Title: To George Washington from Henry Babcock, 20 November 1779
From: Babcock, Henry
To: Washington, George

          20th Novr 1779Stonington [Conn.]
          May it please your Excellency

        The great Regard I have for Justice, & the well grounded Esteem, I have for an extreamly injured Character (in the Person of Capn Saltonstall) will I hope be a sufficient Apology for my giving your Excellency the Trouble of this Letter.
        When I saw his Orders signed by Warren, & Verno[n] viz. in the usual Form. “You are to proceed to Penobscot, burn sink & destroy &c.[”] They go on to say in a distinct Paragraph “Whereas your Command is very extensive, and of great Consequence, You are upon all Occasions; to take the Advice of the Caps. of the Navy, and their Opinion is to be your Rule of Conduct.”
        Simillar to the above are their Orders & yet when the Navy Board were asked by the Court Martial, for a Copy of their Orders, the above Paragraph was suppressed, hoping that the original Orders perished in the Conflagration of the Ship. Capn Saltonstall tho’ he sufferd the Loss of all his Baggage, to the Amount of very considerable Value, Yet like an able Officer, & a sensible Man he took particular Care to preserve his Orders, & fortunately for him he did. Because in strict Conformity to his Orders, tho very contrary to his own private Judgment, He with an Inflexible rigid Scrupulosity adher’d. Unless the Works at Penobscott, could be carried by a Coup de main, it was idle to attempt it, for Reasons very obvious; instead of furnishing Genl

Lovel with 1500 Men as they promised him, Upon a Genl Review of his Troops before they sailed upon the Expedition they did not amount to but little more than 800 Rank & File; & by his Qr Master Genl perhaps the most of a military Man upon the Expedition he advised Genl Lovel (upon having his Opinion asked) to return to Boston.
        Had the Council of the State asked for the Continental Troops then at Providence under the Command of Genl Gates—He undoubtedly for the good of the public Service, would have ordered a sufficient No. under the Direction of Genl Starks or some other able Officer. But those Wise Acres of the Massachusetts were determined to have all the Merit of the Expedition, & were above asking Assistance from the Continental Troops, & You may be assured from what I learn, none deserved the Name of Soldiers upon the Expedition but the Marines. I say when I saw his Orders I was astonished that he was not acquited with Honor—My eldest Son was on board the Warren with the Commodore, who together with others assure Me that Capn Saltonstall did every Thing that an active brave Officer could in his Situation possibly do—But that he was by no Means seconded by Gen. Lovel who I am told (& firmly is the Truth) is a mere old Woman.
        Three Times, Capn Saltonstall loosed his Topsails, to attack the Shipping beyond the Fort, but could not prevail upon Lovel to attack the Fortress at the same time by Land—Ten Caps. of the Navy at a Council of War held on Board the Warren voted, that it was improper for our Ships to attack the Enemys Ships, unless the Army at the same time attacked by Land, Two Caps. voted for an Attack. Genl Lovel after some Experiment found as he says, that his Troops were not firm enough, to advance against the Works; At a Council of War the Comg Officers of Regts voted three love that these Nos. were not sufficient to attack the fort Capn Saltonstall being noticed of it was for raising the Siege, but over ruled by his (to say no less of it[)] over zealous Officers. Yet the Councils of War held by Order of the Commanding Officer of the Navy; strictly enjoyned so to do, by Order of the Navy Board, were not admitted as exculpatory Evidence, upon his Trial by the Court Martial. The Council of the Massachusetts to take the Odium of the Publick from off themselves, have thrown their whole Weight into the Scale to

sacrifize Saltonstall, & by an unheard of Species of Sophistry, have amused the Court that Capn Saltonstalls Command, whilst at Penobscot, tho very important, & very extensive, was unlimited, & uncontrol’d, & therfore he is solely responsible for what happened. Yet after the Expedition was over & by his Orders supposed to be crowned with Success, He was not after that to be trusted with a much smaller Command; but he was to be guided by the Major Voice of his Caps. Is it not shameful that such a flimsy Subterfuge should be made Use of to the Destruction of a brave good Officer? and reflects the highest Indignity upon the Court Martial & is a complete full Proof, that they were either Void of Common Sense or Dupes to the Council of the State. But what will not Malevolence, Ill Nature, & Disappointment do? We flatter ourselves that Congress will do him Justice, which is all we Ask, and which he has an undoubted Right to—If Your Excellency upon a fair candid hearing is of the same Opinion with Me, I am certain it must give you great Pleasure honorably to acquit him—It must necessarily afford to every generous humane Breast a most sensible pleasing Satisfaction, to reinstate an Officer thus cruelly & most injureously treated. I have the Honor to be with greatest Esteem Yr Excellencys most obedient & most humble Servant

          H. Babcock


Title: From George Washington to General Henry Clinton, 20 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, Henry

          sir
          Head Qrs [West Point] Novr the 20th 1779

        I had the Honor on the 16th Inst. to receive Your Excellency’s Letter of the 9th—In answer to such parts of it, as respect the matters contained in Mr Loring’s Letter to Mr Beatty, I beg leave to refer you to the inclosed Copy of his Answer to Mr Loring.
        It will be perfectly agreable to me, for Mrs Maxwell, the Lady of Lt Maxwell, to join her Husband in Virginia when an Opportunity offers.
        In a Letter I had the honor to receive from His Excellency, the Governor of Rhode Island of the 5th Instant, he was pleased to inform me, that the Records of the Towns of Newport & Middletown, by some means had been brought away, in the late evacuation of the Island, and to request that I would communicate the same to Your Excellency and solicit your favor in having them returned. The Governor adds, that they cannot affect in the smallest degree, the political claims of either party, but the loss of them will highly injure Many Individuals. Should your Excellency view the matter in the same point of light—I am persuaded the Records will be restored if they have not been destroyed, or are within your power. In any other view I could not expect it, nor would I in any other be understood to make the request. I have the Honor to be with due respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & Most Hble sert

          Go: Washington

          N.B. The Copy of the Letter alluded to above from Mr Beatty to Mr Loring is dated the [ ].


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 20 November 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Morris Town Nov. 20th 1779

        The position which Lord Sterling and Col. Abeel wrote such a flattering account about, has nothing but water and naked ground to recommend it, for I dont believe there is one quarter wood enough to supply the Troops through the Winter.
        I rode all day yesterday, and all day to day in search of a position, but without the least success. I have searched the Country pretty thoroughly from Quibbletown Gap as far on towards Equacahock [Aquakinunk] as where the Road crosses the Mountain from Newark to this place I have been round Chatham and through Turkey, and as far Northward as a place called Canoebrook about four Miles Northeasterly of Percipeny. But all this Country is divided into small farms each of which has only a small wood Lot. It is true there is a great quantity of Wood upon Canoe brook, but the ground is so wet and swampy that it is totally unfit for an encampment.
        To morrow I intend to search the Country about Bullions Tavern, Stony Hill and on towards Pluckemin. If I meet with no success I shall search the County of Morris but from what I have seen and from the enquiries I have made I am confident it is next to impossible to find a position with a sufficent quantity of Wood to hut the Army altogether, except below the Mountain from Scotch Plains to Quibbletown Gap. I have not looked over that ground as yet, but from the Charactor I have had of it, and from the observations I formerly made upon it, I think there is a plenty of Wood and water. There is but one objection to this position which is its being too near the Sound, but if the Enemy should detach any considerable force, this will be removd; and it is confidently asserted here, that a considerable force has already saild, and a second embarkation geting ready. The Position under the Mountain will be a very strong one, as the Cannon upon the Mountain may be made use of to defend it in front and rear.
        I think there can be found within four or five Miles of this place; tracts of wood land, sufficent to hut the Army in divisions; and they may be so chosen as to collect the whole force in a short time. But I dont believe there is any tract large enough to receive the 12 brigades or even half the number. I wish to know which

would be your Excellencys choice, to hut below the Mountains, nearly all together, or in a divided state in this Country. The position below the Mountains will save five hundred thousand Dollars transportation between this and Spring: Besides which the Army will be much better furnished there than here. These are considerations worthy attention provided greater ones are not opposd to them.
        I rode these two days past without eating or drinking from Morning until Night; and shall set out again to morrow morning if it dont rain, by Eight oClock.
        There is but a very small quantity of flour or bread at this place, but all there is I have order’d to be sent on to meet the Army as it is more than probable the Army will be more distressed farther North[w]ard than here, as I am told it is coming on in a more plentiful manner from Trenton than it has been for some time past. I am with great respect Your Excellency Most Obd. humble sert

          N. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Moses Hazen, 20 November 1779
From: Hazen, Moses
To: Washington, George

            Camp, Peeks-Kill [N.Y.] Novr 20, 1779.

