Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 30 October 1781
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters high hills Santee October 30th 1781

                  Within a few days, I have received from General Smallwood, the arrangement of the Maryland line; by which I find that Colonel Hall has resigned, and that the regiments are fast forming, to compose two brigades; and as General Smallwoods promotion, creates a vacancy in the line of Brigadiers, to which Coll Williams stands in the line of promotion; I am to request, that your Excellency, will recommend it to Congress.
                  I am perswaded, you will take a pleasure, in forwarding, the interest of an officer, whose zeal and long services, give him a just claim to public attention, and to your friendship.  I am under many and singular obligations to him, for his uncommon exertions, to promote the operations in this department; and shall think myself happy, if my recommendation will add to his estimation, in your opinion, and contribute, in the least, to procure him, that promotion, which his standing, and justice, authorize him to claim.  To say more, I am confident will be unnecessary; to say less, would be doing injustice to his merit & pretensions.  With the greatest esteem and regard I am your Excellencys most obedient humble servant

                     Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 30 October 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                  Dear General,

                     Head quarters, Continental village October 30. 1781.

                  I have been honored with yours of the 16th and since with the glorious news of the completion of your wishes in the capture of Earl Cornwallis and his army; on which I pray your Excellency to accept my most sincere and hearty congratulations.
                  I have been carefully watching the enemy in this quarter, determined to give them a blow where ever it appeard practicable.  But although their force has been much lessened, the disposition of it, the state of their works, and the difficulty of getting at them, have not afforded even a tolerable prospect of success, except in some inconsiderable instances, where we have and still are aiming to strike them—The movements of the enemy at the northward have obliged me to detach one brigade of regular troops to that quarter—A strong detachment of picked troops are also, by order of the board of war escorting the specie from Boston to Philadelphia—The bulk of the old soldiers and flower of this army are detached to the southward—the remainder are principally recruits, and many of them such as an officer would not wish to undertake any great enterprise with—But your Excellency may be assured no opportunity that offers shall be lost, if in our power to improve it.
                  I have some time since sent Lord Stirling to the northward to take the command in that quarter, in case the enemy advanced in force, and not otherwise; as the army would become too unwieldy for general Stark.
                  The last evening I received a letter from Governor Clinton, dated the 29th in which he observes "Since writing you yesterday a report is brought by a gentleman immediately from Albany, that on wednesday or thursday last colonel Willet had an action with the enemy at or near Johnstown.  The enemy consisted of about 500, and Willet had about an equal number of levies and militia.  The particulars had not arrived at Albany when the gentleman left it; but from the general tenor of the information, it would appear that Willet kept the ground, though without gaining any capital advantage.  He had forty killed & wounded, took some british prisoners, but the other loss of the enemy is not mentioned—If proper measures are taken at Saratoga, it will be almost impossible for the enemy to return to Crown point—and I am informed that the troops at Saratoga were in motion."
                  As the force at Saratoga is very considerable, and several enterprising officers are with them—I am in hourly expectation of receiving, not only the particulars of colonel Willet’s action, but something much more interesting.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath

