Title: To George Washington from the New York Council of Safety, 27 July 1777
From: New York Council of Safety
To: Washington, George

Sir.
State of New York Kingston July 27th 1777

By Order of the Council of Safety I have the Honor of transmitting to your Excellency, the enclosed Extracts of a Letter from Major General Schuyler, and a Copy of a Letter from the Council to Governor Trumbull.
Such is the State of our Northern Affairs at present as to promise the Enemy an easy Conquest. This State is greatly exhausted, and our New England Brethren are not yet roused. The Council request that your Excellency will be pleased to animate them to more vigorous and manly Exertions; and they wish that if the State of military Operations, with which your Excellency is best acquainted, would admit of it, a Reinforcement from the Southern States might be obtained for our Support, and particularly against the expected Invasion by the Way of Oswego by the Success of which they will be more immediately and deeply affected, as their Frontiers as well as those of this State would be thereby exposed to Depredation.
What new Miracle, Providence may have in reserve for our Deliverance,

or what further Measures General Howe may pursue to defeat his own Purposes are uncertain. Our Affairs however in the Northern Department wear a gloomy Aspect, and the Council think it their Duty to leave no Means unassayed to repel the Enemy and to render the issue of the present Campaign glorious to the American Arms. I have the Honor to be with great Respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s most Obedient and very humble Servant

By Order
Pierre Van Cortlandt Presdt


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 27 July 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peeks Kill [N.Y] July 27th 1777

I Recd yours of the 25th respecting two Brigades holding themselves in readiness to move on the Shortest notice, and I have Issued orders accordingly, & am now going to advise with Genl Clinton in respect to Calling the militia as directed in your letter.
This Moment Mr Israel Knap D. Commissy came in from Horseneck and informs me that he Saw Genl Silliman there; & that he had it in charge from Genl Silliman to acquaint me (Sd Silliman not having time to write) that he Saw a man from blue point on long Island, who told him, that on thursday last he Saw & Counted One hundred Sail Opposite to Sd point passing Eastward & that there were more that came after. Genl Silliman has not favoured me with his Informers name or Character, nor is Mr Knap able to tell it—this point I understand is on the South side of the Island nearly Opposite to Huntington & East of Rockaway inlet—this account corresponds very well with the time of their Sailing. With esteem & respect I am your most Obedt humble Servant

Israel Putnam


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 27 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir
Morris Town 27th July 1777.

The Express with your’s of the 23d overtook me at this place last Evening. As soon as it was ascertained that the Enemy’s Fleet had left the Hook (which they did upon the 23d) I began to move the Army towards the Delaware, as it was the unanimous opinion, that as they made no Move up the North River Philadelphia was the most probable Object. From the best Accounts that we have been able to obtain the Garrison left upon New York Island is not more than is sufficient to secure it and that upon Staten Island consists of the Regiments of their American Levies & some British and foreign Invalids. I therefore think that not the least Danger to the posts upon the North River is to be apprehended from either of those two Bodies.
A very strong Circumstance to induce us to believe that General Howe is gone Southward is a Letter of his to General Burgoyne, wrote just before the sailing of the Fleet. This Letter was brought to an officer of our’s by the person to whom it was entrusted—He was a Friend of our’s, who had been confined in New York & says he believes from the Manner in which it was delivered to him, it was intended & expected to fall into our Hands—It is very short and only acknowledges the Receipt of a Letter from General Burgoyne at Quebec on the 14th May, as if he had never heard from him since which is very improbable. He says he is making a Shew to the Southward, while his real Intent is to Boston, from whence he will co-operate with him. But he neither gives him the least Account of what has happened in this Quarter nor even when he expects to sail, which would certainly have been necessary for Burgoyne to know that he might move in proper Time to favor the Conjuction. Upon the whole I am convinced that the Letter was thrown out to deceive.
I do not know by what Name to call General Fellows’s Conduct in Respect to the real Express from Burgoyne to Howe. It was Stupidity in the Extreme, and perhaps has lost an Opportunity of coming at their Secrets which we shall never regain.
I refer you to my late Letters for an Account of what further Reinforcements, I have ordered to you from the Continental Army, and I hope that when General Lincoln joins you, he will not only have sufficient Influence over the Eastern Militia, to keep those who are already with the Army, but induce others to come out.
It is out of my power to displace General Fermoy or to get rid of him in any Way, His Appointment was by Congress, who assigned him to the Northern Army. You must endeavor to place some person about him,

who is a Master of the French & English Languages, and by that Means he will be better enabled to receive and give Orders to his Brigade. But if you and the other General Officers find him incapable of executing his Office, rather than the Service should suffer, he must be plainly told of his Inability and advised to give up the Command, at least, till he has made himself sufficient Master of our Language to convey his Orders to the Officers of his Brigade. I am Dear Sir Your most obedt Servant

Go. Washington.


Title: General Orders, 28 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, at Coryell’s ferry [N.J.] July 28th 1777.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 28 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir
Fleming Town [N.J.] 28th July 1777

Yours of the 23d from Philada and that of the 27th from Coryells Ferry both met me yesterday on the Road. If there are not very clear proofs of the Hessian Paymaster’s having endeavoured to establish an illicit correspondence, I think he had better be suffered to go back immediately, for two Reasons. One, that a person under the sanction of a Flag should not be detained upon any but the most evident Grounds of suspicion. The other, that if you are unable to prove any thing against him, and the Enemy’s Fleet come into Delaware, instead

of returning to New York, he will insist upon going on Board, and if he has picked up any knowledge that is detrimental to us, he will carry it directly to them and make use of it to the best advantage.
I had desired the president & Council of Pennsylvania to have the Delaware diligently surveyed, and the most probable places of landing, under cover of their Ships, ascertained. They have wrote me word that it shall be done, and I beg that you and the other General Officers will attend to it, and fix upon the most proper places to encamp Bodies of men so as to be contiguous to such landings. From my present knowledge of the Country about Philadelphia, which is very imperfect, I think our main Body should lay upon the West side of Schuylkill, to meet the Enemy if they attempt to march up by land, to be convenient to support the posts upon Fort Island, and for the Benefit of good Water & good Ground, neither of which are to be found any where in the neck of Land between Delaware and Schuylkill. I would not wish the Troops to enter Philada if can be avoided, as it would only serve to debauch them. You are also to consider what force will be necessary upon the Jersey Side to support the Works at Billingsport.
Genl Greens division would have reached Coryells Ferry this Evening very easily if the morning had not been wet, and if the day clears up, I hope they will do it yet. Genl Stephen’s and Genl Lincoln’s will be at Howells ferry, I expect, tomorrow. Lord Stirling comes on by the way of Trenton, and Genl Sullivan is following me upon my track thro’ Morris Town. I have ordered Genl putnam to throw two Brigades over the North River, to be ready to march this way, the moment the Enemy certainly make Delaware the place of destination. For if we should strip the posts in the Highlands too bare, before they have fairly set themselves down, they might, by suddenly turning back by water with a small force, possess themselves of them.
As it was judged expedient to send Genl Lincoln to the Northward on account of his influence over the Militia of the Eastern States, the Division which he commanded is become vacant, and I intend to assign it to you for the present. It consists of Wayne’s and the Brigade formerly D’Haas’s.
Our Troops, when they have been obliged to move hastily, have been much distressed for Bread. I therefore wish that you would endeavour to have as much hard Bread baked as possible, to be made use of upon emergencies.
I have directed Genl Mifflin to procure a number of skillful and trusty Guides for both Sides of Delaware, and have the main and bye Roads laid down with as much accuracy as possible, those especially leading from Wilmington and Chester to Philadelphia. As he will be busily employed in his Department, I must beg you will give him your Assistance in that or any other matters.

I have requested Govr Livingston to call out the Militia of Burlington, Gloucester, Salem and Cape May Counties, and to assemble them at Gloucester, from whence they may be detatched to different posts. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 28 July 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada July 28. 1777In Congress

This morning I laid before Congress your letter of the 25 with that inclosed from Mr W. Franklin & have the honour to enclose you the result of their deliberation thereon.
Time will not admit my Enlarging farther than to inform you I have recd your letter from Cross roads. I am Sir Your very hume Servt

John Hancock Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. William Maxwell, 28 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. William Maxwell, 28 July 1777. GW wrote Maxwell on 30 July that “I was this day favoured with your Letter of the 28th.”


