troops, General Scott is not arrived, nor do I know when he may be expected, for I have not had a line from him since he was ordered this way—but from the best information I can obtain, if he comes at last, he has not more than 400 men now fit for duty—that is all we are encouraged to expect from Virginia, which, wt. those here from that State will amount to between six and seven hundred—from No. Carolina we have about one hundred and fifty continental troops—more may not be expected from them, excepting Militia—what number of those may be sent is uncertain, and, indeed, unless they serve for a longer time than the last (vizt three months from the time they entered this State—a time too short either to learn the duty, or to be enured to the fatigues of the Camp) little may be expected from them—with regard to this State, they have not in their five regiments 700 men fit for duty; and we have no reason to expect that their number will be much augmented, considering the aversion the people have for the service here—or that any permanent force will be brought by them into the field—for after solemn debate in the House of Assembly they resolved that the Militia should not be draughted to fill up the continental battalions, and that the militia when in the field should not be under the continental articles of war; and refused on the recommendation of Congress to raise any Black Corps—The Georgia battalion does not amount to 100 men in the whole, they are not in a capacity to keep that number up—for they have no legislative power in the state—the militia therefore are not properly organised, nor can be—they come out at their own option, and return at their discretion.
        Thus sir, You see the state of our force, and our

expectations—we are very deficient, in many necessary articles such as ammunition, tent cloth, blankets, clothes &ca—this arises in a great measure from a large proportion of the Vessels being taken, which were sent out hence for the public, and from others coming to a bad market.
        This town, which is the Magazine of the State, and which for that, and many reasons claims the attention of the enemy, and to possess themselves of which is among their first Objects, is in a very defenceless situation—the works about it, begun, are not finished—many more are necessary to be constructed—but from the want of Negroes (the only Labourers in this country) the matter is neglected—they have been sent for into the country—but, from some defect in the law, they are not brought in.
        Fort Moultrie, on sullivan’s Island, six miles from the town, supposed to be the key of the harbour, is in a very decayed state, and without a ditch, picquets, or abbatis to it—the repairs of that also is delayed from the same cause—Two floating batteries have been recommended to cover the bar and they would undoubtedly answer the most valuable purpose, as no heavy ship can come over it, unless they take out their guns, or they are so much careened, as they cannot work them—these also, tho’ indispensably necessary to the safety of the harbour, are unprovided—By this short state of affairs you will see what little expectations there are that We shall be able to make any considerable defence, in case any thing serious is attempted here by the enemy. Besides, if they should attack the Town—I think they will attempt to amuse us in the back parts of the country, and keep these people at home—indeed there has been a late attempt to seize our Magazines at ninety six, and Camden—a very considerable number of men got in arms—but their designs were fortunately discovered, and many of them are taken—yet the combination is alarming, and requires particular attention considering what great proportion of the back-inhabitants of these States are unfriendly, and indifferent to the cause.
        I have frequently, and, I think, faithfully, represented these matters to Congress, and to this State, and have endeavored to convince them by every argument in my power that this State also was surely an object, which claimed the attention of Britain, and policy, as it would affect us—and interest would stimulate her to attempt the subjugation of it—We have about one thousand

continental troops in this State, and at Augusta in Georgia—The Virginia Dragoons and Infantry are at Augusta—they were sent there on our retreat from before Savannah, in order to give confidence to the inhabitants and the Militia of the country, and to be some check on the unfriendly and the Indians—The 2d, 3d, and 5th So. Caroa Battalions, and part of the Artillery are at Sheldon, opposite port Royal ferry, and between thirty and forty miles from the savannah, as a cover to the country while the people take in their crops and remove their stock, which should be done immediately—The 1st and 6th Battalions are at Fort Moultrie, and the No. Carolina troops in this Town.
        As soon as it shall become necessary—I mean to collect the continental troops to a point, and to leave the well affected Militia to cover the back part of the country—they will render more service there than in Garrison—The Militia in the vicinity of Chas Town will be called into it’s aid—I have requested the State to provide some secure place—properly supplied with provisions as an Asylum for the aged, the infirm, the Women, and children—that in case of a siege we may have no useless mouths in town, or any circumstance which would induce a more early surrender, or add to the absolutely necessary distresses of a siege.
        I think this Town might be defended against a very formidable attack, if all was done for it’s security which ought to be done—for it is situated on a peninsula—our lines in the rear of it are about half a mile in length, and will soon have in front of them at the distance of a musquet shot a fosse in which the Water will be retained six or seven feet deep by dams—one towards Cooper and the other towards Ashley river—this completed, and the necessary works about the Town finished, and the floating batteries provided—we should not be easily insulted with a proper Garrison—and Magazines. I am My Dear General with the warmest sentiments of regard & esteem unalterably yours

          B: Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 8 November 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          War Office [Philadelphia] Novr 8. 1779