          The Memorial of Col. Moses Hazen humbly sheweth,
          That the Canadian Regiment your Excellency’s Memorialist’s has the Honour to Command was, by a Resolution of Congress of the 20th of January 1776, ordered to be raised in Canada for one Year, or during the then present Disputes; to compose four Battalions of Two Hundred and fifty Men each, as will, by said Resolution of Congress, more fully appear.
          That Four Hundred and Seventy-seven Men only were inlisted for the Term of the War, mustered and carried into Service. The Want of Money to pay the Bounty ordered prevented the Regiment from being completely filled up at that Time and in that Country.
          That a Part of the Officers and Men raised in Canada retreated with Genl Sullivan’s Army on the 17th of June 1776 from that Country; and that on the 23rd of October, in the same Year, the Hon. Continental Congress was pleased to order that the said Regiment should remain on the Original Establishment thereof, and be recruited to its Original Complement in any of the Thirteen United States, as the said Regiment did not belong to any particular State, nor was there any Additional Expence in the Mode of Officering the same.
          That by the Alacrity and great Attention of the Recruiting Officers Seven Hundred and Twenty Men were brought into the Field, on the opening of the Campaign in the Year 1777.
          That this Regiment has been employed on hard Services in the Course of this Contest; a Part of it was at the Blockade, and Assault of Quebec; the Regiment was with Genl Sullivan in the Action of Staten-Island, of the 22nd of August 1777; at Brandywine the 11th of September, and Germantown the 4th of October following: In all which; it has acquitted itself with Honour,

and was at the last-mentioned Engagement amongst the Troops that were rewarded with your Excellency’s Public Thanks.
          That in the three several last-mentioned Engagements were killed, wounded and taken Prisoners, fifteen Commissioned Officers and One Hundred and Thirty-three Non-commissioned Officers and private Men: That detach’d Parties from this Regiment have frequently been in warm Skirmishes with the Enemy, which have been conducted to the Honour of the Officer who commanded, tho’ attended with the Loss of many brave Men.
          That on the [2]4th of November 1778 the Hon. Continental Congress was pleased to order that the said Regiment should remain on its Original Establishment, and that no new Appointments or Promotions of Officers be made therein, until further Orders of Congress.
          That on the 15th of March 1779 the Hon. Continental Congress was pleased to Order, Returns to be made of this Regiment and others, setting forth the different States in which the Officers were raised, or the Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers recruited, and that the said States should have Credit for the Officers and Men so raised or recruited, as a Part of their Quotas to be kept up in the Field. This Resolution it is presumed was entered into as well to do Justice to the several States, in Point of raising their several Quotas of Men, as to leave it in their Power to take Care of and reward the Officers and Men in the same Manner as they might their own State Battalions, which however just the Intention it can never effect this Regiment, so as to do it Justice in every Part thereof; for as the Officers are raised and the Regiment recruited from North-Carolina to Canada, it is impossible that the Officers and Men should have the Benefit of the several and respective State Stores, to which it seems it was intended they should have a Right to in common with their own Troops; nor have they ever received a Farthing value from any one State before or since that Resolution took Place; on the other Hand, sixteen Officers and One Hundred and eleven Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers are returned Volunteers from Canada, and otherwise belonging to no one of the Thirteen United States, consequently no Kind of Provision is or has been attempted to be made for them: However hard their Case, their Services are deserving of Notice: That the Canadian Soldiers are not inferior to any in the Regiment, in Point of

Morality, Bravery, or Attachment to the Cause and Service in which they are engaged; a Proof of which, one Canadian only has deserted since the Regiment retreated out of Canada. Nine different Detachments were sent into that Country the last Summer for Intelligence, and the greater Part of the other Canadians within Sight of and not more than one Day’s march of their own Country, Families, Friends, Connections and Estates. Four Hundred and Seventy-one Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers are now on the Muster Rolls and Returns; four Hundred and Sixty of which are inlisted during the War—on Twenty Dollars Bounty only; not a Man has ever received either a Town or State Bounty to the Knowledge of your Memorialist.
          That neither Officer or Soldier in the Regiment has ever received a Farthing’s Value of Clothing, or other Supplies whatever, out of any State or Continental Store, otherwise than a Dividend of coarse Clothes, with the other Troops at Hartford, by Order of Genl Gates, the whole of which did not compose an Assortment that would have made up one Regimental Coat: That under the present Hardships, and many Difficulties herein enumerated, it is impossible to expect this Regiment can continue in the Service unless some proper Provision of Clothing for the Officers and Supplies for them, and the Men, may by some means or other, be obtained, so as to leave this Regiment on a footing with the Army.
          Your Memorialist has the Pleasure to assure your Excellency, That notwithstanding the different States, Countrys and Nations from which this Regiment has been raised, yet a perfect Harmony and a general Unanimity has always subsisted amongst the Officers, as well as a most Passive-Obedience cultivated amongst the Soldiers; and further your Memorialist begs Leave to assure your Excellency, that he should not do Justice to the Regiment if he did not add on this Occasion, that he has the Honour to command as good a Corps as any in the American Army. It is hoped and really wished that the Period may not be far off when this Regiment may be adopted by their own—a fourteenth State in America. Your Memorialist therefore humbly prays your Excellency will please to take the Case of this Regiment into Consideration, and direct or recommend to Congress a Remedy by which the Officers and Soldiers may be on a footing with the Army.
          That in Point of Clothing and Supplies for the Regiment your

Memorialist begs Leave to propose, That the Commanding Officer, Paymaster, or some other Person, may be empowered to purchase such Articles of Clothing and Supplies, or Refreshments as are or may be furnished to the other Troops, and in like Proportion, and that they may be issued out or delivered to the Officers and Men in the same Manner as have been, now are, or may hereafter be, to other Continental Troops, at the same or like Discounts; that the Extra Prices and Amount of all such Clothing and Supplies may be paid from Time to Time from the Military Chest; that a particular Account may be kept of all such Issues or Deliveries, and rendered to such Persons, and as often as may be directed, in order that the Amount of the Extra Cost of all such Goods so delivered may be by the Public a Charge against the several and respective States, as issued to the Officers and Men which they have Credit for in their several and respective Quotas; and that such a Part as may be issued and delivered to the Canadian Volunteers be a Charge against the Public at large until a final Settlement, which appears to your Memorialist the only Method by which common Justice may be done to the whole, and that all the Soldiers of the Regiment may be served at one and the same Time with such Refreshment as may be allowed them, which will naturally tend to Quiet the Minds of the Soldiers, and promote Harmony in the Regiment; for Soldiers who serve together ought to serve on one and the same footing; any Thing to the contrary has been found by Experience to be Subversive of that good Order and Military Discipline which ought to be preserved; for these Reasons, your Excellency’s Memorialist was obliged to stop, by the Advice of the Officers of the Regiment, four Months Pay to the Officers raised and Soldiers inlisted from Connecticut, and by the Legislative Body of that State ordered to be paid to them, which remains yet in the Hands of the Paymaster. Your Excellency’s Memorialist will, as in Duty bound, ever pray.

            Moses Hazen

            Your Excellency’s Memorialist begs Leave to recommend Lieut. Noah Lee, of his Regiment, to a Company, in the Room of Capt. Robert Burnes who resigned the 31st of May 1779—and Ensign Francis Gilmant, to be Lieutenant in the Room of Lieut.

Lee, as very old and deserving Officers, and the first intitled to Promotion in the Regiment by Seniority.

              Moses Hazen


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 20 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters West Point 20th Novemr 1779

          I was last night favored with yours of yesterday. The two Connecticut Brigades are to Encamp on the west side of the river, as it may be a day or two before they march. All detachments

from those Brigades should be called in, upon giving the Adjutant General notice that he may relieve them by others, except the party under the command of Major Throop, at work upon the redoubts, which cannot conveniently be relieved till one of the Massachusetts Brigades moves up to West Point.
          The Officers going home upon furlough cannot be allowed to draw rations during their absence, it is unprecedented and would lead in the end to very great drafts upon our magazines at a distance.
          I have at length the pleasure of transmitting the Commissions for Nixons & Glovers Brigades. The Secretary of the Board of War apologises for the long delay which was occasioned by want of Parchment & by the change of Presidents, which latter circumstance obliged a number of the Commissions to have Mr Jays name erased after it was inserted. I am Dear Sir Yr Most Obet servant

            Go: Washington

          The Officers are ordered by the General orders of the day: to take their places in the Regt to which they are appointed.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 20 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dear Sir,
          West-point Novr 20th—79.