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 28 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Sir
Fleming Town [N.J.] July the 28: 1777

I have now before me your Two Favors of the 15th & 23d Inst.
I have not the proceedings of the Court Martial respecting Hudson Burr. The Crime alleged against him, I recollect, was not supported by the State of the Evidence submitted to me, and therefore I refused to confirm the Court’s sentence—At the same time being informed, that he was a Citizen of Philadelphia, I advised Genl Sullivan to send him down to the Board of War of Pensylva that they might take his long Absence—the cause &c. under their consideration. This I expected had been done & Bur dealt with according to right, till your Letter of the 15 advised the contrary. For my part, from the Unimportant character of the Man, I think he may be discharged, more especially, as the Charge for which he was originally apprehended—tried & sentenced was by no means proved to my satisfaction.
It is not in my power to furnish Genl Schuyler with any Tents. A thousand of those mentioned in the Return went to his Army. I wrote Genl Putnam immediately after Genl Schuyler’s application, to forward to his releif All he could of a Parcel, which I heard was then coming from the Eastward. How many they were—Whether any could be spared or

what Number has gone, I cannot inform you. So far from being in a situation to assist him in this instance, there are several Men in this Army who now want & who have never been provided with Any.
Genl Putnam has transmitted me Returns of his Force, as often, I beleive, as it has been in his power. Neither Those or Returns of this Army have been sent to Congress in the manner I wished—But the failure has not arisen from want of inclination or attention to the matter, but from the peculiar—moving—changeable situation & condition of the Troops. In the Genl Return delivered the Committee of Congress, who honoured me with a visit—Genl Putnam’s force was included—I think the most eligible mode to be pursued will be for Returns of his Division to come to the Adjt Genl who in a Genl Return, will make mention of it whenever the State of things will admit.
I had received the Resolves first passed for establishing a Corps of Invalids, but not those of the 16th published in the News Paper—Such parts of the Latter are necessary for Genl Orders, will be inserted, as soon as Opportunity offers. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Hbl. sert.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 28 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dr Sir
4 Miles East of Flemingtown [N.J.] July the 28. 1777

We have certain advices that part of the Enemy’s Fleet, Viz. Seventy Sail were beating off Little Egg Harbour on Saturday morning with a Southerly Wind. From this Event, there seems to be but little room to doubt but that their destination is into Delaware Bay and against the City of Philadelphia. I am now to request that the Two Brigades which I mentiond some time ago, to come this way in case Genl Howe turned his views towards Philadelphia, may be ordered to pass the River immedeately with All their Baggage & to hold themselves in readiness to march in a moment on your receiving further Orders from me. They will take the Rout through Morris Town (should they be ordered to proceed & from thence to Coryels Ferry where they will cross the Delaware[)]—You will direct the Brigadrs Genls or Commanding Officers to perform their March after they begin it, as expeditiously as they possibly can without injuring the Troops & to prevent every violation of property belonging to the Inhabitants by the Soldiery. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obed. set.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 28 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 28 July 1777. GW’s letter to Stirling of 30 July says: “Yours of the 28th from Elizabeth Town, did not reach me untill this morning.”


Title: From George Washington to Charles Thomson, 28 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Thomson, Charles

Dr Sir
Fleming Town [N.J.] July 28th 1777

I yesterday received your Favor of the 21st on the Road, and thank you much for the Ordinance respecting the Royal Corps of French Engineers. I cannot give it a serious perusal at this time, but doubt not, I shall find in it several interesting and useful hints. I hope the Gentlemen you allude to, will be of great service, but I am totally unacquainted with the rank they held in France. We are extremely deficient in our knowledge in this important branch of War, and it is not to be wondered at.
As soon, as I had authentic information of Genl Prescots Captivity, I wrote to Genl Howe and proposed to exchange him for Genl Lee. I have received no Answer to the Proposition, though My Letter must have got to hand some days before the Fleet sailed from the Hook. Most probably, he will take some time before he agrees to it, having declared him unexchangeable in one instance, and Only argumentatively to be in the same predicament of Other Officers, in Another. His Objection, most likely, arose from a Supposition we should never have a Major Genl in our possession.
I was provided with the Cartel settled between France & England before the reprinted Copies came out. It is much to be wished One

could be settled on liberal & equal Terms, but at present all further Negotiation on the Subject seems at an end. From what I could learn, the Gentleman appointed on the part of Genl Howe, considered the mode proposed by Congress & which was acceded to, entirely competent, as to the mere Exchange of prisoners. Your Observations about Rank are not without weight, but from the present disposition of the Enemy there is little reason to expect, especially as they have a sort of Cartel to found their claim upon, they’l yeild a Single Jot. I am in great Haste Yr Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 28 July 1777
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sr
Lebanon [Conn.] 28th July 1777

last evening received a Letter from Majr General Putnam informing that the Enemy’s Fleet hath Sailed—In Suspence to what part designed—Altho’ I believe their Object to be Philadelphia or North River or both—Yet if they turn Eastward I fancy they will rather Attack Portsmouth, to cooperate with General Burgoine, the Country back is thinly inhabited, and Little or no force to Resist them—and the Canadians & Indians Seeing Such an Opening may be encouragd to Spread ruin & devastation on Our Extended Frontiers.
Altho I wrote you largely on the 25th yet I can’t forbear adding by this opportunity That the Northern Army under Majr Genl Schuyler are retired two or three miles below Fort Edward all the Stores, Barracks Houses &C. at that place are burned & destroy’d—It Seemes a Maxim with Genl Schuyler to leave no Support to the Enemy as he retires The want of Carriages may hinder the Enemies progress I wish three or four thousand Continental Troops, well officered could be spared from your Army—They might be sent up suddenly and prevent the Career of the Enemy On the 23d Instant a Party of the Enemy surprised Our advanced Guard, killed 7 & wounded 13 three of which are Since dead—Ten fine brass Field peices are gone up There is not much to be Said for the Spirit of the People in that quarter Those who are escaped from Ty—with General St Clair are much fatigued and worn out Genl Nixsons Brigade is their main dependance The Militia are one half gone home The other half uneasy I wish you knew fully their Situation, and the necessity of a Speedy reinforcement to Save that part of the Country The Necessity of an Enquiry into the Evacuation

of Ty—&C. I have mentiond in my former—it needs no repetition but only that it is Called for by all. I am with great Esteem and Regard Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant

Jonth; Trumbull


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

Quarters, at Coryell’s ferry [N.J.] July 29th 1777.
Delaware.Derby.Dunstable.

The Commander in Chief has reason to believe, that it has been owing to the carelessness and inattention of the waggon-masters, in not seeing the horses properly fed and managed, that such great numbers of them have foundered and died—They may be dismissed from the service if they neglect so capital a part of their duty, and content themselves with merely directing the waggoners to do it—It is expected therefore, that henceforward the Waggon Master General, and his deputies themselves, attend to this business, and at all times see that there is a suitable distribution of forage, that it be duly prepared, and the horses properly fed and managed: Any future negligence in this matter, will most assuredly produce examples of severity, which the Commander in Chief at all times earnestly wishes to avoid, but which must be the inevitable consequence of inattention to duty—The General has also observed, that on a march the Waggon Masters have often been out of the way, and the waggons committed to their charge, in a straggling, disorderly state—They will remember, that it is their duty to be constantly with their waggons, and to ride backwards and forwards frequently, to see that they move in good order: And the General expects an exact attention to this point.


Title: From George Washington to William Franklin, 29 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Franklin, William

Sir
Coryells Ferry [N.J.] 29 July 1777

Agreeable to what I wrote you a few days ago I transmitted your letter to me to Congress.
Inclosed you have their answer by a Resolve of the 28th with Copy of the Certificate which was granted by you to Robert Betts while upon your parole. It appears that this Act has laid Congress under the necessity of refusing your Request. I am &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 29 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir
Coryells Ferry [N.J.] 29th July 1777

The Bearer Monsr Portail is appointed by Congress Colonel of Engineers, and is recommended as a Man of Abilities in his profession. As there is no occasion for him here at present, I have desired him and the Gentleman who accompanies him, who is also of the Corps of Engineers, to return to Philada. They may assist you and Genl Mifflin in viewing the Grounds upon the West Side of Delaware and fixing upon proper places to form Encampments or throw up Works should the Enemy make their approaches on that side.
As Monsr D’Coudray seems to have undertaken the Fortifications in Jersey, I would not wish Monsr Portail to interfere in that quarter, because I perceive that there is a jealousy between them and setting them to work together would only create confusion and widen the Breach. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 29 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord
Coryels Ferry [N.J.] 29th July 1777

Upon your Arrival at Trenton you are to halt till you receive further orders. I do not think it prudent to advance the Army beyond Delaware before the Enemy enter the Capes, which they have not yet done.

Should the Fleet come into the Bay we can be down below Philada before they can make any disposition for an attack either by land or Water, or should they return we shall be so far upon our Way back. I am my Lord Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 29 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear sir
Camp at Coryels Ferry [N.J.] 29 July 1777.9 O’Clock P.M.

Notwithstanding it will be a Week tomorrow since the Fleet left the Hook, none of the Ships had, by the latest accounts, made their appearance in Delaware Bay; About Seventy Sail were seen a few days ago, off little Egg Harbour. This delay makes me suspicious that their real intentions are yet a secret to us, and therefore that we may not draw too much of our Force Southward, I desire that you will halt at Morris Town, or upon good Ground near the place where this shall meet you, till further orders. This respects your coming forward, but if you should receive certain information from Genl Putnam that any number of the Enemies Ships are moving up the North river, you are to return immediately without waiting for orders from me, and send forward an Express to me with the intelligence. I am Dear Sir Your most Obet Servant

Go: Washington

P.S. during your halt at Morris Town, or elsewhere you will have evr’y thing got in the best order and ready for a sudden move, either North or South.


Title: General Orders, 30 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Coryell’s-ferry [N.J.] July 30th 1777.
Philadelphia.Boston.Providence.

The paymasters of those regiments, from which detachments have been made, to form the Corps of Riflemen under Col. Morgan, are

without delay to pay off their respective detachments up to the last of May—Col. Morgan’s corps now lays at Trenton.


Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 30 July 1777
From: Carter, Landon
To: Washington, George

My dear General
July 30. 1777. Sabine Hall [Va.]Anno Ætatis 68 feras.