        The Board have been honoured with yours of the 2d instant relative to the Massachussetts Line. The Commns were delayed by some Embarrassments thrown in the Way by the Government of the State who had made Appointments clashing with the Arrangement as made at Camp & as now confirmed by Congress agreeably to a Report of the Board. These Difficulties being removed the Commissions are now ready & will be sent to your Excellency immediately.
        Sundry Cases have fallen under the Notice of the Board which render some such Regulation as the enclosed necessary. In general we believe Absentees are to blame but two or three Instances have occurred wherein owing to Sickness & unavoidable Accidents they have been perfectly innocent. Yet in these Cases the Colonels have undertaken to return the Places of the absent Officers as vacant & have desired the States to make the Promotions necessary in the supposed Vacancies. The Board have in such Cases refused to issue the Commissions not deeming themselves justified as Guardians of the Rights of the Officers in giving their Sanction to a Proceeding which however well meant may establish disagreeable Precedents. If your Excellency should approve of the enclosed or think of any other Plan we beg you will be pleased to communicate your Sentiments thereon.
        Many Inconveniencies result from the States individually undertaking to make Promotions—which should only be done by the Authority of Congress on a general Scale—as the Governments of the States have too partial a View of the Subject or are perhaps too unacquainted with general Rules to judge well on such Promotions which tho’ not apparently wrong in the Line of the State may either establish Precedents or otherwise affect the general Arrangement. The Governments of the States ought only to fill the lowest Vacancies as they are the best Judges of proper Characters among their Citizens of whom to form Soldiers. But after their Appointment in the first Instance the Gradations should go under continental Authority & by general Regulations. Many of the States are practising under some Resolutions of Congress on the Subject which however they may be construed do not seem to us explicit in the Point. We have the

Honour to be with the most perfect Respect & Esteem Your very obedient Servants

          Richard PetersIn Behalf of the Board


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 8 November 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General,
          Camp Peeks kill [N.Y.] Novr 8. 1779

        I have the honor to present your Excellency the enclosed Letter just received from Col. Armand.
        The secrecy, the prudent precaution, the expedition and the strict order and discipline which so evidently mark every part of Colo. Armand’s Conduct in effecting this Enterprise I flatter myself will meet your Excellencys fullest approbation. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedt Servant

          W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Woodford, 8 November 1779
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Genl
          Haverstraw [N.Y.] 8th Novr 1779

        Mr Thornton is Just now return’d from the English Neighbourhood, & I thought it adviseable to send you the Inteligence

he had Collected—though I doubt whether your Excellency may esteem it of any material consequ[e]nce.
        Mr Thornton heard nothing of a Number of Troops upon Staten Island—but not being informd that was supposed to be the case before he left me, he did not make it a part of his enquiry. I am with great Respect Your Excellencies Most Obedt humble Servt

          Wm Woodford

          N.B. I inclose your Excellency the York paper of the 4th—nothing of consequence in it.


Title: General Orders, 9 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Tuesday Novr 9th 1779.
          Parole Blessington  C. Signs Campden. Canary.


Title: To George Washington from General Henry Clinton, 9 November 1779
From: Clinton, Henry
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          New York, November, 9th 1779.

        When Mr Loring, my Commissary of Prisoners, addressed the enclosed Letter to Mr Beatty, he received one in return from Mr Skinner informing him that Mr Beatty was absent.
        That the purport of Mr Loring’s Letter may be known, I enclose it to you, Sir, requesting the necessary steps may be taken to enforce the just Requisition it contains.
        Mrs Maxwell, the Lady of Lieutt Maxwell of the 31st Regiment, begs your permission to join her Husband in Virginia when an Opportunity offers. I have the honor to be With all due respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient and Most humble Servant.

          H. Clinton


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 9 November 1779
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          Mount Holly [N.J.] 9 Nov. 1779

        By the Advice of the Privy Council I have directed our Commissary of Prisoners to Order Lieut. Collo. Simcoe to be confined in Burlington Jail; & he together with Collo. Billop of the Militia of Staten Island are proposed by way of Exchange for Collo. Reynolds Mr Randal & one Lashier & Jackson, with as many more privates as will make the Exchange equal. It is their farther Advice that our Commissary of Prisoners retaliate the Enemy’s Treatment of Randal & Leshier upon Simco & Billop unless those two unfortunate Men are immediately releived from the Severity of their Useage. Collo. Simcoe preferred his being a Prisoner to this State, in expectation of being by that means, the sooner exchanged; & his Imprisonment will doubtless be his best Security against the Resentment of the People, who are exceedingly irritated against him for the many Acts of Barbarity with which he is charged. But if your Excellency has any particular Reasons for desiring him as your Prisoner, I doubt not the Council will chearfully comply, as will with the greatest Alacrity Dr Sir Your Excellencys most obedient & very humble Servt

          Wil: Livingston

          P.S. I am under the most anxious Apprehensions about supplying the Troops with Flour, without more coercive Measures than the different Legislatures seem willing to adopt.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 9 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

          Sir
          Pompton [N.J.] 9th Novemr 1779.

