Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 12 November 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,Head quarters, Continental–village Nov. 12. 1781

                  I was yesterday honored with yours of the 27th and 29th ultimo.
                  If a greater number of beef–cattle should come on than necessary for the present subsistence of the troops, they shall be slaughtered and salted at some convenient place near the river.
                  I had ordered on the salted provisions from Connecticut except those which had been shipped previous to the receipt of your Excellency’s letter.  I have this day written to Mr Pomeroy to forward the other.
                  I had determined on the following disposition of the troops here, to winter quarters.
                  Sheldon’s dragoons to Connecticut; preparations are making for them at Guilford and Branford—3d regiment of artillery at Westpoint—Connecticut line at the huts built by them the last winter—1st Massachusetts brigade at the York huts back of the garrison at Westpoint—2d Massachusetts brigade in the barracks on the Point—3d Massachusetts brigade to hut some where in the vicinity of the redoubts on the east side of the river—Invalids in the barracks at Fish kill.
                  The New Hampshire brigade was ordered to the northward on the late alarm.  The copy of lord Stirling’s letter to me, inclosed in mine of the 8th shews the opinion of his Lordship, general Schuyler, and general Stark that the New Hampshire brigade should take winter quarters in the northward.  I think the two New Hampshire regiments fully adequate for that quarter, and have ordered colonel Tupper’s regiment down.  Colonel Humphries seems of opinion that your Excellency would rather incline that the two New Hampshire regiments should be in this quarter also, and that you may think general Hazen’s regiment the most eligible for the northern district.  This has induced me to hold the matter in suspense as it respects the two New Hampshire regiments.  The huts built by them the last year, and which are yet in pretty good order, will be reserved unoccupied until I know your Excellency’s pleasure; which I request as soon as may be convenient.
                  The Security of Westpoint—protection of the country—convenience, health and discipline of the troops, I pray your Excellency to be assured, shall have my constant attention.
                  We find much difficulty in obtaining flour and have for some time past been only from hand to mouth, and have not now two days flour on hand.
                  When your Excellency arrives at Philadelphia, where this will probably meet you, I pray your intercessions with Congress and the Financier, that some relief of pay may be afforded to the army.  I never knew them more totally destitute of money, or more distressed for want of it, than at present.  Their expectations of relief are great, since they know the specie has gone on to Philadelphia—Hope they will not be disappointed.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect and esteem, Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servant,

                            W. Heath

                     P.S. Inclosed I have the honor to transmit copy of the return of the killed, wounded and missing of colonel Willet’s detachment in the late action near Johnstown, which came to hand the last evening—And also, copy of the return of prisoners in Albany goal taken by colonel Willet, exclusive of those in the hospital.  These, with the number in the provost at Fish kill, I shall in a few days put in motion for Lancaster, as they cannot with safety be kept here.
                     My last letters from the northward were of the 9th by which I learn that the enemy were totally disappointed in that quarter—Those who had crossed the lakes, were recrossing them towards St Johns.  This being the case, I wish your opinion what force it will be best to quarter at the northward this winter—The time for which Weissenfels’ regiment is engaged, expires the first of December—Willet’s the first of January.  I have the honor to be—as before

                     W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Edward Carrington, 14 November 1781
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Williamsburg Nov. 14. 1781

                  I do myself the Honor to inform Yr Excellency that the business of the Merchant’s account & the sales of Hoaksley’s store are brought to a final close.  The multiplicity of the Merchant’s accounts rendered the business more tedious than I apprehended.  I am now on my way to Richmond, & will from thence transmit all the papers relative to either affair.  I left the transmission till I shall arrive at Richmond that I May on the route dispose the papers for it with as little loss of time in prosecuting my journey to overtake Genl St Clair as possible.  The amount of the debt due the Rest for the merchants accounts is £13,159.9.6 1/2 Sterling.  The amount of the sum due on the sale of Hoakesley’s store is £7475.18.8 1/2 Sterling.  I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s most obedt servt

                     Ed. Carrington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Chittenden, 14 November 1781
From: Chittenden, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     State of Vermont, Arlington, Novemr 14th 1781

                  The peculiar Situation and Circumstances with which this State for several Years last past has been attended, induces me to address your Excellency on a Subject which nearly concerns her Interest, and may have it’s Influence on the Common Cause of the States of America.
                  Placing the highest Confidence in your Excellency’s Patriotism in the Cause of Liberty, and Disposition to do equal Right & Justice to every Part of America (who have by Arms supported their Rights against the lawless Power of Great Britain,) I herein transmit the Measures by which this State have conducted her Policy, for the Security of its Frontiers; and as the Design & End of it was set on foot, and has ever since been prosecuted on an Honorable Principle (as the Consequences will fully evince) I do it with full Confidence that your Excellency will not improve it to the Disadvantage of this truly patriotic, suffering State.  Although the substance has already been communicated by Capt. Ezra Heacock, employed by Major General Lincoln, by your Excellency’s particular Direction, and who arrived here with the Resolutions of Congress of the Seventh Day of August last, which appeared in some Measure favourable to this State.  I then disclosed to him the Measures this State had adopted for her Security, which I make no Doubt has by him been delivered your Excellency.  And though I do not hesitate that you are well satisfied of the real Attachment of the Government of this State to the Common Cause, I esteem it nevertheless my Duty to this State, and the Common Cause at large, to lay before your Excellency in writing, the heretofore critical Situation of this State, and the Managment of its Policy, that it may opperate in your Excellency’s Mind, as a Barrier against the clamorous Aspersions of its numerous (and in many Instances potent) Adversaries.
                  It is the Misfortune of this State to join on the Province of Quebec, and the Waters of the Lake Champlain, which affords an easy Passage for the Enemy to make a Descent with a formidable Army on its Frontiers, and in to the Neighbourhood of the several States of New York New Hampshire and Massachusetts, who have severally laid Claims in Part or in whole to this State, and who have used every Art which they could devise to divide her Citizens, to set Congress against her, & finally to overturn the Government, and share its Territory among them.
                  The repeated Application of this State to the Congress of the United States, to be admitted into the federal union with them, upon the liberal Principles of paying a just Proportion of the Expences of the War with Great Britain, have been rejected, and Resolutions passed exparte, tending to create Schisms in the State, and thereby embarrass its Efforts, in raising Men & Money for the Defence of her Frontiers, and discountenancing the very Existence of the State.  Every Article belonging to the United States, even to Pick-Axes & Spades, has been by Continental Commissaries ordered out of this State, at a Time when she was erecting a Line of Forts in her Frontiers, at the same Time the State of New York, evacuated the Post of Skeensborough, for the avowed Purpose of exposing this State to the Ravages of the Common Enemy.
                  The British Officers in New York, being acquainted with the Public Disputes between this and the claiming States, and between Congress and this State, made Overtures to General Allen in a Letter, projecting that Vermont should be a Colony under the Crown of England, endeavouring at the same Time, to draw the People of Vermont into their Interest.  The same Day General Allen rec’d this Letter (which was in August 1780) he laid it before me and my Council, who under the critical Circumstances of the State, advised that no Answer, either oral or written should be returned, and that the Letter should be safely deposited ’till further Consideration, to which General Allen consented.
                  A few Months after, he rec’d a second Letter from the Enemy, and the same Council advised, that General Allen should send both Letters to Congress (inclosed in a Letter under his Signature) which he did, in hopes that Congress would admit Vermont into Union, but they had not the desired effect.
                  In the Fall of the Year 1780, the British made a Descent up the Lake Champlain, and captured the Forts George & Ann, and appeared in Force on the Lake.  This occasioned the Militia of this State, most generally to go forth to defend it.  Thus the Militia were encamped against the Enemy near Six Weeks, when General Allen rec’d a Flagg from them, with an Answer to my Letter, dated the preceeding July, to General Haldimand on the Subject of an Exchange of Prisoners.  This Flagg delivered a Letter to General Allen, from the Commanding Officer of the Enemy, who were then at Crown Point with Proposals for a Truce with the State of Vermont, during the negociating the Exchange of Prisoners—General Allen sent back a Flagg of his, to the Commanding Officer of the British, agreeing to the Truce, provided he would extend the same to the Frontier Posts of the State of New York, which was complied with, and a Truce took place, which lasted about Three Weeks.  It was chiefly owing to the Military Prowess of the Militia of this State, and the including the State of New York in the Truce, that Albany and Schenectady had not fell a Sacrifice to the Ambition of the Enemy that Campaign.
                  Previous to the retireing of the Enemy into Winter Quarters, Colonel Allen & Major Fay were Commissioned to negociate the proposed Exchange of Prisoners—They proceeded so far as to treat with the British commissioners on the Subject of their Mission, during which Time they were interchangeably entertain’d with Politics, which they treated in an affable Manner as I have been told; But no Cartel was settled, and the Campaign ended without the Effusion of Blood.
                  The Cabinet Council, in the Course of the succeeding Winter, finding that the Enemy in Canada were about 7,000 strong, and that Vermont must needs be their Object the ensuing Campaign, circular Letters were therefore sent from the supreme Executive Authority of this State, to the claiming States beforementioned, demanding of them to relinquish their Claims to this State, and inviting them to join in a Solid Union & Confederation, against the Common Enemy—Letters were also sent to your Excellency, and to the States of Connecticut & Rhod-Island.  Every of these Letters, stated the extreme Circumstances of this State, and implored their Aid and Alliance, giving them withal to understand, that it was out of the Power of this State, to lay in Magazines, and support a Body of Men sufficient to defend this State against the Force of the Enemy.  But to those Letters there has been no manner of Answer returned.
                  From all which it appeared that this State was devoted to the Destruction by the Sword of the Common Enemy.  It appeared to be the more unjustifiable that the State of Vermont should be thus forsook inasmuch as her Citizens struck the first offensive Blow against British Usurpation, by putting the Continent in possession of Ticonderoga, and more than 200 Peices of Cannon; with Crown Point, St John’s, and all Lake Champlain; their Exertions in defeating General Carleton in his Attempts to raise the Seige of St John’s, their assisting in penetrating Canada; Their Valour in the Battles of Hubbardton, Bennington, and at the Landing near Ticonderoga, assisting in the Capture of General Burgoyne, and by being the principal Barrier against the power of the Enemy in Canada ever since.
                  That the Citizens of this State have by Nature, an equal Right to Liberty and Independency with the Citizens of America in general, cannot be disputed; and that they have merited it from the United States, by their Exertions with them, in bringing about the present Glorious Revolution, is as evident a Truth, as any other which respects the acquired Right of any Community.  Generosity, Merit and Gratitude all conspire, in vindicating the Independence of Vermont; But, not withstanding the Arguments which have been exhibited in sundry Pamphlet’s, in favour of Vermont, which have been abundantly satisfactory to the impartial Part of Mankind, it has been in the Power of her external Enemies, to deprive her of Union, Confederation, or any equal Advantage in defending themselves against the Common Enemy.  The Winter being thus spent in fruitless Attempts to form Alliances, and no Advantages were procured in favour of this State, except that Massachusetts withdrew her Claim, on Conditions that the United States would concede to the Independence of Vermont; but that if they would not, they would have their Snack at the South End of its Territory.  Still New York and New Hampshire were strenuously opposed to the Independence of Vermont, and every Stratagem in their Power to divide, and subdivide her Citizens, were exerted; immagining that their Influence in Congress, and the certain Destruction (as they supposed) of the Inhabitants of this State by the Common Enemy, could not fail of finally accomplishing their Wishes.
                  In this Juncture of Affairs, the Cabinet of Vermont, projected the Extension of their Claim of Jurisdiction upon the States of New Hampshire and New York, as well to quit some of their own internal Divisions, occasioned by the Machinations of those two Governments, as to make them experience the Evils of intestine Broils, and strengthen this State against Insult.  The Legislature accordingly, extended their Jurisdiction to the Eastward of Connecticut River, to the old Mason Line, and to the Westward to Hudson’s River;  But in the Articles of Union, referred the Determination of the Boundary Lines, of Vermont and the respective claiming States, to the final Decision of Congress, or such other Tribunal as might be mutually agreed on by the contending Governments.  These were the principal Political Movements of the last Winter.
                  The last Campaign opening with a gloomy Aspect to the discerning Citizens of this State, being destitute of adequate Resources, and without any Alliance; and that from its local Situation to Canada, obliged to encounter the whole Force of that Province, or give up its Claim to Independence, and run away.
                  Vermont, being thus drove to Desparation by the injustice of those who should have been her Friends, was obliged to adopt Policy in the Room of Power.
                  And on the first Day of May last, Colonel Ira Allen was sent to Canada, to further negociate the Business of the Exchange of Prisoners, who agreed on a Time, Place, and other Particulars relating to the Exchange.  While he was transacting that Business, he was treated with great politeness, and entertained with political Matters, which Necessity obliged him to Humour, in that easy Manner that might serve the Interest of this State, in its extreme critical Situation, and that its Consequences might not be injurious to the United States.  The Plan suceeded.  The Frontiers of this State were not invaded, and Lord George Germain’s Letter, wrought upon Congress, and procured that from them, which the public Virtue of this People could not.
                  In the Month of July last, Major Joseph Fay was sent to the British Shipping on Lake Champlain, who compleated an Exchange of a Number of Prisoners, who were delivered at Skeensboro’, in September last; at which Time and Place, Colonel Allen and Major Fay had a Conferrence with the British Commissioners—And no Damage as yet had accrued to this, or the United States—from this Quarter.
                  And in the Month of October last, the Enemy appeared in Force at Crown Point and Ticonderoga; but were manoeuvred out of their Expedition; and are returned into Winter Quarters in Canada, with great safety; that it  might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet.
                  "I will put my Hook in their Nose, and turn them back by the way which they came, and they shall not come into this City (alias Vermont) saith the Lord."
                  It remains that I congratulate your Excellency, and participate with you in the Joy of your capturing the haughty Cornwallis, and his Army; and assure your Excellency, that there are no Gentlemen in America, who enjoy the Glorious Victory, more than the Gentlemen of this State; and him who has the Honor to subscribe himself, Your Excellency’s devoted and most Obedient Humble Servant,