To hear of you, conducting our opposition to the feelings of an approaching Slavery, with an unremitting constancy, cannot but give every individual concernd, an inexpressible and grateful Pleasure. But to hear from you, whilst so engaged is such an uniting, of your Public and Private attachment, that it must if possible do more in the breasts of friendship; especially when your Virtue explains to me, that your God is my God; and that he is the God of Justice as well as of Armies. Who then so steadily adhering, in his conscience to so noble a point, can fear what man can do unto him? Under such an heavenly canopy, I venture tho attended with the Colic of old age, from a weakned system of solids, to acknowledge the receipt of your 15 of April, which only got to hand the 23 Ult. My opportunity by Colo. R. H. Lee restored to Congress, will I hope be more speedy than my former addresses to you. I shall just hint to you that Gentlemans fate. Public papers announce his restoration; but it must be private Opinion alone, that relates the shameful treatment he met with. Such a failing I am certain very few could have thought, the Virginia part of America woud have been guilty of, whose greatest aggravation in her own complaint, was that of a condemnation without a trial, as to what was laid to her Charge. The particulars of which my dear Sir, may parade you too far out of the line of your more important business; the adjusting to your self, the several unaccountable Manœuvres of the enimy you have to contend with; that so you may be able to defeat his Purposes, if he can with any Propriety be said to have formd a sensible one, more than what his helpless condition, which you by your pruden⟨t⟩ cunctando have reducd him to, must suggest, (to wit) to get possessd of some place of security, against the resolution of men engagd for their natural rights, as soon as they become stronger, whilst he is weakning by time and confinemt, in a Country where he can only forage or Steal for food. I say to divert your attention by any disenssion of our internal imprudence, may hazard your animadversions on some lucky moment, as it may obstruct every other intention of the enimy’s and drive Master Billy Howe again to Halifax. However I will just mention the Teste Act, which ought to have

gone hand in hand with Independency, that it might have distinquishd our friends, from our foes of whom (I mean the latter) I clearly see my first thoughts were not amiss; for now we hear of Oaths to lawful Kings, being too sacred to be absolvd, from the very mouths, that inveighd against the inhumanity, barbarity, injustice, and what not, of this very creature and his Parliament. To ask them what makes a lawful King, but Justice? is to strike them Speechless; and to continue the question, as to transferring the Oath from the exiled, to the Brun⟨s⟩wick line? You are sure to oblige them ⟨to⟩ quit your Company. So that whatever this Teste may explain, I am certain it cannot have made one enimy, more than what we had. Some are confusd enough to tell you, “that by and by their friendship to the American Cause, will be seen.” You would have laughd to have heard me put a religionist of this sort, out of Countenance. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify Your father in heaven.” This Sin I said is the Gospel of Moral and Social duties; but you keep your good works (if you have any) secret to be reveald or not, as things may turn out. Such men my dear George, are mere tasters of freedom but in the appearances of things; Yet in their hearts, they are as much for despotism as little George in his Island, or his gang now collected in his army. A war begun on the principles of robbery, must have thieves or highwaymen to carry it on, Therefore let the Characters of the Howes, the Clintons, Burgoynes &ca before they engagd, be what they will, Now they are engagd in such a cause, they must be Villains, and dare not wish to be resisted.
Every body here is conveying Master Billy from behind his ships, wherever their fears can lead them; but I think with you every guess is but a fungus, just starting up in the field of conjecture. And he only can tell the taste of it, who is on the spot to gather it. For my part ever since the Trenton affair, I think I see him shifting like one his last cast, before he leaves the land. Burgoyne may make a Shew on the lakes; but should he once get into the Country, Certainly the men who first felt the British Oppression, with whom you cleard the Coast of America of them all last year, will make him wish himself back—You observe no doubt that I fancy myself familiarly chatting on things I know nothing about; but as the field of conjecture is very large, according to the whole Continental Coast, Why may not I look for a mushroom in it, tho it has no visible root to it?
I remember when Sr Isaac Newton had merited the esteem of every body, he became distinquishd by an Address To Sir Isaac Newton in Europe. And Why not, where the esteem must be certainly equally felt by those who escaped Slavery, To his Excellency Genl Washington at Continental Head qrs in America? Excuse me my good friend, Morris

Town in the jersies, has not yet been my address, therefore let not your modesty be offended. Whereever I fancy a chosen Servant, his Virtue on duty shall not be my direction. A continuance of that, is one of my daily Prayers to heaven. And then My Good Sir will you be blessd with all the Sweets of a domestic retirement. ’Till then, and I hope the day not afar off, as Freedom and Peace will be the effect, I shall continue my humble Importunities to heaven. With holy David I own the apprehensions of others have made me retire to my Chambers, where I felt a divine dispersion of every Alarm—I confess I never expected to experience the backwardness which now prevails, against taking the field with you. But what will not for a while, be producd by the growth of a licensious freedom, too thoughtlessly indulged before it is well secured to us? The cause of this is not the want of courage to defend our rights; but we have had some sorded self providing creatures, who have been creeping into Legislation by every deception Possible. And at last the poor deluded constituents are made to beleive, this to be only the Gentlemens War. But by shewing them, that tho both gentle and commoners are equally to be enslavd if not vigorously engagd in the cause of freedom; and that at this very time, by the list there are at least 11,000 of those they call Gentlemen engagd in the war in all the states, which with an equal number of Commoners, would make a glorious army of resolution & bravery, enough under our Calm and immoveably resolute General Washington, to make every Howe &ca tremble: I think I see a dawn of that martial disposition returning; and God grant it may be his good Purpose, that it shall be so. Indeed it has been too much Popularity, that has raisd a person to a dignity that I shall only hint at. But possibly as his second election is now secured, he may conclude, that such arts are never the way to preserve our freedom. If so a little more resolution from the several united chairs of State, may soon put you, and every honest friend to America into still a more Prosperous situation. And to this My dear General beleive no one more hearty in his endeavours than Your excellencys Most devoted and Most Obedt friend and servt

Landon Carter

This family salutes you with every good wish and sincere complimts I told every body you were well the 15 of April and every body sent you a God bless him.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 30 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir
Coryells Ferry [N.J.] 30th July 1777

As we are yet uncertain as to the real destination of the Enemy, tho’ Delaware seems most probable, I have thought it prudent to halt the Army at this place, Howells Ferry and Trenton, at least, till the Fleet actually enter the Bay and put the matter beyond a doubt. From hence, we can be upon the proper Grounds to oppose them before they can possibly make their arrangements and dispositions for an attack. I take it for granted that the preparations by Water are ready to resist the sudden attack of any Ships that may run up previous to the landing of Troops.
That the posts in the Highlands may not be left too much exposed, I have ordered Genl Sullivan’s division to halt at Morris Town, from whence it will march Southward if there should be occasion, or Northward, upon the first advice that the Enemy should be throwing any force up the North River. Genl Howe’s, in a manner, abandonning Genl Burgoyne, is so unaccountable a matter, that till I am fully assured it is so, I cannot help casting my Eyes continually behind me.
As I shall pay no regard to any flying Reports of the appearance of the Fleet, I shall expect an account of it from you the Moment you have it ascertained to your Satisfaction, and I desire that at the same time that you advise me of this, you will send an Express to Lord Stirling or commanding Officer at Trenton to move on with the Troops from thence. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 30 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Coryels Ferry, [New] Jersey July 30th 1777

I do myself the Honor to inform you, that I arrived here on the 28th at Night with Genl Green’s Division, One Brigade of which passed the River that Evening, that the Whole might encamp more commodiously.
Genl Stephen with his own and Lincoln’s Division also arrived, a little time after, at Howel’s Ferry—four Miles above this. I have thought

proper to halt the whole Army at these Two places & at Trentown, ’till our knowledge of the Enemy’s destination becomes more certain. If the Delaware is their Object, we are now within Two day’s easy March of Philadelphia, and can be in time, I trust, to make every necessary disposition for opposing them. On the other hand, If Genl Howe, by this expedition to Sea only means a deep feint and should turn his attention again to the North River, we can from hence reinforce Genl Putnam’s Army, more expeditiously, than if we were farther advanced.
The Importance of my receiveing the earliest intelligence of the Fleets arrival, is apparent, and Congress I am certain will direct proper measures for obtaining It, and also for transmitting it to me in the most speedy manner. If authentic advice should be had of the Fleet’s coming into Delaware, at the same time, that it is communicated to me, it will be proper that an Express should be sent to Lord Stirling or Commanding Officer at Trentown, to advance with all the Troops from thence. Should this not be done the Marching of the Troops there will be considerably delayed. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


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

Dear General
Boston July 30. 1777

I have just received the honor of yours of the 19th Instant, and shall pay strict attention to its Injunctions.
I have this Day received a Letter from Major General Putnam of the 25th Inst. purporting that a Letter was lately intercepted going from General Howe to Genl Burgoyne intimating that he (How) shoud soon be at B—n to cooperate with Burgoyne; and that by another Express the General had just received from your Excellency, you were of opinion that Philadelphia was the Object of the Enemy & that dispositions were making in the Army accordingly.
The people here are much roused on account of the Intelligence obtained from the intercepted Letter, and I hope it will be productive of some good consequences.
I think there is need of rousing; for too many seem only intent on amasing wealth. The Sales of Goods here yesterday at public Auction afford but too melancholy Ideas into what difficulties a flood of money

and an avaricious thirst for grasping of it will involve us: Every thing sold at prises which shocked all that heard of them. One article, viz., Colchester Bays which usually was sold at about 4/ pr y’d, sold for Ten Dollars and other articles in like proportions. To day there is almost an universal Exclamation against such abominable practises, which unless speedily checked threatens the discouragement and Ruin of the Army.
I received pr the post a Letter from the Auditer General acquainting of me that by a Resolve of the Treasury Board I am to pay and subsist the Troops at Rhode Island, I shall immediately take measures conformable thereto.
I would beg to be informed how far my command is to extend that I may pay due attention to every part of it, not neglecting any on the one hand, or invading the Jurisdiction of any other, on the other hand. In perticular whether Springfield is considered as within my command. Some special Regulations are absolutely necessary there, respecting the forwarding the Stores. If that place is so considered the necessary regulations shall be immediately made. If it is not I beg to be informed of it, that I may not be chargeable with any neglects that may happen.
We are now sending on the proportion of Arms and powder destined for Brookfield to that place, the Stores having been just finished for their reception.
Among the many other Military Stores lately sent on to General Schuyler at his most earnest request therefor, 500 Stands of Arms were forwarded to him from Springfield to arm such Troops as were destitute of them.
Several of the Enemy’s Frigates are cruising in our Bay. I have the Honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s Obedient Servant

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 30 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir
Coryells Ferry [N.J.] July 30th 1777

I was this day favoured with your Letter of the 28th It was never my intention that the two Regiments, you allude to should remain longer where they are than till the destination of the Enemy is certainly known. As that is not the case, at present they are to continue where they are & will do so, till I give further orders. I apprized the Governor, that I should call away those Regiments & recommened him to have a sufficient number of the Militia to take their place.