        I rode down to this place that I might be in the way, should the enemy, by their preparations upon Staten Island, seem to threaten any thing serious. But having heard nothing further to make me beleive that they intend to come over in any considerable force, I shall return part of the way to West point this Evening. Should they make any move towards you, you will give

instant notice to General Wayne, who will be in the neighbourhood of Acquaquanack—And to General Sullivan at this place.
        From a variety of circumstances, but particularly for want of Water to grind, we are like to be for a while exceedingly distressed for Flour. I would therefore wish you to put the troops under your command to an allowance for the present of three quarters of a pound ⅌ day and make an equivalent in meat, which they can easily barter for Vegetables, which will be a good substitute for the short allowance of Bread. I hope the necessity of this measure will not be of long duration, as the Commy assures me the want of Water is the principal difficulty.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 9 November 1779
From: Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Albany November 9th 1779

        Since I had the Honour of receiving your Excellencys favour of the 19th Ultimo The Commanding Officer at Fort Schuyler

informed me that by Indian Accounts which he received the Enemy were in force at Oswego with Artillery a small Scout was sent to make Discoveries but were soon after leaving the Fort Captured. General Ten Broeck who Commands the Militia of this County thought proper to order part of five Regiments of Militia to March into Tryon County, where the General remained for some time, & after Reinforceing some of the Frontier Posts in that quarter the General thought proper to Dismiss the Militia—It appears from the Indian Accounts that the Enemy who are said to have been at Oswego, came there for the purpose of Distributing presents of Cloathing &ca to the Onondago & other Indian Nations who have suffered by our Arms during the Course of the present Campaign.
        On my return from the Westward I found part of three Regiments of Levies from the State of Massachussets had Arrived in this Town—General Fellows who Commands them came to Town last evening, The General will with this Transmitt a Return of their Strength and Situation. I am most respectfully Your Excellencies Most Humble & Obedient Servant

          G. V. Schaick


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 9 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Pompton [N.J.] 9th Novemr 1779

        I rode down to this place to see General Sullivan and to be in the way should the enemy, by their late preparations upon Staten Island seem to threaten any thing serious. But having heard nothing to make me beleive that they will come over in

any considerable force I shall return part of the way to West point this Evening.
        From a variety of circumstances, but particularly for want of Water to grind, we are like to be for a while exceedingly distressed for Flour. I would therefore wish you to put the troops under your command to an allowance, for the present, of three quarters of a pound ⅌ day, and make an equivalent in Meat, which they can easily barter with the Country People for Vegetables, which will be a good substitute for the short allowance of Bread. I hope the necessity of this measure will not be of long duration, as the Commy assures me want of water is the principal difficulty.
        Should the enemy move towards you, you will be pleased to give Genl Sullivan, who is here, the earliest notice. I imagine your present position is such, that by quick intelligence, you would be near enough to fall upon the Rear of the Enemy should they attempt Westfeild or Springfeild, but if you think a position some what lower down, (keeping under the mountain,) would be preferable, you may take it. In this you will be governed by the advices you receive of the situation of things upon Staten Island. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 9 November 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Acquakeneunk Bridge [N.J.]9th Novr 1779 8. OClock. A.M.
          Dear General

        I was honored with your two favors of the 5th Instant & in Obedience thereto marched & took post here, but could wish to be a few miles lower down towards Newark.
        I am fully of Opinion with your Excellency that Govr Levingstons Information was nothing more than that which Colo. Seeley Communicated to me, but in place of two Regiments, I believe that all the troops from Rhode Island were landed on Staten Island, at least an Inhabitant from Bergen Town assures me that he knows it to be the case—& that a Capital Embarkation is going on at New York—however I expect to know more of this matter very soon—as I have furnished him with means to get admission to that City & look for his return either this Evening or tomorrow.
        there has been a very heavy firing towards New York all this Morning—more like an action than a Salute—it possibly may be a landing of the Enemy from Staten Island—(I dare not hope—that it proceeds from the Count De Estaing) should anything meterial turn up you may Depend upon the earliest Intelligence. Interim I am with much Esteem Your Excellency’s most Obt & very Hume Sert

