Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Duportail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 18 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle,Hamilton, Alexander

          Gentn
          Head Quarters West-point 18th Octbr 1779.

        I have been favored with Colonel Hamilton’s letter, mentioning your arrival early on the 11th at Philadelphia; and your being about to set off for Lewis town the morning on which it was written.
        I have attentively considered the object to which you more particularly refer, and am now to authorise you (provided the Count will not determine on a co-operation to the full extent of my instructions) to engage the whole force described in my letters to him, comprehending the continental troops and militia, in such an enterprise against

the enemy’s shipping, as the Count and you may agree to undertake. In a word, I will aid him, in every plan of operations against the enemy at New-York, or Rhode Island, in the most effectual manner that our strength and resources will admit. He has nothing more to do, therefore, than to propose his own plan, if time will not admit him to accede to ours; weighing thoroughly the consequences of expence and disappointment.
        Inclosed is some intelligence received from Elizabethtown since your departure. You will observe the preparations of the enemy for throwing every possible obstruction in the Counts passage.
        A chain of alarm ships are stationed in the Sound, to communicate the first approach of the Counts fleet to the garrison at Rhode Island. This they can propagate in a few minutes by signal guns. In a letter from General Gates of the 13th instant he advices me of the arrival of the fleet which some time ago sailed from New-York. It amounts to 56 sail, and appeared to be only in a set of ballast. This was confirmed by one of the vessels which fell into our hands for a few hours. The opinion is, that it is designed to take off the garrison.
        General Gates makes the marine force at New-port, one fifty, and a thirty two gun frigate. The refugee and wood fleet, about 37 sail mostly armed, at the head of which is the restoration, late the Oliver Cromwell of 22 guns. One frigate is also taken notice of in the fleet from New-york.
        Should the operations against New-York—in either case—be undertaken, it will be of the utmost consequence to block up the garrison at Rhode Island. You will consider the propriety of suggesting to the Count the detatching of a superior sea force for this purpose, previous to his approaching the Hook. For should the measure be deferred till his arrival there, it may not then be possible to prevent their junction with the army at New-York—as the notice can be so very suddenly transmitted by means of the signals which they have established.
        Every proper attention has been given to preparing the necessary number of fascines, and such other materials as may be requisite in this quarter. Fascines—gabions &c. are also held in readiness at Provid⟨ence,⟩ in case of an operation against New-Port. I had thought of the fire ships, and have taken order in the matter. I do not however chose to go to the great expence they must run us into, till something is decided with his Excellency Count D’Estaing; but every thing relative shall be provided, so as to occasion no delay when such matters become necessary. I am Gentn Your most obt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 18 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir,
          Head Quarters West Point 18th Octor 1779

        Should we undertake an operation of consequence in conjunction with the Count D’Estaing we shall stand in need of a considerable quantity of Facines—Gabions and pickets. You will therefore be pleased to set the Troops under your command at that work. The following [are] the dimensions which the Engineers have given for each.
        Gabions 4 feet high—3½ feet wide.
        Facines as long as possible ten Inches thick well bound cut square at both ends.
        Pickets of split Wood 4 feet long 3 Inches square.
        You may order as many as possible of the above to be made, and that the quantity may not be ascertained by any inquisitive persons, you may direct them not to be drawn together—should you want Bill Hooks or other tools, your Quarter masters must apply to the Quarter Mastr Genl. I am Dr Sir Yr Mo. Obet servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Wilkinson, 18 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wilkinson, James

          Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 18th Octobr 1779

        By a letter from Colo. Brodhead of the 16 Sept. I find that the troops at Fort Pitt were then much distressed for Cloathing and before a supply can possibly reach them they must be much more so: To releive them as soon as possible, be pleased to send up a quantity agreeable to the inclosed Return which is the last I have recd from the Westward. It is possible that Colo. Brodhead may have made the foregoing requisition thro’ the Board of War and that measures may have been already taken to forward the supplies, if not, you will be pleased to lose no time in the execution of the Business. I am &c.


Title: General Orders, 19 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Tuesday Octr 19th [1779]
          Parole Allegheney—  C. Signs Brodhead. Hardin—


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 19 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 19th October 1779

        It gave me pleasure to hear by yours of the 28th ulto that 400 Men were equipped and nearly ready to march to the Southward. I hope as the sickly season is now declining that many of the remainder will be ‘ere long fit for duty. You will be pleased to send them on as they recover: For although we have the greatest reason to flatter ourselves that the enemy will be crushed for the present in Georgia and South Carolina, yet it is not improbable but that they may renew their attack upon that, our weak quarter, as soon as the French fleet returns to the West Indies, unless they find us sufficiently guarded.
        I have wrote to Docr Shippen the Director General, and have pressed him to endeavour to send Surgeons from Philada or procure them for you to the Southward. We have them not here. I hope the approaching season will also help to repair your health.
        We are waiting most anxiously for news from the Southward, having recd nothing official since the arrival of the french fleet upon the Coast.
        By accounts from Rhode Island ⟨the⟩ enemy are about evacuating that place, mean⟨ing,⟩ I imagine, to concentre their force at New York. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Shippen, Jr., 19 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Shippen, William Jr.

          Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 19th Octbr 1779.

        General Scott writes me by the last post that he is in the utmost distress for Regimental Surgeons. There is an absolute and immediate necessity for appointments to the regiments which march to the Southward. King he has heard nothing of. You will be pleased to order two surgeons and their mates to join him with all expedition at Petersburg in Virginia—where they will receive his instructions. Should there be any subject to your orders in Virginia or to be obtained by your assistants, it will be nearer Genl Scott, and serve the purpose as well as if they were to go from Philadelphia.
        I have received your letter of the 7th instant, inclosing the General Hospital return. I am Sir &.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 19 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Van Schaick, Goose

          Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 19 October 1779

        I have your favr of the 13th respecting the applications of a number of the Wives of the Officers and Soldiers, whose Husbands were upon the Western expedition, for Rations. This is a thing which I have never known to be allowed, and which if admitted in one instance, might be claimed by the families of the whole Army. The New York troops will be at this post in a few days, when the Wives of as many of the Soldiers, as are generally allowed to follow the Army, may join and be subsisted as usual. If any remain, I cannot undertake to give an order for them to draw provisions. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 19 October 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Heights of Haverstraw [N.Y.] 19th Octr 1779

        I was honored with your favor of the 17th last Evening & had a Similar acct out from Stoney Point the day preceeding & took measures accordingly—but have not as yet been able to discover any Alteration in the Garrison or Shiping.
        Yours of the 18th this moment came to hand—I shall set the troops to work at the Gabions & facines the moment the bill Hooks arrive, & in the Interim will be preparing the pickets.
        from Marching & Counter marching both Officers & men are nearly barefoot—I have sent frequently to the Clothier Generals Store for a Supply of this Essential Article without Effect—will your Excellency be so Obliging as to Issue an Order for Mr Woodbridge the A.Q.M. to receive fifteen Hunderd pair of Shoes for the men of this Corps—or as many as can be procured which shall be equally Distributed among the most needy—and proper Returns & vouchers transmitted to the Respective Regimental paymasters.
        Inclosed is a Requisition which, I was almost Induced to Comply with—(without asking leave)—from the Distressed Condition of these & other Gentlemen of the Corps whose frequent & necessary Marches over this Un⟨even⟩ Ground—renders this or some Other Effectual mode—Absolutely necessary to make their Situation tolerable. I am your Excellency’s Most Obt & much obliged Hume Sert

          Anty Wayne


Title: General Orders, 20 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores House [West Point]Wednesday Octr 20th [1779]
          Parole Mercer—  C. Signs Nash. Boyd—

        The Commander in Chief is pleased to accept the following report of a Court of enquiry whereof Brigr Genel Glover was President appointed to examine into sundry charges exhibited against Colonel Greaton by the non commissioned officers and soldiers of his regiment, who were unanimously of opinion that the charges exhibited

against Colonel Greaton are groundless and malicious and not supported in any point, and that he has conducted the affairs of his regiment with honor and strict justice to his men.
        James King (alias James McMullen) of the 3rd Maryland regiment, was tried the 15th instant at the General Court-Martial whereof Colonel Starr is President for “Repeated desertions”—found guilty and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes well laid on his naked back, and that one hundred and twenty dollars be stoped out of his wages and refunded to the 9th Pennsylvania regiment being the bounty he received from the same at the time of his inlisting.
        The General confirms the sentence and orders it to be put into execution tomorrow so far as it regards the stripes, at the head of the regiment to which he belongs—and that the stopages be made agreeable to the sentence.