                     Thos Chittenden


Title: To George Washington from Arthur St. Clair, 14 November 1781
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Richmond Novemr 14. 1781

                  On the Afternoon of the 9th instant I arrived at this place, and this day will have all the Troops and Stores over the River.
                  You will doubtless be surprised at the time that the Passage will have taken up, and indeed it has been a very mortifying delay to me; but notwithstanding that Major Clayborne, the Quarter Masr Genl for the State had been sent forward to make the necessary preparations to give us dispatch, I found not the smallest provision was made either for that purpose, or to procure Forage for our Horses; and I have been forced to get on the best I could with the common ferry Boats, only one of which could take in a Waggon.
                  The Quarter Masters seem to be every where a very useless set of People, but peculiarly so here.  I could not even obtain one of them, and they are numerous, to go forward to Petersburgh that the same difficulties might not again meet us there—however Means are taken to prevent that happening.  Your Excellency knows the wretched condition in which the Horses were when I left York, particularly those that drew the Pieces, and I mentioned the hopes I had of meeting with some assistance from the Government here—unfortunately the Governour is too sick to attend to business, and there is neither Council nor Assembly: however sixty Horses arrived last Night from Anapolis for General Greens Army.  These I must detain, and by means of them I shall be able to get forward, without seizing from the Inhabitants, which I must otherwise have been obliged to do and from which I am glad to be relieved, both on account of the unequal manner the burthen falls, and the disgust it creates.
                  On the 10th I sent an Express to Colonel Febiger at Cumberland Court House directing him to put the Virginia Troops, which I expected would at least have amounted to five hundred Men, in motion for Taylors Ferry, and Yesterday receive the inclosed Letter in return, by which your Excellency will see that the utmost I can expect of them is 150 Men which will make General Gists Brigade about Five hundred, and with General Waynes, may enable us to bring twelve hundred to action.  I have inclosed the Returns for your more particular satisfaction.  The Accounts I have from Carolina are from General Jones of the 9th instant.  The Enemy still occupy Wilmington, their force about four hundred british, and six hundred Tories.  They have erected some Works about the Town, and have a block House at a Bridge over the North East river, about ten miles above it—about two thousand Militia have taken post on the South side of Cape Fear River with a view to prevent the Enemy from passing by land to Charles Town.
                  It appears to me at present that with the assistance of the Militia we may perhaps be able to do something against Wilmington by a Coup De Main, but if they are so posted, or their Works such that it would be improper to attempt to force them, we are not provided with the Artillery to compell a surrender; indeed our stock of Ammunition is so triffling, that it would be the most ridiculous thing in Nature to think of setting down before a Place—how it happened I cannot tell, but I could obtain no more than One hundred rounds of shot for each Piece, tho I required at least treble that number.  I see that I run an extreme risque in this Business.  The wish the people of North Carolina will naturally have to see their Country rid of the Enemy, and the aid they will flatter themselves from my Detachment, will make them very sanquine, and expose me to their severest censure, should I decline to attempt dislodging them—and on the other hand if I do attempt it and fail, it will never be considered that the means were inadequate— in my private circumstances, which your Excellency is acquainted with, scarce any thing but the Hope of acquiring some Fame, would have induced me to continue in the service, and I am in the direct road to loose the little Character I have.  I shall however use my best abilities to turn every circumstance to public Account; and should I be unfortunate will depend upon the friendly Candor of Your Excellency to support me, if upon a fair Investigation I shall appear to deserve Support and shall from time to time inform you of every occurence and am with sincere Esteem and respect Sir Your Excellys most Obedient Servant

                     Ar. St Clair

                     I find I have neglected to return Cap. Gerlach’s Letter and the York Inhabitants reply to Colol Pickerings Proposals—They also are enclosed.

                   Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Cumberland old Courthouse Novb. 11th 1781.