I would wish to give protection to every Inhabitant, & as far as I can I will; But how can it be expected or with what propriety, that the Army is to be detached & broken to peices? Rode Island—Connecticut & every other State might upon the same principles demand a part of the Army to remain amongst ’em, & it might be divided & sub divided till it became too weak to act at any one point. I am Sir Your Most Obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from the New York Council of Safety, 30 July 1777
From: New York Council of Safety
To: Washington, George

Sir,
State of New York ss; Council of Safety, Kingston, July 30th 1777

We enclose your Excellency the Examination of a prisoner which we have Reason to believe is true, as it exactly corresponds with every other Information that we have received from that Quarter—Our Army is extremely weak, the Country Exhausted, our Neighbours languid—And our People threatned with Invasions on every quarter.
In this State we can only apply to your Excellency to second our endeavours, without which the Enemy will easily accomplish the Object which they have so long & earnestly pursued and obtain full possession of this State.
Governor Clinton will be qualified this day so that your Excellency’s future Requisitions from this State will be directed to him. I have the Honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

By Order
Pierre Van Cortlandt Presdt


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 30 July 1777
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peeks Kill [N.Y.] 30h July 1777

The Designs of the Enemy & the Importance of the Posts in the Various parts of the Country are doubtless better understood by your Excellency than I can Pretend to know them. this ought not to prevent my proposing my Sentiments to your Excellency’s Considerration; in this I think I do no more than my Duty & if I am mistaken it can be of no ill Consequence to any One but myself.
The Posts on the North River have always appeard to me of greater Importance to the Enemy than any in America & the most difficult for them to obtain if any considerable Body of Men were left to defend them: in this Light they have been generally viewd as the communication between the Eastern & Southern States will be almost wholly cutt off if the Enemy hold the Passes on & near the River. when I was last at Head Quarters it was tho’t of so much Importance that General Nixon’s Brigade was orderd not to march for Albany untill I should arrive within a Day’s March of Peekskill: when three Brigades & the Militia would have been then left at the post: & if the Post is of so much Importance to be held & the Intention of the Enemy not fully known it appears to me very necessary that a Body of Troops sufficient for the Defence of it should be left here—The Militia are to leave Us to Morrow, Two Brigades are orderd over the River for Philadelphia, about Two Thousand Men are then left to defend the Forts, Man the Ships, & other Commands & to defend the Passes thrô the Mountains: One Thousand of which will be necessarily detachd Over the River & in the Ships & to other Posts, the remaining Number much too small to answer the expected Purposes—that the Enemy do not design to attack any other Place at present I think most probable for these Reasons. That no Object can be of much Importance toward Subjugating the Country and if a Junction of Mr Howe’s Army with that at the Northward is an Event they wish to take Place it can in no other Way be so easily effected, as by this River: the Force left in & about York Island is

certainly much larger than is Necessary for the Defence of New York: I think there can be no Doubt but they have 6000 Men left there; and unless his Army is much greater than I conceive it to be he cannot have with the Fleet Men sufficient to effect any Thing considerable against the Force he would expect to meet at any other Place Southward of this Post—On these Grounds I am Still of Opinion the Enemy are designd here and the present Maneuvre is calculated to draw of our Troops from this Place; The Difficulty of carrying the Post if a good Body of Troops were left here I think will fully justify this Maneuvre of the Enemy. They have never attempted to obstruct our passage over the River which was always in their Power this I think strengthens the Opinion they design to attack here. Under these Circumstances I feel myself exceedingly concernd that so many of the Troops are drawn to so great a Distance. tis not my own Reputation only which gives me so much Concern though I am very sensible the little I have will be forever Lost if the Post is not maintaind; and I think the most Sanguine Person can have very little Hope of preventing the Loss of it with no greater Force than will remain here. with the four Brigades & what Assistance we can have from the Militia there might be a Prospect of maintaining the Ground against the main Body of the Enemy untill Your Excellency’s Arrival here; otherwise I see very little Prospect of holding out one Day: however I hope I may be mistaken in my Conjecture if I should be I shall heartily rejoice the two Brigades should Join you & wish I may be added to the Number. I am yr Excellency’s Obedt hl. Servt

Saml H. Parsons


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 30 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord
Coryels Ferry [N.J.] 30th July 1777

Yours of the 28th from Elizabeth Town, did not reach me untill this morning. From the conclusion of it, I am apprehensive that you intend to halt at Bound Brook for further orders, but I hope that will not be the case, as it was my intention that you shou’d march immediately by the nearest rout to Delaware, provided the expedition to Staten Island did not take place. The part of the River to which you are to March will depend upon the place, where this will meet you, if Trenton will not be out of your way you may proceed to this place where there is a plentiful Magazine of Provisions. But if you have advanced upon the road leading to this Ferry you may come on. If you go to Trenton

you will find orders Lodged for you not to cross the Delaware and march towards Philadelphia till Genl Gates informs you that the Fleet have enter’d the Bay. I beg you will reach the river as expeditiously as you can without injuring the Troops. I am my Lord Yr most obet Serv.

G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 30 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

Sir
Coryells Ferry [N.J.] 30th July 1777.

I have desired Genl Gates to give you immediate information of the arrival of the Enemy’s Fleet in Delaware, upon which you are to move down to Philada with all the Troops at Trenton. My former directions were to wait orders of march from me, but you are now to attend to those of Genl Gates. Be pleased to communicate this to the Officers commanding the different Corps and desire them always to hold themselves in readiness to move at a Moments warning. I am Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. When you begin your march send one forward to Genl Gates to know to what post you are to march.


Title: General Orders, 31 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Coryell’s ferry [N.J.] July 31st 1777.
Fortitude.Success.Victory.

The army is to cross the Delaware with all possible dispatch, and proceed for Philadelphia—Col. Humpton will take the command of the division commanded by General Lincoln.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elias Dayton, 31 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

Dear Sir
Coryels Ferry [N.J.] 31st July 1777

I have this moment receiv’d information from Philadelphia that the Enemies Fleet made their appearance at the Capes of Delaware yesterday, you are therefore to march as expeditiously as you can with your own and Colo. Ogdens Regts to Philadelphia by the way of Trenton where Boats will be prepar’d to carry you across. you will take care and not over march your Men. I am yr most Obet Servt.

come light—by no means over load yourselves with Baggage.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Horatio Gates, 31 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Horatio Gates, 31 July 1777. GW’s letter to Gates of 31 July says: “Your letter of this morning is just come to hand.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 31 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir
Head Quarters Coryels Ferry [N.J.] July 31st 177710 OClock in the Morning

Your letter of this morning is just come to hand. I have immediately, in consequence of the intelligence contained in it, put all the Troops in motion; and expect they will be with you, or in the neighborhood by tomorrow evening, and in full time to give opposition to the Enemy, as I cannot imagine their operations will be so sudden, as you seem to apprehend. you will send forward some proper person to meet us, and conduct us to the ground, we are to occupy, that our course may be direct and expeditious. I am Sir Your most Obet servt

Go: Washington

P.S. As soon as the Troops are fully in motion I propose proceeding to Philadelphia.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 31 July 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada July 31t 1777. 5 O’Clock A.M.

An Express this Moment arrived with a Letter from Genl Rodney a Copy of which I enclose agreeably to your Request in your Favour of yesterday which came to Hand last Night. The Enemy by this Intelligence are in the Offing of the Capes, and the Wind was fair yesterday for their coming up this Bay. I shall send likewise to Lord Stirling a Copy of the enclosed immediately. I am Sir with the greatest Respect Your mot obd. Set

J. H. Presidt

The enclosed I just recd from Genl Mifflin.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 31 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Coryells [N.J.] July 31st [1777] 10 OClock A.M.