                Enclosure

                        My Dear General
                        Norwalk Oct. 22nd 1781

                     I have this moment recd Letters from S.G. &c. which I shall transcribe for your perusal, it being too hazardous to trust the originals to the Dragoon, in the rout which he must take.
                     Dr Sir
                     Octr 20th—81I have received your instructions, and have to inform you, that the British Fleet consisting of 25 Sail of the Line 1 Fifty 2 Forties and 12 Frigates, accompanied by 4 fire Ships and Some Empty Transports, left Sandy Hook yesterday for the relief of Ld Cornwallis, Admiral Graves Commands the Fleet, and General Clinton with 4000 chosen Troops are on Board.
                     With respect to the Position of the Enemy at the north End of york Island, I have been particular in my Enquiries, but no persons are permitted to go to Kingsbridge from this place without Special permission  From Fort Washington to McGowen’s pass lie 2000 men of different Corps, but principally Hessians,  they are so Stationed that on fifteen or Twenty minutes notice, they can throw 1500 of them into the Fort.  Perhaps they are a little apprehensive of a movement from your Quarter, but let me assure you, they are too Strong to Force, and too alert for Surprise,  They furnish a Strong Picket Guard at the Bridge, which is releived from the Fort every Day,  the Small redoubts from Haarlum northward are all furnished from the Fort, and the Troops lie in Such a position, that they are handy to releive or reinforce either,  In fine they appear to me, to be Judiciously posted.
                     The 17th Regt of Dragoons lie at Westbury  Arnolds whole Corps consisting of about 300 men mounted, and dismounted, lie at a place called Success,  Major Murrays Corps lie at Newtown,  he has three full Companies, and a fourth recruiting,  they are all in great apprehension, but Suppose that their distance from the Landing is their security.
                     A Guard of Boats from Hellgate through the narrows are constantly on Duty every night—no Troops at present at Flushing,  The Light Horse sometimes go there for the Sake of pasture, but their destination is never known till they arrive,  I have before this given you an account of the Corps and Regts Stationed in the City and on Long Island, the Same remain here still.
                     Since you took Fort Slongo the Enemy have been very busy in repairing Ft Franklin on Lloyds neck,  they are apprehensive of visits from the Continental Troops on the Sound,  We have accounts of Lord Cornwallis which makes it almost certain that he cannot hold out much longer unless this Fleet should speedily releive him,  many of his best friends think him a prisoner this moment.
                     There are at Lloyds Neck about 500 Men Women and Children in the refugee Line, about 60 of them lodge in the Fort every night and not more.
                     I dare not write you again very Soon,  a very Sharp look out being kept at this time on all persons passing from the City, by reason of a man being taken up as a Spy on Staten Island Wednesday last, on whom was found a number of Letters Drafts &c. &c. for Genl Washington—The person is a Yorker, but I have forgot his name tho I heard it,  For Gods sake dont Suffer any thing to expose any of us here, you will know what would be our fate.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 30 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

                     Dear Sir,
                     Camp near York Oct. 30 1781.

                  Inclosed I have the honor of transmitting to your Excellency the terms upon which Lord Cornwallis has surrendered the Garrisons of York and Gloucester.
                  We have not been able yet, to get an Acct of Prisoners, Ordnance or Stores in the different departments—but from the best general report there will be (Officers included) upwards of Seven thousand Men besides Seamen—more than 70 pieces of Brass ordnance, and a hundred of Iron; their Stores, as also other valuable articles.
                  My present engagements will not allow me to add more than my congratulations on this happy event, & to express the high sense I have of the powerful Aid which I have derived from the State of Maryland, in complying with my every request to the Executive of it.  The Prisoners will be divided between Winchester in Virginia, & Fort Frederick in Maryland. With every sentimt of the most perfect esteem & Respect I have the honr to be Yr Exys Most Obed. & Hble Ser.

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Martin, 30 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Martin, Alexander

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 30th Octo. 1781

                  I have received your Favor of the 10th Octo. accompanied with your Letter addressed to Lord Cornwallis—Before the Receipt of which his Lordship had surrenderd himself & Army prisoners of War to the United States—in Consequence of which, it is not in that late Gentleman Commanders Power to give you any Relief in Behalf of Govr Burke.
                  I am very sorry for the unhappy Situation & ill treatment of the Govr—and recommend that an Application be made to Genl Greene on the Subject of His Enlargement.  perhaps it may be in his power to give him an Early Release.  or at least to procure him more respectfull & convenient Treatment than he now experiences.
                  If the Legislature of your State is sitting, I beg Sir! that you will take the earliest Opportunity to impress on them the absolute importance, of their Improving the present Moment, for the most strenuous Military preparations—The late Success in this State, I fear, will with some, if not too many, be urged as an Excuse for their Relaxation, hoping that its Consequences will extend to a favorable Negociation.  At best this Hope, is but a distant Contingence— & the present Occasion should in my Opinion, be seized with eagerness to push our Advantages at a Time when our Enemy is much pressed by a Reduction of their Force, which gives us the prospect of operating against them with great Advantage—Let me urge you therefore to fill your Continental Battalions, for which I think the present Moment is a favorable Opportunity— and to give Majr Genl Greene every Aid in your Power, either in Continental Force, or Militias, as Circumstances & his Requisitions may demand.
                  I have addressed the State of Virginia on the same Subject— & pressed them to afford their most Strenuous Exertions in Aid of the Southern War—And I hope that I shall not be disappointed, when I flatter myself with Genl Greenes receiving the most effectual Aid from these two States, in prosecution of his future Operations.  I have the Honor to be

                     G.W.