                     The very few Virginia continental Troops, that were left on the Ground after the Surrender of York are now at this place, where they arrived on the 2nd instant in the most wretched and miserable Situation I ever saw a Set of men in my life, having left on their Way upwards from York, at Williamsburgh and other places more than 200 men, who could not reach this, they came here with a View to get equipt and march to the Southward and we are destitute of almost every Thing necessary to equip them except a few bad Coats, not a Shirt or a Hat to put on them, and this is not our worst Misfortune for on the 6th instant four of our men broke out with the small pox four more are broke out since and upwards of 150 are here; who have not had it exclusive of a large Number who were left on the Road and all were in York.  Major Paulson who marchd up the Detachment from York fully persuaded of the Impossibility of marching from hence for some Time has furloughd; most of the Officers, the Baron also furloughed a Number to the 15th of December.  Thus Situated, you will plainly see the Impossibility there is of marching the men off immediately, especially as the Doctor wishes that we must inoculate or loose 2/3 of the men, indeed I had begun to inoculate when I receivd yours per Express and hardly know whether to stop or not.  There is about 150 well men present, those if I had Shirts Shoes and Blankets for them might be sent off immediately.  I have Sixty two Sick present, occasion’d chiefly by Nakedness and Cold exclusive of the Small pox.  You will be so obliging as to lett one of your Aids de Camp call upon Colo. Davies the Commissioner of War, to whom I have wrote a long and circumstantive Letter respecting my Situation and send it by the Express, who bears this, or Major Finley of the 1st Virginia Regiment, who leaves this to Day & will wait on you in Richmond to answer such particulars as you shall choose to enquire after.
                     I shall esteem it a singular Favor to be honor’d with your Directions respecting the men who have the Small pox, their Situation is really dangerous and miserable being destitute both of Medicine and Nourishment.
                     I have includ’d Colo. Davies Return of the effectives I expect to have ready by the 10nth Day of next month with an Estimate of the Cloathing wanting to equip them for the field of which I enclose a Copy and have the honor to be with the greatest Veneration and Respect Sir Your most obedient and most humble Servant

                        Christian Febiger


Title: From George Washington to John Hanson, 15 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Hanson, John

                     Sir
                     Mount Vernon 15th Novr 1781

                  I have had the Honor to receive the Resolutions of Congress of the 29th ulto under Cover from the Late President Mr McKean. and have to beg, that you Sir will be pleased to convey to Congress the high Sense I have of the Honor done me by that August Body, in their Approbation of my Services in the late Operations against the Enemy in the State of Virginia.
                  I shall have particular pleasure in conveying to the Army under my Command, the Sense which Congress are pleased to entertain of their Valor and Conduct on this Occasion.  I have the Honor to be With high Respect & Regard Sir Your most obedient & humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 15 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                     Dear Sir
                     Mount Vernon 15th Novemr 1781

                  Within a few Days I have been favored with your several Letters of the 24th, & 30th of Ulto & the 3d of the present Month, with their Inclosures—And am much pleased to find, that Matters wear so favorable an Aspect at the Northward—The Season being so far advanced, and the Prospects of the Enemy appearing to be on the decline, I hope we shall have but little more Trouble from that Quarter.
                  The Troops which have been at the Southward, having received in Virginia, they will not be considered in the Distribution of the Cloathing which you mention at Newburgh—I have written to the Board of War, respecting the Material coming on from Boston, & have desired a Competancy to be lodged at New Winsor, for the Troops in that Neighbourhood, to be distributed to the several Regiments, to be made up under their Direction—I hope the Supply will answer our Wants.
                  A Supply of Meat for the Army, I think must be kept up by Applications to the Committees of the several States, who are engaged for that Article—And Bread I doubt not will be forwarded in sufficient Quantities by Mr Morris—The One Hundred Beeves which have been ordered to be sent Weekly to the Southward, you are before this Time informed, are to be discontinued.  With much Regard & Esteem I am Dear Sir Your most Obedient, humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 15 November 1781
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                     DearSir
                     Albany Nov: 13th 1781

                  Yesterday I was honored with Your Excellency’s favor of the 27t ult.  A few days ago I did myself the pleasure to congratulate you on the surrender of Lord Cornwallis.  I hope the States will not conceive the Contest at an end, an Idea, If It should unhappily prevail, which will Induce to still greater remissness than has hither to prevailed, to your great distress and to the Injury of the common cause.
                  A flag which Lord Stirling sent to the british on Lake Champlain, is returned, and Confirms the Intelligence I communicated, in my last, the Enemy are retired, and have left no troops at Tyonderoga, nor had they made any repairs whilst there.  I am Dear Sir with great truth Your Affectionate and Obedient Servant

                     Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Richard Varick, 15 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Varick, Richard

                     sir
                     Mount Vernon 15th Novemr 1781

                  I have just received your Two Letters of the 1st & 6th Octo.—previous to which I had anticipated most of your Queries by my Letter to you dated the 10th of October, Covering your Commission, my Instructions, & Orders for employing Writers & authorising the Emoluments you are to engage them—your general Mode of Proceeding I find very agreable—8 Hours constant successive Writing ⅌ Day is as much as almost any Person is able to bear—& believe you have fixed the Time very properly—I hope some Measures will be found to Satisfy the Writers for their Service, tho I cannot at this Time point to any particular Mode—I expect to be in Phila. in a Short Time, & shall endeavour to make some provision for Money— I do not have an opportunity of seeing you soon after my being in Phila. You will hear from me again from that place.  I am sir Your &ca

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 16 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir
                     Mount Vernon 16th Novemr 1781

                  I wrote you so fully & freely by Lieut. Colo. Lee, who left me about the 29th ulto, that I have at this Time but little else to say, than to acknowledge the Rect of your Letter of the 25th ulto, which came to hand two Days ago, and by which I am surprized to find that you have received nothing from me later than the 28th of Septemr.
                  Since my last, the American Troops destined to the Northward, except the 2d N. York Regt, who march with the prisoners by Land, have all embarked, with their Stores, & are I fancy by this Time arrived at the Head of Elk.  Those under the Command of Majr Genl St Clair, who are ordered to join your Army, began their March on the 5th and I hope are well advanced.  The french fleet left the Bay, as I am informed, about the 6th or 7th and from the last Accounts I have been able to obtain of the British, who were last seen standg Southerly on the No. Carolina Coast, there is but a possible Chance of the two fleets meeting.  Ld Cornwallis, with the British Officers going to N. York & Europe, fell down the River York on the 4th.  The Prisoners who are to remain in the Country are all marched to Winchester & Fort Frederick, except such Sick as remain too bad to remove—of these there are still a considerable Number.
                  I am thus far myself on my Way to the Northward.  I shall remain but a few Days here, & shall proceed to Philadelphia, where I shall attempt to stimulate Congress to the best Improvement of our late success, by taking the most vigorous & effectual Measures to be ready for an early & decisive Campaign the next Year.  My greatest Fear is, that Congress viewing this Stroke in too important a point of Light, may think Our Work too nearly closed, & will fall into a State of Languor & Relaxation, to prevent this Error I shall employ every Means in my Power—and if unhappily we sink into that fatal mistake, no part of the Blame shall be mine.
                  Whatever may be the Winter politics of European Courts, it is clearly my Opinion, that our Grand Object, is to be prepared in every point for War, not that we wish its Continuance, but that we may be in the best Situation to meet every Event.
                  I am anxious to know whether the British fleet hope a Reinforcement at Charlestown; before this arrives, you will be informed from my last that a Chain of Expresses will be established from Philadelphia to So. Carolina, by which means I hope to have a more frequent Communication of Intelligence than has hitherto been experienced with your Army.  With very great Regard & Esteem I am Dear Sir, Your most Obedient and most humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 16 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

                     Sir
                     Mount Vernon 16th Novemr 1781

                  I had the Honor to receive your Excellencys last Favor, a few Days before I left my Quarters below.  I immediately caused the Enquiries you mentioned, to be made—but with very little Success—Of the Refugees named, none were to be found in the Returns made to me—The Commissry of Prisoners could only collect, that a Mr French had been with the Enemy at Portsmouth, and had left that place to go to Charlestown So. Carolina.  The Case of Mr Middleton, I mentioned to the Admiral de Grasse, who promised to do what was in his power for his Relief.
                  I beg your Excellency will do me the Favor to forward the inclosed Letter for Colo. Tilghman by the first Opportunity that may present to Rock Hall.
                  I promise myself the pleasure to see your Excellency at Anapolis or Baltimore, which ever place you may be at, on my Way to Philadelphia, for which place I shall leave this in three or four Days.  Be pleased Sir, to believe that I am, with very particular Sentiments of Esteem & Regard Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and most humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tasker Dulany, 17 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dulany, Benjamin Tasker