        Herewith you will receive Mr Pulteney’s lucubrations—and my thanks for the perusal of them. He has made I perceive, the dependance of America essential to the existance of Great Britain as a powerful Nation—This I shall not deny—because

I am in sentiment with him in thinking her fallen state in consequence of the seperation too obvious to be disputed—It was of magnitude sufficient to have made a wise & just people look before they leaped. But I am glad to find that he has placed the supplies necessary to support that dependance upon three things which I am perswaded will never again exist in his nation—namely Public virtue—public œconomy—and public union in her grand Council.
        Stock jobbing, speculation dissipation luxury & venality with all their concomitants are too deeply rooted to yield to virtue & the public good. We that are not yet hackneyed in vice—but infants as it were in the arts of corruption—& the knowledge of taking advantage of public necessity (tho’ I am much mistaken if we shall not soon become very great adepts at them)—find it almost, if not quite impossible to preserve virtue enough to keep the body politic & corporate in tolerable tune—It is scarcely to be expected therefore that a people who have reduced these things to a system & have actually interwoven them into their constitution should at once become immaculate.
        I do not know which rises highest—my indignation or contempt for the Sentiments which pervade the Ministerial writings of this day—these hireling scriblers labour to describe & prove the ingratitude of America in not breaking faith with France—& returning to her Allegiance to the Crown of Great Britain after its having offered such advantageous terms of accomodation—Such Sentiments as the[s]e are insulting to common sense & affrontive to every principle of sound policy & common honesty. Why has She offered these terms? because after a bloody contest, carried on with unrelenting & savage fury on her part the issue (which was somewhat doubtful while we stood alone) is now become certain by the aid we derive from our Alliance—notwithstanding the manifest advantages of which, and the blood and treasure which has been spent to resist a tyranny which was unremitted as long as there remained a hope of subjugation we are told with an effrontery altogether unparrallelled that every cause of complaint is now done away by the generous offers of a tender parent—that it is ungrateful in us not to accept the proffered terms—and impolitic not to abandon a power (dangerous I confess to her but) which held out a saving hand to us in the hour of our distress—What epithet does such Sentiment merit?

How much shd a people possessed of them be despised? From my Soul I abhor them! A Manly struggle, had it been conducted upon liberal ground—an honest confession that they were unequal to conquest—& wished for our friendship, would have had its proper weight—but their cruelties, exercised upon those who have fallen within their power—the wanton depredations committed by themselves and their faithful Allies the Indians—their low & dirty practices of Counterfeiting our money—forging letters—& condescending to adopt such arts as the meanest villain in private life would blush at being charged with has made me their fixed enemy.
        I have received your letter by Colo. Moylan of yesterdays date—The Instructions given to —— are full and compleat—I have no thought of withdrawing the effective horse till the other Troops go into quarters. I am—Sincerely & Affectly Yrs

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 20 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

          Sir
          West point November the 20th 1779

        On Monday Evening I had the honor to receive Your Excellency’s Letter of the 10th, with the Inclosures to which it refers, by Major Clarkson. I also had the honor since, on the night of the 17th, to receive Your Favor of the 11th.
        I regret much the failure of the expedition against Savannah, and the causes which seem to have produced it. The North Carolina Troops proceeded yesterday to New Windsor, from whence they would begin their march for the Southward to day. They could not commence it sooner. From the state of matters in the Southern Quarter, as communicated by General Lincoln, in his Letter to the Honourable, the Committee of correspondence, I most sincerely wish it were in my power, to afford him farther succour from this Army, than the North Carolina Troops; but from the fullest consideration of the point, it does not appear to me practicable. I had determined to send that part of Baylor’s Regiment, which is under the command of Lt Colo. Washington, and accordingly wrote him yesterday to march; but unfortunately I found by the Report of an Officer, belonging to the Regiment whom I saw to day, that it would answer but little, if any purpose, as the Inlistments of many, if not of all the Men would expire before, or not long after they could arrive. From this circumstance, I have been obliged to send a countermanding order. I have however called for an exact Return of the Men’s engagements, and when I receive it, shall act with respect to them, as circumstances may authorise. The Letter which I had the honor of addressing to Your Excellency on the 18th—and the Abstract of the Muster Rolls, which it inclosed, will shew Congress, what

will be the state of the Army in the course of a little time—and how unable to afford Detachments. Securing this post—and itself from insult—and giving protection in some degree to the Country lying on either side of the Hudson—is as much as can be promised from It—especially if the Enemy should remain in near their present force at New York—and be governed by a spirit of Enterprize.
        From my Letter of the 18th and the Abstract referred to above—Congress will readily conclude I am persuaded, that I cannot send any Troops for the defence of the Frontiers of New Hampshire and Massachusett’s bay. As to public stores being deposited there, the Honble the Council of the latter, I believe, have been misinformed. There are none there that I know of, nor will there be any Magazines of forage or provision laid up so high or to such a considerable amount on Connecticut River towards the Coos Country, as to be an Object for a body of the Enemy. When Colo. Hazen was detached there and set to opening a Road—it was for the purpose of exciting jealousies at Quebec—and at the Enemy’s posts on the St Lawrence &c.—and of making a diversion in favor of the late expedition under General Sullivan, by preventing Reinforcements being sent into the Upper Country to oppose him. This very happily succeeded—and it was always my intention to recall him, when ever the Object of his command was accomplished. And I would willingly hope, that the cutting of a Road towards Canada, which appeared to me essential to make the feint complete, will not have the least tendency to expose the Country to incursions. It can only be of service to a body of regular Troops, moving with Artillery—baggage &c: for as to light—desultory parties—they can make their incursions at any point—as well without a road as with it.
        I am using every means in my power & have been for a day or Two past, to get the Cloathing we have, distributed to the Troops. It is a work of great difficulty from the scantiness of the supply.
        On the 7th Instant—Colo. Armand, who was on the Enemy’s lines received information, that Major Barmore was at quarters three miles below Delancy’s bridge. This induced him to form a design of surprising him, which he effected the same night & brought him off. General Heath who transmitted me the account, speaks of the enterprize, as being conducted with great

gallantry and address, as he had to pass below a considerable body of the Enemy’s light Troops which lay in the Neighbourhood. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 20 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

          Sir
          West point Novr 20th 1779

        I have been honoured with Your Excellency’s Letter of the 16th. I assure you Sir, I should esteem myself happy if it were in my power to comply with your request, with respect to the Troops ordered from Rhode Island—but it is really not. I have no alternative in the matter; or at least I could not consent to their remaining with you, without departing from such an Arrangement, as a regard to the general interest and the situation of our Affairs seem to me, indispensibly to require. A circumstance which your Excellency would neither wish nor permit. An attention to the general weal must be with me, as it will ever be with you, the first Object, and whenever this shall

appear to me secure—I persuade myself with great satisfaction and confidence, that you believe, I shall most chearfully afford any aid in my power to give—to Individual States. protection to all is my ever most wish; but unfortunately, our means will not admit of it—and I have frequently to regret, as in the present instance, that my abilities are not equal to my inclination. And I would willingly hope, that whenever I do not comply with matters of your request, that you will indulgently impute it to the real cause—that of necessity. In the disposition of the Army—I must particularly attend to the security of this post—to the security of itself against insult—and against defeat. If the Enemy remain in New York in near their present force—Nothing more can be promised from it—and possibly not this, if they are governed by a spirit of Enterprize. There is One circumstance more which I will add: You will but too readily feel the inference. Inlistments of a permanent nature were not the policy of the times—and accordingly Our Army was levied. You, with me, will painfully reflect on the period. Desirous however, to give such protection to the State, as Our circumstances may possibly justify—I mean to station the New Hampshire Troops at Danbury, and Moylans & Sheldon’s Regiments East of that—which makes a part of my Arrangement. I cannot do more with the least propriety, as a greater division or extension of our force, might at least expose us to great accidents. Light parties will be detached from hence—during the Winter, towards the Enemy’s lines, which will in some measure enable General poor to turn his attention more to the Sound and to give aid in case of exigency. There are pressing calls for succour to be sent to South Carolina & Georgia—and for which I shall be happy, if we should not have occasion to fear much; but no more can be possibly afforded than the remains of Two Regiments of North Carolina, which were here—and this by direction of Congress, founded more in the absolute necessity of the measure than our abilities to spare them. I have the Honor to be, with sentiments of great regard and respectful attachment Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 20 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 20th Novr 1779

        I was yesterday favd with yours of the 18th. It would have been a very desirable thing to have wound up the Campaign by a successful stroke upon the enemy before they retired within Kingsbridge. I have no doubt but if, in the course of your enquiries into their situation, the enterprize had been found warrantable, you would have given me information before any movements would have been made—This, where the execution of a measure of any consequence does not depend upon the moment, is absolutely necessary, and would probably have been evidenced in the matter you had in contemplation had it gone on, for I had resolved to attempt the same enterprize, to be executed in the same manner you mention (by Water) by the troops at Verplanks point and Vicinity. Genl Howe was down, and sent persons into the enemy’s Camp, to obtain the necessary information, just as they went within the Bridge. I have been thus full to shew, how much depends upon communication, and how far, two well meant and well concerted plans might have defeated each other, had we have been ignorant of each others designs. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. William Woodford, 20 November 1779
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. William Woodford, 20 Nov. 1779. In his second letter to Woodford on 21 Nov., GW wrote: “I have this moment your favor of the 20th.”