Title: General Orders, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near York Wednesday October 31 1781
                     Parole Holland
                     Countersigns Seville Gascony

                  For the Day Tomorrow
                  Brigadier General HazenLieutenant Colonel CochranMajor GrahamBrigade Major FullertonGeneral Wayne’s brigade for Guard and Fatigue in Yorktown and Hazen’s for levelling the works tomorrow.
                  The Quartermaster General is requested to point out a House in York or elsewhere convenient for a Provost.
                  Notwithstanding the repeated Orders for that purpose it is reported there are yet many Carcases unburied in the environs of the Camp.
                  The General therefore desires that the Quartermaster General may send a person to reconnoitre the ground betwist the French and American camps and in general the whole environs of the American Camp and the town of York, who if he finds occasion will apply for a party and conduct them to the places where the carcases are.
                  The Order of the 25th instant prohibiting the discharging of fire arms in the vicinity of Camp not being attended to the General Officer of the day is requested to send out Patroles to detect and apprehend all stragglers with fire arms; every soldier so detected is to receive thirty lashes on his bare back at the head of the Corps he belongs to without trial, the first time the Corps assembles after his being apprehended.
                  Colonel White of the first regiment of dragoons being favored with an opportunity by the arrival of the Northern Army to request a hearing by Court martial upon the Charges exhibited against him by Captain Heard of the 4th regiment of light dragoons in the Year 1779 and having obtained the Commander in Chief’s permission for that purpose informed Captain Heard officially of his determinations and requested him to prepare his Evidence accordingly.
                  In consequence of which Captain Heard replied that upon investigation he found that his Charges against Colonel White were grounded upon Misinformation and expressed his Wishes to withdraw them.
                  The General in order that this declaration may have its proper Effect and that Colonel White may be totally freed from the aspersions cast on his Character in consequence of the Charges alluded to Directs it to be Published to the Army.  The General cannot forbear adding that Accusations of so serious a nature should be made with the most scrupulous caution—an Officer’s Character being too sacred to be impeached with Levity or without a sufficient foundation.
                  Colonel Vose is appointed President of the General Court martial now sitting vice Colonel Ogden ordered out of Camp on particular Duty.
                  Captain John Bankson of the Second Pennsylvania regiment is appointed Inspector pro: tem: to the troops under the Orders of Major General St Clair.
                  He is to be obeyed and respected accordingly.
                  After Orders
                  Major Woodson is appointed for the day tomorrow vice Major Graham indisposed.


Title: From George Washington to George Baylor, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Baylor, George

                     Sir
                      31 October 1781

                  Colo. Moylan having received instructions respecting the Regiments of Cavalry—or Legionary Corps—you will receive your orders from him, & carry them into effect with all the zeal and alacrity in your power.  Given at the Camp near York this 31st day of Octr 1781.

                     Go: Washington

                     The same orders to Colo. White of the 1st Regt of Dragoons.


Title: From George Washington to Ephraim Blaine, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Blaine, Ephraim,Stewart, Charles

                     Gentlemen
                      31 October 1781

                  By applying to Major Generals St Clair and Lincoln, you will know the destination of the American Continental Troops, and make your provision for them accordingly.
                  I have engaged (if it shall be required) to supply the Flag Vessels bound for New York, with the Paroled Officers, with Biscuit and Salt provision (out of the Magazine which was found in the Garrison) provided Lord Cornwallis will engage to deliver the like quantity, and of good quality, at our Posts at Kings ferry or West point.  You will, without delay, ascertain this matter, & supply their wants upon the conditions here mentioned.
                  After the wants of our own Troops are sufficiently attended to, as also those of the British hospital at Gloucester—which will be removed as soon as possible to Fredericksburg—probably by the way of Hobbs -hole, & thence up Rappahannock River by Water; You may, with the residue of the Provisions (if any there be) pay the debt we owe the French Army—or if this is already done, exchange it with them for flour more convenient to us—for instance on the North river—or deliver it to them at an estimated value to be paid in Cash to Robt Morris Esqr. Superintendant or his order.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste de Gouvion, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Gouvion, Jean-Baptiste de

                      31 October 1781

                  From the particular recommendations of General Du Portail—and from my own particular observation—I feel the highest pleasure in rendering justice to the distinguished military Talents of Lt Colonel Gouvion, and his indefatigable perseverance in the most valuable services—his Decisive judgement and spirit of enterprise have been conspicuous on all occasions—particularly in the late siege of York—where the opening of the Trenches, the commencement of the second parallel—a very important lodgement in two of the Enemys works that were carried Sword in hand, and their connexion with our attacks—were committed to him—and executed under his orders with that energy and precision which constitute the great Engineer.  Given at Head Qrs.