          Anty Wayne


Title: To George Washington from James Wilkinson, 9 November 1779
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Washington, George

          sir
          Philadelphia Novr 9th 1779

        I was last Evening honored with your Letter of the 2nd Inst: & shall pay every practicable attention to the Mandate therein contained; in the mean time the justice I owe my Character obliges me to assure your Excellency, that no Moment of my time since my Arrival in this place has been otherwise employed than in direct pursuit of the Interests of the Army & of the Public; and I am confident I have it amply in my Power to convince you that my presence has been productive of more good here, than it could have effected elsewhere, the conviction of which will I hope induce your Excellency to pardon the breach of punctuality I have commited by not returning to Came so soon as I promised: I feel great uneasiness from not having it in my Power to pay instant obedience to your order, as I am sensible of the Necessity for my presence at Camp, and I hope I shall not be condemned when I inform your Excellency that very interesting & essential Business with the Board of War & the Treasury, will absolutely prevent my leaving the City before the 17th or 18th Inst. at which time I shall go to Camp prepared to remain constantly with the Army, or at such place as you shall direct, during the Winter. The Necessities of the Troops which demand instant consideration can be relieved on your Excellencys Order without inducing the least irregularity or Injustice, as the Issues will be made to the state Clothiers, or persons acting in their Line, on Account of their respective Quota, liable to deduction at the general or future distribution. In all Issues which may take place before I reach Camp, I hope it will be observed that the Board of

War have delivered to the executive Council of this state 2,000 of the french Coats for the use of their Troops, & that the cut of their Clothing is in great forwardness under the Direction of the Governor & Council who will I doubt not make it compleat: I am informed by Mr Whittlesey purchasing Agent for the state of Connecticut, that he has provided a competency of Shirts, Shoes, Hats & under Cloths for the Troops of that state, and I understand from Dr Scudder, a Congressional Deligate from Jersey, that the Agent of that state is in Town, & will be able to provide for the Troops thereof.
        Inclosed your Excellency will receive Returns, of the Clothing recd from Messrs Mease & Measam, of the Quantity forwarded to New Burgh, & of the Issues which have been made at this place, the residue of the Clothing here will be in motion by the 15th Inst. I have taken every precaution to secure & facilitate its Transport to New Burgh (as well from springfield as from hence), & I am much surprized to find by your Letter that large supplies have not arrived at that place, as the Returns will shew that large Quantities have been a long time in Motion.
        I find by a Letter from Lancaster that 4261 pair of Shoes were sent from thence to Camp the 21st of last Month, & I am informed by Mr Henry Comy of Hides for the state, that Col. Hooper has seized from his Assistants between 2 & 3000 pair more, which have been delivered to the Troops under Majr Genl sullivan at East Town.
        I received your Excellencys Letter respecting the Western Department on the 28th Ultimo & shall see the supplies ordered by the Board of War sent off in three or four Days—And I am with every possible respect Your Excellencys Most Obdt & mos. hble servt

          James Wilkinson


Title: General Orders, 10 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Wednesday Novr 10th [1779]
          Parole Canterbury—  C. Signs Dercham. Dogado.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 10 November 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          War Office [Philadelphia] Novr 10. 1779

        In Consequence of the Requisitions made by General Knox of Military Stores we had ordered all those under our Direction to be put in Motion towards Philadelphia where many have arrived & more are accumulated than can be guarded or conveniently kept from Injury. We have obtained Loans of Powder & Shells from Virginia & Maryland some whereof have arrived but the most considerable Part we believe may be stopped. As the late unexpected Dissappointment at Savannah will put it in the Enemy’s Power & encrease their Inclination to operate in that Quarter we have it in Contemplation to stop all Stores intended to be brought from the Southern States that they may be used if necessary where we fear they will be most wanted. Beside we are averse to borrowing when not of absolute Necessity nor will it be expedient to exhaust the State Stocks & thereby expose them to Misfortune in Case of Invasion. We have five Furnaces at Work in this State casting of Shells & we have limited them to the first Day of December in which Time our Commissary informs us no very great Quantities can be cast—But in Case of future Need these Shells will be at Hand & if your Excellency thinks it best to have a reasonable Stock we will even extend the Period with respect to all or some of the Furnaces. We shall be happy to have your Excellency’s Opinion upon this Head. It will be difficult to get these Articles perhaps when we want them & as the Furnaces have been thrown out of other Bussiness to serve the public they may not easily in Case of being now prohibited from farther proceeding be prevailed on to engage in the Matter again. We wish to save Money as much as possible but do not incline to any impolitic Parsimony. We have the Honour to be with the greatest Esteem & Respect your very obedt Servants

          Richard PetersBy Order

          P.S. Robberies are repeatedly committed on our Stores in every Department. Would it be possible to have some small corps divided between Trenton, Philadelphia & the Head of Elk? The invalid Regiment is insufficient nor can we get Militia tho we have used every Endeavour. We have 1,000 Prisoners in the Gaol here & cannot get a Guard to escort Detachments of them to different Places whither we want to send them. We mention this now as we presume your Excellency to be turning your Thoughts to the Arrangemts necessary for quartering the Army this Winter.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 10 November 1779
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Pitsburgh Novr 10th 1779.