                     Sir,
                     Mount Vernon 17th Novr 1781

                  I learn from Mr Lund Washington, that the Land formerly belonging to Mr Manley, is again about to be offered for sale, & that you & I are like to be the only competition in the purchase of it—That I often treated with Mr Manley in his life time, & since his death with his Executor for that Tract; is a fact which cannot be unknown to you: Equally true is it, that if the Land is exposed to public sale, I shall bid for it, as far as I think it is worth, but no farther.  And as men set different values upon the same thing according to the light in which it strikes them, and their own mode of estimating its value; it is not at all unlikely but that you may be the purchaser.  In the present case however, I ever was, & still am willing, to give the full value of the Land; & as a proof of it, should have no objections to the price being fixed by three honest & judicious Men, to be indifferently chosen.  This I wou’d give.
                  Having premised this thing, the intention of this Letter is to make you a proposition, & explain my motives for it; which, if acceded to, may smooth every difficulty, & prove convenient and beneficial to all parties.  It is to purchase the reversion of your Land in this neck, at the same time I make that of Mr Manleys, if it is for sale.  You are, doubtless, well acquainted with the circumstances of this tract, held by Mrs French; but as no man can have a more perfect knowledge of it, than I have, I think myself fully warranted, in asserting that in less than ten years from this date, there will be no support to the Plantation, and that without the aid of my woodland it cannot be maintained.
                  If my reasons are asked, I will add; that, to say nothing of the Plantation itself, a great part of which is old & much worn, the present fencing cannot last long.
                  That one half of the Plantation at this moment, is dependant upon me for the means of inclosing it.
                  That, though I have not a disposition to be unneighbourly, by depriving Mrs French, or you, of the use of my fences, yet this may not be the case with those who follow me.
                  That the wood-land for fire & timber, bears no proportion to the quantity of cleared Land; and, as has been observed before, will not support the plantation in these articles, but a few years longer, especially if all those long lines of fencing which are furnished by me should be shifted, as is very commonly the case when fields are changed; and,
                  That to depend upon the fencing of another for inclosures, is working Land upon a very uncertain tenure, & at too great a hazard to be warranted by prudence; as ill nature, or even necessity may expose the Crops.
                  That these are facts uncontrovertible, & the reasoning upon them conclusive, none can deny, I mention them to prove—First, that at the same time I discover an inclination to purchase the reversion of your Mand, I know what value to set on it—And, secondly, as an indisputable evidence that sooner or later (if you cannot get some of my woodland) you will for want for Timber & firing, be obliged to part with it to those who have it.  And that this must be done, to a very great disadvantage, when the period of that necessity is absolutely felt, & the land is more exhausted, is evident to common sense.
                  It may be asked, why, under these disadvantages, I would choose to be the purchaser?  The answer is plain, & I shall candidly give it to you:  For besides having timber to supply all the want of your Land it is my wish, although it shou’d not fall into my hands immediately, to have in expectation, by reversion, all the Lands in this neck; that I may without loss of time; proceed to the inclosing of it, by a large Ditch, & strong Post Rail fence on the outer boundary of it.  This Sir, & the prospect of having the exclusive possession of the whole neck, I declare to you upon my honor, are my motives for buying.  It is not the real want of Land (for I have already more than I have hands to work) nor the extraordinary value of this tract that prompts me to the measure.  From a full conviction that I cannot in the course of nature, remain long upon this theatre; I have a desire to see such things as are within my reach, accomplished as soon as possible.  On this principle, it is, I shall go as far to purchase Mr Manley’s Land, as I can conceive it is worth—If the prospect of long life was before me, & I had a mind to play the politician it would be my interest to let Mr Manleys Land fall into your hands without a single bid for it on my part; because having scarcity of fencing yourself, & his land, I believe, not a stick of timber upon it; it would so much increase the demand upon the little you have, as to involve at an earlier period, the consequence I have foretold.
                  Having dealt thus freely & frankly in describing the true situation & circumstances of these Lands, & my motives to purchase them, I shall conclude with repeating, that I will take the land of Mr Manley at the price any three honest & judicious men, indifferently chosen, shall fix upon it—That I will do the same thing with respect to yours, If you incline to sell—or if you will fix the price yourself (having a just regard to the quality & circumstances of the Land) I will give it, without haggling; an allowance being made by men of judgment, conversant in these things, for Mrs French’s life, if she chooses to hold it.
                  I shall offer no apology for making you these proposals—My meaning is good, & my offers are generous—they will stand the test of examination; & it is my wish, that all the parties concerned (vizt Mrs Dulany, Mrs French & Mr Triplet Executor of Mr Manley) may be consulted.  If my proposals & observations are good, they will be struck with the force of them—if they are not, my mistake arises from viewing things in a wrong point of light.
                  I persuade myself, that there is too much liberality in your way of thinking to suppose, that because I have frankly declared my motives for making these proposals & have made generous offers towards purchasing your Land; that I shall set no bounds to my prices, in order to obtain it.  I as frankly declare that this is not my intention—I will give the full value, but no more.  The whole tenour of my conduct hitherto, in this business, must have evinced this; & will more than probable convince Mr Barry (or rather, Mr Wren his Oracle) who was ever afraid to accept the price that was offered for his Land, lest more could be had; of the folly & impolicy of a narrow way of thinking, & give him cause, if I should withhold the same offer in future, to accompany it with repentance.  I am, with esteem & regard Sir, Your Obedient Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 17 November 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                  Dear General,

                     Head Quarters, Continental village, November 17. 1781.

                  On the morning of the 13th instant lieutenant Deforest of the Connecticut line, who had been detached by major-general Parsons, with twenty-five regular troops and captain Lockwood of the militia with fifteen volunteers, including lieutenants Hull and Mead of the Connecticut state troops, formed a design of boarding a sloop of ten carriage guns then at anchor in East Chester bay, and having taken a small sloop of about 30 tons in East Chester creek, they embarked and fell down the creek to the bay.  Upon being hailed by the sloop, they answered, that the rebel boats were down, and they had pushed out of the creek to anchor under their protection—With this deception they laid her on board, but found themselves disappointed in the strength of the vessel, her nettings being almost twelve feet above the gunnel.  Here the assailants prevailed, after four minutes, conflict with bayonets and lances only—They cut the nettings so as to admit one man to enter.  lieutenant Mead boarded (and received a wound supposed to be mortal)—he was followed by the rest, who in a short time carried the vessel.  She had twenty-five men on board, at the same time a part of the detachment made after the wood-fleet, six of whom were taken.  The vessels were brought to Stamford.  About forty prisoners were taken, twenty-five of whom are soldiers.  We had none killed—lieutenant Mead and three men wounded, the former dangerously.  The enemy had none killed—the captain of the armed sloop and four men were badly wounded.  This enterprise was conducted with much address and great gallantry.
                  The enclosed papers from major-general Parsons are transmitted to your Excellency for your order thereon.  It appears part of the officers, refered to by the board of war, have not given their answers.
                  The board of war have suspend a general distribution of clothing to this army until your Excellency’s directions are given for the purpose.  The distressed situation of the troops urge a distribution as soon as possible.  There are in the store at Newburgh, about 3300 suits of the british clothing, which has been, except some suits for the invalids, dyed brown.  For the purpose of uniformity, I think it will be best that these should be issued to entire regiments, giving equal proportion to the troops of each state, who are to receive clothing.  I however submit it to your Excellency’s determination.  I have ordered taylor’s shops to be prepared at each regiment, for the purpose of making up the clothing when the materials arrive.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant.

                     W. Heath

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        War Office Octbr 23d 1781

                     The Board have been honoured with your Letter on the Subject of the disabled Officers of the Connectt Line.  An answer would sooner have been transmitted but the Board had Stated the Matter to the Commander in Chief, who has been too much engaged to favour us with his Opinion.  We laid the Letters & Papers before Congress who have directed Us to take Order in the Business.  We therefore after well considering of the Matter are of Opinion that it is inexpedient to grant the Officers Requests to be transfered to the Corps of Invalids, & that the Public Service requires their retiring from their present Commands. If they Consent to this you will please to report them to the Commander in Chief as Retiring Officers.  It will then lie with the State to make the Promotions & fill up the Vacancies & on their Certificates  the Board will forward the Commissions.  We mean to include Colo. Durkee in this Arrangement.  We have the Honor to be with great Respect & Esteem your very Obedt Servant

                        Richard Peters
                        By Order

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Camp Novr 14th 1781

                     Inclos’d is a Copy of a Letter from the Board of War to me on the Subject of the disabled Officers of the Connectt Line in Consequence of which I have sent to Capt. Parsons of the 3d Regt whose Answer is inclos’d.  To Lt Belding of the first Regt who accepts the Offer of the Board & consents to retire.
                     The Proposal of the Board are understood to grant these retiring Officers the same Privileges & Emoluments which were granted to the retiring Officers on the last reform of the Army.  the other Officers referd to have not yet given their Answers.  I have therefore to request that you will be pleas’d to report to the Board, the Consent of the beforenamed Officers to retire on the Provision made for retiring Officers on the late reform of the Army & that they be added to the List of the Officers retiring on that reform—And that have leave to return Home that their Offices may be filled.  I am Sr Yr humble Servt

                        Saml H. Parsons

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Peeks Kill 15th Novbr 1781

                     In consequence of provision made by Congress for Officers who for sufficient Reasons wish to retire from Service.
                     I think it my duty to inform your Honor; that by reason of age and a constitution much impaired in Service would wish to quit Millitary employments as soon as I can settle my affairs, and be reasonably satisfied that I am intitled to the same emoluments that other Officers are under the denomination of deranged Officers in the year Eighty.  I shall wait for further directions in the Matter & have the Honor to be your Honrs most Obnt Sernt

                        D. Parsons


Title: From George Washington to Robert Hanson Harrison, 18 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Harrison, Robert Hanson

                     Dear Sir,
                     Mount Vernon 18th Novr 1781

                  A few days previous to my leaving the Camp before York I was favoured with your letter of the  Ulto—Thinking I should see you on my return, I postponed acknowledging the receipt of it till now that I despair of that pleasure being on the eve of my departure for Philadelphia without making any stay on the Road except one day at Annapolis if the Govr should be there.
                  I desired Doctr Draper who came to this place with me on Tuesday last and proposed being at Portobacco next day, to let you know I should stay a few days at home and should be glad to see you—he possibly did not go there, or you might be attending the Courts.
                  I thank you for your kind Congratulations on the Capitulation of Cornwallis.  It is an interesting event and may be productive of much good if properly improved, but if it should be the means of relaxation and sink us into supiness & security it had better not have happened—Great Britian for sometime past, has been encouraged by the impolicy of our conduct to continue the War, & should there be an interference of European Politicks in her favour, peace may be further removed from us than we expect, while one thing we are sure of and that is, that the only certain way to obtain Peace is to be prepared for War.  Policy, Interest, Oeconomy, all unite to stimulate the States to fill their Continental Battalions, & provide the means of Supporting them.  I hope the present favourable moment for doing it will not be neglected.
                  Mr Custis’ death has given much distress in this family.  I congratulate you on your late change and am Dr Sir  Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 18 November 1781
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Annapolis November 18th 1781

                  I had the Honor to receive your Excellencys favor of the 16th Yesterday Afternoon.  The State of Maryland is much Indebted for your attention to the Subjects of my last in Council.
                  Colo. Tilghman received his Letter as soon as it came to my hands, he is now in Town & writes by this opportunity.  I am very happy to hear your Excellency intends to take Annapolis in your Route Northward.  Permit me to request, as a particular favor, that you will do me the honor of making my House Head Quarters while you are pleased to remain with us.  I have the honor to be Sentiments of the highest personal respect & Esteem Your Excellcys Mo. Obedt Sert