Title: To George Washington from François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 31 October 1781
From: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de
To: Washington, George

                        c.31 Oct. 1781

                  Je vois la reclamation que le Lord Cornwallis fait de deux especes de parlementaire que j’ay arrêté, l’un Sortant de la Riviere de James, et l’autre qui étoit chargé de differents officiers et de quantité de malades.  Ces Batimens étant Sans papiers en regle, ils Sont non seulement confiscables; mais même dans l’exactitude ils pourroient etre regardes comme forbans et traités comme tels, n’étant pas permis a qui que ce Soit d’être a la mer Sans être muny de papiers en regle; voila ce qui m’a authorisé a en faire la confiscation et elle est même en réprésaille Sur un Parlementaire françois venant avec Ses papiers en regle de la côte de Guinée et trouvé dans le golfe de Gascogne devant aller en Angleterre.  Il y fut conduit et declaré de bonne prise, mais je n’ay point regardé ce trait d’authorité: je ne regarde Seulement que ces deux Parlementaires Sont Sans papiers, Sans liste de prisonniers échangés, Sans passeports quelconque et ils ne peuvent jamais etre regardés comme Parlementaires, puis qu’ils n’ont jamais pû me prouver papiers justificatifs de quelle nation ils étoient.
                  2º Un Parlementaire ne doit point avoir de marchandise a Son bord: le premier avoit des pieces de nature propres a des mats de fregatte, le Second, quantité de marchandises Seches, Souliers, toiles, quincaillerie, &a. tous motifs qui m’authorisent a les retenir Sans crainte d’enfraindre les droits des gens que je respecte plus que personne au monde, puisque j’ay proposé aux officiers commandants aux Colonies d’établir le même cartel dans ces pasages que celuy que nos Roys respectifs ont établi en Europe.
                  a true copy

                            James McHenry
                            Majr & aide de camp to MajrGenl the Marquise de la
Fayette


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters near York 31st Octo. 1781