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

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]sunday Novr 21st 79.
          Parole Marblehead—  C. Signs Mexico Manchester.

        The commanding officers of corps in the four Massachusetts brigades are desired to draught all the Masons in their respective regiment and send them to Col. Kosciuszko immediately, for the purpose of completing the barracks as expeditiously as possible.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Claiborne, 21 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Claiborne, Richard

          Sir,
          Head Qrs [West Point] Novr 21st 1779

        By a letter just received from Col. Gouvion, I am sorry to find that the Works at Stoney and Verplanks points are kept back for want of assistance in the Qr Mrs line—He mentions that Capt. Mills[’]s company of Artificers ordered there by Genl Greene is called for to join the Pennsylvania Division—From the importance of the work he is engaged in, I have directed him to keep them—it may however be well as he mentions to order others

to join that line—This is not his only want—he requests in order to enable him to carry on the Works, that 200 Fathom of rope—2 Scows & a quantity of Plank some time since called for, may be sent down immediately—the latter Article was perhaps demanded of Col. Hay—It may be necessary to write to him on the subject—⟨I⟩ must request that every exertion be made, to comply with the above. I am &c.

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 21 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] 21st Novemr 1779.

        I send herewith a Mr Elliot who lately came out of New York. His account of himself is shortly as follows. He was formerly Chaplain to Colo. Chas Webbs Regiment, but being dismissed from that service and disappointed in some other matters he went in to the Enemy—and now says he has come out again to throw himself upon the mercy of the State of Connecticut of which he was an inhabitant. You will therefore be pleased to send him on to the State under charge of some of the Officers who are going upon furlough.
        Among the Massachusetts Commissions sent to you yesterday are one for Lt Colo. Loring of Colo. Greatons Regt and another for Lt Crossman of the 15th both cashierd. Be pleased to direct those Comms. to be returned to me. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


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

          Sir,
          west point 21st Novr 1779

        I am much obliged to your Excellency for the discretionary permission given to me in your favor of the 17th, to attempt a Cure of my Complaint. Upon considering the matter I find it will be most advancive of my design to be freed from Command; as I can pursue the experiment without interruption which is Necessary to its produ[c]ing the desired effect. some circumstances beside those I mentioned to yr Excellency in a former Letter induce me, to prefer Fish-Kill. I wish to be informed whether I am to leave the Command of this Post, to Genl Patterson, or wait to be releived by A Major Genl. I am with great truth, & regard, Your Excellencys Humble Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 21 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Sir,
          [West Point] Novr 21st [1779]

        I have just recd your favor.
        It is my desire for various reasons, that you should continue in your present command until relieved by an Officer of equal

rank with yourself—this will happen as soon as our situation and the good of the service will permit—until then I have to request, that you will exert yourself, to put matters in general at this post in the best possible train—I make the request as yr knowledge of them must be better than that of yr successors, & because many steps must be taken, (perhaps) ⟨b⟩efore your departure—I have ⟨on⟩ly to add that when it happens ⟨that⟩ I sincerely wish the retirement may ⟨pro⟩ve a perfect cure to yr complaint ⟨and⟩ answer all your other views. I am.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 21 November 1779
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Bethlehem [Pa.] Novemr 21st 1779.

        The inclosed Copy of a letter which I received by the favour of Colonel Webb will inform Your Excellency that I am a second time permitted to set out on a journey for New York.
        The letter mentions that Major Skinner is to meet me at Elizabeth Town and I take the liberty to request he may be thee with Your Excellency’s Commands for me relating to my parole or other matters on Wednesday Evening or Thursday Morni⟨ng⟩ at furthest.
        I will be free to own, Sir, that having suffered much uneasiness lately I do not wish to be delayed long at Elizabeth-town, and am particularly interrested for Major General De Reidese⟨l⟩ and his family who are all of them very unluckily in an ill state of hea⟨lth⟩.
        I should be ungratefull for many Civilities received fro⟨m⟩ Colonel Hooper and Colonel Webb if I did not acknowledge my Sense of them to Your Excellency.
        I cannot resist permitting myself the satisfaction of assuring you, Sir, that under this as in the late change of Sentiments in the American Congress I feel very sensibly your polite attention to me and I most sincerely hope that my going into New York, of

which I now have no doubt, may be productive of the humane purpose of a release of a great number of unlucky Gentlemen belonging to both Armies. I have the honour to be, Sir, With great personal Respect Your Excellency’s most obed. and most humble Servant

          W. Phillips


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 21 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 21st Novr 1779.

        As soon as your clothing reaches you, you will be pleased to direct its distribution agreeably to the General order, and when this is completed, take up your line of march without waiting further orders. In case you have not received one from the Quarter Master, you will proceed by Sufferans Pompton Rockaway and Morristown. That you may avoid falling in with General Poors Brigade on its march from Sufferans to Kings ferry you will take the Kakeate road. I wish you to use all the dispatch in your power, that you may be on the ground as soon as possible. I am &.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 21 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

          Dr
          Hd Qrs West-point 21 Novr 1779

        I have this moment your favor of the 20th.
        The prisoner directed here, I have forwarded to Genl Heath, to be sent to the State of Connecticut to which he belongs.

        As you think the fatigue party may be employed at Stoney point, without occasioning any delay when you are ready to march, it may remain at work. The connecticut troops who have crossed will give every assistance. You will also be pleased to continue your parties in repairing the road to sufferans. in the manner mentioned.
        I inclose you a copy of a letter which I dispatched this morning.


Title: General Orders, 22 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]monday Novr 22nd [1779]
          Parole Oneida.  C. Signs Pecks-Kill Rochester

        The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following resolve—In Congress 12th of November 1779.
        Resolved—That regimental Pay-Masters not being of the rank of Captains—Quarter Masters and Adjutants be intitled to

receive the same subsistence money as is allowed to Captains by the act of Congress of the 18th of August last; this subsistence to commence on that day.

          After orders.
          Major Cochran of the New-York troops is appointed to relieve Lieutenant Colonel Williams superintending the hospital at Albany.


Title: From George Washington to John Beatty, 22 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Beatty, John

          sir
          West point Novr 22: 1779

        In inclose You a Copy of a Resolution of Congress of the 13th Inst. (No. 1.)—which I received last night in a Letter from the Honble the Board of War of the 15th—By this you will perceive that Major Generals Phillips & Riedesel and their families are permitted to proceed to New York on parole. I also inclose You a Copy of the Board’s Letters, No. 2. 3—& 4 to Major Generals Phillips & Riedesel—Colo. Hooper & Mr Skinner—the last of whom they expected was at Elizabeth Town & to whom according to their Letter to me and the inclosed Copy of one No. 4 to him—they have written. No. 2 the Copy of the Letter to Genls Phillips & Riedesel shews the restrictions under which the Board have mentioned that they should proceed to New York Viz.—the terms of the parole they gave Colo. Blanc—a Copy of which I inclose. You will find that the parole they gave to Colo. Bland requires a[n] Additional one to be given at Elizabeth Town “for their going into New York.” This must be taken in the usual form—limiting the permiss[io]n to New York—and stipulating for their return when ever required they are not finally exchanged. The Board had not a Copy of the parole given to Colo. Bland—and therefore they could not know—that an Additional one was necessary & required by it.
        Mr Skinner will of course endeavo[r] to shew Genls Phillips &

Riedesel & the Gentlemen with them every proper attention & civility. It is my wish. I am sir Yr Most Obedt st

          G. Wshgton


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 22 November 1779
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Pittsburgh Novr 22d 1779

        The Deleware Chiefs have paid me another visit and the wyandot Chiefs are said to be on the road to this place.