                     Tho. S. Lee


Title: To George Washington from William Ramsay, 19 November 1781
From: Ramsay, William,Rumney, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Alexandria 19th of Novr 1781

                  Amidst the honest effusions of Joy, and Sentiments of Gratitude which your presence has every where excited, permit us, the Inhabitants of Alexandria, who think ourselves peculiarly called upon, from that acquaintance with your Virtues which a long residence among us, in a private Station, had procured, to assure you That We are not less transported with the warmest feelings of gratitude & affection towards you, for the unwearied vigilance and true greatness of mind which, amidst the most trying vicissitudes of fortune, and darkest prospects of War, you have ever and invariably supported.
                  When we call to mind your departure from among us, and compare that time, so fraught with evil, with the present auspicious moment, We find it difficult to restrain our feelings within the bounds of Manly decency; Nor can we forbear being impressed with the highest veneration & respect for your Character, when, consulting the records of History,  learn how seldom it has been the lot of freedom to be blessed with a Defender, in whose person all the Patriot Virtues have been so happily united—We feel ourselves dilated with the hope (since, in their Infancy, Societies often receive a Stamp from the Characters of their first Institutors and Gaurdians which endures for Ages) that, abashed by yr great Example, Tyranny and Despotism will, never in this Western World erect their Standards of Blood.
                  Permit us, at the sametime that we condole with you for the loss of our very amiable Representative Mr Custis, to express our most ardent wishes that the late success of York may remove the obstinate infamation of our Enemy and dispell that fatal malignancy of passion which has hitherto blinded them; so that, the blessings of Peace being diffused through the Country, you may again return among us to the enjoyment of Domestic ease.  In behalf of our fellow Citizens & selves,

                     Wm Ramsay
                     Wm Rumney
                     John Fitzgerald
                     Rd Hooe


Title: From George Washington to William Ramsay, 19 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Ramsay, William,Rumney, William

                     Gentn
                      19th Novr 1781

                  I accept with peculiar satisfaction the very kind and affectionate address of the Citizens of Alexandria—the long acquaintance which in former times I have had of their sincerity and cordiality, stamps it with particular value—and permit me to say, that to make a peaceful return to this agreeable society of my fellow citizens, is among the most ardent of my wishes—and would prove my greatest comfort for all the toils & vicissitudes which I have experienced during my absence.
                  The great Director of events has carried us thro’ a variety of scenes during this long and bloody contest in which we have been for seven Campaigns, most nobly struggling—The present prospect is pleasing—the late success at York Town is very promising—but on our own Improvement depend its future good consequences—a vigorous prosecution of this success, will in all probability, procure us what we have so long wished to secure—an establishment of Peace, liberty & Independence—A Relaxation of our exertions at this moment may cost us many more toilsome Campaigns, and be attended with the most unhappy consequences.
                  Your condolence for the loss of that amiable youth Mr Custis, affects me most tenderly—This loss I trust will be compensated to you, in some other worthy representative.
                  Amidst all the Vecissitudes of Time or Fortune be assured Gentlemen, that I shall ever regard with particular affection the Citizens & Inhabitants of Alexandria.  I am—Gentn Yr most Obedt and most Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 19 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                     Gentlemen
                     Mount Vernon 19th Novr 1781

                  I have received your Favor of the 9th—Respectg the Cloathing—I think it my Duty to inform you that the Southern Army from the Supply that has been sent them from York Town & is now going on under the Care of the Detatchment under Comand of Genl St Clair, with what Genl Greene has been able to obtain, will probably go near to be pretty well covered—a few small Articles such as Overhals & small Vests for those Troops who have been on this Expedition & are now going Northward, have also been Issued, from What was on hand & captured—these Circumstances raise a fear, that you are straing your purchases perhaps beyond our absolute Necessities—which I should be sorry should be the Case in the present State of our Finances—I wish it was in my Power to give you the Returns of these Issues, but it is not at present.  I expect to see the Comry of Cloathing by the Time I am in Phila. which will be probably in all this Week—when I shall be able to confer with you on greater Certainty.
                  As I shall so soon be in Phila. I defer Answerg your Request for a Regt to be stationeed in that Place untill I have the pleasure to see you there.  I am &a

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 19 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                     Dear Sir,,
                     Mount Vernon 19th Novemr 1781

                  I have to inform you that a very considerable debt has been incurred upon you as Financier of the United States by an Order for the Releif of the Officers of the Army from the Goods found in York Town—each Officer military & Staff having been authorized to take up on public Acco. the Sum of £20 in Virginia Currency for which Mr Ross, Commercial Agent of this State, is answerable to the Merchants payable in Tobacco—Mr Ross receiving the Amount in Bills upon you to be paid in Six Months from the Time of the Goods being taken—the Returns not being handed in, I am unable to give you the Amount with any precision—your own Calculations will afford you the Sum with a Degree of Certainty.
                  A Quantity of Goods found on Board a Cartel in York River, & which have been judged to be forfeit, were part suitable for the Army—& part for the Country—the latter, which will amount to considerable Sum, are to be sold at public Vendue & accounted for.
                  Knowing the State of your Finances, I have studied to keep this Debt within its most moderate Bounds but in Spite of all my Endeavours, I fear you will find it but too large—I hoped to have given you some Assistance from the Military Chest found with the Enemy—but unavoidable Contingencies of the Army—& furnishing the Q. M. Genl for the So. Army, have swallowed up near one half of its Contents—A number of Iron Cannon,, being unnecessary for our use, I have appropriated as a Fund for Discharge of the Debt incurred & are sent to Head of Elk this with the other funds may possibly amount to a full Discharge of the Debt.  I am &caa

                     G.W.

                     P.S.  Since writing the above I am informed by Genl Lincoln who is come up since I left York Town that the whole Amount of the Goods taken by the Officers & on public Acco. will Arise to about £13,000 Stg—& that the Articles sold in York town at public vendue will be near £6,000.


Title: To George Washington from Friedrich Heinrich Scheer, 19 November 1781
From: Scheer, Friedrich Heinrich
To: Washington, George

                     Fridricks Town le 19eme Novr 1781.

                  Votre Excelence aura la grace d’accorder un Passport pour un Officier Lieutenant de Andresohn du Regmt de Prince hereditaire de Hesse d’aller à lanouvelle York pour quelques necessits de prisonniers des gueres hessoises.Avec le plus grand Respect & Sousmission j’ai l’honneur d’etre Votre Excelence tres humble & tres obeissant Serviteur

                     Scheer Heinrich


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 20 November 1781
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Rynbeck Novr 20th 1781