        I am honored with your favor of the 18th Ultimo.
        The honorable notice you have been pleased to take of my little Expedition fills my mind with the warmest gratitude and I hope to merit your future esteem.
        It is some time since I inclosed to the Honorable Board of War a return of the Troops under my Command and of the Articles of Cloathing necessary for the respective Corps to render them tolerably comfortable during the ensuing Winter.
        The Troops have received a small supply of Money and I expect they will be contented untill more can be procured from the Treasury.
        An Expedition against Detroit in the Winter season will

doubtless put us in possession of the Enemies Shipping and of course give us the Command of lake Erie. Winter Expeditions are generally attended with great loss of Horses & Cattle except where large Magazines of Forage are laid in & can be transported. but the British Garrison & Shipping will be a full compensation for every loss of that kind and indeed every difficulty we can meet in the obtaining it as it will likewise secure the future tranquility of this frontier.
        I will endeavour to have every thing in perfect readiness and procure the best intelligence that circumstances will admit.
        I believe a considerable number of Indians will join me but I have little expectation of supplies except from the French Settlements in the vicinity of that post and as the British yearly cause the Inhabitants to thresh out their grain & sell to them for the purpose of filling their Magazines little dependance can be placed on receiving supplies from them. And the India⟨ns⟩ on the river St Lawrence subsist chiefly upon Animal food. I have frequently applied to the Board of War for supplies & Trinkets for the Indians but fear it is not in their power to procure them⟨.⟩ I will however renew my application.
        It is with great pleasure I hear of the destination of his Excellency Count D. Estainge & I have a happy presage that he will have the most ample Success.
        I herewith remit a return of the Cannon & Military Stores belonging to these Garrisons & an estimate of the Cannon & Military Stores necessary for the intended Expedition to the best of my Judgment.
        My best intelligence at present is, that the Enemy have erected a very Strong Work near to the old Fort and on the only commanding eminence behind the Soldiers Gardens, that the Garrison consists of three hundred Regulars (some say more) and about the same number of Militia some of the latter description it is said will join our Troops on their arrival in that Neighbourhood. The Wyandats Tawas Chepwa’s & pootiotomies live in the vicinity of Detroit and many of them are without doubt under British influence.
        If the Expedition cannot be prosecuted before the Month of February it will then be too late on account of the high floods to which the intermediate Country is subject.
        Should it prove impracticable to carry on the Expedition

against Detroit the Troops under my Command with some Volunteers in my Opinion might be advantageously employed on an Expedition against the Shawnese on the Miami River and from thence against the Enemies post at Notchez with very little or no additional Expence & return early enough in the Spring to March against Detroit. for I apprehend no Danger to this frontier during the Winter Season; and the Troops will be healthier if Continued in Action than in these Garrisons.
        A couple of French Gentlemen of good Address would be very serviceable in this distric⟨t⟩ & especially on an Expedition.
        I shall be happy to hear from you & receive further instructions. I have the honor to be with the highest Sentiments of respect & esteem your Excellencies most obedt & most Humble Servt

          Daniel Brodhead

          P.S. I am this moment informed that 2000 Indians who were driven from their Towns are in great distress & live on the pittance afforded them by the Enemy at Niagara. this intelligence is from Sandusky and may be relied on⟨.⟩ they inform the other Indians that they are afraid to hunt on account of the Americans.


Title: From George Washington to John Parke Custis, 10 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, John Parke

          Dear Sir,
          West-point Novr 10th 79

        Your letter of the 7th of last Month came duly to hand—& should have been acknowledged sooner but for the load of business which has pressed upon me of late.
        With respect to the valuation of the Cattle (by Colo. Bassett) wch you had of me last Fall I do not conceive there will be real occasion for any dispute. I want nothing but justice and as you declare yr willingness to do this we cannot disagree—but, as the matter was confided to Colo. Bassett it will, in point of respect, if nothing more—be necessary to know upon what principle he made the valuation—which, when obtained, I shall be able to give you a decisive answer—and as you are now together, you can request him to favour me with the reasons that governed him in this business.
        However you may have understood it, I do not conceive, that it ever was my promise or intention that you should have picked and culled the Cattle—and if it was done you surely cannot wish to fix the valuation of the refuse, as a criterian for the appraisment of the chosen—consequently the prices annexed to those which were left on the plantation can be no just rule for estimating the value of those of better quality which were brought off. The remainder of a small stock of cattle, after selecting 48 head of the best, may be of little worth while the number chosen may be very valuable & is so much opposed to the seperation of them that I think there must have been a misunderstanding if you conceive that I agreed to your culling the stock. My idea of the matter as far as recollection can carry me is that you were to take the whole at an appraised value—or the whole was to be sold at public auction. The whole would have envited purchasers & competiters, but a few of the refuse must have brought on derision and resentments if People had been Assembled at a Sale of them. When you can get Colo. Bassett to state his sense of the

matter to me I shall be able to determine finally and without delay.
        We have waited so long in anxious expectation of the French fleet at the hook, without hearing any thing from it, or of it, since its first arrival at Georgia, that we begin to fear that some great convulsion in the Earth has caused a chasm between this and that state that cannot be past—or why if nothing is done, or doing, are we not informd of it? There seems to be the strangest fatality, & the most unaccountable silence attending the operations to the Southward that can be conceiv’d—every measure in this quarter is hung in the most disagreeable state of suspence. & despair of doing any thing, advanced as the Season is—& uncertainty of the Counts co-operating to any extent if he shd come—is succeeding fast to the flattering ideas we but lately possessed.
        Nothing new has taken place since the evacuation of Rhode-Isld excepting a preparation of Transports at New-York sufficient for the embarkation of about 4,000 Men which it is said Lord Cornwallis is to command. the destination of them is, at present unknown, but conjectured to be for the West-Indies.
        Remember me Affectionately to your Uncles Bassett & Dandridge & our other friends in that quarter—& be assured that I am with great regard & much truth Yr Affecte