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

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] 20th October 1779

        Yours of the 15th inclosing two letters from General parsons on the subject of the claims of Rank of several Officers in the Connecticut line, came to my hands a few days ago. To admit a revival of Claims, after the line has been arranged and Commissions issued in consequence, would set the whole afloat again, and would inevitably produce that general discontent and disorder by which we had been so long perplexed—I have for that Reason been obliged to refuse all applications of a similar nature.
        The case of Major Cleft and Capt. Watson, which, very probably,

as you observe has given rise to the applications above referred to, was peculiarly circumstanced. They were excepted when the other parts of the arrangement were compleated, as some proofs necessary to support their respective claims could not then be obtained. Their dispute affected each other only, and did not interfere with the Rank of any other Officers. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 20 October 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Mandevilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]Octr 20th 1779

        By repeated reports of deserters from verplanks point, it appears that a Small guard Consisting of a Subaltern Serjeant Corporal and fifteen men mount daily at gun firing in the morning advanced of their present works at the place where they Some time Since had a Block House which has been removed, this Guard mount Three Sentinels in the day time and retire within their works at dusk, it is probable, that a party of forty or fifty men concealed a little before break of day near the place on each Side with a like number as a Covering party in the wood to the East, might Surprise and bring off this Guard upon or Soon after their arrival at the post, the place is within Gun Shot of their works at long shot but our party would immediately retire over the Hill into the Bushes, I wish to know your Excellencys opinion whether it be an Object worthey of attempt Supposing Some triffling loss. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellency most obedient Servt

          W. Heath


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

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] 20th October 1779

        I am always willing to encourage a spirit of enterprize when any thing can be effected without a probability of much loss or danger. If any Officer is willing to undertake the matter you mention, I have no objection. Much will depend upon the fidelity of the party, for if

one deserts he endangers and perhaps defeats the whole. The intelligence given by the Horseman comports with that of the Deserter who came in this day. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Innes, 20 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Innes, James

          sir
          West point October the 20th 1779

        I have been honoured with the Board’s Letter of the 18th Ulto and am exceedingly sorry to find—that they had to encounter such difficulties with respect to supplies of Cloathing for the Troops of their State. I hope however from the disposition they shew and the exertions they had determined to make, that the Troops, both Officers & Men, will not experience even for the present, the distresses they have heretofore suffered from a scantiness of Supplies in this instance—and in future from the providence of the Board as well as their inclination that these will be still lessened. As to the means or mode of doing it—the Board from their own experience and a superior knowledge of their own resources and of a variety of local circumstances—will be better able to determine than I possibly can; however I should think—the State itself importing the Cloathing or at least all the Articles for it in the first instance, would be the most eligible plan from every consideration. I inclose a description of the Uniform agreed on for the Virginia line, in a general Arrangement that has been adopted.
        The putting of the Militia on a respectable Military footing—is certainly a desireable object—and whatever can ought to be done, to effect it. In a Country however like ours, where the Inhabitants are thinly settled—and where the Laws which have generally prevailed, have not in their foundation been much calculated to introduce discipline and less attended to in their execution—it is a work at least of great difficulty. All reforms must be the result of Legislative establishments—and the nearer these can be brought to the System which governs regular Armies—the better; the genius however & the prejudices of the people must be regarded. The first & most essential point is to arm them, this done, the bare report will have an influence to prevent invasions & descents.
        I will communicate such parts of the Board’s Letter as relate to

Captain Travis, to Mr Beatty, Commissary of prisoners, who will take occasion to transmit the account to Mr Loring, although I do not think it very essential.
        I have now only to request that the Board will accept my warm acknowledgements for the very polite terms of their Letter—and assurances that I have the honor to be with great respect & esteem their Most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 20 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

          My dear Marqs
          West-point Octr 20th 1779

        On the 30th of last Month I wrote you a letter which in point of length, would almost extend from hence to Paris—It was to have been borne to you by Colo. Fleury, to whom the relation of some particulars was referred; but the advice of Count D’Estaings arrival at Georgia—& the hope given us by Congress of seeing him at New York has induced this Officer to suspend his voyage to go in pursuit of fresh laurels: of course my letter to you remained on hand, & gave me an oppertunity (at leizure hours) to take a copy of it; which is now sent by Monsr de la Colombe. The original I put into the hands of Monsr Gerard a few days ago, who gave me the honor of a visit before his departure for his native Country.
        We have been in hourly expectation for the last 15 days of seeing Count D’Estang off Sandy-hook—We have not heard a Syllable from Charles-town (in So. Carolina) since the 8th of Septr—those accts mentioned, that the Count intended to make his attack the next day. Under such circumstances you may easily form an idea of our impatience & anxiety—We are making every preparation in our power for an extensive & perfect co-operation with the fleet (if it comes) while the enemy whose expectation of it keeps pace with ours, are equally vigorous in preparing for defence. They are throwing up strong works at the narrows (both on long Island & Staten Island)—they are fortifying the point at Sandy-hook (on which the light Ho. stands) & every other spot which can contribute to the defence either of the harbour

or the City—besides which, they have already sunk eight, & have 12 more large Ships to sink in the channel within the light House; and Transports are gone to Rhode Island with a view, it is said, to take off the Garrison. in a word, if they are not horribly frightned, they certainly are in horrid confusion—they work incessantly; and will, it is to be feared, render the entrance into the harbour extremely difficult if not impracticable, if the operations to the Southward should delay the Count much, if any longer.
        General Sullivan has compleated the entire destruction of the Country of the Six Nations—driven all the Inhabitents—Men Women & Children out of it—and is at Easton on his return to join this Army, with the Troops under his command—He has performed this Service without loosing 40 Men either by the enemy or by sickness—while the Six Nations were under this rod of correction—the Mingo & Muncy Tribes living up the Alligany—French Creek—& other Waters of the Ohio above Fort Pitt, met with similar chastisemt from Colo. Brodhead, who with 600 Men advanced upon them at the same Instt & laid waste their Country. These unexpected & severe strokes, has disconcerted—humbled—& distressed the Indians exceedingly, & will, I am perswaded, be productive of great good; as they are undeniable proofs to them that Great Britain cannot protect them, & that it is in our power to chastize them whenever their hostile conduct deserves it.
        The embarkation mentioned in my letter of the 30th of Septr did actually take place, & consisted of near 6000 Men (the flower of the British Army) under the command of Lord Cornwall⟨is⟩ who with these Troops Sailed the 25th of that Month; and two days afterwards returned, having received some Intelligence of Count D’Estaings being on the Coast of Georgia whither it is said this armament was destined. they are relanded & now at N. York—The first detachment from that place Supposed to have Sailed for Hallifax, but in reallity designed for Canada (consisting as I mentioned to you in my last of the 44 compleated British & two Hessian Regiments) met with a storm at Sea which dispersed the transports, two of which containing near 400 Hessians fell into our hands & are now in Phila.—two others returned to New York dismasted—of the others no acct is yet obtained.
        Before this letter reaches you, you will no doubt have heard, that Mr Jay (late Presidt of Congress) goes Minister Plenipo: to the Court of Madrid & Mr Carmichael as his Secretary. That Mr John Adams return⟨s⟩ to your Court for special purposes & Mr Dana goes as his Secretary—and that Mr John Laurens (my Aid) who flew to So. Carolina when his Country was in danger is appointed Secretary to Doctr

Franklin but whether he will accept or not I cannot say as I have not seen him since the Month of March last.
        I hope ‘ere this, my letter of the 29th of Decr or the duplicate of it, inclosing one to Doctr Franklin expressive of the Sentiments I entertaind in your favour has got to your hands but lest they should not, I forward, though late, triplicates; more from a desire of proving to you my inclination to do justice to your merit, than from an opinion it will be of any service to you to possess these testimonials.
        It only remains for me now, to beg the favour of you to present my respectful compliments to your (but have I not a right, as you say she has made a tender of her love to me—to call her my) amiable & lovely Marchioness—& to assure you that with every sentiment of the most perfect regard, & personal attachmt I have the honr to be My Dear Marquis Yr Most Obedt & affect. Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 20 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

          Dr Sr
          Hd Qrs [West Point] Octr 20th 1779

        The crowded situation of the Troops in this quarter & the difficulty in procuring forage & other matters induces me to desire you will halt those under your command, in the neighbourhood of Chester where they will be best accommodated. Any distance from 4 to 12 miles above that place towards Sussex Court House will be a convenient position, & answer every purpose in case a co-operation with the Count should happen—I have mentioned the matter to Genl Greene, who will probably have fixed on the ground for your encampment and will give you timely notice When you are fixed in your Camp you will be pleased, to take every opportunity of maneuvreing the troops—The necessity of doing it I need not urge to you—The hours fixed on here for that purpose are from 9 to 11 in the forenoon & from 3 to 5 in the afternoon—We have no certain accounts of the french fleet, or what success it has had to the Southward—The report however is, that both the British Army & Navy there are captured—A short time must determine the truth of this report. I am, &ca

          G.W.