        The Deleware Chiefs inform me that the english at Detroit have refused to supply the Wyandots with cloathing because they had entered into a treaty of friendship with us they likewise say that the new Fort at that place is f[i]nished and that the walls are so high that the Tops of the Barracks can scarsely be seen from the outside but they dont know whether there are any Bomb proofs as they are not permitted to go into the Fort. They think the number of Soldiers does not exceed 300 and some part of that number still remains in the old Fort.
        I take the liberty to enclose sundry Speeches & my answers If no provision is made for these naked wretches they will be compelled to submit to the Enemy & to be employed by them or perish. All my enquiries from Indians are oblique & such as would induce a belief that Niagara was the object, & I shall endeavour to continue them under the Same Idea untill I have Kyahoga, which is nearly at the centre between the two Posts and equally adventageous for making a descent on either of them.
        The Deleware Chiefs came to this place with a determination to pay another Visit to your Excelly but upon my telling them that I should shortly strike the Warpost they imediately declined going & declared that they and their best Warriours would join me.
        I will use every possible method to obtain more perfect intelligence The Wyandot Chiefs have met with greater indulgence from the Enemy than the Delewares & can probably give me intelligence respecting the strength of the Enemies Works & Garrisons.
        Neither the Commissary of purchases or the Commy of Forage have money & their Credit is much failed with the inhabitants but I trust they will soon be Supplied.
        The Shawenese & mingoes have lately killed & taken twenty men besides some women & Children near the mouth of little Miami river, & taken two Boats with twenty horse Loads of Dry Goods. It is supposed that the Officer who commanded this party was a Captain who was Sent by the State of Virginia down this river to purchase some goods for the Troops of that State many months ago.
        My situation is so remote that I but seldom am acqua[i]nted with what passes in the interior part of the Country and fear I

shall be too late in sending an estimate of Artillery to the Board of War but I will do it so far as I am capable so soon as I have sufficient Reason to hope the intended Expedition against Detroit will take place. But if it should be otherwise and our expedition against Nochez approved my estimate for Artillery &c. will be Something Less.
        I am informed that the Legislature of the State of Virginia has lately imported a number of excellent Mortars & that they are willing to lend them to Congress. I have the honor to be with the highest Sentiments of respect & esteem your Excellencies most [ ] & most Hble Servt

          Daniel BrodheadColo. commandg W.D.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene, 22 November 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene, 22 Nov. 1779. GW wrote Greene on 23 Nov., 4:00 P.M.: “I have received yours of the 22d.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 22 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 22d Novr 1779

        I received your favor of the 21st last night, and have this morning transmitted an extract respecting the want of flour, to the commissary General, requesting him to take the most immediate and effectual measures to procure a proper supply. Till this can be done, you will use the best means in your power to keep the troops in temper. The want of rain is the great reason of our deficiencies in this article. When this falls we shall be amply supplied.
        As the general objects of your command will be more within your reach at your old quarters at Mandevilles, and as you may be more at your quiet in this place, I think you had better move up, leaving the command where you are to Gen: Howe that is, provided the state of your health will admit of the change. I am Dr Sir your most ob. svt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Lettis Hooper, Jr., or Officer Conducting Major Generals William Phillips and Riedesel, 22 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Phillips, Robert Lettis Hooper Jr. or Officer Conducting Generals William,Riedesel, Friedrich Adolph (Adolf) von

          Sir
          Head Quarters West point 22d Novr 1779.

        By a letter from the Board of War I am informed that they have directed you to conduct Majors General Phillips and Riedhesil and their families to Eliza: Town. As I would not wish them to see the Ground near our new encampment, you are to avoid the Chatham Road and conduct them by the way of Bound Brook to Elizabeth Town. You are not to communicate your reasons to them for this change of the Route. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: General Orders, 23 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]tuesday Novr 23rd 1779.
          Parole Salisbury—  C. Signs Turin. Tudor.

        The General Court-Martial whereof Colonel Chambers is President is dissolved.
        The evening gun is to be discontinued.

        The three years and nine month’s men who have engaged to serve in other regiments during the War are immediately to be transfered to the regiments in which they have so reinlisted; Those who have inlisted before the 1st instant, and have not yet been transfered, their transferences are to be dated of that day; In future they are to be transfered immediately on inlisting for the war.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 23 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentlemen
          Head Quarters West point 23d Novemr 1779.

        I have been this day honored with yours of the 19th inclosing Copies of the letters which have passed between the Honble the Council of Pennsylvania and the Board relative to the

Coats which have been delivered to the State for the use of their troops.
        The inclemency of the Season—the peculiar circumstances of the Army moving into quarters—and the necessity of delivering out the Cloathing drawn together at New Windsor—obliged me before the receipt of your last, to issue to the troops of six of the States—This seems to have decided the point: But had the case been otherwise, I would not have wished, for reasons which must be obvious to you, to have determined upon the matter. I would observe that His Excellency the president seems to suppose the causes of the apprehended discontent will arise from more than a proportionable quantity of Coats having been delivered to the pennsylvanians. That is not the point. Their superior quality and their uniformity of Colour and fashion, when contrasted with the motled Cloathing of the other Lines will, if any thing, create the Jealousy.
        I hope the Board and the president and Council will do me the justice to beleive that I am perfectly convinced that they never had throughout the whole of this transaction the least intention of injuring the troops of the other states, and that I have never entertained an Idea of the sort. Unluckily in this instance, consideration has been had to the quantity only, of which there is no reason to complain, and not to the quality of our general stock.
        The North Carolina Troops which are all that are under orders for the Southward at present, did not march from New Windsor untill this day, they having been detained by the Weather and to draw Cloathing. They are nearly supplied here with Uniform—They will perhaps have occasion for some Shirts—Shoes Stockings and other small Articles, before they leave Philada. The Route first given to Colo. Clarke; the Commandant, was by Coryells ferry but upon the Receipt of yours I directed him to proceed by the way of Trenton. The Brigade consists of 33 Commd and Staff Officers 90 non Commd and 705 Rank and File. I have the Honor &.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 23 November 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Baskinridge [N.J.] Nov. 23d 1779

          Major Burnet and Col. Dehart has just returnd from the Equacanock [Pequannock] and say that there is (as to wood Water & Sandy soil) a most excellent position, within about four Miles of Equacanock [Forks of Pequannock] and five of the great falls, it is distant 15 Miles from Newark ferry, and twenty from Elizabeth town. The left will be coverd by the Pasaic: It lies in a plentiful Country of forage and a great many Houses in the Neighbourhood for the Officers. This position will increase our transportation a little from Trenton; other wise I think it the most agreeable to your Excellencys intentions of any yet hit on. The Gentlemen say there is wood and water in abundance to hut all the Army together.
          There is no position in this quarter where the Army can be hutted together, except below the Mountain at Van Muhliners, which I have been examining to day, and find there is wood & water plenty to hut the Army together; but I think the ground will be a little spungey and cold like the Virgina Camp last Winter.
          The position at Stony Hill is in front of Dead River and therefore exceptionable, but there is a great plenty of wood and ground for four or five brigades together, and not more, the

others may be posted within a few Miles. I dont like any of these positions upon a Military view, they lying under the command of higher ground and on the North side of the [Watchung] Mountains. Upon the whole Equacanock position pleases me much the best, except the additional transportation, but the contiguity of the position to West point, the great plenty of Wood and water, and its being sandy soil fully compensates for the disadvantage of transportation.
          I shall take the liberty to halt the Troops from this promising report until I hear from your Excellency as they should not come on farther than Mr Lotts towards Morris as they will march out of their way, should the Aquackanock position be taken.
          I shall set out in the morning to view the ground, and will wait your Excellencys orders at Equacanock. But if I find it as good as it is represented I am perswaded it will please your Excellency as West point is a principal object. I am with great respe[c]t Your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Ser.

            Nath. Greene

          Col. Lawrence has arrivd from South Carolina and is gone to Morris.


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 23 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

          Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 23d Novmbr 1779.

        I had the pleasure of your Excellency’s favor of the 5th with its inclosure. It is with the utmost satisfaction that I join my congratulations with yours on the evacuation of Rhode Island.
        In a letter of this date to Sir Henry Clinton, I have represented the loss of the records mentioned in the resolution of the Council of war and requested his interference for their restoration. I can promise nothing from any influence of mine in this quarter, but what arises from the propriety of the request. On receiving

his answer I shall immediately transmit it to your Excellency. I have the honor to be with the greatest regard your Excellency’s Most obt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 23 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] 23d Novemr 1779.

        I am favd with yours of this date enclosing a number of permits signed by General Pattison allowing Goods to be sent out of New York—I think, with you, that an allowance of a thing of this kind would be attended with most pernicious consequences, and to which I do not think my self authorised to assent.
        Those who have Governor Clintons permission to come out and bring their effects must be allowed to pass, but I think every thing wanting this sanction should be sent back.
        I am certain the Commissaries have no Indian Corn, but I am in hopes the late Rain, tho’ trifling, will afford a supply of Flour in a short time. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 23 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 23d Novr 1779.

        I have been honored with your Excellencys favors of the 1st 2d and 8th of October and the several inclosures.

        The measure of the Council in remanding Governor Hamilton and his companions back to confinement, on their refusing to sign the parole tendered them, is perfectly agreeable to the practice of the enemy. The particular part objected to I have always understood enters into the paroles given by our officers.
        In regard to your lettre of the 8th, I would hope with your Excellency, that there will be no necessity for a competition in cruelties with the enemy. Indeed it is but justice to observe, that of late, or rather since Sir Henry Clinton has had the command, the treatment of our prisoners has been more within the line of humanity, and in general very different from that which they experienced under his predecessors. I shall not fail however as a matter of duty to pay proper attention to such deviations from this conduct, as may appear the result of mere wantonness or cruelty and that have not been incurred by the irregularities of our prisoners. I &.