I am this Moment Honor’d with yours of 5 OClock this morning, & have accordingly sett the Army in Motion One Division had Cross’d the Deleware the day before Yesterday, & I am in hopes the whole of the Troops now here will be able to reach Philada tomorrow Evening Lord stirlings Division lies just in my rear & will move on with us I propose setting off for your City as soon as I can get the Chief part of the Army over. I am with greatest respect Sir Your mo. Obedt Hhble servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 31 July 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Genl
Peeks kill [N.Y.] July 31st 1777

I received your favour of the 28th Inst. and have according to your direction ordered two Brigades viz. Gen. McDougal & Huntington to put their heavy baggage over the river, & to be in readiness to march on the arrival of further orders—have sent Lt Col. Dimon to the white plains with his Regt to relieve Col. Courtlands detachment there, Consisting of his own Col. Livingstons & a party from Cols. Durkee & Chandlers Regiments.
you may think, it not necessary to keep a party at the white Plains, but unless we do, the Inhabitants will be ruined their grass, grain & Cattle will all be taken off by the Enemy. there are Seven hundred militia at the Forts & different posts whose time is out to day & must be discharged. I have advised with Genl Clinton in respect to Calling in the Militia—Concluded that one Thousand Should be called for immediatly five hundred from Connecticut & five hundred from this State—& an Express was immediatly Sent of to Govr Trumbull requesting them to be Sent without delay but the Season of the year renders it very difficult & doubtfull wheither they Will turn out or not—when the two Brigades are marched now under orders there will be left on this Side the river Two Small Brigades Consisting of two thousand three hundred & forty Seven—of which Two thousand fifty one are returned fit for duty—five hundred must be kept at the White plains for the reasons above mentioned—five hundred at the Forts Independant, Montgomery & Constitution—a Subs guard is kept at Frederecsburg to guard the Stores—another is necessary at Mcbensons Mills for the Same purpose altho, at present the latter is only a Sergts; the men for the Ships & boats are principally out of these brigades—that there will not be left a Thousand men to keep up our guards & to defend this

Important post & the passes—there are, I am well assured, five or Six thousand Troops at Kings bridge & Fort Washington.
you had not received my two last letters, I perceive, at the time of writing yours—you will Se, Sir, by this Stating how exposed & weak we are at this post, as well as the whole Eastern Country in Case an attack Should be made on any part.
I am so unhappy as to differ in Opinion from your Excellency with respect to the Enemy’s motions—Many Considerations concur to evince that this post or Some more Eastward will be the real point of Attack—this will divide & distract the New England Militia—directly coincide with Genl Burgoines Operation who is making his way to Albany, divide the Continent, facilitate a Junction of their forces—& Cut off all Communication between the Northern & Southern States—in addition to this their fleet was Seen from blue point standing Eastward of which I wrote you in my last—to draw the forces from this post so as to return & get possession of the passes through the highlands—is, I conceive an object of so much Consequence that no Cost or pains would be Spared by Genl How for the obtainment off—if it is not absolutely Certain that the Enemy are gone for Philadelphia, it is Certain they may come here or go Eastward—& should they, as they will if my Conjectures are right, it is Certain the Consequences must be very Serious & unhappy on account of So many of the Troops being gone to the Southward—if their real design is for this, or further Easward, it is very Certain they would make as great Show of a real intent to go to Philadelphia as possible—by a deserter who came from kings bridge day before yesterday—I learn that three hundred horses with waggons are come from long Island to kings bridge—that they are building a new redoubt that is to mount Six guns—which will be finished this week & then they design, to come out with a great forraging party—as they Say, but Something more is doubtless entended—but if no more Col. Dimon’s Regt will be unequal to their force & it may be thought imprudent for me to leave this post—I am further enformed by a Captain that has been in their Service & left them that there were two thousand men on Staten Island two Regts of Hessians & Courtland Skinners Brigade—there is a report, that Genl Burgoine is at Surratoga. I am most respectfully your most Obedient humble Servant

Israel Putnam


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 31 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

½ after 9. A.M: Coryels Ferry [N.J.]July 31st 1777.
Dr Sir

I am this moment advised by Express that the Enemy’s Fleet is arrived at Delaware; I request that you will proceed immediately to Philadelphia with the Division under your command, in the most expeditious manner you can, observing a good order of March & conducting it so as not to injure the Troops. The Rout by Coryels will be best, as there is a sufficient number of boats to transport the Troops & Baggage in a very short time. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 31 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Coryols Ferry on Delaware [N.J.]July 31st 1777
Sir

I was just now honored with your Letter of the 25th inst.
The evacuation of Ticonderoga and Mount Independence is an event so interesting and so unexpected that I do not wonder it should produce in the minds of the people—at least—the well attached—the effects you mention—I am fully in sentiment with you, that the cause leading to this unhappy measure should be fully and minutely examined—Public justice on the one hand demands it, if it was not the result of prudence and necessity—and on the other—the reputation of the Officers concerned, if they are not blame worthy—Had not Congress considered that as a seperate Department—appointed the Officers, in some instances, to that command, themselves, and been fully poss[es]sed of all the Facts respecting the event, that I am, I should not have doubted a single moment about directing an enquiry—These matters—I say—have laid me under some doubts as to the line I

should pursue, but I am persuaded an examination will be ordered, in the course of a few days, either by the Congress or myself, when I hope the subject will be properly discussed, and that done which is right.
As to sending Continental Troops from Peeks kill—no more can be detached from thence to the Northern Army—than what are already gone. Two Brigades (Nixon’s and Glover’s) have been ordered from thence to their aid—more than were ever intended in the arrangement of our forces—Not a man more can go, as all the Troops (I mean Continental) at that Post, except two thousand, are called to join this Army—For I am to inform you, that General Howes object and operations no longer remain a secret—At half after nine O’Clock this morning, I received an express from Congress, advising—that the Enemy’s Fleet consisting of two hundred and twenty eight were at the Capes of Delaware yesterday in the fore noon—This being the case there can be no doubt but he will make a vigorous push to possess Philadelphia, and that we should collect all the force we can to oppose him—fearing from report and the event itself (the abandonment of the Northern Posts) that distrust, jealousy and suspicions of the conduct of the officers might arise in the Militia, and that degree of confidence in them wanted, which would be necessary to success, and to give a more promising aspect to our affairs in that Quarter, I sent Generals Lincoln and Arnold to assist in that Command—Those two Gentlemen are esteemed good Officers, and I think very deservedly—I am persuaded nothing that their judgments direct will be omitted to stop the progress of General Burgoyne’s Arms, as far as in them lies—and I am equally sure their personal exertions and bravery will not be wanting in any instance—Their presence, I trust, will remove every ground of diffidence and backwardness in the Militia, and that they will go on when and where their services are demanded with a spirit and resolution becoming freemen, and the sacred Cause in which we are engaged—As the Troops are on their march from hence, I shall not add more, than that I have the most entire confidence in your exertions, upon every occasion, to advance the Common Interest, and that I have the honor to be with great Respect Sir Your most obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Captain Heman Allen, 1 August 1777
From: Allen, Heman
To: Washington, George

 Salisbury, Conn., 1 Aug. 1777. “Suffer me to inclose Copies of several Letters, directed to me by Lieutenant Colonel Archibald Campbell of the Kings 71t Regiment, the first of the 17th March, the second of the 20th & third of the 30th of April last.
“I have been informed that Lieutenant Colonel Campbell, with four or five other Colonels of the Enemy, have been detained for a considerable time, for the purpose of securing an honorable treatment of his Excellency General Lee, which has heretofore been an Obstacle in the way of my Brother Ethan Allen’s Exchange, but as the Fortune of Warr, has put General Prescott in the Power of the United States, perhaps it may have so far removed that difficulty, that Colo. Campbell’s Letters may now operate in favor of my Brothers Exchange.
“My Brother writes me from Long Island the 21t. June Ulto ‘that General How was willing to exchange him for Colo. Campbell.’
“I beg I may be favored with a Line the first oppertunity of the present probability of his Exchange, as the time of Captivity has been already Spun out to the Length of almost two Years, during which term I am satisfied Your Excellency has not been unmindful of his sufferings—I am unwilling to press Your Excellency with repeated requests on this Subject, but should I have erred this time in that respect, I beg it may be imputed to my anxious wishes for the Recovery of a near Brother and I am sure a sincere Friend to the Cause of America.”


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 1 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir
Chester [Pa.] 1st Augt 1777

I had proceeded thus far in order to look out for a proper place to arrange the Army when I recd the provoking account that the Enemy’s Fleet left the Capes of Delaware yesterday and steered Eastward again. I shall return again with the utmost expedition to the North River, but as a sudden stroke is certainly intended by this Maneuvre, I beg you will immediately call in every Man of the Militia that you possibly can to strengthen the Highland posts. The importance of Fort Montgomery is such, that I wish you to repair immediately to it, if you possibly can, consistant with the duties of the Office upon which you have newly entered. I am Dear Sir Yrs &c.

P.S. A party must be still kept to secure the Entrance of the Clove.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elias Dayton, 1 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

Sir
Chester [Pa.] 1st Augt 1777.