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

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Thursday Octr 21st 1779.
          Parole Thomas—  C. Signs Worster. Warren.

        The Honorable the Congress on the 14th instant have been pleased to pass an act, of which the following is an extract. Resolved—That the thanks of Congress be given to Major General Sullivan and the brave officers and soldiers under his command for effectually executing an important expedition against such of the Indian Nations, as encouraged by the councils and conducted by the officers of his britannic Majesty had perfidiously waged an unprovoked & cruel war against these United-States—laid waste many of their defenceless towns and with savage barbarity slaughtered the Inhabitants thereof.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Duportail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 21 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle,Hamilton, Alexander

          Gentn
          West point October the 21st 1779

        In my Letters of the 10th & 18th I transmitted All the intelligence I had obtained, respecting the Enemy from the time of your departure to those two periods; and, by the present conveyance, I enclose You an Extract of a Letter from Major General Gates of the 15th.—By

this you will perceive he was fully persuaded, that the Enemy were preparing to evacuate Rhode Island—and he expected, from his advices, they would do it on Monday or Tuesday last. Whether the event has taken place or not as yet, is a matter I cannot determine, having received no information since upon the subject; but admitting it has not, there is no room to doubt that they have All things in a condition to do it, on the shortest notice—whenever they shall think the exigency of their affairs require it. It is also equally certain, that they continue to carry on their Fortifications for the defence of New York, with the utmost industry and perseverance, and appear to be providing for the most obstinate resistance. Indeed as their reduction would be attended with the most alarming and fatal consequences to their Nation, Nothing else can be reasonably expected. The moment I hear the Troops have left Rhode Island—I will advise You. The Garrisons of Verplank & Stony points still remain; but from the concurring accounts of Deserters, the Heavy baggage and Stores, except about Eighteen or Twenty Rounds for each Cannon, are embarked—and all matters are putting in train for an Evacu⟨a⟩tion, in case events make it necessary. ⟨The⟩ Deserters add, as a circumstance of confir⟨ma⟩tion, that Sir Henry Clinton was up at the posts about Eight days ago, and ⟨that⟩ from that time they have totally de⟨clined⟩ carrying on any Works.
        Having given you the substance ⟨of⟩ the Intelligence received since my last I am led, from the vast magnitude of the Object which carried You from Head Quarters and the very interesting consequences it may involve, all of which I am persuaded will occur to your consideration, to remark—that the Count’s entering New York Bay, with his fleet, must be the basis and Ground work of any co-operation that can be undertaken by us—either for the reduction of the Enemy’s whole force, or the destruction of their Shipping only. Every thing will absolutely depend upon it in either case; as without it and a free & open communication up & down the Rivers and in the sound, which cannot be effected & maintained in any other way—we could not possibly undertake any operations on Long Island, as our Supplies of provisions & Stores—could only be obtained by water. This point I am certain would have your due consideration, but it appearing to me—the Hinge—the One thing—upon which all Others must rest, I could not forbear mentioning it. The circumstance of the Season now—the expenditure of Wood and the necessity of supplying it &c. will of course be fully attended to according to their importance, and I have only to add, from a desire of preventing a misconception by either side—if any Cooperation is agreed on—that the terms and conditions may be explicitly understood. And whether it shall extend to an attempt to reduce the

Enemy’s whole force—or only to the destruction of their Shipping—your engagements will provide for the continuance of the Count’s fleet to secure our retreat and the removal of our Stores from Long & York Island, if unhappily it should be found on experiment—that neither is practicable & we should be obliged to abandon the Enterprize. I am Gentn with great regard & respect—Yr Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington

          p.S. ¼ after 3 P.M. Three deserters have just come in who left Verplank’s point last night. They all corroborate the accounts, by a detail of circumstances, of the preparations to evacuate both that & Stony point. I have no doubt that thing’s will at least be held in readiness.

            Go: Washington

          ½ after 5. P.M. After dispatching the above, I received a Letter from Major General Heath of which the following is a Copy.
          “I now have the pleasure to acquaint your Excellency that the Enemy have left both points having burnt & destroyed their Works.” Mandevilles Octr 21—1779 4 OClock P.M.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Jacobus Swartwout, 21 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Swartwout, Jacobus

          Sir
          [West Point] October 21. 1779

        Colo. Hay has mentioned to me the necessity there is for the Roads being repaired before the Autumn & Winter Rains begin to fall—and that he had proposed to You that parties of the Militia about to assemble at Fish Kill should be left in each district under the direction of proper Officers for the purpose. The plan is perfectly agreable to me—and as it is very interesting that the Roads should be put in order you will be pleased to employ parties in the way Colo. Hay has proposed. They can be drawn together the instant their services are more materially wanted else where. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 21 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 21st Octobr 1779.

        In consequence of yours of the 19th I gave your Qr Mr an order for 500 pair of shoes which, considering the stock on hand, is a full proportion for your Corps. I have directed all the Commissaries of Hides

to collect and send in all the shoes they possibly can procure, and I am not without hopes that we shall in a little time have a sufficiency.
        It is not in my power to grant the request of the Officers of Colo. Febigers Regt in regard to exchanging Hides for Boots and Shoes. It is true, things of a similar nature have heretofore been done, but the whole Business of the Hide department has lately been put into the Hands of Commissaries under the direction of the Board of War, who have, in the most pointed manner, desired me to admit of no further exchanges by any but the Commissaries—who are to deliver the shoes to the Cloathier General.
        Necessity obliges me to desire you to dispense for the present with one part of military duty—that of firing a morning and evening Gun—You cannot conceive how much value we ought to set upon every Cartridge—you will, I dare say understand me, and will no doubt see the propriety of my saying no more upon a subject that ought to be concealed as much as possible—We have a favorable account from the southward, tho’ not official Doctor Johnson who does me the favor to carry this, has the particulars. I am with great Esteem Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 21 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters [West Point] Octor 21st 1779

        Since writing to you this morning I have received accounts from deserters which seem strongly to indicate a speedy evacuation of

Verplanks & Stoney Points—There is some reason to think that Verplanks was left last night. The deserters add that the Grenadiers were embarked and laying off against Fort Washington and that two other regiments were under orders to Embark at a moments warning. If this be true, we should suppose that they have some meaning by the maneuvre—perhaps an attempt to strike you and the Troops in your neighbourhood, or Genl Howe with those under him upon the East side, after having joined the force of the Garrisons to those before mentioned. This is mere matter of opinion, founded upon what may turn out false information, but I have thought it proper to put you upon your guard—And you will be pleased to communicate this to Lord Stirling, if he has joined his division or the Commanding Officer, if he has not. I am Dr Sir Yr Mo., Obet, servt

          Go: Washington

          P.s. Should the Enemy evacuate Stoney Point you will take possession of it, with the necessary caution.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 21 October 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Light Infantry Camp 21st Octr 1779½ after One OClock P.M.

        about 10 OClock last evening I recd Intelligence that a number of flat Bottomed boats & Several vessels were moving up Haverstraw bay—the troops were Ordered to lay on their arms & Several patroles detatched towards the Enemies Lines to Observe thier Motions, the whole Concuring that some Capital move was in agitation—but could not discover whether it was an Embarkation or a Debarkation.

        at 12 at Night I put the troops in motion in Order to Strike the Enemy in flank the Moment they shou’d pass the Morass—& Endeavour to enter with them—but all continued very quiet until day light—when I could Observe them busily employed in Imbarking their Baggage & Cannon—About 10 OClock they began to Demolish their parapets & fraise on Verplanks point but—had not attempted anything of that sort at Stoney Point—but seemed to wait for the tide of ebb—I have sent for Genl Woodfords Artillery and am Determined to prevent them from Demolishing the face of their works at Stoney point—they will probably burn or blow up their Block Houses.
        I shall only keep a Captains gua[r]d at Stoney Point until I hear further from your Excellency—for be assured the ⟨Works⟩ will be in our possession this Night—the moment we enter them I shall Announce it by the firing of five Cannon—Observing the time of half a Minute between each gun. Interim I am your Excellency’s Most Obt & very Hume Sert

          Anty Wayne


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Holden Parsons, 1 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Holden Parsons, 1 Aug. 1779. On 1 Aug., GW wrote Parsons: “I return you my thanks for the intelligence contained in your letter of this date.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 3 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 3 Aug. 1779. On 4 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I received your letter of yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 3 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 3 Aug. 1779. On 4 Aug., GW’s secretary Robert Hanson Harrison noted on the draft of a letter forwarding an intelligence report to the Massachusetts Council that Stirling had transmitted the report “in his of the 3d of Augt.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 4 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 4 Aug. 1779. On 6 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I yesterday received your favor of the 4th.”


Title: To George Washington from John Beatty, 5 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Beatty, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Beatty, 5 Aug. 1779. On 19 Aug., GW wrote Beatty: “I have considered your report of the 5 instant.”