Title: Letters not found: from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 23 November 1779
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

        Letters not found: from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 23 Nov. 1779. GW wrote Trumbull on 8 Dec.: “I have been honored with your Excellency’s favors of the 23d ulto.”


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

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]wednesday Novr 24th [1779]
          Parole Worcester—  C. Signs Wilmington Wells.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 24 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

          sir
          West point Novr the 24th 1779

        I have been duly honoured with Your Excellency’s several Favors of the 13th 18th & 19th with the several Acts to which they refer.
        As soon as circumstances will permit, I shall pursue measures for incorporating and arranging the Companies of Artificers, as directed by the Act of the 12th Instant.
        The unhappy failure of the expedition against Savannah and the other intelligence announced by the Copies of General Lincoln’s Letters, transmitted by Your Excellency, by the favor of Major Clarkson, would not permit me to hesitate a moment in

deciding on the conduct essential to be pursued, with respect to the point I had done myself the honor of submitting to Congress by my Letter of the 14th—It was then certain that there would be no co-operation, the state of the season out of the question, and the first object that presented itself, was to prevent any farther accumulation of expence and consumption of provision on that account. Accordingly I wrote the next day to His Excellency, Governor Clinton and Brigadier General Fellows, requesting them to dismiss the York and Massachusetts Militia, which were all that had assembled at the places of Rendezvous assigned—and took measures for putting an end to every other expence. Congress I trust will pardon me for this anticipation of matters on my part; I felt the necessity of it and that it must be consonant to their wishes. Indeed, if a doubt could have remained in my mind, as to the conduct to be pursued in this instance, A Letter from the Honble The Marine Committee of the 10th, which came to hand just at the time, informing that the Three Frigates which had been detained at Boston for the purpose of cooperating with Count D’Estaing, were ordered to proceed to the Southward, would have entirely removed it.
        The Act recommending a mode for compelling Witnesses to attend Court Martials—and for admitting depository proof under certain restrictions, in Trials before them—I am in hopes will produce some salutary consequences. However, as these Courts sit as business arises if circumstances will permit, and not at stated periods, as is the case with Other Courts, the advantages which will be derived from the Act, will not be so great, as might be expected at first view of it, without an attention to this circumstance.
        I am now using my best endeavours to get things in train for putting the Army in quarters. The distribution of Cloathing, owing to it’s late arrival—the scantiness of the stock—the diversity in colour and in quality—its not having been properly assorted when packed—the absence of Cloathiers under various pretences, for getting Articles that would be deficient &c., has proved a matter of the most irksome delay and difficulty. Owing to these causes and Two Rainy days, the North Carolina Troops could not move from Windsor till Yesterday, notwithstanding the most active exertions of Colo. Clarke, who commands them—and all parties engaged to effect it. I hope

however that what cloathing was here and to be distributed here will be so delivered by to morrow evening—that all Troops except those intended for the Garrison, will be able to move towards the places designed for their cantonment, without more delay. In fixing on these, we are obliged to regard in a particular manner—the security of this post—the security of the Army—the best protection circumstances will admit of to the Country—our supplies of provision and Forage—and the means of transportation. From the fullest consideration of the point, it appears that these Objects in a combined view, will be best answered, by quartering the Cavalry in Connecticut—a Brigade at Danbury—a Sufficient Garrison here including the posts at King’s ferry & the Continental village, to secure them, at least against any sudden attempts o⟨n⟩ the part of the Enemy—A Small body of Troops at the entrance of the Clove and the Main body of the Army in the Country in the Neighbourhood of Scot’s plains, if the circumstances of wood and Water will admit. The Qr Master General and Other Office⟨rs⟩ are now advanced & employed & have bee⟨n⟩ for some days, in reconoitring a proper position. The instant matters will permit—I shall go forward myself.
        I have been informed by Report, that Colo. Wadsworth, the Commissary General, means to resign his Office—and has limitted a day for it not very remote. I would take the liberty to suggest, if he is not really to continue in Office—and the period when he will leave it, is not distant—that too early an attention cannot be paid, in providing for the contingency. The business of Other departments may admit of some procrastinations and delays—and they may make shifts for a little time, that may keep matters agoing; but the business of this, being to satisfy the demands of nature in the Article of food, Nothing can answer these but actual supplies. These cannot be interrupted—and whenever they are checked, even to a small degree, the consequences are disagreable. If Colo. Wadsworth does decline the Office—I only wish his Successor may feed the Army as well as he has done. I think it my duty to say, in justice to him—that since he acted in the Office, the Army has not known the least want, till the present—and now in the Article of bread only. For this it has been streighten’d for Eight or Ten days past, owing, I am convinced, not to a want of exertion on his part, but to a

long and uncommon drought—and the great quantity of flour required for another purpose. This distress however, by the late rain—I hope will be at least relieved for the present. A continuation of supplies will depend upon other sources. I have the Honor to be with sentiments of the highest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Besides the above general disposition of the Troops—there will be others of a lesser nature for Detachments & light parties.
          I inclose Your Excellency four New York papers.


Title: To George Washington from Col. John Lamb, 24 November 1779
From: Lamb, John
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Col. John Lamb, 24 Nov. 1779. In his letter to Lamb on 25 Nov., GW referred to “the object of yours of the 24th” (see GW’s first letter to Samuel Holden Parsons, 25 Nov., and n.1 to that document).


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 24 November 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

          [West Point] Novr 24th 1779

        From present appearances, It will be impracticable to get Provission into this Garrison before the River closes to Supply three Brigades during the uncertain season of the Navigation: or to get materials to Build Barracks to cover them & the Artillery and Artificers. One or two of those Brigades must Hutt, at near three miles distance from the Point. The Comy informed me the Supplies of flour are to come from Dutches County. When the River is not Navigable it must come down thro Fish Kill to Mr Buds at the Cross Road. Half a mile from there on the road to west point is an Excellent Piece of Ground for Hutting, with a Run of water in front and a ridge to cover the Troops from the North and Westerly winds. The carting from this ground to west point is about two miles & a half & is more Labour than from Buds to Fish Kill. Nixons Hutts at the Village & above it may easily be repaired. Should a Brigade Hutt near Buds it will be at Hand to reinforce this Post on the shortest Notice, when the season will admit of opperations on the river; be Easier Supplied With every necessary than on the Point, and save Timber & fuel for the Garrison. From these considerations I am of oppi[n]ion, that it will be expedient to Post two Brigades on the East Side for the winter. From there the Garrisons may be taken for the works on that Side and Kings Ferry, and furnish the Guards for the lines. This duty will not be harder on them, than the fatigue of the Garrison. But if three Brigades are here, the one on the

east Side cannot furnish those commands, and it will often happen that the River cannot be crossed for weeks, together. And as there is a Post at Kings-Ferry the Enemy can not Surprise this Garrison if Proper arrangements are made. For this reason smaller Guards than those mentioned by Genl De Portail will be suff[i]cient at Fort mon[tg]ome[r]y & Robisons Landing. The Guards furnished last winter on the lines consisted of four Parties of Sixty men each, well officered; under the orders of a Field officer. the reason of having them distinct Guards was, that Singely they were no object; and they could not be all Surprised at once. They were relieved once every month, when the weather permitted. I think the Garrisons at the Ferry will best promote the Service by being fixed for if they are frequently relieved, the Barracks or Quarters will be greatly injured. The Artillery of the Troops Quartered on the East Side last winter were all Parked at Fish-Kill; and their Horses & those of the wagons were sent off at a distance. The like was done with the most of the riding Horses, or we should not have been able to have Supported one Express Horse at the Post.


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 24 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

          My Dr sir
          West point Novr 24th 1779

        I yesterday Evening received your Favors of the 16th & 18th. Accept my thanks for ’em and for your other very kind Offices.
        Genl Duportail has returned—Colo. Hamilton not yet, being detained unfortunately by a slight indisposition at Morris Town.

I hope it will be soon over. The Resolution You allude to has reached me. You will see by my Official Letter of this date to Congress—that after receiving their Letter, with a Copy of Genl Lincoln’s dispatches, I did not wait for their decision on the point submitted. These dispatches and a Copy of the Act from the Marine Committee for the sailing of the Three Frigates, which had been detained for a cooperation—seemed explicit as to the line of conduct to be pursued. The Disaster at Savannah, puts matters at least on a delicate footing in the South. I do not know what we can do more. You will have seen before this a particular state of the Army—transmitted in my public Letter of the 18th. Our finances—depreciation &c. are alarming. We have much to apprehend from them—if they are not remedied.
        I have touched upon the subject of the Commissary. I thank you for the hint—as I shall for every Other you may be pleased to favor me with.
        The Gentlemen of my family are sensibly obliged by the manner in which you mention them & request you to receive their respectful compliments. You will see I am all hurry—and I implicitly confide in your indulgent excuse for this hasty scrawl—and have only to add that I am with great truth Yr Affe F[rien]d & Hbl. st

          G.W.