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 10 November 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General,
          Camp Pecks Kill [N.Y.] Novr 10 1779

        I received the enclosed yesterday pr Express from Mr Sargent whom I am informed is State Attorney in the State of Pennsylvania, but altogether unknown to me.
        What I know of the matter is, that Some time in the year 1778 while I had the Command in Boston Several of the Soldiers under the Convention of Saratogo practised deceptions on the recruiting officers in and about that place by dressing themselves in Sailors habits and other wise, solemnly protesting that they had not the least Connexion with the Convention Troops: In the practice of these Arts many of them enlisted, received Bounties, Cloathing, Arms &c. and deserted—many instances of which (I apprehend) Came to your Excellency’s knowledge.
        With respect to Golding & Gaffney A Deserter from prospect Hill reported that he apprehended they were in Boston as spies & were taking drafts of the place, that one of them (Golding) had been Seen at Prospect Hill after he deserted talking with Capt. England of the 47th Regiment to which he (Golding) belonged, on this I Sent for them. they were brought before me, appear’d dress’d like Gentleme⟨n⟩ of Fashion and Fortune. I interrogated them Closely. they acknowledged to have enlisted in our Service & that they had done it from principle, absolutely denied ever having any design of taking any survey or Plans of the Place or Works and as to Golding, venturing back to the Hill after he deserted he did it once, but Capt. Ingland had such a regard for him that he was assured he would not injure him I order’d them to the Barracks & they deserted that Night. I order’d Search to be made for them at Cambridge & elsewhere but never Could apprehend either of them. By Mr Sargents Letter they are now at Philadelphia and the Express, a Mr Cardill, informs me they Still appear dress’d like Gentlemen & have their Pockets full of Money. My own opinion of them is that they are Capable of transacting any kind of intrigue or business. One of them Served an apprenticeship with a merchant, the other was Clerk to an Attorney, both very Sensible & write an exceeding good hand. they enlisted, and if I do not mistake received their bounty Arms and Cloathes, which they Carried off. The question now is, what Step Shall be taken with them & whether

by the Civil or Military Authority, for a Determination of which I submit the matter to your Excellency, and have been particular that you may have all the Evidence that I can give, which is wholy in memory, as I have no papers here respecting the matter. The Express will be detain’d here untill I receive a signification of your pleasure, as I do not now think myself authorized to direct in the matter. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedt Servant

          W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 10 November 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Camp Peeks kill Novr 10th 1779

        This will be handed to your Excellency by Capt. Chaffney of Colonel Armands Corps who escorts major Bearmore and the other prisoners taken by Colonel Armand on the Night of the 7th Instant. Bearmore undoubtedly will make his Escape if possible. A Mr Ogilvie is among the prisoners. I am informed that he was taken prisoner Some time in the Year 1777 and admitted on parole by Genl Parsons within the limits of Harrison’s purchase, wch he has Since exceeded and forfeited his parole. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient Servant.

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Henry Knox, 10 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

        Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Henry Knox, 10 Nov. 1779. A summary of this one-page letter reads: “Instructions relating to the Southern campaign” (ABPC,American Book-Prices Current. New York, 1895–2004. 69:748).


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Spotswood, 10 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Spotswood, Alexander

          Dr Sir,
          West point—Novr 10th 79

        As you have again been so obliging as to offer me the horse you got of Lt Colo. Washington I have desired Mrs Washington (who will set out immediately for Camp) to send for him that he may come up with her—but I again beg my dear Sir that if he is a favourite of yours that you will not send him as an⟨y⟩ other may answer my purpose.
        I will send the sorrel by Mr Geo: Washington when he returns (which I beleive will be shortly) that he may be properly taken care of being now in good order.
        The Mare I esteem highly, and as bleu-skin is likely to get the better of his fistula (without its coming to a head) he & the others will serve me without the aid of the Mare—for sometime at least. My love to Mrs Spotswood. I am with sincere regard Yr Obedt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Jacob Bayley, 11 November 1779
From: Bayley, Jacob
To: Washington, George