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 6 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Board of War, 6 Aug. 1779. On 16 Aug., GW wrote the Board of War: “I am favd with yours of the 6th.” At the end of its letter to GW of 14 Aug., the Board of War added the following note: “The resolves & instructions for the ⟨hide⟩ department forwarded to H. Quarters the 6th inst.”


Title: To George Washington from John Taylor, 6 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Taylor, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Taylor, 6 Aug. 1779. On 10 Aug., GW wrote Taylor: “I have been duly favored with your letter of the 6th inst.”


Title: To George Washington from an unidentified person, 6 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From:
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from an unidentified person, 6 Aug. 1779. On 9 Aug., GW wrote an unidentified person: “I was favored with your letter of the 6th Inst. and its inclosure from Governor Trumbul.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 7 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 7 Aug. 1779. On 9 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I have received your (private) letter of the 7th.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 7 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 7 Aug. 1779. On 12 Aug., GW wrote Stirling: “I duly received Your favors of the 7th & 8th.”


Title: To George Washington from John Taylor, 7 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Taylor, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Taylor, 7 Aug. 1779. On 12 Aug., GW wrote Taylor: “Your favor of the 7th came to my hands about an hour ago.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 8 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 8 Aug. 1779. On 9 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “your letter of the 8th with its inclosure came to hand.”


Title: To George Washington from Elijah Hunter, 8 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Hunter, Elijah
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Elijah Hunter, 8 Aug. 1779. On 12 Aug., GW wrote Hunter: “I rec’d your favor of the 8th inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 8 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Joseph Reed, 8 Aug. 1779. On 22 Aug., GW wrote Reed: “Mr Tilghman delivered me your favour of the 8th Instt.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 8 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 8 Aug. 1779. On 12 Aug., GW wrote Stirling: “I duly received Your favors of the 7th & 8th.”


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 9 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Board of War, 9 Aug. 1779. On 21 Aug., GW wrote the Board of War: “I received the Boards Letter of the 9th.”


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 10 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Heath, 10 Aug. 1779. On 10 Aug., GW wrote Heath: “I have to acknowlege your favor of this day with its inclosure to your address from Gen: Nixon.”


Title: To George Washington from Horatio Gates, 11 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Horatio Gates, 11 Aug. 1779. On 17 Aug., GW wrote Gates: “I have recd your favr of the 11th instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 11 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 11 Aug. 1779. On 12 Aug., GW wrote Howe acknowledging “your letter of the 11th inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 11 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Lee, Jr., 11 Aug. 1779. On 12 Aug., GW wrote Major General Stirling that “by the inclosed letter of the 11th” Lee had proposed a modification of his plan to attack the British fort at Paulus Hook, New Jersey.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 Aug. 1779. In his 14 Aug. letter to Tallmadge, GW noted that he had received Tallmadge’s “favors” of 11 August. In that letter, GW also refers back to a subject not discussed in the 11 Aug. letter from Tallmadge printed above.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 13 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 13 Aug. 1779. On 14 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I have to acknowlege your favor of yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 13 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 13 Aug. 1779. On 15 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I have received your Favour of the 13th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from William Smallwood, 13 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Smallwood, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Smallwood, 13 Aug. 1779. On 15 Aug., GW wrote Smallwood: “I have received Your Letter of the 13th.”


Title: To George Washington from Vachel Burgess, 16 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Burgess, Vachel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Vachel Burgess, 16 Aug. 1779. On 16 Aug., GW wrote Burgess: “I received Your Letter of this date.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 16 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 16 Aug. 1779. On 17 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I have received your letter of yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 16 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 16 Aug. 1779. On 17 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I have also received your public letter of the 16th.”


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Marshall, 16 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Marshall, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thomas Marshall, 16 Aug. 1779. On 20 Aug., GW wrote Marshall: “I have received Your Letter of the 16th.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 19 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letters not found: from Robert Howe, 19 Aug. 1779. On 20 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I have both your favs. of Yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 20 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 20 Aug. 1779. On 21 Aug., GW wrote Stirling: “I have this moment received your letter of the 20th.”


Title: To George Washington from Ezekiel Porter Belden, 21 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Belden, Ezekiel Porter
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Ezekiel Porter Belden, 21 Aug. 1779. On 18 Aug., GW directed Maj. Gen. Robert Howe to assign a cavalry officer and a detachment of cavalry to proceed to Fishkill, N.Y., as an escort for the new minister of France, and he ordered Howe to have the officer “acquaint me with the arrival of his party that I may know where to send him my directions.” On 22 Aug., GW’s aide-de-camp Tench Tilghman acknowledged Belden’s “letter of the 21st” and gave him instructions for the escort duty (see GW to Howe, 18 Aug., n.1).


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 21 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 21 Aug. 1779. On 24 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I am this moment favoured with your two letters of yesterday, one public one private—and yesterday with that of the 21st.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 23 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letters not found: from Robert Howe, 23 Aug. 1779. On 24 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I am this moment favoured with your two letters of yesterday, one public one private.”


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Spotswood, 23 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Alexander Spotswood, 23 Aug. 1779. On 19 Sept., GW wrote Spotswood: “I have been just favoured with your Letter of the 23d of August.”


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 25 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lund Washington, 25 Aug. 1779. On 14 Sept., GW wrote Washington: “Your letter of the 25th Ulto … came to my hands yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from William Washington, 25 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Washington, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Washington, 25 Aug. 1779. On 29 Aug., GW wrote Washington: “I was favord with your letter of the 25th inst. advising me of your movement this way.”


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Wharton, Jr., 25 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Wharton, Joseph Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Joseph Wharton, Jr., 25 Aug. 1779. On 15 Sept., GW wrote Wharton: “Your favor of the 25th Ulto from Philadelphia came safe to my hands a few days ago.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 26 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letters not found: from Robert Howe, 26 Aug. 1779. On 28 Aug., GW wrote Howe: “I have been favored with your letters of the 26th and 27th inst. public—and that of the 26th marked private.”


Title: To George Washington from William Woodford and Peter Muhlenberg, 26 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Muhlenberg, Peter,Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Woodford and Peter Muhlenberg, 26 Aug. 1779. On 28 Aug., GW wrote Woodford and Muhlenberg: “I have received your favour of the 26th with the papers accompanying it.”


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Sherman, 27 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Sherman, Isaac
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Isaac Sherman, 27 Aug. 1779. On 27 Aug., GW wrote Sherman: “I have received Your Letter of this date.”


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 29 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Nathanael Greene, 29 Aug. 1779. On 3 Sept., GW wrote Greene: “I have received your letter of the 29th accompanied by those from the General Officers.”


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, c. 30 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Nathanael Greene, c. 30 Aug. 1779. On 31 Aug., GW wrote Greene: “I recd your favor respecting the state of the back road.”


Title: To George Washington from James Cole Mountflorence, 30 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Mountflorence, James Cole
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from James Cole Mountflorence, 30 Aug. 1779. On 28 Sept., GW wrote Mountflorence: “I received by yesterdays Post your letter of the 30th of August and am much obliged by your polite offer of service.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 30 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 30 Aug. 1779. On 1 Sept., GW wrote Stirling: “I was last Night favd with yours of the 30th Ulto with Colo. Taylors intelligence, and Rivingtons paper inclosed.”


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 30 Aug. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 30 Aug. 1779. On 3 Sept., GW wrote Trumbull: “I was honored yesterday with your Excellency’s Letter of the 30th Ulto.” The minutes of a meeting of the governor and the council of safety of Connecticut, dated this date, read in part: “Wrote a letter to Genl

Washington to see if he could give us any assistance as we expect the enemy will make a descent upon this State” (Conn. Public RecordsThe Public Records of the State of Connecticut . . . with the Journal of the Council of Safety . . . and an Appendix. 18 vols. to date. Hartford, 1894–.m, 2:392).


Title: To George Washington from Richard Butler, 1 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Butler, Richard
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Richard Butler, 1 Sept. 1779. On 2 Sept., GW wrote Butler: “I have recd yours of yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 1 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Lee, Jr., 1 Sept. 1779. On 1 Sept., GW wrote Lee: “I have received your letter of this date.”


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 1 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lund Washington, 1 Sept. 1779. On 14 Sept., GW wrote Washington: “Your letter … of the 1st Instt … came to my hands yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from John Welles, Eleazer Wales, and Edward Chinn, 1 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Chinn, Edward,Welles, John,Wales, Eleazer
To: Chinn, From John Welles, Eleazer Wales, and Edward

Letter not found: From John Welles, Eleazer Wales, and Edward Chinn, 1 Sept. 1779. On 22 Sept., GW wrote Welles, Wales, and Chinn: “Your favr of the 1st Inst. came to my hands yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 2 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Heath, 2 Sept. 1779. On 2 Sept., GW wrote Heath: “When yours of this morning came to Head Quarters, I was from home.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 3 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Lee, Jr., 3 Sept. 1779. On 3 Sept., GW wrote Lee: “In answer to your letter of this date which I have this minute received.”