Title: General Orders, 25 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores House [West Point]thursday Novr 25th [1779]
          Parole Grafton—  C. Signs Gadsden. Gibralter.

        The baggage of the Maryland line to be embark’d very early tomorrow morning and sent to New-Windsor—The troops to march immediately after their baggage is embark’d, by the route assigned them.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Theodorick Bland, 25 November 1779
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

          Sr
          Farmindell (near Blandford) [Va.] Novr 25th [1779]

        My private affairs since I left the Post at Charlotteville (which I did, in consequence of yr Excellency’s permission, granted me in Yr letter of the 15th of Octr) have so engrossed my attention, since my arrival at home, that I hope your Excellency will admit it as an excuse for having so long delayed an answer thereto—In Addition to the gratitude I feel for the many obliging expressions of approbation my Conduct has received from your Excellency, I must now acknowledge myself Still further indebted to you, for this recent instance of yr kindness in that respect now before me as well as for your Flattering wish that I would Continue in the Service, to do which no motive would more powerfully Influence me than Yr Excellency’s desire except the Service of my Country when it might stand in need of Such poor assistance as mine. Your Requisition of my Services, Sr, however lays me under an obligation to assign to your Excellency my reasons for a noncompliance therewith, lest I might be thought to abandon (through caprice) the Service of a Country in defence of which I have fought, & have been ever ready for near four years to bleed, with the rest of my vertuous and suffering fellow Citizens—to whose rights & liberties my life and fortune ever have & I trust ever shall be devoted.
        Yr Excellency can not be a Stranger to my having been the

first field Officer in the line of Horse in the Continental Service in America; And that with the Title of Majr Commandant which my Country was pleased to Honor me with I commanded a full Regt of Cavalry, which was taken into Continental Service as early as the 25th of Novr 1776; but that Prior to that date I commanded the Same Regt as a Capt. in the Service of the state, that being the Highest Rank they were pleased to give at that time to An Officer of Cavalry, it may be further added that this Regt was raised by Requisition of Congress; and was always looked on as destined for that Service, into which it enterd at the first Summons. It being afterwards found necessary to raise three other Regts of Cavalry, as late as the Month of Jany following after mine had been three months on Continental establishment, appointments were given about the Sixth of that month to two other Gentn as full Colonels and a little before that date to a third as Lt Col: Commt to raise regiments, and even the Lt Cols. of Some of those Regts were appointed while I yet remaind a Major—All of these were at one time put over my head. It must be conceived that an Officer of any Sensibility Could not see this without disagreeable Sensations—this was truely my case—however as long as the very existence of our Country seemd to depend on the Efforts of its Armies, & harmony & discipline in them were indispensably necessary, I steadily persued the line of my duty, regardless tho not forgetfull or insensible of the Injury I conceived I had sustaind, resolved to make every other Consideration of a personal nature yield to the general Welfare. About the Middle of the Campaign—77 a General of Horse was to be appointed; I had till nearly this time commanded all the Horse in the Field—I had Still the Mortification to see another Officer Mounted above me; Of that Gentns Experience and Merits I had Conceived high Ideas, and was therefore (as they promised to be a real acquisition to the Service) satisfied—That his valor & intrepidity have gaind him immortal Honor, I am extreemly pleased to hear from every tongue who speaks of him, & happy to bear my sincere testimony to, tho his services are at an end, and his mortal part at rest. Being thus Situated, about June or July—77 when I was at the Head of the Brigade my title to Rank as first Col: was first called into Question; my appointment to the Rank of Col: thro omission or mistake having not taken place untill the 31st of March 1777 when it Came out in General Orders; An

enquiry (by a board of General Officers, which Yr Excellency did me the Justice to Appoint) ensued. Their decision was in favor of my Competitor. Tho I do not in the most distant manner arraign their Conduct or hint the least degree of Partiality in their decision, on the principles where on they founded that decision, yet I could never acquiesce in the propriety of the pri[n]ciple they assumed—for in pro[nou]ncing the Opinion of the board the President declared, that it was their Idea that they were not appointed to enquire who had the right originally to Seniority, but (as in common cases where rank is Contended for,) who had the first appointment of Col:—It may be observed here that in the heat of an active Campaign, I still resolved that my sense of what I esteemed an Injury—shd give way to what I thought my first Duty the good of my Country. I therefore continued to act in a Subordinate Rank, notwithstanding a thorough conviction of having a Just title to a superior one—yet—determined in my own mind to remonstrate to yr Excellency, and the Honble the Congress, in hopes of Redress, & shd that not be obtaind finally to Quit the Service when an occasion might offer, that I could do it without Injury to my Country, to my Honor or to my own feelings. Having then at the Close of the Campaign—77 stated the Case fully to Yr Excellen[c]y, and been referred by you to Congress—I presented two Memorials at different times to that Honble body, but two Campaigns having now fully Elapsed without my receiving either an Answer thereto or any redress. I have Since my arrival at home sent them my resignation, through the Honble the board of War. My Private Circumstances and family affairs have cooperated with other Causes to[o] tedious to trouble Yr Excelly with the Enumeration of, to make this step the more necessary—Yet however removed I may be from the Military Service of my Country—I shall ever retain the most ardent Zeal for its Interests & Welfare and be ever ready to act as the public good requires.
        I need not at present add to the trouble I have given yr Excellency in the perusal of this long detail an apology for my Conduct. Nor do I conceive it necessary to relate to you any of the transactions at Charlotteville since I wrote you last from thence. Only that in obedience to Yr Excellency’s Orders, I left every necessary direction with the next in Command (Col: Francis Taylor) for properly Conducting that troublesome tho not

unimportant post, during my absence or untill a Successor to me might be appointed; of which as well as of every material transaction prior to my leaving it I have regularly informed the Honble board of War Acquainting them at the same time that shd any Matter of moment require my attendance at that post before I had received, before I shou’d receive notice of the appointment of a Successor or of my resignation being received, I shd cheerfully repair thither, and give every assistance in my power. A Speedy Communication of any such event composes part of my Instructions to Col: Taylor, who, as I have reason to beleive is a good executive officer, & has had always a free communication of the pri[n]ciples on which I have acted during my Command, and of every material transaction, will I doubt not, execute the Orders he has or may receive & fullfill the Intention and Spirit of them—I beg leave to assure Yr Excellency that I am with the greatest Sincerity and most perfect affection and respect Yr Excellency most obliged & very obedt Humb: Set

          Theok Bland


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Stark, 25 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stark, John

          Sir,
          west Point Novr 25 1779

        On the receipt of this letter you will be pleased to march the Troops under your command to the place of Cantonment for the Main Army in the Neighbourhood of Morris Town by the route of Major Delavans—Crompond—Kings ferry—Suffrans & Pompton &ca.
        Your favor of the 22d for permission to be absent this Winter was handed to me this day—I shoul⟨d⟩ be very happy to grant your reque⟨st, but⟩ your continuance with the Troop⟨s at⟩ this time & while they are Hutting⟨,⟩ will be materialy necessary & when that busi⟨ness⟩ is over, should the situation of ⟨af⟩fairs still render your stay requis⟨ite,⟩ I hope you will cheerfully submit to the disappointment—If however you can be endulged with any degree of propriety you certainly shall. I am Sr yr &ca

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 25 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

          Sir
          [West Point, 25 Nov. 1779]

        The importance of this post, and the fatal consequences which may result from its being left bare of Provisions are too obvious to need description. I therefore desire that every possible exertion may be used to get at least a months provisions before hand for the four brigades of Massachusetts bay which are to garrison it and its dependencies—Your endeavours after having accomplished this are not to cease till you have increased the quantity in store for the same troops two months, which stock is always to be kept up and on hand.
        In vain is it for me to point out from whence this provision is to be drawn as it must depend on your resources on the country. I cannot help adding as my earnest wish that the magazines at Albany and on Connecticut river (directed in my letter of the 9th of Septr) may be established with as little interruption as possible. And if in the progress of forming magazines agreeably to the sentiments contained in the aforesaid letter of the 9th of Sepr you can make Warwick convenient in other respects, it will answer well in a relative point of view to West-point—the march of troops on a sudden call for the defence of it—and ultimately for Albany—to have a small deposit there—and may accordingly be fixed upon with an eye to those purposes.
        That you may regulate your supplies to the best advantage, and with the greatest saving in point of transportation, it is necessary you should know that the winter cantonments of the troops will be as follows.
        The regiments of Dragoons at Hadham or Colchester.