                  I most sincerely congratulate your Excellency on the glorious victory you have obtain’d over the British Arms on the 19th of October at York and Gloucester in Virginia.  An event important in the Affair of Europe as well as America; it will weigh heavy in the political Scale of Negociation; and I hope secure peace to America on the principles of Independency and honor, with permanent advantages to our generous and Illustrious Allies.  I should have done myself the honor of Expressing to your Excellency the joy I feel on this occasion much sooner had I not been engaged on the Northern Frontiers from whence I am just return’d.  After repeated Intelligence having been receiv’d that the Enemy were on their way from Canada in order to invade the Frontiers of this State, I had the honor on the 15th of October to receive General Heaths Orders to take Command of the Forces in the Northern Quarter, on my arrival at Albany I found that the Intelligence of the Enemys having landed on the South part of Lake George (on which the Militia had been call’d out) was premature; I therefore dismiss’d them with thanks for their alertness in turning out so readily and universally.  The Enemy however were on Lake Champlain at Bulls Bay beyond Crown Point, this position made me suspicious, that they meant to send a light party by  path down the north branch of the Hudson to Sacandaga and then to fall on the Mowhawk River by John Town, or to surprise Schenectady.  The passes on the Mowhawk were immediately well guarded, and Colo. Willett desir’d to look well to the westward, as I had intelligence that 600 of the enemy had proceeded from Montreal by the St Lawrence toward Lake Ontario.  The 22d at night I receiv’d Intelligence that the Enemy had advanc’d to Crown Point, the next morning the New Hampshire Brigade moved on towards Saratoga.  The 24th I was inform’d that the enemy were arriv’d at Ticonderoga, and moving their boats over the carrying place into Lake George.
                  The Militia were desir’d to hold themselves in readiness to move on the shortest notice.  The 25th at noon receiv’d Intelligence that a large body of the enemy were within eight miles of Schenectady, burning and destroying the Country; immediately ordered the Militia nearest at hand to move that way under General Gansworth, sent of 60 volunteers mounted on horseback, and about 30 Continental of different Corps which were collected in Town and dispatched an Aide to Colonel Tupper then on the road to Saratoga with orders to move toward Schenectady by the north of the Mowhawk.  26th in the morning Intelligence was brought that Colonel Willet had met with the Enemy, engag’d them, was defeated and surrounded at Johns Town, more Militia ordered toward the Westward and Tupper ordered to move towards Johns Town, intending myself to proceed to the vicinity of that place.  Various accounts about Willetts situation all day, accounts from General Stark that the Enemy were certainly advancing by Lake Champlain and expected to be attack’d in 24 hours, calling for the Militia to fly to his assistance, the whole of the Militia not employ’d to the Westward were then ordered to move on towards Saratoga as briskly as possible.
                  The 27th in the morning receiv’d Intelligence that Colonel Willet had fought the Enemy, but with advantage had taken 40 prisoners, and was gone in persuit of them.  It appears that there was a party of 607 Rank and File, partly from Niagara and partly from Bucks Island, that rendezvous’d at Osewgo about the 9th of October under the command of Major Ross, and from thence proceeded up to the South East point of Lake Oneida, where they left their Boats under a Subs. Guard, with a good stock of provisions, went on by the head brances of the Susquehana, thro’ Cherry Valley, cross’d the Schorarie River, fell upon Warrens Bush burnt about 20 houses and barns, cross’d the Mowhawk River near Fort Hunter, and proceeded to Johns Town, where about half an hour after their arrival they were attack’d by Willett with about 500 men, who after a variety of forune beat the Enemy off the ground they retir’d in the dark some miles, Willett persu’d them in the morning and kept up the persuit for several days, in which he had several skirmishes with them with some advantage, he left them about 20 miles north of the Oneida Lake, in a miserable situation without a morsel of provision, and eight days march before them to get to any place of relief, it became prudent in Willet to proceed no farther, on the whole Mr Ross has made a ruefull expedition of it.  I can account for his loss being at least 150 in prisoners, kill’d and deserters besides wounded which they contriv’d to carry of, 50 prisoners chiefly British are sent down to General Heath, Colonel Willet has done every thing a man could do in his situation and has great merit.  Among their kill’d was their infamous partizan Walter Butler and a British Captain.  The 28 and 29th the intelligence from the northward convinc’d me that the Enemy were not so near at hand as was apprehended, yet I kept the Militia moving upwards, ordering part to halt at Still Water and the Farms between that and Saratoga, determin’d to go up to Saratoga in order to reduce the position and strength of the Enemy to some degree of certainty.
                  30th Rode up to Saratoga in Company with General Schuyler &c., soon after our arrival there, ordered out four Scouting parties that could be depended on, to go to different parts of Lake George, a Capt. Gray had this day reported to General Stark that the Enemy’s gun boats had approach’d so near the South Shore of the Lake, as to throw shot over his head; other intelligence had been receiv’d from General Enos at Castle Town and Colonel Waldbridge at Skensborough that about 500 of the Enemy were employed in covering some of the old works at Tionderoga, and 200 Cattle employ in drawing up heavy Cannon to the works and the rest proceeding by Lake George.
                  31st Reconoitred the ground in Order to erect some works to cover such troops as might be posted here for the Winter from surprize, at noon intelligence came from General Enos that the Enemy were all on Lake George and advancing under the Command of General St Leger their strength 3000.
                  Order’d General Enos to move to Fort Ann, and the Militia on the East side of Hudson’s River, with those of the lower part of Vermont to assemble at White Kill or Batten Kill, and wrote to General Gansiworth to bring up all the Militia not yet come forward, form’d the order of Battle and of march, intending to meet the Enemy in the act of crossing the Hudson should they attempt it.
                  Nov 1st we receiv’d the glorious news of the surrender of the Army under the Command of the Earl Cornwallis, to your Excellency, which was announc’d at noon by 13 Cannon adding one in Compliment to our friends of Vermont who were cooperating with us, against the common Enemy.
                  Nov 2d a Mr Durkee one of my Scouts reported that about 3 miles on this side Lake George in the road he found two men recently killed by the appearance of their blood being fresh with their packs and arms lying by them, that he proceeded to Gage’s Hill, from whence he had a good view of the Lake down to the narrows, and could not discover any sign of an Enemy.  Ordered two Commission’d Officers with small scouting parties to reconitre the Lake and go on as far as they could with safety, and untill they could discover the situation of the Enemy, for this Service Captains Emmerson and Senter were appointed.  I thought it necessary to send Capt Carr with a Flag at this time to Col. St Leger, my Letter to him, his answer and the Letter I transmitted them with to General Heath are enclos’d.
                  In the evening Capt. Wright another of my Scouts reported he had been down the Lake below the narrows and could discover no signs of an Enemy, this was confirm’d by another scout which arriv’d soon afterwards.  Ordered the Generals and Officers commanding Brigades to meet me at Eleven o clock the next day.
                  Novr 3d, finding the Council unanimously of opinion with me, that the Enemy were retir’d and considering the severity of the weather, and the heighth of the water from the late heavy rains, that it would be impossible for the enemy suddenly to return, I order’d the Militia to be dismissed with my best thanks.
                  On the 4th I return’d to Albany and during my stay there, I receiv’d full and satisfactory evidence that the Enemy were retir’d in good earnest, the last accounts place them at Chimney point, (opposite to Crown Point) on the 8th Instant, when they had been several days waiting for favourable Wind, and where I think it is not improbable they are still waiting, for the winds have been adverse and the weather severely cold, the tops of mountains now in our view are white with snow, and the winds peircingly cold; they must feel it in a more severe degree there.  The Letters I have from time to time on this occasion wrote to General Heath, I have no doubt were communicated to your Excellency, but I think it my duty to give you this detail that you may have a more distinct idea of the situation of affairs in the quarter I have had the honor to Command.  I shall proceed tomorrow in order to join General Heath.  I have the Honor to be with the most sincere Affection Esteem and Regard Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

                     Stirling

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Saratoga Novemr 1st 1781

                     The severe treatment and long confinement which I am informed is indur’d in Canada by a Number of American prisoners induces me to propose an Exchang of the whole of them Rank for Rank of the Troops lately under the command of Major Ross and Captured in Tryon County.
                     As the season is already Advanced, it will require dispatch to get this Exchange effected before the winter sets in, and if you will Assure me that our prisoners in Canada shall be immediately sent for to be delivered up at Skeensborough, I will have the like number of yours ready to be sent to the same place on the first notice of their approach.
                     If the releasment of Doctor Smiths Son or any other person in the Civil line is the Object of the wish of their friend and of the Governor General of Canada I will use my endeavours with the Government of this State to have them released.
                     I have the Honor to communicate to you Intelligence I have just received, that Lord Cornwallis with the Army under his command consisting of 5,500 Regulars and 4000 Refugees, Sailors, and Negroes, with all the Shipping of Force and Transports attending them, surrendered on the 19th Ulto to his Excellency General Washington.  His Lordship and many of his officers are to go to England on parole.  I am Your Most Obt Hume Servt

                        Sterling Majr Genl

                Enclosure

                        Rynbeck November 18th 1781

                     Extract of a Letter from Major General Lord Sterling to Major General Heath
                     I now transmit to you Copy of a Letter I sent the 1st Instant to Colo. St Leger, commanding the British Troops on Lake Champlain, with his Answer of the 7th.
                     The want of temper and good Manners so strongly discovered in the letter can be Accounted for only by the chagrin the Poor Gentleman must have felt at the news I sent him as well as his own disagreable situation at that time, he had began his retreat about ten days before from our frontiers, and was then constrained, by violent Northerly winds, to halt at Chimney Point (opposite to Crown Point) where his patience has been still farther exercised by more violent winds, and very severe cold weather: which must have produced Ice sufficient to put an end to any Navigation on that Lake— he I think will be obliged to leave his Boats and shiping behind him or destroy them, and Retire by the west side of Lake Champlain into Canada, a March of above 100 Miles through a Country almost impassable at the best of times.  What Colonel St Leger alludes to fifteen Prisoners on parole having made their escape from Canada, I am ignorant of, had he furnished me with the names and other particulars, I would notwithstanding his paradventure have endeavoured to convince him that I should not justify such prostitution of honour, but he has not put it in my power to make enquiry into the Matter.


Title: From George Washington to Peter Wagener, 20 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Wagener, Peter

                     Sir,
                     Mount Vernon 20 Novr 1781.

                  The late Unfortunate death of John Parke Custis Esq., makes it necessary that an Administration of his Estate should be granted to some Person.  It is proposed that the Honble Bartholomew Dandridge Esq., should take it upon him, and that I should become his security.  But as Mr Dandridge is not here at present and is in some measure a Stranger, and I am obliged to go immediately to the Northward, difficulties may occur in the matter, unless You & some Other Gentlemen, My Friends, will be so obliging as to enter into the necessary & usual securityships for him.  I shall esteem it a great favor conferred on me, if you & any Other of my Friends will do this, when he comes up to take the Administration at the Jan’y Court and this Letter shall be Obligatory upon me as an indemnity for your & their so doing; and besides, I shall be ready at any moment to enter in to Any Counter bond for the better securing You All for & your conduct in the business and for you becoming Securities for his Guardianship to the Children, if it shall be adjudged necessary to appoint him to this trust at that, or any other time.  I would do it now, if I knew the Gentlemen who would engage for Mr Dandridge’s Administration.  I am Dr Sir with great regard &c.


Title: To George Washington from John Bullen, 21 November 1781
From: Bullen, John
To: Washington, George

                     Annapolis Novr 21st 1781.

                  To his Excellency General Washington
                  The Citizens of Annapolis feel themselves happy in having an opportunity personally to express their affection for, and gratitude to your Excellency.  Your private character forces admiration from the foes of virtue and freedom.
                  We derive peculiar pleasure from the contemplation that the successes at Trenton and Princetown, laid the corner stone of our Freedom and Independence, and that the capture of Earl Cornwallis and his Army has compleated the edifice and secured the temple of Liberty to us and our posterity.  These brilliant and important events, are the more agreeable to every American from the reflection that they were planned by, and executed under the immediate command of your Excellency.
                  The love of your Country alone which induced you to accept the command of our Armies, at the expence of domestic happiness; the persevering fortitude and equanimity of Soul you have displayed on every occasion; and the very important services rendered America; justify us in saluting you as the Patriot, the Hero and the Saviour of your Country.
                  Our prayers, with those of Millions, are daily offered up to the supreme ruler of the universe for your Health, Safety and Happiness.