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 3 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Livingston, 3 Sept. 1779. On 7 Sept., GW wrote Livingston: “I yesterday recd your favr of the 3d Inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Noirmont de La Neuville, 4 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Neuville, Noirmont de La
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Noirmont de La Neuville, 4 Sept. 1779. On 4 Sept., GW wrote La Neuville: “I have received your letter of this day with the two resolves of Congress.”


Title: To George Washington from Pierre-François de Bois, 5 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Bois, Pierre-François de
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Pierre-François de Bois, 5 Sept. 1779. On 27 Sept., GW wrote de Bois: “I have received Your Letter of the 5th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Horatio Gates, 5 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Horatio Gates, 5 Sept. 1779. On 14 Sept., GW wrote Gates: “I have been favd with yours of the 5th.”


Title: To George Washington from Moses Hazen, 5 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Hazen, Moses
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Moses Hazen, 5 Sept. 1779. On 17 Sept., GW wrote Hazen: “I have to acknowlege the receipt of your favor dated the 5th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 5 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letters not found: from Robert Howe, 5 Sept. 1779. On 7 Sept., GW wrote Howe: “I have to acknowlege your two favors of the 5th inst. one public the other marked private.”


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 5 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benjamin Tallmadge, 5 Sept. 1779. On 7 Sept., GW wrote Tallmadge: “I have recd yours of the 4th inclosing C—— letter No. 22. and also that of the 5th.”


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 9 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Board of War, 9 Sept. 1779. On 18 Sept., GW wrote the Board of War: “I have been honored with yours of the 9th inclosing an abstract of the powder brought in by Capt. Ashmead.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 9 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 9 Sept. 1779. On 11 Sept., GW wrote Howe and acknowledged receipt of “yours of the 9th” that reported “the success of Major Tallmadges excursion.”


Title: To George Washington from Thaddeus Kosciuszko, 9 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Kosciuszko, Thaddeus
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Thaddeus Kosciuszko, 9 Sept. 1779. On 9 Sept., GW acknowledged Kosciuszko’s letter “of this morning.”


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 10 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Board of War, 10 Sept. 1779. On 18 Sept., GW wrote William Woodford and Peter Muhlenberg: “I have just received the Arrangement of the Virginia line from the Board of War—as settled at Middle Brook in March—which I inclose with a Copy of the Board’s Letter of the 10th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from William Brownlee and Robert Kirk, 11 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Brownlee, William,Kirk, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Brownlee and Robert Kirk, 11 Sept. 1779. On 20 Sept., GW wrote Brownlee and Kirk: “I have recd yours of the 11th Inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Theophilus Munson, 11 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Munson, Theophilus
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Theophilus Munson, 11 Sept. 1779. On 13 Sept., GW’s aide-de-camp Tench Tilghman wrote Munson from headquarters: “In answer to yours of the 11th His Excellency desires you may be informed that you can only take Rank in the Connecticut line from the time that you was last appointed by the Governor and Council. By a Resolve of Congress a resignation bars all claim to former Rank, and your leaving Glovers and Lees Regiments and not accepting your first appointment in Connecticut must be looked upon in the light of resignations. The dispute subsisting between Major Cleft and Captain Watson is of a different nature from yours and their claims upon a different foundation from what you alledge” (ADfS, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Volckert Pieterse Douw, 12 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Douw, Volckert Pieterse
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Volckert Pieterse Douw, 12 Sept. 1779. On 27 Sept., GW wrote Douw: “I have been favd with yours of the 12th inclosing Copy of your speech to the Oneidas and Tuscarora’s.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 12 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 12 Sept. 1779. On 18 Sept., GW wrote Howe: “I recd yours of the 12th 14th and 15th.”


Title: To George Washington from William Woodford, 12 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Woodford, 12 Sept. 1779. On 18 Sept., GW wrote Woodford: “I received Your Letter of the 12th some days ago.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 15 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 15 Sept. 1779. On 18 Sept., GW wrote Howe: “I recd yours of the 12th 14th and 15th.”


Title: To George Washington from James Wilkinson, 15 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from James Wilkinson, 15 Sept. 1779. On 16 Sept., GW wrote Wilkinson: “I have received Your Letter of the 15th inclosing Copies of the correspondence between you and Mr Measom—on the Two preceding days.”


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 16 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Board of War, 16 Sept. 1779. On 22 Sept., GW wrote the Board of War: “I was yesterday honored with yours of the 16th: the general Return of Military Stores accompanying it was delivered safely to me.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 16 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 16 Sept. 1779. On 18 Sept., GW wrote Howe: “I was yesterday favd with yours of the 16th.”


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 17 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Heath, 17 Sept. 1779. On 18 Sept., GW wrote Heath: “I have your favors of the 14th & 17th.”


Title: To George Washington from John Taylor, 17 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Taylor, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Taylor, 17 Sept. 1779. On 19 Sept., GW wrote Taylor: “I have recd your favr of the 17th.” In his letter to John Jay of 19–20 Sept., GW quoted the text of an intelligence report that Taylor apparently included as part of this letter.


Title: To George Washington from Ann Robinson, 18 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Robinson, Ann
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Ann Robinson, 18 Sept. 1779. On 27 Oct., GW wrote to Robinson: “I have received your letter of the 18 of last month relative to the slave which Col. Morgan had secured” (DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 18 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 18 Sept. 1779. On 19 Sept., GW wrote to Stirling: “I have been favored with your Lordships letter of the 18th.”


Title: To George Washington from the Virginia Board of War, 18 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Virginia Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Virginia Board of War, 18 Sept. 1779. On 20 Oct., GW wrote James Innes, a member of that board: “I have been honoured with the Board’s letter of the 18th Ulto.”


Title: To George Washington from Israel Putnam, 20 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Israel Putnam, 20 Sept. 1779. On this date, GW wrote Putnam: “I have your favr of this morning respecting Capt. Lyman.”


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Wayne, 20 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Anthony Wayne, 20 Sept. 1779. On 21 Sept., GW wrote Wayne: “Your letter of yesterday evening came to hand late last night.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 21 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Lee, Jr., 21 Sept. 1779. On 25 Sept., GW wrote Lee: “I was yesterday favd with yours of the 21st.”


Title: To George Washington from John Beatty, 22 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Beatty, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Beatty, 22 Sept. 1779. On 23 Sept., GW wrote Beatty: “I have received your report dated the 22d of your transactions with Mr Loring on the subject of exchanges.”


Title: To George Washington from Theodorick Bland, 22 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Theodorick Bland, 22 Sept. 1779. On 13 Oct., GW wrote Bland: “I have been favored with your letters of the 22d & 23 of last month.”


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 22 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Jay, 22 Sept. 1779. On 30 Sept., GW wrote Samuel Huntington: “I have been honored with your Excellency’s favors of the 22d and 23d instants.”


Title: To George Washington from Stephen Moylan, 22 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Stephen Moylan, 22 Sept. 1779. On 24 Sept., GW wrote Moylan: “I am favd with yours of the 22d.”


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 22 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benjamin Tallmadge, 22 Sept. 1779. On 24 Sept., GW wrote Tallmadge: “I this morning received your letter of the 22d.”


Title: To George Washington from Theodorick Bland, 23 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Theodorick Bland, 23 Sept. 1779. On 13 Oct., GW wrote Bland: “I have been favored with your letters of the 22d & 23 of last month.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 23 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 23 Sept. 1779. On 25 Sept., GW wrote Stirling: “I was yesterday favd with yours of the 23d inclosing Major Lees and Major Hays letters.”


Title: To George Washington from James Mercer, 24 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Mercer, James
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from James Mercer, 24 Sept. 1779. On 14 Oct., GW wrote Mercer: “I received your favor of the 24th of September.”


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Ward, 24 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Ward, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Joseph Ward, 24 Sept. 1779. On 25 Sept., GW wrote Ward: “I have received your Letter of yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 26 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 26 Sept. 1779. On 27 Sept., GW wrote Howe: “I have this instant received your private letter of yesterdays date.”


Title: To George Washington from John Mitchell, 26 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Mitchell, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Mitchell, 26 Sept. 1779. On 30 Sept., GW wrote Mitchell: “I was last evening favoured with yours of the 26th.” For GW’s description of the contents of this letter, see GW to George Clinton, 1 October.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Hayes, 27 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Hayes, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Hayes, 27 Sept. 1779. On 30 Sept., GW wrote Hayes: “I have been duly handed your favor of the 27th with the intelligence which it covered.”