        Poors brigade at Danbury—Massachusetts brigades at West-point and its dependencies.
        The main army in Jersey Somewhere back of the Scotch-plain or possibly more towards Acquacanack.
        Lees partizan corps at Burlington, or somewhat more advanced towards Monmouth. Given at Head Quarters West-point 25th Novr 1779.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 25 November 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Light Infantry Camp Second River [N.J.]25th Novr 1779
          Dear General

        I was honored with your favor of the 20th Instant the day before yesterday on the banks of the North River opposite Fort Washington, & must Conclude that I omitted a word or two in my letter of the 18th, but your Excellency has done me justice in supposing that I wou’d not attempt anything Capital without giving you previous notice & obtaining your permission, Indeed in this Instance we could not have effected our design but by your Excellency’s concurrence, as the boats must have been furnished by your Order, so that when I said that we had Determined to strike the Enemies Camp on the North side of Kings Bridge—I could have had no other Idea—but by your Approbation—all I regret is, that we had not adopted the Idea sooner—or that the Enemy had not waited a few days longer—for be Assured that we should have succeeded to your most Sanguine wishes.
        I intend to Reconnoitre Staten Island—if anything can be Attempted there with a fair prospect of Success, I shall attend your Excellency on the Occation.
        Inclosed is the Proceedings of a General Court Martial of this Corps on Patrick Obrian—I am told that he is an old Offender in this way, whether it was from the effects of Liquor (as the Pennsa & Connecticut Troops had recd some state Stores the preceeding Evening) or from some other cause I can’t say—but two or three Soldiers belonging to these States were also Mutinous, & have been punished in a very Exampleary manner i.e. by receiving from 300 to 500 lashes ⅌ man which has made all the other boys remarkably quiet & orderly—I wish your Excellency’s Determination on Obrian—as he has been some time in Confinement.

        I did myself the honor of sending you Mr Rivingtons paper of the 20th by Capt. Jones of Baylers Dragoons, in which the Enemy seem not a little elated on their Success at Georgia—& have given a hint to Congress (which they ought to profit by) i.e. that the term for which great part of this Army is Inlisted for—is nearly expired—& that we have every thing to Apprehend from an Enterprizing Army at a Season when we shan’t be in a Condition to Oppose them, Indeed I believe that Mr Clinton means to take the Advantage of this Winter—otherwise he will Certainly leave this Country—but this is only the Conjecture of Your Excellency’s Most Obt & very Hum. Servt

          Anty Wayne


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 25 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 25th Novr 1779

        Be pleased to inform me by return of the Express when the Division will certainly march from Haverstraw. Should Genl Poor have come up with his Brigade, you may take the short Road to Sufferans, as my only reason for desiring you to march by Kakeate was to avoid falling in with poor’s Brigade. Upon your arrival at Pompton be pleased to send an Officer forward to Genl Greene who is near Morris town, and desire him to inform you where you shall halt if he has not fixed upon the Ground

upon which you are to hut The Officer will meet you between Pompton & Morris—I earnestly request that the new Cloathes of the Men may be saved as much as possible when they are hutting. I am Dear Sir Y⟨our most Ob⟩t Servt.


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

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]friday Novr 26th [1779]
          Parole Haverhill—  C. Signs Hopewell. Hartford.


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

          Head-Quarters Moores House [West Point]saturday Novr 27th [1779]
          Parole Landaff.  C. Signs Lexington Leeds.

        The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following proclamation.
        Whereas it becomes us humbly to approach Almighty God with gratitude and praise for the wonders which His goodness has wrought in conducting our fore fathers to this western world—protecting them and their posterity & raising us their children from deep distress to be numbered among the Nations of the Earth—for arming the hands of just and mighty Princes in our deliverance and especially that he has been pleased to grant us health and plenty—hath prospered our Arms and those of our Ally—shielded our troops in the hour of danger and led them to Victory—that he went forth with them against the savage tribes—stayed the hand of the spoiler and turned back his meditated destruction—that He hath prospered our commerce, given success to those who have fought the enemy on the face of the deep, and above all that He hath diffused the glorious light of the Gospel; Therefore Resolved—That it be recommended to the several States to appoint thursday the ninth of December next to be a day of public and solemn Thanksgiving to Almighty God for His mercies and of prayer for the continuance of His favor & protection to these United States—to beseech His gracious influence on our public councils—that He would go forth with our hosts and crown our arms with victory—grant the plentiful effusions of divine grace to His Church—bless and prosper the means of education and spread the light of Christianity through the Earth—that He would crown the labor of his people with plenty—that He would take into his holy protection our illustrious Ally—give him Victory over his enemies and render him signally great as the father of his people and the Protector of the rights of Mankind—that He would be graciously pleased

to turn the hearts of our enemies and dispense the blessings of peace to contending Nations—that He would in mercy pardon our sins and receive us into His favor and finally that He would establish the Independence of these United-States upon the basis of religion and virtue and support and protect them in the enjoyment of Peace, Liberty & Safety.
        A strict observance to be paid by the Army to this proclamation and the Chaplains are to prepare and deliver discourses suitable to it.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 27 November 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Morristown Nov. 27th in the Evening 79

        Since I wrote your Excellency last I have been to examin the Equacanack [Pequannock] position and find it much to my liking. The Camp is naturally strong and may be made exceedingly so with a little art. There is great plenty of Wood and water and the ground is very dry and sandy. It lies 14 Miles from Pompton 12 from Rockaway bridge 14 from Newark ferry 18 from Elizabethtown 14 from Springfield and four from Equacanack [Aquakinunk] bridge. There are many things to be said in favor of this position but there are a few exceptions. It lies too far to the left to secure effectually a communication with Trenton; and it uncovers too great an extent of Country about Middle Brook and the Scotch plains. But it lies very favorable for West point, and the North River; and there is a secure retreat. General Wayne was with me to view the position after I had got it surveyd, and laid out. He thinks it a most excellent position, and preferable to any we can fix upon except we go to Sourland. However notwithstanding the many favorable circumstances attending this position I was not perfectly satisfied with it; and therefore set out yesterday in the Snow storm to make a further search about Morris town Mendon & Vealtown; all which I have rode over to day, and think a very good position may be had at Jockey hollow, right back of Mr Kimbles, about one Mile. The Army must hut in an irregular form, partly on the sides of a round Mountain. The Wood is pretty good and water in great plenty; and I think the ground will be pretty dry. The approaches to this Camp, will be pretty difficult and is a considerable remove farther from the Enemy than the Equacanack position. The distance from our supplies is not greater but as it

is over the mountains the transportation will [be] more heavy and difficult to keep up.
        On my return to this place this Evening I found Col. Hambleton at my quarters. Upon representing to him the circumstances of both positions he prefers this at Kimbles to that at Equacanack. He thinks we ought to be at a greater remove from the Enemy in order to render their approaches more difficult and their communication more precarious should they attempt to insult us, in quarters. We have no intelligence from the Enemy, that reduces it to a certainty that they are going to detach any considerable force. There is a great deal of talk about the matter, but nothing certain. Under these circumstances the Col. thinks we ought to make choice of an interior position especially as our force will be greatly diminished by and by. And advises me to write to your Excellency once more before I fix decisively upon the ground. Your Excellency is so well acquainted with this Country its strength and situation that it is unnecessary for me to add anything further upon the subject. I shall wait here until I hear from your Excellency and wish to have your sentiments upon the two positions. I am going to survey the ground about Bulyans [Bullion’s Tavern] to morrow; but the more I view that position the Make of the Country, and the approaches to it, the less I like it.
        The Army is all halted between this and Rockaway bridge waiting further directions. Flour comes in, in greater plenty than it has done, I am in hopes therefore a full supply will be to be had in future. I am with great respect Your Excellency Most Obedt humble Ser.

          Nath. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 27 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 27th Novemr 1779.

        In making my arrangements for the disposition of the Army this Winter I have found it necessary to assign the command of the posts upon the North River to you. Inclosed you will find instructions for your government.
        Lt Colo. Pawling with the York Militia has undertaken to finish the Redoubt upon Stoney point. You will therefore have no further occasion to send a fatigue party from Nixon’s and Glovers—And I think you had better consult Colo. Gouvion upon the number of Men necessary to finish the Work upon Verplanks, who may continue at it, while the remainder of those two Brigades proceed to the Business of hutting with all possible expedition, should you determine to post them both upon the East side of the River.
        The Companies of Artillery attached to Nixon’s and Glovers Brigades with their Peices are to join the Park in Jersey when the Brigades move to their Quarters. They are to proceed from King’s Ferry to Sufferans by the short Road (leaving Kakeate on the left) and from thence to the place fixed upon for the park, which I apprehend will be in the neighbourhood of Morris town.

        I do not at present recollect any thing more than what is contained in the above and in your instructions. I sincerely wish a recovery of your health and that you may enjoy good and quiet Winter Quarters, and am with great Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. I do not know whether the Articles you want are in the Store, but I inclose you an order for them, in case they should be there.