Having recd information that the Fleet have left the Capes of Delaware and steered Eastward, you are immediately upon the Rect of this to return and keep upon your march till you reach Peekskill. If you find any Ships thrown into King’s Ferry way, you are to proceed to New Windsor and cross there. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Erskine, 1 August 1777
From: Erskine, Robert
To: Washington, George

May it please Your Excellency
Ringwood [N.J.]August 1st 1777

Your favour of the 28th Ult: concerning the Office of Geographer, I had the honour to receive yesterday at Pompton. The distinction you confer on me, I beg leave to acknowledge with gratitude; and shall be happy to render every service in my power, to your Excellency, and to the Cause in which the rights of humanity are so deeply interested: on these accounts it is necessary to be explicit; both by laying before you my Ideas of the whole subject at once; and likewise by setting forth, how much time and attention I can immediately bestow on the proposed department.
It is then perhaps proper to begin with a general View of the nature of the Business; in order to shew, what may really be accomplished by a Geographer; that more may not be expected, than it is p⟨ra⟩cticable to perform; and, that an estimate may be made of the number of assistants requi⟨red⟩ should the Map of any particular district be required in a given time. It i⟨s⟩ obvious, that in planning a Country, great part of the ground m⟨us⟩t be walked over, particularly the banks of Rivers and Roads: as much of which may be traced and laid down in three hours, as could be walked over in one; or in other words, a Surveyor who can walk 15 miles a day, may plan 5 miles; if the Country is open, and Stations of Considerable length can be obtained, then perhaps greater dispatch may be made: very little more, however, in general can be expected; if it is Considered, that the Surveyor, besides attending to the Course and measuring the distance of the way he is traversing, should at all convenient places where he can see around him, take observations and angles to Mountains, hills, steeples, houses and other objects which present themselves, in order to fix their site; to Correct

his work; and to facilitate its being Connected with other Surveys. A Surveyor might go to work with two Chain-bearers and himself; but in this case, he must carry his own Instrument, and some of them must frequently traverse the ground three times over at least: therefore, to prevent this inconvenience and delay, as men enough can be had from Camp without additional expence, six attendants to each Surveyor will be proper; to wit, two Chain-bearers, one to Carry the Instrument, and three to hold Flag staffs; two flags, indeed, are only wanted in Common; but three are necessary for running a straight-Line with dispatch; and the third Flag may be usefully employed in several cases besides. From what one Surveyor can do, it will therefore appear, that in making a plan, like all other businesses, the more hands are employed in it, the sooner it may be accomplished; likewise, that the director of the Surveyors, will have full employment in making general Observations, and Connecting the different Surveys as they come in, upon one general Map; and, at any rate, that a Correct Plan must be a work of time.
A great deal however may be done towards the formation of an useful Map, by having some general outlines justly laid down; and the situation of some remarkable places accurately ascertained; from such Data, other places may be pointed out, by information and computed distances; in such a manner, as to give a tollerable Idea of the Country; especially with the assistance of all the maps in being, which can be procured: & this, perhaps, is as much as can be expected, should plans be required to keep pace with the transitions of War.
Navigable Rivers, and those which cannot be easily forded, and likewise the Capital Roads, should be laid down with all the accuracy possible; but, in the Map of a Country, the general course of fordable Rivers need only be attended to; it not being practicable to express small windings but on a large Scale, and the same accuracy not being required here, which is necessary to ascertain the quantity and boundaries of private property: in general, therefore, the adjacence to, and intersection of such Rivers with roads, will determine their Course with sufficient exactness: the situation of woods and Mountains too, may be remarked in a similar manner.
Young Gentlemen, of Mathematical genius, who are acquainted with the principles of Geometry, and who have a taste for drawing, would be the most proper assistants for a Geographer such in a few days practice may be made expert Surveyors. The Instrument best adapted for accuracy and dispatch, is the Plain-Table; by this, the Surveyor Plans as he proceeds; and not having his work to protract in the evening, may attend the longer to it in the day. One of these Instruments, with a Chain and ten Iron-Shod arrows, should be pro⟨c⟩ured for each of the Surveyors it may be thought proper to employ—but I ought no⟨t to

tro⟩uble your Excellency with the Minutice of the business; it is time now to proceed to my own situation.
I was engaged for America, on purpose to superintend the Ironworks under my direction; in Conjunction with another Gentleman; who, not choosing to comply with the orders of the Proprietors, was dismissed their service; which devolved the charge of the whole upon me. The great Confidence my employers have all along placed in my integrity and honour, has demanded my best endeavours on their behalf; these, however, have been very partial and uneffectual, from unavoidable causes; and, of the immence sums which had been sunk and expended for them before I arrived, very little now remains but their Lands; which I suppose, if sold at the best market, would not make up the money they have lost, by £60,000 Sterling. The Owners, who reside chiefly in London, have been well acquainted with my sentiments concerning America, from the first of the dispute: as they have been totally silent respecting my political opinions, I have reason to beleive that my Conduct, which in other respects they have fully approved, has not, in this case, met with their disapprobation. These Circumstances, however, I mention only by the by; for, what ever be their private sentiments, and what ever feuds and differences take place between States and nations, yet these cannot alter the nature of justice between man & man; or cancel the duty, one individual owes to another; I therefore hold my self as much bound as ever, to be accountable for the trust reposed in me. Such being the Case, I cannot relinquish the Concerns of which I have the Charge, till I have brought them to a proper Conclusion: moreover, the suspension of intercourse with my Principals, has obliged me to become personally answerable for all the Contracts I have or had made, in their behalf; and thus I have in a great measure become a Principal my self, and invested my own property to the amount of some thousand pounds in their Stock.
These particulars I have troubled you with to shew that I cannot at present devote my whole time to the Department you have obligingly offered; having got between 20 & £30,000 moveable property to dispose of; and accounts to a large amount to settle and discharge. My present business is now, however, so far Circumscribed, that I can employ at least half my time in the Public Service; and by the opening of next Campain, perhaps the whole; concerning which too, I beg leave to add, that I can fully depend on your candour; and, that I can very soon attend to the proposed Department for such a length of time, as shall be sufficient to make a beginning of the business, which afterwards may be carried on under mine, or anothers direction, as shall be thought proper.
Having thus far encroached on Your Excellencies time with regret, I

request to your indulgence finally to observe, that the stated terms, upon which my self and others of my profession, used to do business in England, were a Guinea a day, and all reasonable expences, such as travelling Charges, and the hire of labourers and assistants.
I hope, if it please God, to have the honour of waiting on you early in the week after next; mean time I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect and Esteem, May it please your Excellency, Your greatly Obliged, and most Obedient humble servant

Robt Erskine.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 1 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Dr Sir,
Chester [Pa.] August 1st 1777

I have just received information by express that the enemys fleet have disappeared from the Capes yesterday morning about eight OClock. This unexpected event makes it necessary to reverse our disposition and I have accordingly sent orders to Sullivan’s division, and the two other brigades on the other side the Delaware to return and recross the North River. You are immediately to complete your men with two days provisions, and hold them in readiness to march at further orders—and you are to give similar directions to the other divisions and corps. You will also be pleased to give the necessary orders to the Qr Mr General & Commissary General respecting their departments; desiring them to make proper arrangements for provisions and forage on the rout. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt serv.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 1 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada 1 August 1777. 7 OClock P.M.

An Express having this moment Arriv’d from Cape May with a Letter, Copy of which I have the honour to Inclose you, by which it appears that the Fleet which was suppos’d to be destin’d for the Delaware had stood off & Steer’d to the Eastward. I thought proper to Transmit this

Intelligence to you by Express, & will not detain him further than to Assure you that I am with the utmost respect, Sir Your most Obedt hum. set

John Hancock Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 1 August 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston Augt 1, 1777

We this moment have received the Intelligence contained in the inclosed—whether the Enemy will turn in here, or whether they are destined to Portsmouth, Falmouth (Casco Bay) or to Hallifax, or to the River St Lawrance, Time must discover. I have not time to add, but have The Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Hble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 1 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dr Sir
Chester on Delaware [Pa.] Augt 1: 1777.10 Oclock P.M.

By an Express this moment arrived from Cape May, The Enemy’s Fleet left Yesterday Morning at Eight OClock—put to Sea and were out of Sight Three Hours when the Express came away. I do not know whether you are coming on with the Two Brigades ordered from peeks Kill to reinforce this Army—If you are, I beg that you will leave the Brigades under the direction of the next commanding Officer to return to peeks Kill with it and repair thither yourself with all expedition. You will use every exertion in your power to call in the Militia as soon as possible & to prevent the Enemy from effecting a Coup De

Main against that post and its dependencies—Genl Sullivan is ordered to return and Other reinforcements will follow immediately. I am Dr Sir with great respect & esteem Yr Most Obed. st.


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

Dr Sir,
Chester [Pa.] August 1s. 1777

I have this moment received intelligence by express that the enemy’s fleet yesterday morning about 8 OClock sailed out of the Capes in an Eastern course. This surprising event gives me the greatest anxiety, and unless every possible exertion is made, may be productive of the happiest consequences to the enemy, and the most injurious to us. I have desired General Sullivan’s division and the two brigades, that left

you last, immediately to return and recross the river; and shall forward on the rest of the army with all the expedition in my power. I have also written to General Clinton requesting him instantly to reinforce you with as many militia of the state of New York as he can collect; and you are on receipt of this to send on an express to Governor Trumball urging it upon him to assist you, with as many of the Connecticut Militia as he can get together, and without a moment’s loss of time. The importance of preventing Mr Howe’s getting possession of the Highlands by a coup de main is infinite to America, and in the present situation of things every effort that can be thought of must be used. The probability of his going to the Eastward, is exceedingly small, and the ill effects that might attend such a step inconsiderable in comparison with those that would inevitably attend a successful stroke upon the Highlands. Connecticut cannot be in more danger through any channel than this, and every motive of its own interest and the general good, demand its utmost endeavours to give you effectual assistance. Govr Trumball will I t⟨rust⟩ be sensible of this. I am Dr sir Your most Obedt se⟨rvt⟩.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 1 August 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Saratoga [N.Y.] August 1st 1777.