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 28 September 1779 [letter not found]
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Board of War, 28 September. On 2 Oct., GW wrote to the Board of War: “I have this moment received yours of the 28th inclosing a Resolve of the same date directing the detention of Majors General Phillips and Reidhesel and their families untill the further order of Congress.” For an indication of additional contents of this letter, see GW to Abraham Skinner, 2 October.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Scott, 28 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Charles Scott, 28 Sept. 1779. On 19 Oct., GW wrote Scott: “It gave me pleasure to hear by yours of the 28th ulto that 400 Men were equipped and nearly ready to march to the Southward.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 28 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Major General
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 28 Sept. 1779. On 30 Sept., GW wrote Stirling: “I have received your lordships favour of the 28th with the enclosed letter from Governor Livingston on the subject of Lady Mary’s visit to her friends.”


Title: To George Washington from Charles Thomson, 28 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Thomson, Charles
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Charles Thomson, 28 Sept. 1779. On 7 Oct., GW wrote to Thomson: “I have been honored with yours of the 28th Ulto.”


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 30 Sept. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Sullivan, 30 Sept. 1779. On 8 Oct., GW wrote Sullivan: “I have had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 28th ulto from Chemung and 30th from Tioga.”


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 2 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 2 Oct. 1779. On 7 Oct., GW wrote Trumbull: “I have this moment been honored with yours of the 2d.” For more on the contents of Trumbull’s letter, see GW to Trumbull, 10 October.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 3 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Lee, Jr., 3 Oct. 1779. On 7 Oct., GW wrote Lee: “Your favor of the 3d inst. came to hand yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 3 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benjamin Tallmadge, 3 Oct. 1779. On 6 Oct., GW wrote Tallmadge: “I received last evening your letter of the 3d.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 4 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 4 Oct. 1779. On 6 Oct., GW wrote Howe: “I have been duly favored with your two letters of the 4th & 5th inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Ackerman, 5 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Ackerman, Abraham
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Abraham Ackerman, 5 Oct. 1779. On 9 Oct., GW wrote Ackerman: “I have received Your Letter of the 5th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from James Wilkinson, 5 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from James Wilkinson, 5 Oct. 1779. On 8 Oct., GW wrote Wilkinson: “I have received Your Letter of the 5th.”


Title: To George Washington from Peter Muhlenberg, 6 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Muhlenberg, Peter
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Peter Muhlenberg, 6 Oct. 1779. On 12 Oct., GW wrote Muhlenberg: “I have received your Letter of the 6th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 7 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benjamin Tallmadge, 7 Oct. 1779. On 9 Oct., GW wrote Tallmadge: “I have your favr of the 7th inclosing a letter for Major Jameson who is in south Carolina.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Remsen, 10 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Remsen, Henry
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Remsen, 10 Oct. 1779. On 17 Oct., GW wrote Remsen: “I have been favored with your letter of the 10th inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Lewis Nicola, 11 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lewis Nicola, 11 Oct. 1779. On 19 Oct., GW wrote Nicola: “I have recd yours of the 11th Inst.”


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 11 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Sullivan, 11 Oct. 1779. On 14 Oct., GW wrote Sullivan: “I received your favor of the 11th instant.”


Title: To George Washington from William Woodford, 11 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Woodford, 11 Oct. 1779. On 12 Oct., GW wrote Woodford: “I have received your favor of the 11th.”


Title: To George Washington from Goose Van Schaick, 13 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Schaick, Goose Van
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Goose Van Schaick, 13 Oct. 1779. On 19 Oct., GW wrote Van Schaick: “I have your favr of the 13th.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 14 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Robert Howe, 14 Oct. 1779. On 14 Oct., GW wrote Howe: “I recd your favr of this date.”


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 14 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Joseph Reed, 14 Oct. 1779. On 22 Oct., GW wrote Reed: “Three days ago I received your obliging favor of the 14th” (RPJCB).


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 16 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Heath, 16 Oct. 1779. On this date, GW’s secretary Robert Hanson Harrison wrote Heath: “I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter to His Excellency of this Evening. The General approves of the measures you have taken, in consequence of the movements of the Enemy, and thinks nothing more can be necessary upon the occasion” (MHi: Heath Papers).


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 16 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letters not found: from Robert Howe, 16 Oct. 1779. On 17 Oct., GW wrote Howe: “I was favd last Evening with your two letters of yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from John Glover, 18 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Glover, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Glover, 18 Oct. 1779. On 26 Oct., GW wrote Glover acknowledging receipt of his “favor of the 18th Instant” concerning commissions for the Massachusetts officers (DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Silvanus Seely, 20 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Seely, Silvanus
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Silvanus Seely, 20 Oct. 1779. On 24 Oct., GW wrote Seely: “I have received your Letter of the 20th” (in private hands).


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 21 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Heath, 21 Oct. 1779. On 21 Oct., GW wrote to Bridadier General Duportail and Lt. Col. Alexander Hamilton: “I received a Letter from Major General Heath of which the following is a Copy. ‘I now have the pleasure to acquaint your Excellency that the Enemy have left both points having burnt & destroyed their Works.’ Mandevilles Octr 21—1779 4 OClock P.M.”


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 21 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Letters not found: from Robert Howe, 21 Oct. 1779. On 22 Oct., GW wrote Howe: “I have been duly favored with your two letters—both of the 21st” (DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, Jr., 21 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Lee, Jr., 21 Oct. 1779. On 25 Oct., GW wrote Lee: “I have your favr of the 21st” (DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Wayne, 21 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Anthony Wayne, 21 Oct. 1779. On 22 Oct., Wayne wrote to GW: “I did myself the honor to Inform your Excellency of the Evacuation of Stoney & verplanks points, in mine of yesterday, dated ½ after 3 OClock P.M.” (PHi).


Title: To George Washington from William Woodford, 21 Oct. 1779 [letter not found]
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Woodford, 21 Oct. 1779. On 22 Oct., GW wrote Woodford: “I recd yours of yesterday” (DLC:GW).


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 22 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

          Sir
          Head Quarters West point 22d October 1779.

        I was, in due time, favd with yours of the 15th I very much approve of your intention of marching immediately to Har[t]ford, with the Continental and State troops under your command, should the evacuation of Rhode Island take place.
        I will not undertake to decide upon the propriety of throwing a Garrison of Militia into Newport, because, it in a great measure depends upon the pleasure of the State, but, in my private opinion, there is a considerable risque attending it. The enemy are undoubtedly concentering their force, upon a presumption, that there is imminent danger of an attack by the united Arms of France and America. Now, should the lateness of the Season—engagements of another nature in the West Indies—or any unforeseen accident call off the Count D’Estaing, after operating to the Southward—the Enemy, releived from their fears, would very probably think of repossessing Rhode Island, which they have undoubtedly found of great use and convenience to them for Quarters, and as a safe port. How easily they could effect this, with a superiority by Sea, your own judgment and experience will readily convince you—I should think, if the State has no objection, that all the Works, except a few upon the water side to prevent the insults of privateers or small ships of War, should instantly, upon an evacuation, be demolished, and that no more men or stores should be kept upon the Island, than would be necessary for the purpose just mentioned, and who, from the smallness of their numbers, might be withdrawn at any time, on the shortest notice.
        Inclosed you will find a Resolve of Congress of the 9th explanatory of their Act of the 18th Augt respecting subsistence.
        I am sorry that it is not in my power to do more than I have done for the releif of Major Harnage and Capt. Hawker. It lays with Sir Henry Clinton to accept of either a parole or final exchange for them. Neither can I permit Major Gardiner to go into New York to sollicit his exchange.
        I have not yet recd any official accounts from the southward, which is most amazing. The inclosed came the day before yesterday from Philadelphia. The Gentleman who transmits it, and Colo. Patton, who brought it from North Carolina, are both so

worthy of credibility, that we may, at least, flatter ourselves, it will prove substantially true.
        The enemy yesterday set fire to and abandonned their Works upon Stoney and Verplanks points. I am Sir Your most obt and humble Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 22 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West point 22d Octbr 1779.

        I have been duly favored with your two letters—both of the 21st.
        The approbation of the Court of enquiry on Col. Greaton has been in General orders—and transmitted by the Adjutant general to Genl Heath. I am sir &.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Robert Howe, 22 October 1779
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Robert Howe, 22 Oct. 1779. GW wrote Howe on 24 Oct.: “Both your favors of yesterday came to hand last Evening as did that of the 22d.”


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Benjamin Lincoln, 22 October 1779
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Benjamin Lincoln, 22 Oct. 1779. GW wrote Lincoln on 12 Dec.: “I had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 22d October.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 22 October 1779
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 22 Oct. 1779. GW wrote Stirling on 26 Oct.: “I have been favored with your letter of the 22d.”


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, 22 October 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, 22 Oct. 1779. GW wrote Sullivan on 25 Oct.: “I have been duly favored with your letter of the 22d.”