                  I wrote you the 24th instant, which went on thro’ the Hands of Genl Sumner in No. Carolina—previous to which I had permitted Colo. Lee to inclose to you a Copy of the Articles of Capitulation, which were dispached, with an Injunction that they should not be printed.
                  I have delayed writing further, waiting the Return of Colo. Lee, who I am informed has taken a Tour to Port Royal.  It now becoming uncertain whether I shall see him again or not, I commit my Information to paper by another Conveyance.
                  Agreable to what Informed you some Time ago, it has been agitated with the French Admiral, to transport by Water, under his Convoy, as far as Cape Fear, the Reinforcement destined for your Aid, And on that Contingence, it was in Contemplation, with those Troops, to attempt by Coup De Main, to carry the Enemys Post of Wilmington, an Attempt, which, with the Aid of the Fleet, was judged to be practicable—and the Accomplishment of which, however small the Object in itself, would be of great Importance in the Scales of future Negotiation, as it would in Effect, be the Liberation of another State.
                  After some Days of Suspence, I have just now received from the Count De Grasse, a negative Decision upon this proposal:in Consequence of which my Resolutions are altered, & the Troops will go on by Land.
                  Every Argument & Persuasive had been used with the French Admiral, to induce him to aid the Combined Army, in an Operation against Charlestown;but the advanced Season—The Orders of his Court—& his own Engagements to be punctual to a certain Time fixed on for his ulterior Operations—all forced his Compliance; and I am obliged to submit—Nothing therefore remains, but to give you a respectable Enforcement—& to return myself to the Northward with the Remainder of the Troops For which Arrangement, every preparation is now making with all possible Dispach.
                  The Reinforcement for your Department will commence their March in a few Days, under Command of Major Genl St Clair, & will consist of the Whole of the Pennsylvania, Maryland & Virginia Continental Troops, composing a Body of about  Men, which I hope will be sufficient to enable you to command the Country of S. Carolina, & confine the Enemy to the Town of Charlestown, unless they should be considerably reinforced N. York; which I do not think very likely to happen, under their present Situation & Numbers.  I inclose you a Copy of my Instructions to Majr Genl St Clair; from which you will collect my Ideas respecting Operations in No. Carolina—subject however to your future Orders as you shall think proper, from a more intimate knowledge of Circumstances & future Events.
                  As a further Aid to your Operations, I have made use of the present Occasion, to urge in the warmest Terms, to the Legislatures of this State & N. Carolina, to improve the present Success to the most Valuable Purposes: & instead of Relaxing the Efforts, from an Idea of a Negotiating Winter, that they should strain every Nerve to spring to Military Preparations; especially to improve the present Moment to fill their Continental Battalions, & to give you every auxiliary Assistance, that Circumstances & your Requisitions may demand.
                  The Count Rochambeau will establish Winter Quarters for his Troops at this Place, Williamsburg & the Vicinity.  You will be pleased to open a Correspondence with him immediately & continue to keep up such Intercourse with him as particular Circumstances & Operations may require—for which purpose & that you may correspond with Secrecy, on any Occasion, I have furnished him with copy of Mr Morris Cypher, which has been communicated to you.
                  I have desired General Knox to give you a Return of Artillery, Ordnance Stores & Arms which will be conveyed to you by Gen. St Clair.
                  I inclose for your Satisfaction, an Abstract from the Returns of Prisoners, Artillery, Ordnance Stores, Arms & Other Stores obtained by the Surrender of York & Gloucester, from acts you will form a Judgment of the Importance of our Success over Earl Cornwallis.
                  Being now in Possession of British Officers Prisoners sufficient to make a full Exchange of all the officers belonging to the United States in the Hands of the Enemy—I have to request that you will as early as possible, direct a Return to be made to me & to the Commissary Genl of Prisoners, of all the Officers belonging to the United States Prisoners in Your Department —more in Captivity or on Parole, noting the particular Dates of Capture, their Rank & Corps, that Measures may be taken for their Exchange.
                  The Articles of Capitulation were not closed, when I was informed from Philadelphia, & Genl Forman of Monmouth, on the Wings of Speed, of the immense preparations which were making in N. York for the Succour of Earl Cornwallis: and that the fleet consistg of 28 or 29 Line Ships, with many frigates, Fireships and Transports, having on Board Sir Hy Clinton, with 5000 Rank & file would Sail for the Chesapeak about the 18th inst.  Since this Intelligence, we have been earnestly expectg their Arrival, till Yesterday, the British Fleet made their Appearance off the Capes.  Nothing has yet happened between the two fleets.  The Count de Grasse is makg his preparations for Sailing, and what may be the Intentions of the British upon learng the Fate of Lord Cornwallis, divides our Conjectures.  It is possible a Reinforcement of Troops may be dispatched to Charlestown, and the Fleet with the remainder return to N. York.  Time will make the best Discovery. I am & etc.G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters near York 31st Octo. 1781
                  I do myself the Honor of transmitting to your Excellency, a Letter from General Duportail, in which he explains the motives of an intended Application to Congress, for permission to go to France, & for the promotion of himself and other officers of his Corps.
                  I should conceal Sentiments with which I am very strongly impressed, & do injustice to very conspicuous Merit, if I did not upon the present Occasion, offer my Testimony of the distinguished Abilities & Services both of Genl Duportail & Colo. Gouvion—their Claim to the particular Attention of Congress, at this Juncture, is founded upon the practice of Europe; a Seige being considered the particular province of the Corps of Engineers, and as entitling them, when attended with a Success, important in itself & its Consequences, to the greatest Military Rewards—These Officers besides are supported by a Sence of Conduct in the Line of their Department, which makes them not depend merely upon the present Circumstances—For these Reasons I am induced to recommend Genl Duportails Memorial to Congress for the Grades which he specifies—and the leave of Absence—the latter being by no means incompatible with the good of the Service at the present period—as I am reduced notwithstanding all my efforts to the necessity of retiring into Winter Quarters.
                  The same principles as those abovementioned, forbid me to be silent on the Subject of Genl Knox, who is closely united with General Duportail in the merits of the Seige, being at the Head of the Artillery which is the other principal instrument in conducting Attacks—The Resources of his Genius have supplied, on this & many other interesting occasions, the Defect of Means—his distinguished Talents and Services equally important & indefatigable, entitle him to the same Marks of the Approbation of Congress, as they may be pleased to grant to the Chief Engineer.  With Sentiments of Respect & Esteem—I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, 31 October 1781
From: McKean, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia, October 31. 1781

                  It affords me ineffable pleasure to present to your Excellency the Thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, for the distinguished services you have rendered to your Country, and particularly for the conquest of Lord Cornwallis and the British Garrisons of York and Gloucester, and the wisdom and prudence manifested in the Capitulation.
                  You have herewith inclosed a copy of the Act of Congress passed on this occasion upon the 29th instant, which fully expresses the sentiments with which they are impressed by this glorious event.
                  Words fail me when I attempt to bestow my small tribute of thanks and praise to a Character so eminent for wisdom, courage and patriotism, & one who appears to be no less the Favorite of Heaven than of his Country; I shall only therefore beg you to be assured, that you are held in the most grateful remembrance; and with a peculiar veneration, by all the wise and good in these United States.
                  That you may long possess this happiness; that you may be enabled speedily to annihilate the British power in America, which you have so effectually broken by this last capital blow; that you may be ever hailed The Deliverer of your Country, and enjoy every blessing Heaven can bestow, is the sincere and ardent Prayer of one, who professes himself to be, with every sentiment of regard and all possible attachment, Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient and devoted humble Servant

                            Tho. M:Kean President

                     P.S.  A proclamation recommending a day of thanksgiving & prayer is enclosed for your information.