Your Favor of the 27th Instant I received Yesterday Morning, at Fort Miller, on my Way to this place with the Army which I moved by the unanimous Advice of all the General Officers—The most unaccountable

panic has seized the Troops that was ever heard of—A few Shot from a small party of Indians has more than once thrown them into the greatest Confusion—The Day before Yesterday three hundred of our Men, who were advanced about a Mile & a half, came running in, being drove by a few Indians, certainly not more than fifty, thro’ General Fermois Brigade and a Body of Militia into great Confusion.
Inclose your Excellency Copy of a Letter I have received from Colo: Brown—You will percieve that he does not advise me whether Mr Arthur, whom he mentions was the Express or not from General Burgoyne, nor what Intelligence he gave—Colonel Van Schaick has not yet sent me the Examination of the other.
General Howe’s sailing from the Hook, at a Time when he must undoubtedly have been informed of what had happened at Tyonderoga and of General Burgoyne’s Intentions is extremely unaccountable—perhaps that Movement, as well as his Letter may be with a Design to draw your Excellency to such a Distance from Hudson’s River as to render it impossible for you to reach it in Time, should he return to sail up it—I am the rather induced to believe that that is his real Intention, as I cannot conceive that Burgoyne would venture down to Albany if he had not Hopes of being there joined by General Howe; for altho’ it is probable that the Enemy will penetrate to Albany, unless we are supported by a considerable Body of Militia, yet they cannot long remain there if the Country will exert themselves and a Retreat from thence would be found extremely difficult.
General Lincoln joined me the Day before Yesterday, and this Morning set out to take the Command on the Grants—Unhappily Warner’s Numbers have decreased since I had the Honor to write you last, the Massachusetts Militia having chiefly left him—I suppose it is that which has induced the Enemy to abandon Castleton and to leave only three hundred Men at Tyonderoga and Mount Independance, and to send their whole Force this way. General Lincoln was present when I received this Information from a Soldier of our’s who was taken near Fort Ann carried to Skenesborough and thence to Tyonderoga which he Left on the 26h Ultimo.
General Arnold has received a Letter from a Member of Congress, advising him that it is not probable that he will be restored to his Rank, and has asked my Leave to retire—I have advised him to delay it for some Time—Should he leave me and General St Clair be ordered down, I shall be without any General Officer, except such as have Brigades, viz. Fermois, Nixon, Poor, Patterson and Learned and their Attention is fully taken up by their respective Commands. I am Dr Sir most respectfully Your obedient humble Servt

Ph: Schuyler

P.S. Inclose your Excellency Messages just received from Oneida.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 1 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dr Sir
Chester [Pa.] on Delaware Augt 1st 1777.10 OClock P.M.

By an Express this Moment received from Cape May, The Enemy’s Fleet put to Sea yesterday Morning at Eight OClock and were out of sight Three Hours when the Express came away. From this Event, it appears, Genl Howe has been practising a deep feint merely to draw our attention and whole force to this point. I am to request, that you will countermarch the Division under your command and proceed with it with all possible expedition to peeks Kill, as there is strong reason to beleive that the North River is their Object and that they will make a rapid push to obtain possession of our posts there.
The inclosed Letter for the Commanding Officer of the Two Eastern Brigades, which were ordered to march from peeks Kill to reinforce this Army, you will transmit without a Moments delay. I am Dr Sir Yr Hble set

Go: Washington

please to deliver the inclos’d to Colo. Crane & order him to return with you and the Artillery.

P:S: The Letters accompanying this you’l send on intantly.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Walton White, 1 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: White, Anthony Walton

Sir
Head Quarters Wilmington 1 August 1777.

A Letter just received from Brigadier General Maxwell informs me of the desertion of one of your light horse—this disagreeable Circumstance will naturally put you upon your guard; but I desire that you will farther make very particular Scrutiny into the Characters of your men and if you shall find any more suspicious ones among them—that you will immediately dismount them and order them to Head Quarters—the Loss of a worthless Soldier will occasion less regret, when it is not accompanied with that of a Horse and Accoutrements. ⟨I⟩ am Sir Your most obedt hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Commanding Officer on March to Peekskill, N.Y., 2 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Commanding Officer on March to Peekskill, N.Y.

Sir.
Philadelphia 2d Augst 1777

By Express last Night, I inform’d you of my having rec’d intelligence, that the Enemy’s Fleet had left the Capes, & sailed towards the Eastward; and in consequence thereof directed you, without losing a moment to return with the two Brigades under your Command, and rejoin Genl Putnam. The utmost dispatch is absolutely necessary; for there is every reason to suppose the Enemy’s movements will be extremely rapid, in order if possible, to carry the Highlands by a sudden stroke. March back as light as you can, without any baggage, except your tents leaving the rest to follow. I am &.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General David Forman, 2 August 1777
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
Freehold [N.J.] 2d Augt 1777

Since I had the Honr of Transmiting your Excely An Acct of the Enemies Fleet’s sailing, Nothing of Importance has Come to my Knowledge—The Cork Fleet Consisting of 34 Sail Left Sandy hook on Tuesday Morning Last.
The Accts respecting the Situation of our Northern Army as handed to us at this place is so Various as to Induce me to beg the favr to have the Accts from Some one of your Excelys Family. I have the Honr to be Your Excelys Most Obdt Servt

David Forman

N.B. The Bearer Mr Pemberton is Charg’d with 2 Small Boxes of Lemmons, of Which I beg yr Exclys Acceptance.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 2 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada Augst 2d 1777

I do myself the Honour to Inclose you sundry Resolutions of Congress, to which beg leave to Refer you. I have the honour to be Sir Your very hum. Servt

John Hancock Presidt


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

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 2 Aug. 1777. On 4 Aug. Putnam wrote GW that “I Recd yours of the 1st Inst. last evening & your favour of the 2nd this moment.”


Title: To George Washington from George Walton, 2 August 1777
From: Walton, George
To: Washington, George

sir,
Philadelphia, 2d Augt 1777.

Despairing of an opportunity of personally communicating a peice of business, in your present perplexing situation, I beg leave to take this method of doing it.
The exposed state of Georgia calls aloud for a pretty formidable force to defend it; for this reason congress have not forbid Col. White recruiting deserters from the british Army. I have been informed that there are a considerable number now in the grand army; and th⟨a⟩t I concieve might be more safely and better employed at a distance from the Army from which they deserted. I would then submit it, whether it would not be eligible to turn them over to White, he refunding to the officer the bounty?
It is not necessary to adduce reasons to a Gentleman of your discernment, to prove what ought to be done; but I would only observe, that I have no view in making the proposition but the public service.
It may be objected, that, if Deserters are refractory, or willing to return, in the face of the grand Army, they would more probably be worse in a distant weak state. Against which I would say, that Discipline is much severer there—they might be incorporated into other regiments, & kept in Garrisons and upon the Indians line to awe the Savages. I have the happiness to be Your Excellency’s most Obedient Servant,

Geo. Walton.

N.B. I have desired Colonel White to wait upon & deliver this to you, of whom you may satisfy Yourself as to any particulars.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elias Dayton, 3 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

Sir,
Philadelphia August 3 1777

The conduct of the Enemy is distressing, and difficult to be understood. Since my last, directing you to proceed to Peekskill, their Fleet, or a pretty considerable part of it, has appeared off the Capes of Delaware, as we were yesterday advised by express. In this state of incertainty about their real object & designs, I think it advisable, that you should halt your own and Colo. Ogden’s Regiments, where this Letter reaches you, and there remain till further orders from me, unless you should receive authentic intelligence of the Fleet’s coming within Sandy Hook

or going further to the Eastward, in which case, you will proceed immediately to Peekskill with all the expedition you can. You will hold yourself and every thing in readiness to march on the most sudden emergency.
If the Fleet make their appearance in Delaware I shall inform you by express, and how you are to act. without this, you will not advance to this place. While you halt, you will take every measure for refreshing your Men and rendering them as comfortable as you can. Bathing themselves moderately and washing their cloathes are of infinite service. Wherever you may march to, the first object after your arrival should be to clean your Arms & to have ’em put immediately in the best possible fix. I am Dr Sir Yr Hble servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 3 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Sunday [Philadelphia] P.M. 3d Augst 1777

The Inclos’d Resolves have just pass’d Congress, to which I beg leave to Refer you, and am with much Esteem Sir Your most Obedt Servt

John Hancock Presidt


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 3 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Philadelphia 3d August 1777

Your Favor of this date with its inclosures is now before me.
At the same time that I express my thanks for the high mark of confidence which Congress have been pleased to repose in me by their Resolve authorizing me to send an Officer to command the northern Army, I should wish to be excused from making the appointment. For this, many Reasons might be mentioned, and which, I am persuaded

will occur to Congress upon reflection. The Northern department in a great measure has been considered as separate, and more peculiarly under their direction, and the Officers commanding there always of their nomination. I have never interfered further than merely to advise and to give such aids as were in my power, on the requisitions of those Officers.
The present Situation of that department is delicate and critical, and the Choice of an Officer to the command may involve very interesting and important Consequences.
It is certainly necessary that a Body of Militia should be immediately called out to reinforce the northern Army. In the conference, which your Committee honored me with Yesterday Evening, I mentioned the number which I thought sufficient. But my opinion on this point and the apportioning them to the different States, I wish to submit to Congress, who can best determine the Quotas that should come from each. I would only observe, that Connecticut and New York are already and may be called on again to afford succours to the Army at Peekskill. I have the honor to be Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Francis Nash, 3 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Nash, Francis

Sir
City Tavern [Philadelphia] 3d August 1777

As from a variety of contradictory circumstances, the Enemy’s real intentions still remain ambiguous and uncertain, I would not have you at present embark yr troops as before directed, but keep them in a state of continual readiness, for the purpose against further orders. The vessels should also be in constant readiness that there may be no cause of

delay when it shall be necessary to make use of them & orders are given accordingly. I am &c.