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 22 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 22d October 1779

        I have yet recd no official Accounts from the southward—The inclosed was brought the day before yesterday from Philada. The Gentleman who transmits the account from thence and Colo. Patton who brought the intelligence from North Carolina, are both so worthy of credibility that I flatter myself it will prove substantially true—altho’ it is difficult to account for its not having arrived officially to Philada as so much time had elapsed since the Action is said to have happened.

        The enemy yesterday set fire to and abandonned their Works upon Stoney and Verplanks points and have fallen down the River. I have the honor to be with the highest Respect and Esteem Yr Excellency’s Most obt.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 22 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] 22d October 1779

        I recd yours of yesterday late last night—I had, previous to the arrival of it, heard of the evacuation of the points, from the other side of the River.
        I purpose going down early tomorrow morning—Be pleased therefore to order a covering party of 100 Men to be upon Stoney point tomorrow morning by eight OClock—at which time I shall be glad to meet you there. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 22 October 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Light Infantry Camp heights of Haverstraw [N.Y.]22nd Octr 1779
          Dear General

        I recd your two favors of the 21st by Doctr Johnston—& the express—the first at 4. in the afternoon the latter at 11. OClock last Evening.

        I did myself the honor to Inform your Excellency of the Evacuation of Stoney & Verplanks points, in mine of yesterday, dated ½ after 3 OClock P.M. in which I met your Idea of caution in taking possession of that post, as I apprehended more danger from the Enemy after the Evacuation, than from any Enterprize whilst they held their works.
        at present all is quiet & their Shiping out of View.
        Colo. Johnston will Inform Your Excellency of the State of the Works—all the Block houses are Destroyed, with some of the fraizing & parapets, but the far greater part is perfect, & very little of the Abbatis Injured.
        I only keep a Captains Guard at Stoney Point in the day time—& withdraw him to Springsteels at Night.
        as the Object which drew us to this Position is now Removed, & the forage chiefly Consumed—I shall expect your Excellency’s Orders to take some Other post, perhaps the Vicinity of Hackinsack—or Acquakenunk bridge may be the most proper at present, for unless we forage in that Quarter the Enemy Certainly will. I am your Excellency’s Most Obt & very Hume Sert

          Anty Wayne


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 22 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 22d October 1779

        I recd yours of yesterday inclosing the approbation of the Executive of Virginia to the promotion of sundry Serjeants in your own & Genl Muhlenbergs Brigades—Before Commissions can be obtained, you must designate the Regiments to which they are to be appointed and their relative Ranks—I imagine their

Commissions are to bear date from the time they were approved by the Council. I return you the lists that you may make the necessary amendments. I am Dear Sir Yrs &c.


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

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]saturday Octr 23rd [1779]
          Parole Knolton  C. Signs Leech. Henly—


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 23 October 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Mandevilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]Octr 23rd 1779
          Dear General

        I am Sorry at any time to give your Excellency interruption, but an Uneasiness among the Officers of the Massachusetts Line on account of their not receiving their Commissions Since the Arrangment every hour encreasing Constra[i]ns me to do it at this Time by the arrangment many Officers are promoted to the rank of Field and Other Commissions and have ever Since and now Daily are Siting on Courts Martial and detached on Command. Field Officers Under Captains and Captains under Subalterns of other Lines who have received Commissions, If the Commissions Cannot be Obtained, they wish if agreable to your Excellency, that the arrangment which they are informed has been approved by Congress may be Ordered by your Excellency to take place and that the different Officers may do Duty Conformably, untill the Commissions arrive, of this they Say there are many presidents where Officers are Ordered to do Duty to be Obey’d & respect’d for a time, or untill further orders.
        I have the pleasure to acquaint your Excellency that the

reinlistment of the Troops in the Massachusetts Line is very Successfull, a Doubt has arisen among the officers what Sum they are warranted to give each man who reinlists as a Continental Bounty. whether One or Two Hundred Dollars, They say that the new recruits who enlist for the war receive 200 Dollars, and if those who are veterans have but half that Sum, it will be very discourageing. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Robert Howe, 23 October 1779
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

        Letters not found: from Maj. Gen. Robert Howe, 23 Oct. 1779. GW wrote Howe on 24 Oct.: “Both your favors of yesterday came to hand last Evening.”


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

          Head-Quarters Moores House [West Point]sunday Octr 24th 79.
          Parole Bermuda—  C. Signs Bergen. Berne.

        Lieutenant Colonel Williams is appointed to super-intend the hospital in Albany—He will apply at the Orderly-Office for instructions.


Title: From George Washington to the Eastern Department Navy Board, 24 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Eastern Department Navy Board

          Gentn
          West point October the 24th 1779

        I have been honoured with Your Letter of the 13th and should be exceedingly happy if it were in my power to comply with Your requisition, but so far from this being the case, on account of the scantiness of our supplies of powder, I have been obliged to apply both to your State & to Connecticut to obtain a loan. Of this application you will probably have heard before this. On recurring to our last General Return in July—the whole quantity in all the public Stores lying East of Hudson’s river—but very little exceeded the amount of your requisition—which must have

been greatly diminished since—and the remainder not unlikely collected at the Laboratory at Springfield and made up for the use of the Army. These considerations are very disagreable—and the detention of the Ship for want of a proper supply of this Article will be a mortifying circumstance. You will now permit me to make you a return of my warmest acknowledgements for the very polite terms of your Letter—and your kind wishes for my success—and to assure You that I have the honor to be with great respect & esteem Gentn Yr Most &c.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Gouvion, 24 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gouvion, Jean-Baptiste de

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 24 Octobe[r] 1779

        As some small works will be necessary to secure the communication of Kings ferry, I shall be glad to have your opinion upon the subject. Be pleased therefore to return to Head Quarters after you have left the proper instructions for making Fascines with General Howes division. I am Dear Sir Yrs &.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Griffin, 24 October 1779
From: Griffin, Samuel
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia 24th October 1779

        Mr Moss, Agent for the State of Virginia, has directions to send on to Head Quarters, a Suit of Cloths, and a few other Articles, which I was directed by the Board of War of Virginia, to present to your Excellency, and I shall think myself highly honor’d, and happy in Obeying the order, provided your Excellency will do the Board the Honor of Accepting of their present. I am with the greatest respect & regard Your Excellencys Mo. Obedt Humble Servt

          Samuel Griffin

          P.S. Mr Moss has some things, for Colo. Meade, & Colo. Harrison, which you will be so Obligeing as to Advise them of.

            S.G.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 24 October 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Mandevilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]Octr 24th 1779.
          Dear General

        Colonel Bradley who marched with a Detachment from the Connecticut Line on the 21st Instant to the New Bridge on

Croten River returned to Camp this morning, He informs me that the Fields and meadows from Pecks kill as far as he went are Clothed with Forage, & even the roads abound with good feed. we have in this Quarter for months past been forageing from the Barns at Twenty miles Distance and upwards and are daily Consumeing that Forage the want of which will [be] Severely felt the approaching winter. whilst that which is now in the Fields Unless Soon Secured, will become Frostbitten and lost, I therefore beg leave to Submit to your Excellencys Consideration, the propriety and expediency of the Connecticut Line moving lower down, as thereby a great expence in forage may be Saved, and the Horses be in much better Condition for Service—In this representation I think it my duty also to observed, that the Inhabitants, who fled from their habitations on the approach of the Enemy, and drove off their Cattle, are, now returning, with them, and Such as Sent off their Cattle but remained at their Houses, are driving their Cattle down again. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 24 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] 24 October 1779

        For the Reasons assigned in yours of this date and to protect the communication by Kings ferry, I think the Connecticut Division may as well move down as low as the neighbourhood of Pecks Kill—leaving a sufficient party to continue the work at the two Redoubts—I shall direct Colo. Gouvion to lay out two small Works at Verplanks and Stoney points. You will be pleased to order the one on Verplanks to be executed by the Men of your division—The troops may move as soon as you have fixed on a proper place of encampment near Verplanks. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 24 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 24th October 1779