Title: From George Washington to Stephen Moylan, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Moylan, Stephen

                     Sir
                      31 October 1781

                  In addition to my orders of the 26th I have to desire that you will prepare as large a body of Horse as you possibly can, and join (at such time and place, as Major General St Clair shall appoint) the detachment which he is marching to the Southward.
                  In this I do not mean to include Colo. Armands Corps, as it will have a particular place of Rendezvous appointed it—but the Infantry of the first, third, & fourth Regiments are to be comprehended.
                  Such officers belonging to these Regiments, respectively, as you shall conceive necessary, may be left to take charge of, and forward on, the residue of the Corps—the Invalids—Sick—and necessaries appertaining to each.  A good and active Officer of rank should have the general direction of the whole to prevent confusion—delay—and that misapplication of time and means, which, unt appily are but too often met with in our Service.  Given at the Camp near York this 31st day of October 1781.

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 31 October 1781
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Camp Octor 31. 1781

                  An unexpected demand is made of 40 Waggons & 200 horses, to transport artillery & military stores to the Southward exclusive of what are attached to the troops destined thither.  To that number are to be added probably six waggons for quarter masters stores—There is no possibility of furnishing them without taking both horses & waggons from the troops going to the northward.  If your Excellency would choose to have this done, your order alone will effect it, with which I beg to be favoured.
                  The horses in the yard are very wretched beasts; but by putting six in a Team, may take us so far on our way to the northward as will then enable us to supply their places by temporary impresses from Stage to Stage.
                  The total loss of 440 oxen obliges me to suggest these expedients.  I have the honour to be Your Excellencys most obedt servt

                     Tim: Pickering
                     Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to John Rutledge, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rutledge, John

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters near York 31st Octo. 1781

                  I have to acknowlege your Excellencys two Favors of Septemr & 5th instant—and am not surprized at the Urgency with which you express your Sentiments on a Subject of so much Importance to yourself in particular, & to the general Interest of the United States—I have only to Lament that it is not in my Power to give you that Satisfactory Reply, which your fond Hopes would lead you to expect.
                  I can assure your Excellency that every Argument has been used with the Count de Grasse to induce him to continue his stay on these Coasts, & to aid with his Fleet, the combined Army, in an operation against Charlestown—but without Success—The advanced Season—the Orders of his Court—& of his own Engagements to be punctual to a certain Time fixed upon for his ulterior  Operations, forbid A Compliance on his Part—and I am obliged to Submit.
                  An Attempt to besige Charlestown without the Aid of a superiour Naval Force, being utterly impracticable; a very respectable Reinforcement of Continental Troops is ordered for the Support of Genl Greene; with which I flatter myself, he will be able to comand the Country of Carolina, & confine the Enemy to the Town of Charlestown—and I fancy to myself a future Day, not far Distant—when they shall be obliged to abandon that place.
                  As you will, before this can reach you, be fully informed of our Success against Earl Cornwallis I omit to add anything on that Subject—but to beg your Excellency to accept my sincere Congratulations on that favorable Event—I have the Honor to be &c.

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Benoît-Joseph de Tarlé, 31 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Tarlé, Benoît-Joseph de

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 31st Octobr 1781

                  Impressed with a sense of your important services in the department over which you preside—and the critical aid which your foresight and resources have enabled you to give on particular occasions to the American Army—I embrace the opportunity of an order which I am giving for a return of the supplies with which you assisted us—to express to you my warmest thanks for those Seasonable Succours—and the great esteem with which I have the honor to be Sir

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to David Ross, Jr., October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Ross, David, Jr.

                             c. October 178l

                  To answer the queries of Mr RossTo determine respecting Horses in possession of the enemy—these may be considered in points of view.
                  1stDragoon Horses.2Officers horses—by purchase—actually taken in Action—& those taken, or stolen from Citizens.To see in what manner the Officers of the American Army can be most benefitted by the preemption in the Capitulation—they being under Marching orders.
                  Also how—& to what extent Goods in the Cloathier’s and Qr Masters departmt can be provided for the army under the Articles of Capitulation.