                     John Bullen.  Mayor


Title: From George Washington to John Bullen, 21 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Bullen, John

                     Sir
                     Novr 21st 1781

                  I am obliged by the polite and affectionate address of the Citizens of Annapolis.  Nothing can be more flattering to me than to know that my general conduct has met the approbation of my Countrymen—it is the most grateful reward for those services which I have ever in the course of my command endeavoured to render them, but which their too great partiality has oftentimes over rated.
                  That the State in general and this City in particular may long enjoy the benefits which they have a right to expect from their very spirited exertions in the prosecution of this just War is the sincere Wish of Sir Yr most obt and very Humble Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 22 November 1781
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Head quarters Nov. 22d 1781

                  I receivd your very affectionate letter dated before York.  Your approbation of my conduct affords me the highest satisfaction; and I flatter my self nothing on my part will ever be wanting to deserve a continuance of your esteem and regard.  I may be unfortunate but I shall never be unfaithful to my friendships.
                  My letter to Mrs Greene your Excellency will please to forward, if she is not on the road to the Southward—in that case I beg you will please to return it in your next dispaches to me.  I am altogether uncertain whether she means to come this way, having left her at liberty to follow her inclinations, but at the same time have pointed out to her the great difficulty of getting here, and the little satisfaction she will take after her arrival.  It is true I wish exceedingly to see her; but the distance is so great and the difficulties so numerous that if she could be contended at home it would be my wish for her own sake.  To come into this Country at this time is a most terrible undertaking.  With esteem and regard I am dear sir Your Most Obedt humble Servt

                     Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 22 November 1781
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir

                        22 November 1781

                  Your affectionate letter of the 15th ultimo by Mr Mathews was this moment handed me.  I thank you most cordially for the kind attention you pay to Mrs Greene.  I did not expect she would have had the courage to engage in such a disagreeable journey and shall be extreme happy if she gets through it without meeting any capital misfortune.
                  I sinserely condole with Mrs Washington on the loss of her amiable Son—a loss which will be more sensibly felt from your continual absense.  He had all the domestic virtues which could endear him to a fond parent.  Time affords the only cure for a wounded spirit and that alone can change pointed grief into a less painful melancholy.  I beg you will present my most affectionate regards to her with many thanks for her kind wishes for my health and prosperity.  I also beg leave to offer you my warmest  acknowledgements for the pleasure and satisfaction you take in what ever contributes to my happiness; and to assure you that it will ever be among the first wishes of my life to hold a place in your esteem.
                  My public letters to Congress and to your self will fully inform you of our situation and prospects.  It must be confest they are much brighter than they have been; but we have still much to fear.  Clouds of discontent hang over our heads, and a feild of difficulties lies before us.  I am not accustomed to despair therefore I dont chuse to dwell upon the darkside of the picture.
                  Mr Mathews arrivd very seasonably; and I think will be elected Governor of the State.  General Gadsden is proposed by some but his age temper and bodily infirmity are objected to by others.  I shall be perfectly easy let who will be elected, being upon good terms with all parties: nor do I intend to concern my self with the state politicks in any sort, unless in matters connected with military operations.  With esteem and affection I am dear Sir Your Most Obedient humble Sert

                     Nath. Greene

                     Your letter by Mr Fitzhugh has also been handed me; and he has got an appointment in the 3d Regt of dragoons.  I offerd him a place in my family; but he chose to serve in the Regiment.


Title: To George Washington from David Humphreys, 22 November 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear General
                     Peekskill Novr 22d 1781

                  Upon my arrival at this place, I applied to Colonel Hughs respecting Quarters for Your Excellency—As it was imagined the Governors House would be far more convenient than any other; and the Quarter Master having suggested, that Mr Bedlow’s family (being very small) might be accomodated in Cases House the whole of which he would obtain for that purpose, the proposal was made by him—but some little obstacles occurring, Newbrooks House was directed to be occupied, as being the next eligible in point of situation & accomodation; altho this was not without its difficulties & objections—but every thing is now put in a fair train—I have given a written Requisition to the Quarter Master for Forage, Fuel, & other Necessaries, and beg you will be persuaded, I have used my best endeavour to make your Accomodations for the Winter as agreeable as possible.
                  As I shall have a safe conveyance for this Letter, by Captain Sergeant, I will take the liberty of mentioning to Your Excellency some thoughts which have occurred within a few days, relative to an Enterprize against the Enemy on the North End of York Island, at the return of the Troops from the Southward.  It appears to me, that the season, and the circumstances of our Army, as well as the situation of the Enemy, will be extremely favourable to the execution of the Plan you have formerly had in view; because all the necessary preparations of Boats &c. may be made under pretext of having them ready to transport the Troops, Ordnance & Stores returning from the Southward—while a sufficient force to carry the Enterprize into execution, by Water, as was proposed at the commencement of the Campaign, may be detached from this Army, for the ostensible purpose of foraging, relieving the out posts, or being employed on some other service which cannot give any suspicion of the real object—at the same time, the march of the Troops from the Southward may be so concerted as that they will reach Fort Lee at any given time, for instance, the Morning succeeding the night fixed upon for the attack—Waterbury, Sheldon’s & the other Troops on the Lines must also move towards Kingsbridge at the same time to cooperate in that Quarter.
                  I do not presume to enter into the particulars of this Plan, as I am fully sensible, from the long period it has been in contemplation, the minutest circumstance cannot have escaped your observation—I would wish only to observe—that the Enemy have made it an invariable practice to withdraw all their Guard Ships before Christmas—that in this case, there can be no hazard of making a safe retreat should any unforseen accident prevent the success of the expedition—that the attempt will be unexpected, if the affair is conducted with that secrecy & discretion, which may & ought to be made use of—that a partial success may be reasonably expected, from our force which may be employed on the occasion, compared with that of the Enemy, altho a compleat surprize should not take place—but that a total surprize would undoubtedly be attended with very important consequences.
                  On the other hand, I am equally sensible that the adversity of Wind, Weather, & other Contingencies may frustrate the attempt, or render it abortive in the execution—Whether upon a consideration, of the probable risque, the chance of success, & prospect of advantage with all the attendant circumstances, it may be expedient I pretend not to determine—Should it be judged inexpedient I shall be sorry for having given this trouble—Should the Enterprize be esteemed practicable, I shall be happy in contributing any services in my power towards the Arrangement or Execution.
                  I have not, & shall not mention the Matter to any Person living unless I shall hear from Your Excellency—tomorrow I shall set out for Connecticut—Any Commands for me directed to be left at the Post Office in New  York will reach me expeditiously, or Gen. Heath could probably be able to find a speedier conveyance.  If the attempt should be concluded upon, I should not suppose it could be matured for execution before the night of Christmas, or perhaps New Year.  I will endeavour to be here by the 20th of Decr or as much earlier as might be necessary, in the mean time, I shall obtain (via Horse Neck & the Island) the best intelligence possible of the Enemys situation, of which I have already had pretty good information.  With every sentiment of attachmt & affection I have the honor to be Your Most
                  Obt St

                     D. Humphrys


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 22 November 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     My dear General
                     Head of Elk 22d Novr 1781

                  As part of the Troops are not arrived and those who are, not ready to march, as the sick are gone on to Philadelphia and as it seems to be the Intention of the Board of War to put them into Hospitals in that City, I have thought it necessary, after leaving the inclosed Orders, to proceed as fast as possible to that place, to prevent, if in my Power, the Measure from taking Place, for it appears to me to be one of the most unfortunate Posts we could take for our Sick—For the Expences will be great indeed, it will be difficult to procure Vegetables for the Men, the Orderly Men we leave to attend them, cannot with Ease be kept to their Duty, besides as the Sick recover they must be confin’d to the Hospital, for if they are suffered to go at large in the City they will be ruined by the Vices of it or lost by Desertion.
                  There are good Barracks at Burlington and at Trenton, which will make excellent Hospitals, at these wood, Vegetables, Straw & every Convenience can with more Ease be procured & the Men as they recover be more securely kept and with less Trouble sent to their respective Corps.  I shall urge their being removed to one or other of these Places as I have Reason to think it will be agreable to your Excellency.  I have the Honor to be my dear General with the highest Regard Your most Obedt Servant

                     B. Lincoln

                Enclosure

                        Division Orders Head of Elk Novr 22nd 1781

                     The Light Companies of New Hampshire, Massachusetts & Connecticut are to be formed into one corps under the Command of Colonel Vose who will be pleas’d to march them with all convenient Expedition to the North River and then give them Orders to join their respective Corps: if any of the above named Troops have not arrived when the Colonel is prepared to march he will proceed without them as they will follow him.
                     The Light Companies of Hazen’s, Rhode Island, New York & Jersey are to remain here untill the Arrival of their Corps and then join them.
                     The two Jersey Regts Olneys & Hazens are to form a Brigade under the Command of B. Genl Hazen & are to be dispos’d of as follows vizt.
                     Olney’s to remain in Philadelphia, the Colonel will apply to the Q.M. of that Place for Barracks &C.
                     The Jersey Troops will take post in the Vicinity of Morris Town: and Hazen’s Regt will proceed to the North River & take the Orders of M. Genl Heath.
                     The New York Brigade will be stationed at the Hutts occupied last Winter by the Jersey Troops at Pompton & will detach a Captain & fifty men to the Blockhouse in the mouth of Smiths Clove.
                     All Officers having Charge of Sick going by water will apply at Philadelphia for Directions respecting them previously to landing any.
                     The Q.M. Genl will provide Waggons for the Troops as soon as possible.  He will also provide a convenient House or more at or near this place for the Reception of such soldiers as have the small pox (to prevent the Circulation of that Disorder consequent to their Removal thro the Country) as well as all other sick patients improper to be removed.
                     A Capt. & Subaltern are to remain behind with the Sick & as many soldiers as are necessary to attend them.
                     The Commy Genl will make such Arrangements in his Department as will contribute to the comfort of the sick.
                     Colonel Olney will immediately on his arrival send forward an Officer to bring on to Philadelphia whatever Baggage his Regt left behind when it marched from the North River.
                     Genl Clinton will march with the New York Brigade immediately on the Arrival of Col. Cortlandt’s Regt; and Genl Hazen’s Brigade will follow when the Troops arrive, leaving behind a Command of 50 men from Col. Olney’s Regt to assist the artillery if necessary.
                     The Genl hopes the officers will pay the strictest Attention to the preservation of private property during the march & for the Security of the Fences he enjoins it on the Commanding Officers of Brigades & Corps to encamp as much as possible in the woods.  the Troops by this means will be more comfortable & individuals less injured: and he requests that Parties of Axmen will be detach’d daily & precede the Troops for the purpose of cutting wood against their arrival on the Encamping Ground.