        Both your favors of yesterday came to hand last Evening as did that of the 22d. I have, for some days past, had the destruction of the Enemy’s wood on Lloyds neck in contemplation. Major Tallmadge having been lately over on an excursion is probably better acquainted with the practicability of such a matter than any other person. From some hints which he dropped, when last at Head Quarters, he did not seem to think the enterprize a difficult one. Be pleased to consult the Major upon the foregoing, and desire him to gain intelligence of the quantity of Wood cut—the Guard upon it—and whether he thinks the business may be effected without running a greater Risque than the object, tho’ a very considerable one, is worth—Should you upon a full investigation, be [of] opinion that it may be undertaken with a tolerable prospect of success, I would wish you to have it carried into execution by a party from your Division, and if Major Tallmadge would undertake the command of it, I do not know a preferable officer for the purpose, as he is perfectly acquainted with the Ground, and with the preparations necessary for passing the sound.
        I have not the least objection to your ordering Fascines to be cut somewhat lower down, provided it be not so far, that a party of the enemy might venture up to destroy them—I cannot decide upon the propriety of your moving from your present position, till I have determined upon the Works necessary for securing the communication of Kings ferry—I have for this purpose wrote to Colo. Gouvion and desired him to come immediately up.
        You may be assured, my dear Sir, that nothing gives me greater

pleasure than to receive the Sentiments of my Officers upon any matters which may occur to them. The variety of Business in which I am necessarily engaged must of course take off my attention from many things which may materially concern the good of the Service, and I am never more obliged than when an Officer communicates to me whatever strikes him as being essential to the general good—I very sensibly feel your expressions of personal Regard, which I assure you is mutual, and I shall be happy in every opportunity of cultivating a continuance of your freindship. If—can find any tolerable pretext for going down with a Flag I have no objection. I do not imagine there is any reason for my writing to Govr Clinton on the subject.
        There is part of Capt. Burbecks Company of Artillery under the command of Lieut. Crowley with Colo. Hazens Regt Be pleased to direct him with his party and peice of Artillery to join his Company at West point.
        We have not yet recd any official accounts from the southward, which is most amazing. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Yr most obt Sert.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 24 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Jedediah

          D. Sir
          Hd Qurs West point October the 24: 1779

        I have received Your favor of Yesterday and thank you much for the Suggestions contained in it. I request that you will take the trouble of having One or Two pikes made according to your own mind—which you will be pleased to send me for consideration.
        Some Badges of distinction may be proper for Officers & the Gentlemen of their Families in time of Action. The Ribband was intended in part for this. If there is any thing that occurs to You—which will better designate their different ranks—and answer the end—You will be so obliging as to mention it.
        The Orders of the 5th of July were intended to produce the Returns you mention; but perhaps they have received a confined construction, and been supposed to extend only, to the Cloathing drawn from the Continen[t]al Stores by the Qr Masters of the Infantry themselves in the First instance. I will have the point so explained—that any supplies obtained from or through the Regiments on public account—shall be included. I am Dr sir with great regard & respect Yr Most Obedt sert.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 24 October 1779
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

          Dear sir—
          Philadelphia 24th October 1779.

        I had the honor of addressing you in a Letter under the 7th & 9th Inst. which went forward by a Messenger from the Dep. Qu. Master’s office.
        Yesterday I received from Charles Town in south Carolina by a Letter & News Papers, intelligence, in brief, of the operations of the combined arms in & near Georgia to the 2d Inst.
        Colo. Maitland with so many of his Troops as were inclined & able had made his escape from Beaufort & joined General Prevost at Savanna leaving behind him, his whole Hospital Artillery, Baggage & Stores, I know the swamps which the Colonel must have penetrated; a detail of his line of March, if he really went that way, would excite a mixture of compassion & laughter.
        The Enemy were strongly fortified by lines & redoubts in the Town of Savanna, where the soil is sand & sandy clay—their number about 3000. exclusive of Negroes & other rubbage.
        Count d’Estaing had landed 5000. Troops & formed a junction with General Lincoln who must have had under his command about 4000. Count Pulaski & General Mckintosh had been detached southerly, probably to secure the Town of Sunbury about 40 Miles distant from Savanna & to intercept retreating parties by land & inland navigation, which in that country may be attempted with great prospect of success.
        The allies finding General Prevost so strongly intrenched had determined after a fruitless summon to make regular approaches in preference to assault, Colo. Lomoy [Laumoy] chief Engineer had announced that his works would be complete on the 1st October & it was expected, the Batteries consisting of 38 pieces of heavy Cannon & 8 Mortars would open in the same instant on the 2d or 3d.
        Sorties in two attempts had been made by the beseiged on the working parties, in both instances the assailants were beat back & suffered greatly in killed & wounded.
        A flag had passed from Gen. Prevost to Count d’Estaing with a request from the General for a passport in favor of Madame

Prevost her plate & effects. the Count had replied that his politeness so far as respected the Lady could not be questioned, but that he understood the Plate &ca had been acquired in such a way from the Allies of his Master as induced him to believe the General could not in honor & conscience expect to enjoy it. or something like this.
        The Sagitaire had taken the Experiment commanded by Sir James Wallace after a brave resistance, it is said that on board the Experiment were General Vaughan & about 20 other Officers, & Cash for paying the British Troops in Georgia, that dispatches had been found on board intimating an embarkation of 4000. Men at New York intended for so. Carolina in consequence of which ten Ships of the line had been detached for convoying them in—this may account for the fleet which lately appeared at the mouth of Chesepeak.
        The Ariel, Fowey, & a sloop of 18 Guns, British Men of War, a large Ship with 2200. Barrels of Bread & flour, a large quantity of Beef & Pork 4000. suits of Clothing &c. &c.—all the Enemy’s Store & Transport Ships had fallen into the French Admiral’s hands, besides many other Captures at Sea.
        Mr Alexr Cameron formerly British Deputy, now, Superintendent of Indian affairs in the Southern district had prevailed on a part of the Cherokees to break faith with south Carolina, these had been severely chastised by General Williamson their Towns & provisions totally destroyed & Cameron driven out of the Nation—the General had returned & would join General Lincoln with about 1000 Men on the 29th or 30th september.
        The Camps of the Allies in perfect health & harmony & every body in full prospect of repossessing Savanna & of having the British General his Troops & the wrong Governor Sir James Wright prisoners of War within a week.
        Your Excellency well knows how to make proper abatements from such jumbled accounts—the bulk I believe to be true & there are no doubt many favorable truths untold.
        “I have not heard (says my friend) from Colo. Laurens since he went to Georgia he commands the Light Infantry, but by Letters to others I learn he was well the 27th Septem.—after the reduction of Savanna he intends to return to his General.” this is all I have received concerning Your Excellency’s Aid de Camp. my friend adds that deserters from the Enemy came in daily.

        On Thursday last Congress were pleased to appoint me to go to the United States of Holland, when I am informed of the nature & extent of commands to be laid on me, I shall be better qualified to determine on the propriety of accepting the Charge, be this as it may, I mean to begin my journey towards south Carolina on the 29th Inst. there & in every other place where God pleases to lead me I shall continue to bear a grateful remembrance of Your Excellency’s paternal care of my Country & shall count every opportunity of testifying my Love & Esteem for you an happy event. under these professions I take my leave & with great sincerity subscribe Sir Your much obliged & obedient servant

          Henry Laurens.


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. John Nixon, 24 October 1779
From: Nixon, John
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. John Nixon, 24 Oct. 1779. GW wrote Nixon on 25 Oct.: “I have received your Letter of Yesterday.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Silvanus Seely, 24 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Seely, Silvanus

          Sir,
          West Point Oct. 24th 1779

        I have received your Letter of the 20th and thank you much for the intelligence you were so obliging as to communicate—and for the return and disposition of your Regiment. You will be pleased to continue your indeavours to obtain information with respect to the Enemy—and to transmit me from time to time, such as you may deem material, and, in a particular manner, You will extend your inquiries to their movements and embarkations and to any changes that may take place in their Shipping either by fresh arrivals or their sailing. I am Sir Your most Obedient sert

          Go: Washington

          P.S. I am exceedingly sorry to find your Regiment so sickly.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 25 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentlemen.
          Head Quarters West point 25th October 1779

        Mr Hatfeild yesterday sent a person to communicate the several matters respecting his department to me. He himself being very unwell. Finding that he has near ten thousand Hides upon hand, I have directed him to send 2000, the number mentioned in yours of the 9th, immediately to Philada. He has delivered 1400 pair of shoes to the Cloathier General within thirty days past, and expects to turn in above 1500 pair more in November, he says perhaps near 3000. By the instructions to the Commys of Hides they are “to confine themselves in the purchase of leather or shoes to their own districts, as many inconveniencies will arise from extending their Business beyond the limits thereof.” This regulation is very proper for the Reasons assigned therein—but would it not answer a good purpose, if the Commy of the State or district, in which the main Army may happen to lie, and in which of course there is the principal slaughter of Cattle, was directed to correspond constantly with the Commissaries in the States or districts nearest to him, and to supply them with Hides when he has more than he can dispose of by way of exchange or otherwise, that they may endeavour to barter them within their limits. Mr Mehelm mentioned that few Cattle having been lately slaughtered in his district, he had been fearful of extending his contracts, lest he should not have the means of complying with

them This shews the good effects which would result from some such measure as I have recommended above. The Board will undoubtedly order down a further parcel of Hides from this post if they see an opportunity of disposing of them, or direct Mr Mehelm and the others to draw from this stock if they can find an opportunity of exchanging them. I have the honor &.