Title: General Orders, 1 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near York Thursday November 1st 1781Parole Bermuda
                     Countersigns Trenton Fredericksburgh

                  For the Day tomorrow
                  Major General St ClairLieutenant Colonel AdamsMajor ReidBrigade Major WilliamsGeneral Gist’s brigade for duty tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 1 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie

                     Sir.
                      1 November 1781

                  You are hereby authorized to draft from the several Corps and in the proportion specified in my letter of the 25th Fifty men whose terms of enlistment are for three yrs or durg the War—provided it can be done with the consent of the persons.
                  You will proceed from hence as speedily as possible to Charlotteville, where your Legion is to be quartered, and to remain until it has acquired sufficient consistency to appear in the field.
                  I rely upon your maintaining the strictest discipline both during the march and in quarters, and upon your taking the most effectual measures to prevent every species of irregularity.  Given at Head Quarters this first day of November 1781.


Title: From George Washington to Horatio Gates, 1 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters near York 1st Novemr 1781.

                  Your letter of the 7th of October was received at a time when I was wholly occupied in the seige of York, which will plead my excuse for not answering it by return of Mr Blue who was the Bearer.
                  Your letter of the 22d May last, alluded to in your favor, not being with me at this place, I can only reply from memory.  If my recollection is right, that letter informed me of the Resolution of Congress for you being employed in service as I should direct, and intimating your consequent determination not to serve ’till the Stigma under which you laboured should be removed.  That being a subject, which I considered as not dependant on me, I received the letter as conveying a piece of intelligence only and made no reply—In the same state the matter still rests—Your circumstance I view as distressing and lament your situation.  I sincerely wish Congress would direct some mode to give relief.  But this is not for me to dictate.
                  I thank you very warmly for your kind wishes, for my success—and am happy to inform you that the object of my expedition is compleatly effected.  The Consequences, I flatter myself, will be extensive and important to the United States—I am Sir Your most obt and hble servt

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to William Irvine, 1 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Irvine, William

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters near York 1st Novr 1781

                  During the Time of my being occupied in the Seige of York, I received a Letter from Colo. Gibson commandg at that Time at Fort Pitt, inclosing sundry Proceedings of Courts Martial held at that post—among which are two Capital Cases, on which Sentences of Death are decreed by the Court.
                  Being informed by Congress, that you have been ordered to the Command of that post—I have to inform—that the Sentence of Myndert Fisher, one of the Above, is not approved—and that upon Application from his Friends, & some particular Information respecting him, I have to request that he be liberated from his Confinement.
                  The Case of John Hinds I know Nothing of more than is contained in his Trial—you will therefore please to order him to Execution, or Pardon him, as you shall think particular Circumstances and the Necessity of Example, may require—I am Sir Your most Obet Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Stephen Moylan, 1 November 1781
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir,
                     Camp November 1st 1781

                  It is my duty to Lay before your Excellency the situation of my Regiment as it consists of three field officers—Six Captains and five Lieutenants—they have 94 men to Command.
                  one field officer, one Capt. & two Lieutenants with 48 men are gon to Carolina, the remainder are taking care of some of those capturd horses which will not be fit for Service these four months—if ever—Pensilvania, to which the Regt belongs have hitherto done nothing for it—a Letter from your Excellency to the executive power of that State on this Subject must be of great Service, and if I was permitted to be the bearer of it, I think the Regt may yet be on a respectable footing—I have many reasons for requesting this favor, the principal one is, that my health at this time is very bad indeed, a flush face gives me the appearance of health, whilst an inward fever and an obstinate Dissentry is preying on my vitals,  add to these a total Loss of appetite, such is my condition with respect to health—perhaps the northern Climate may restore it.  shoud that be the case you may be assurd Sir, I shall loose no time in joing the Southern Army.  Col. Armand has got all the horses but 45, Col. White & Col. Baylor devide the arms & accoutrements according to the strenght of their Regiments—I have sufficient for my men, at Lancaster which can be got to the detachment long before the horses can be fit to march—I have not yet got the returns.  When I do the Qr Mr Genl shall be furnished with them—pistols & bridles are very defficient however I think 200 horse can march with General St Clair.  I have the honor to be with ever affectionate wish Dear Sir your obliged H. St

                     Stephen Moylan


Title: To George Washington from Stephen Moylan, 1 November 1781
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Camp Novr 1st 1781