When you have orders to embark give the same to the Artillery & see that they come with you.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 3 August 1777
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] Augt 3d 1777

The Officers of Regiments & Companies are separately & constantly applying for Arms & Necessaries. A few have produced the Ajut Generals Signature to their Returns of Deficiencies. The Demands are so great that there are not a sufficient Number in the Store to supply them. Each is anxious to get the whole of his Demand & let others shift as well as they can. There should be some Plan fallen upon either to apportion what we have among the whole or to let those have them who most want them. I shall be obliged to your Excellency for Information what is proper to be done. Shall an Order issue to Col. Flower to deliver to such Officers as have the Ajut Generals Approbation of their returns such Arms & Necessaries as they want & to recieve from them all defective Arms? Or would it be most proper for the Ajudt Genl to collect the whole of the Demands & then order the Commissary Genl to proportion his Stock of Arms &c. among them according to the Numbers wanted by the respective regiments? Twelve thousand Arms have been delivered out of the Store in this City within these four Months & yet the Troops, tho not equal in Number already have large Demands. Where the Carelessness or Peculation lies I cannot tell, but fancy the Inattention of many of the Officers gives great Latitude to the Soldiers. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect Your very obed. Servt

Richard Peters Secy

P.S. I have told the Officers you dissapprove of the Mode of their Applications, & many of them say it is in Orders that they should apply in this Way. I do not know whether they said the Orders were from you or the Commanders of Divisions. But if any such were issued the Generals could not have known your Excellency’s Opinion.


Title: From George Washington to Preudhomme de Borre, 3 August 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Preudhomme de Borre, Philippe-Hubert, chevalier de

Letter not found: to Preudhomme de Borre, 3 Aug. 1777. GW begins his second letter to Preudhomme de Borre of 3 Aug.: “I this day sent you orders by express to halt wherever it should find you.”


Title: From George Washington to Preudhomme de Borre, 3 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Preudhomme de Borre, Philippe-Hubert, chevalier de

Sir,
Head Quarters Philadelphia Aug. 3d 1777

I this day sent you orders by express to halt wherever it should find you; and not to proceed any further towards the Delaware, until you had orders from me for that purpose, nor to return towards Peeks-Kill, unless you should have certain information that the enemy’s fleet were arrived at the Hook, or had gone further Eastward, in which case you were to go back to Peeks Kill, as expeditiously as possible. Since that I have been favoured with yours of the 2d instant from Bound Brook.
With respect to the Tory, who was tried and executed by your order, though his crime was heinous enough to deserve the fate he met with, and though I am convinced you acted in the affair with a good intention, yet I cannot but wish it had not happened. In the first place it was a matter that did not come within the jurisdiction of martial law, and therefore the whole proceeding was irregular and illegal, and will have a tendency to excite discontent, jealousy and murmurs among the people—In the second, if the trial could properly have been made by a Court Martial, as the division you command is only a detachment from the army, and you cannot have been considered as in a separate department, there is none of our articles of war that will justify your inflicting a capital punishment, even on a soldier much less on a citizen. I mention these things for your future government, as what is past cannot be recalled. The temper of the Americans and the principles on which the present contest turns will not countenance proceedings of this nature.
I am sorry there is such a difference between Major Mullen and you; but I cannot with propriety consent to your dismissing him without his having had a fair trial, and any charges alleged against him being properly proved. As he is now under arrest, you may order a General Court Martial to be held for his trial, and report the proceedings to me, on which I shall determine what appears to be just. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 3 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Head Quarters Philadelphia3rd August 1777
Dear Sir

By Express last Night from Cape May, we are informed that the Enemy’s Fleet were seen again after they first dis-appeared, from whence some people conclude that their going off, was to gain more sea Room to weather the Shoals of Cape-May; and that they will still come

up Delaware: Under this uncertainty (as it is terrible to march and counter-march the Troops at this season) you are desired to halt upon the most convenient, and healthy Ground; near to the place where this shall overtake you. If you receive intelligence, which you can certainly depend upon, that the Enemy’s Fleet have gone into the Hook, or are upon the Coast of New England, you are then to move on to Peeks Kill—without waiting any orders from me; if you are to come forward, I shall send you an Express. I ⟨beg while you do halt that you will use every means to refresh the Troops and to get their Arms into good order.⟩


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

Head Quarters, at Col. Hills, Roxboro’, August 4th 1777.
Cambridge.Charlestown.Concord.

In the present marching state of the army, every incumbrance proves greatly prejudicial to the service; the multitude of women in particular, especially those who are pregnant, or have children, are a clog upon every movement—The Commander in Chief therefore earnestly recommends it, to the officers commanding brigades and corps, to use every reasonable method in their power, to get rid of all such as are not absolutely necessary; and the admission or continuance of any, who shall, or may have come to the army since its arrival in Pennsylvania, is positively forbidden; to which point the officers will give particular attention.
A General Court Martial is to sit to morrow, at nine oclock in the morning, at or near Judge Laurence’s quarters by Schuylkill falls, for the trial of all such prisoners as shall be brought before them—Col. James Wood is appointed president of this court.
The regimental Surgeons are to send all their sick to the general Hospital in Philadelphia.


Title: Circular to Various States, 4 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Various States

Sir
Philadelphia August 4th 1777

The great expence & Loss of time that has attended the recruiting service in most of the states, & the little advantage derived from it has induced Congress to recommend the executive Powers of each to adopt certain new Regulations for promoting this Important & essential Business, & for taking it entirely out of the Hands of the Officers of the Army. The Resolve on this subject & the regulations recommended, pass’d on the 31st Ulto & will, I presume, be transmitt’d you by the President—I will not urge the expediency of carrying this proceeding into immediate execution. I will only observe, that the necessity is Obvious, & demands our most active attention. The principal cause of my troubling you at this time, is to request, that after the persons recommended are appointed in your state, you will transmit me their Names—their places of residence, & those design’d for the Rendezvous of Recruits & Deserters—As soon as I am advis’d upon these Subjects, I shall recall all the Officers now recruiting, & order them forthwith to Join their respective Corps—Before I conclude, I would beg leave to mention, that the Success of this Interesting Business, in all its parts, will depend much upon a judicious choice of those, who

are to be employed in it, & that I think the Districts should not be too large & Extensive. I have the Honor to be Sir Your mo: Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Flower, 4 August 1777
From: Flower, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, c.4 August 1777]

Your Excellency will please to put in Orders who the several Officers wanting Stores of any kind are to apply to for Orders on me or the Comissaries of Stores—Capt. Watkins is Commissary of Ordnance Stores—Capt. Gostelowe Comy of Arms & Accoutrement &c. &c. (Thos. Butler Esqr. Public Armourer under the immediate Direction of the Hon. the Board of War). Your Excellencys most Obed. Very Hum. Servt

Benj. Flower Comy Genl M.S.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 4 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir,
Head Quarters Philadelphia Aug. 4th 1777.

You will perceive by the inclosed copy of a letter from Congress, that they have appointed you to the command of the army in the Northern department, and have directed me to order you immediately to repair to that post. I have therefore to desire you will, in persuance of their intention, proceed to the place of your destination, with all the dispatch you can, and take upon you the command of the Northern army accordingly. Wishing you success, and that you may speedily be able to restore the face of affairs in that quarter, I am, with regard, Sir Your most Obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 4 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada August 4th 1777.

I have it in Charge from Congress to inform you, that they have this Day appointed General Gates to the Command of the Army in the Northern Department, and to direct, that you immediately order him to repair to that Post—Any Instructions that may be necessary, shall be sent after him with the utmost Expedition. I have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect Sir your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 4 August 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston Augst 4th 1777

This will be Handed to you by the Count de Puluski General de Larme de la Republique de Poloigne, who has Come over to Serve in the great american Cause.

Since my last we have Sent on near Three Hundred full Barrels of Powder, and a number of arms to Brookfield, A number of Shells 10 and 8 Inch with Some other Heavy articles are at Cambridge the Removal of which far by land will be very Expensive, should wish to Know your Excellency Pleasure, as to the removal of them to Brookfield or Springfield, or whether they shall remain where they are.
we have heard nothing of the Enemys Fleet Since I last wrote—our Coast is much Infested with Cruisers a valluable Prise was retaken a few Days Since after being drove on shore on Rye Beach, she had upwards of Three Hundred Hhhds of Rum of Board.
Mr Miller has lately luckily got in a Quantity of Salt, on Board one of the Vessels were a few Barrels of Fresh Limes Two Barrels are on the Road to Colo. Trumbull, in order to their being Presented to your Excellency I hope they will arrive in Good Condition.
we have A Confirmation of the Disagreable news of Commodore manlys being Taken in the Hancock Frigate.
a number of our Militia are ordered to reinforce Genl Schuyler. I have the Honor to be very respectfully your Excellencys obedient hume Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to John Langdon, 4 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Langdon, John

Sir
Philadelphia August 4th 1777.

Your Two Favors of the 12th & 17th Ulto have been duly received.
I am happy in the arrival of the Packet from Nantes after so good a passage. I suppose the Accounts transmitted by the Commissioners are of importance, but I am not yet informed of the particulars. The Captains intelligence is agreable, and I wish much to hear it confirmed by a Declaration of War.

We have been for some time and still are much embarrassed & distressed respecting the destination of the Enemy’s Fleet and their Operations. On Thursday and Friday last two hundred and Twenty-Eight sail of ’em were beating off the Capes of the Delaware—they have disappeared again. The advantages they derive from having the command of the Water are immense. At the same time, that they are transporting themselves from One place to another with the utmost facility and convenience, they keep our Immaginations constantly in the feild of conjecture, as to the point of Attack, and our Troops marching & countermarching in the disagreable road of suspense and incertainty. I wish, we could but fix on their Object—their conduct is really so mysterious, that you cannot reason upon it, so as to form any certain conclusions. I am Sir with much esteem Yr Most Obedt servant,

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Laurens, 4 August 1777 [letter not found]
From: Laurens, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Laurens, 4 Aug. 1777. On 5 Aug. GW wrote to Laurens that “Your favour of Yesterday came to my hands late in the Afternoon.”