          Sr
          Newb[u]ry [Vt.] 11th Novr 1779

        Colo. Hazen when he was ordered From this Place left two French men to be Sent to Canada the last of October I Sent them with one of Majr Whitcombs men, they returned the Seventh of this month their accounts Agree with what was Sent to your Excelency by Colo. Hazen heretofore.
        No reinforcement had arrived the first of November Except about four Hundred Foreign Troops, that Six Hundred Inglish Troops Marched the 29th octr from Isle Noix and St Johns for Quebeck and it was Said the Foreign Troops were to Take thier Place at them poasts.
        that the French were Still very desireous that we Should Come into Canada had not dissposs’d of thier wheat and would keep it as long as Possiable from the Ingliesh Troops.
        that they have no Indians at Present To Command or to Assist them.
        if your Excelency think Best to Send Into Canada again at any time I am ready to do what is your P[l]easure. I am your Excelencys most Obedient Humble Servant

          Jacob Bayley


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Duportail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 11 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle,Hamilton, Alexander

          Gentn
          Head Qrs West point Nov. 11th 1779

        Being absent from Head Qrs on a visit to the several Outposts of the Army, when your favor of the 2d Instant arrived—and not returning till last night—it was not in my power to answer it before.
        I am precisely in the predicament you are—with respect to the Count—his intentions or ultimate operations. I have not heard

a single syllable about either since your departure, except what was transmitted in my Letter of the 30th Ulto—a similar account to which you will have seen in the public prints. From this circumstance and the lateness of the season—I do not expect myself, that he will arrive in this quarter—or if he should—that the Enterprize which was proposed—could now be prosecuted. It is too late to begin it. However, as I received my advices from Congress, of the Count’s intention to cooperate—and considered myself as bound by their direction to prepare for it—I have not thought myself at liberty to desist from my preparations—or to fix upon a day—when they should cease. I have written to them to day upon the subject—stating the incertainty I am under with respect to His Excellency’s coming—the great expence which must necessarily attend the continuing of our measures for a cooperation—and the difficulties—supposing it undertaken—from the advanced season—and requested their earliest decision as to the part I am to pursue. I have also requested the favor of General Schuyler, who is at Congress, to transmit You the Result of their deliberations—upon the occasion—as soon as they are ended—by which you will be pleased to govern yourselves—either as to your returning or remaining—as their decision may point. In the mean time—You will withhold all my dispatches to the Count—even if he should arrive—till you receive their Answer—and endeavour to recover such as may have been lodged by You or Others—along the Coast towards the Capes of Delaware. I have written to Major Lee, with respect to the Letters—in his hands. When You have received the determination of Congress—if it is against a Cooperation—It will be necessary for You to recall the pilots except such a number as may be thought material—for general purposes in case of the Count’s arrival for the security of his Fleet. and such as were employed here or immediately in consequence of any of my Letters—you will desire to send in their Accounts. I have the Honor to be with great respect & regard Gentn Yr Most Obedt st

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major Evan Edwards, 11 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Edwards, Evan

          Dear Sir,
          Head Quars West Point November 11th 1779

        Capt. Bush will deliver you 20,000 dollars on Acct of the Gratuity of 100 dollars each allowed by Congress to those Men who were inlisted for the War previous to 23d Jany last inclosed you have the form of the Receipt to be taken. I suppose the general tenor of the inlistments of the Men of the 11th Regt will be Three Years or during the War. This was the case throughout the Penna line, but the Men were told that as the term of inlistmen[t] was not fully ascertained they would not be discha[r]ged at the expiration of three years; but in consideration of their having recd a small Bounty—Congress had been pleased to allow them a Gratuity of 100 dollars. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 11 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 11th Novr 1779.

        Your several favors came to hand yesterday while I was absent. Edwards of Sheldons Regiment, under sentence of death, was represented, by the Major, as a vicious fellow, and a proper subject to make an example, which seems necessary at this time, as I am informed that two Natives went off from Moylans a few days ago, and carried with them four very valuable Horses. I cannot therefore grant the prayer of Edwards’s petition.
        Be pleased to acquaint Colo. Armand of my approbation of his behaviour, and return him my thanks for the good conduct of his enterprize against Majr Bearmore. I shall take an opportunity of representing the matter to Congress the first time I have occasion to write to them. The Horses &ca taken are for the benefit of the Captors.
        On my way to Pompton, I was met at Ramapough by Golding, one of the persons mentioned by you. He had a pass from General Hogun who commands at Philada and came up with a request, that he might be discharged from Colo. Nichola’s Regt, in which he is at present inlisted, upon his obtaining a Man to serve in his room. I, knowing nothing further respecting him, signified my approbation of this, and he returned immediately to Philada. He says he married a Woman of some property there, and produced Deeds for real Estates, which he has acquired in consequence of his marriage and some dealings in trade. I think you had best, in answer to Mr Sargent, represent the above, with the antecedent circumstances with which you are acquainted. Golding having married and acquired property will probably remain quietly with us, and it will perhaps be as well to overlook his former inlistment and desertion, and recommend it to the Attorney General, as he is still a person of suspicious Character, to lay him under security for his good behaviour. I know not what to say respecting Gaffney. He seems from your account to know too much for a soldier, and the bringing him to trial would probably occasion much trouble in procuring Witnesses. I therefore think you may as well acquaint Mr Sargent with his Character also, and let the Civil Authority either confine him or take security as they may judge proper. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 11 November 1779
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

          Sir.
          Philadelphia Novr 11th 1779.