Title: To George Washington from George Plater, 22 November 1781
From: Plater, George
To: Washington, George

                      22 November 1781

                  The General Assembly joyfully embrace the opportunity which your wellcome arrival in this City affords them of testifying to your Excellency in person, their high sense of your signal services and of shewing you every mark of esteem and respect.  Actuated by the purest public spirit, your long and steady perseverance, and anxious unremitted vigilance, under the pressure of surrounding difficulties, to save your Country from the Tyranny and oppression of a powerfull nation, exhibit to the world a character of most exalted virtue, and fill the minds of all America, with gratitude and veneration.
                  Strength of judgment, united with genius full of resources, and singularly distinguished by a constant serenity and presence of mind, in the midst of dangers and distress, instantly discerned, and seized the decisive moments of enterprize, planned the passage of the Delaware in a wintry and tempestuous night, the consequential surprize and capture of the Hessians at Trenton, speedily followed by that masterly movement, which extricated undisciplined levies from an imminent and unequal conflict with veteran troops, eluded the vigilance of an active commander, turned Retreat into Victory at Princeton, checked the Enemy’s rapid career, raised the drooping spirits of your Country, and inspired your Soldiers with confidence in their General and themselves.
                  Your military talents, eminent as they are, form not the most admired part of your character: your inviolable regard to the civil authority, manifested on all occasions, and in situations the most trying, claims the warmest acknowledgments of the guardians of the rights and liberties of the People.
                  Your great example has diffused its influence thro’ out the States, your watchfull care and attention have been extended in every quarter, and the happy effects are viewed with equal admiration and pleasure, in all our Military operations, conducted by brave and virtuous Officers, and executed by undaunted Troops, patient and persevering under accumulated hardships and distress.
                  Accept Sir the sincerest thanks of the Legislature on behalf of this State for your eminent services, with warm and gratefull hearts they entertain the highest sense of the great obligations you have laid upon them, obligations which cannot cease and can only be attempted to be discharged by endeavouring to preserve the memory of those Actions by which they were created.
                  While we pay this just tribute to your Excellency’s distinguished merit, we feel a peculiar pleasure in acknowledging the powerful assistance afforded us by our generous Ally, the signal proofs of skill and bravery exhibited by his Officers, and Soldiers, and their strict discipline and exemplary Behaviour on their march through this State.
                  We have the greatest satisfaction in congratulating you on the late most glorious success of the Allied Army under your immediate command; an event, which reflects the highest Honor upon your Excellency, adds lustre to the Allied Arms and affords a rational ground of belief, that under the favor of divine providence, the freedom Independence and happiness of America will shortly be established upon the surest foundation.

                      Geo: Plater
                     Presidt of the Senate
                     Thos Cockey Deye
                     Speaker of the House of Delegates


Title: To George Washington from David Ross, Jr., 22 November 1781
From: Ross, David, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Virginia York Town 22d Novmr 1781

                  I Received from Colo. Martin the letter you did me the honor to write of the 9th instant—I paid very particular attention to the Cherockie chiefs whom you were pleased to reccommend—I furnished them with such articles as this place afforded and at the Expence of the State—I was at due pains to convince them, of the Advantages which we have gaind over the Enemy, and to impress them with a proper sence of the reel safety & interest of their Country men they went off well pleased.
                  Inclosed I transmit to you Colo. Carrington’s cert: and a State of the money which I have engaged to pay to the British Merchants, for the Continental Army exclusive of the debt due to them by the State, which will also be paid in Tobacco.
                  Colo. Carrington left with me two Bonds for the amt of Hoaksby’s goods disposed of here £7452.12.0 1/2 Sterling for which I have given a receipt engaging to hold those Bonds at your disposal—This will cancel a considerable part of the debt contracted on account of the Army, if punctually paid.
                  From a desire as well to lessen the demands on the Financier as to save trouble on all hands, I propose to receive from Your Excellency two setts of Exchange on Mr Morris one Sett for £6035.17.2 1/2d. Sterling which bill will be presented for acceptance & the money certainly recquired—the other sett for £7452.12.0 1/2 St. I expect will be cancel’d by payment of the above bonds.  I shall not offer them for Acceptance at present & hope it will be in my power in a short time to exchange this sett of Bills for my receipt given for the Bonds.
                  I have inclosed the Bills of exchange to be dated & sign’d but may not have hit on the proper form, one sett being at so many days sight, the other at so many days after date you’ll see the propriety of.
                  Should this letter meet with you at Mount Vernon, Mr William Hunter will deliver it to you and receive the Bills when Executed, if not Mr Pleasants of Philadelphia will wait upon you.  I Have the Honor to be With great respect Your most Obedient servant

                     David Ross
                     Commissioner of Trade Virginia


Title: To George Washington from Wilhelm von Knyphausen, 23 November 1781
From: Knyphausen, Wilhelm von
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     New York Novr 23d 1781

                  The distressed situation of the Hessian Soldiers Prisoners of War in Philadelphia induces me to apply to Your Excellency for a Passport for an Officer to proceed to that City with Money for their Relief under whatever restrictions you may judge requisite; and should the indulgence be granted I would wish to employ Lieutenant Sobbe of my Regiment upon this business.  I have the Honor to be Sir Your most obedient and most humble Servant

                     Knyphausen


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Skinner, 23 November 1781
From: Skinner, Abraham
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Baltimore Novr 23d 1781

                  In obedience to your Excellency’s Commands, I have Visited the Posts of Winchester Fort Frederick, and Frederick Town at which places it was intended the Prisoners taken at the Surrender of York and Gloucester should be confined, and have made such arrangements respecting them as I hope will merit your Approbation.
                  There are at Winchester about 2400 and at Frederick Town about 1400 Rank and file present: accurate Returns of whom shall be furnished Your Excellency on my arrival at Philada.
                  I am Sorry to inform you Sir, that a very great Number of those Prisoners have Escaped on their March from York and Gloucester and that the Lieutenant of the County of Frederick whom the Governor of Maryland directed to furnish the Guard, has without the least authority permitted 200 of them to go into different parts of the Country, in such a way that I fear we never shall collect them.  I have put a Stop to his proceedings and Colo. Rawlings who is my Deputy in that quarter will do every thing he can to secure them.
                  Upon examination I found that the situation of the barracks at Fort Frederick was insufficient for the reception of the prisoners—indeed they are almost totally destroyed and cannot be repaired unless at a great expence, neither can provisions be furnished for it so conveniently as at Frederick Town where I have got them into Convenient Barracks around which a Stockade is erecting that will effectually secure them and lessen the duty of the Guard.  We have also provisions at that Post of Beef & Flour for about Six Weeks.
                  The Prisoners at Winchester are also tolerably well Supplied, but complain of the badness of their Quarters which I have directed to be repaired and extended for their reception.  I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s Mo. Obt Servt

                     Abm Skinner
                     Comy Gen. Prisrs


Title: To George Washington from Gideon Brownson, 24 November 1781
From: Brownson, Gideon
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Sunderland, Novemr 24th 1781

                  Permit to inform your Excellency, that after my long Confinement in the Enemy’s power in Canada, I arriv’d from thence the 16th ult., having been favoured by an Exchange from the Government of Vermont—Immediately on my Arrival, I waited upon Colonel Warner, who inform’d me that I was considered exempt from Service, upon the Reduction of his Regimt, which took place 1st of January last.
                  Permit me further to represent to your Excellency, that while I can only regret, that the Loss of my Liberty so long a Term, has prevented the peculiar satisfaction it has always given me to serve my Country in her Glorious Cause, that I was not permitted to leave the Enemy, without giving my own Security for the immediate Discharge of my Bills of Expense During my Confinement, which necessitates me to enquire how I shall receive the accustomed Dues of a Prisoner, from the United States.
                  And must request the favour of your Excellency to direct Colo. Brownson who has the Honor of bearing other Dispatches to your Excellency, in what Manner I shall obtain such Redress.
                  Permit me to congratulate your Excellency on the late Glorious Victory of the Allied Fleets & Armys under your Excellency’s wise Direction—And while I with pleasure view the particular Chagrine of my late Haughty Masters, I can only add to that pleasure that I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt and Most Humle Servt

                     Gideon Brownson, Maj.

                     P:S.  Common Humanity, as well as particular Obligations, forbid my omitting to recommend to your Excellency’s Remembrance, the unfortunate Officers and Soldiers of Colo. Warner’s Regimt, who yet remain in the Enemy’s Hands in Canada—requesting that their return from their long Captivity, may be as speedy as the Rules of Exchange can admit.

                     G.B.