        Since my letter of the 29th Ulto I am favour’d with your Excellency’s letters of Octor 30th & Octor 17th.
        I had the honor of addressing you in my letter of yesterd[a]y enclosing dispatches from General Lincoln by Major Clarkson.
        Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed an Act of Congress of this date among other provision for the southern department, containing a resolve that the North Carolina troops and such others as may be conveniently spared from the main army, reinforce General Lincoln without delay; your Excellency must be the best Judge what troops can Conveniently be spared.
        I have also enclosed an Act of Congress of the 6th Instant granting leave of Absence for eight months to Capt. Lieut. Van Dyke of the Artillery; Also the Copy of a letter from the

President of the Council of Massachusetts Bay of the 22d Ulto accompanied with an Act of the 8th Instant directing ⟨the⟩ Commander in Cheif to take order ⟨thereon.⟩ I have the honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s Humble servant

          Saml Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 11 November 1779
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Peekskill [N.Y.] 11th Novr 1779

        Lieut. Colonel Gray waits upon your Excellency for your Directions concerning a Quantity of Goods in his Hands, seis’d last Winter from One Scudder who had Plunderd them from the Inhabitants of Long Island, the particulars of which you was made acquainted with and approv’d of Col. Gray’s Conduct in the Affair. agreable to your Directions the Admiralty Court in Connecticutt tried the Justice of the Capture upon a Libel fil’d by Scudder, on which Trial Col. Gray appeard & defended, but claimd no Interest to himself but insisted on his Right as Commanding Officer of the Post, where the plunderd Goods were brought, to seise & hold the same, subject to the Order of your Excellency or some Adjudication in favor of the public, and that Scudder having violated every Right of Society in the Capture could not have the property condemnd to him. this brought into Consideration the legality of Scudder’s taking; and the Question before the Court became, only, whither the Inhabitants within that Part of the Country posses’d by the Enemy were Subject to indiscreminate Plunder, according to the Rules of civiliz’d Nations, in Time of War: the Court on a full hearing decided in favor of the Plunderer; on which I directed Col. Gray to appeal the Cause to Congress: the Judgment in my Opinion was so replete with every evil & most scandalous Consequences, that I ought not to suffer the Cause to rest without a Decision of Congress on the Point.
        The Case has rested with Congress from last May to this Time and Nothing is done; I would therefore beg your Excellency to direct Col. Gray to go to Philadelphia & prosecute the Appeal, in such Manner that the Expence of his Journey & Attendance may be borne by the public: As the Trial on his part is not for his own Benefit, and as he don’t claim a single farthing of the Goods, I conceive it will not be just he should prosecute the Affair at his own Expences. but if that cannot be done, I beg your Excellency’s Permission for him to go at his own Expences, in which Case if he succeeds he will expect to appropriate the Goods to his own Use; it appears necessary he should go soon; because the Goods are on spoil & Expence: and if General

Silliman should be exchangd the Bonds given ⟨mutilated⟩ Appeal will be immediate⟨ly mutilated⟩ Suit. I am yo⟨ur Excelle⟩ncy’s Obedt Servt

          Sam⟨l H.⟩ Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Silvanus Seely, 11 November 1779
From: Seely, Silvanus
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          E[lizabeth] Town [N.J.] Novr 11th 1779

        By accounts Just Recievd I have the following Perticulars.
        Five Thousand of the Brittish and Hessians to be stationed on Statton Iseland (the lattor Building Huts Neare the waughtering Place) Two fortifycations are to be built—one on the Heightts neare Deckarts Ferrey and one on the west End of the Isiland.
        Four Brigades are on thare march to South Hampton whare it is said they are to winter.
        Morrises Core Cathcarts Leigon and Robartsons are Stationed at Jerico on Long Iseland.
        Great Part of the Troops that Came from Rhoad Iseland have fell Down to the waughtering Place the 7th Instant and are bound to Halifax under Convoy of the Dilawar Frigat—the Hessians that Came from Rhoad Iseland have Relievd the Hessian Granadiers on Statton Iseland who have Imbarkd and ly with Those that fell Down the 7th.
        Thare is a larg number more exspected to imbark Shortly said to be going for the Southward.
        The above accounts (I believe) may be Depended on, as they Came from an oald Corrispondent—I have the Honour to Subscribe my Self your Exelencies Most Obedient Humble Servt

          Silvanus Seely Coll


Title: General Orders, 12 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Friday Novr 12th 1779.
          Parole Embden—  C. Signs Ferrara. Ferrol.