                  I have by no means neglected the instructions received from your Excellency but have assiduously attended to them—there are three field officers appointed to go with the Detachment to the Southwd and if your Excellency wishes that I shoud also go, I will march with them as far as I can, the representation I have made you of my State of health, is absolutely the truth, if I had thought myself in a capacity to do my duty, you Sir woud not be troubled with the application.
                  Colonel Baylor & Lt Col Temple will remain in this State, to take charge of and forward on the residue of the Corps  there are four Captains of the 4th Regt that can have no Command, two of them here present.  there can be no use in sending them forward if your Excellency will not disaprove of it I will give them furloughs, until such time as a Command can be given them, which I am Sorry to find, it is your opinion will not soon be.
                  will it not be Sir more for the good of the Service to incorporate the men of that Regt in the other Corps, rather than keep it up in its present circumstances,  perhaps a change of men, may occasion a change of measures in the State of Pensilvania, it may be worth a trial, and if your Excellency, woud back the application of the officer who may go there, by your reccomendation, it may probably have a good effect.  I have the honor to be Dear Sir Your Obliged H. St

                     Stephen Moylan


Title: To George Washington from Adrian Provaux, 1 November 1781
From: Provaux, Adrian
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Williamsburg 1st Novr 1781

                  May it please your Excellency to attend for a moment to the present Application of a Continental Officer, who takes the Liberty of laying his Distress before you.
                  I am Sir, a Native of the Island of Hispaniola, and a Frenchman, and entered so early as the Year 1775 into the American Army, in the second South Carolina Regiment.  In this Corps I served from that period and was Captain of a Company until the Reduction of Charles Town when I was paroled to Haddrell’s Point with the rest of the Continental Officers taken with me; and with them was removed to Virginia in a Flag of Truce.  Far from my Native Country, without Friends or Resources, I have since my Captivity borne wants of almost every kind, and am still under the same Distress, as I am not exchanged, receive no Pay, and am by no means furnished with common Necessaries.
                  My view in stating these facts to your Excellency is, that I may obtain your Permission to go for a few Months to Cape Francois, where my Mother resides in very good Circumstances.  She has lately wrote to me a Letter informing me that my Father is dead, and to return in order to settle the Affairs of an Estate to which I am intitled.  Your Excellency’s permission would render me independent and comfortable,  I should supply myself with Money and Necessaries, and could I be but so happy as to be exchanged would again chearfully serve in the same Cause for which I have so long contended.  I have the Honor to be known to Major Genl Lincoln, and the Nature of my Application and the permission I request are intirely compatible with the Terms of my Parole.  I am Sir, Your Excellencys most Obedient & most humble servt

                     Adrian Provaux
                     Capt. 2d Regt of So. Carolina


Title: General Orders, 2 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near York Friday November 2d 1781Parole Antwerp
                     Countersigns Bruges Rouen

                  For the Day tomorrow
                  Major General LincolnLieutenant Colonel HarmarMajor CummingsBrigade Major CoxColonel Ogden’s and the first New York regiments for duty Tomorrow.
                  The Commander in Chief has been informed there are a number of public horses in the hands of the Officers of the light infantry—they are required to deliver them immediately to the Quartermaster General.
                  The officers appointed to purchase Goods for the different Brigades Corps &ca are without delay to make their Returns to the Commander in Chief.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Durie, 2 November 1781
From: Durie, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Camp near York Town November 2d 1781

                  Agreably to your Excellency’s directions, I have the honor to inform you that the persons named in Governor Lee’s Letter, are not on my list of Paroles, or any such characters reported to me by the Town Major.  On making inquiry of some individuals respecting them, I was inform’d a Mr French was with the British Army at Portsmouth, but went from thence to Charles Town, Just before the evacuation of that post.  I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Mo. Obed. & Mo. Hum. Servt

                     T. Durie
                     Dr Com. Prisrs


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 2 November 1781
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters high hills Santee November 2d 1781

                  I beg leave to congratulate your Excellency upon the glorious and important success of your Army.  The news of the surrender of Lord Cornwallis and his Army reached us the 27th in the evening; and it came so well warranted that we had a feu de joy upon it the 28th.  The intelligence came away the 18th from Richmond; but I find by a letter I have since received from Col. Carrington that the surrender did not take place until the 19th.  Nothing can equal the joy that it gives to this Country; and I contemplate the consequences with infinite pleasure.  I long to hear who of my friends are safe, and am inexpressibly happy to hear you are unhurt.  We have nothing of the particulars and wait with no small impatience for their arrival; with which I am in hopes to receive your instructions respecting future operations.
                  As this letter goes by an accidental conveyance I shall not add only that the enemy remain quiet on the lower Country except a small party between Ponpon and Savannah where they have done some mischief in burning a few houses.  I am with the greatest respect & esteem Your Excellencys Most Obed. humble Servt

                     Nath. Greene


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 2 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 2d Novem. 1781.

                  I do myself the honor of inclosing a letter from Baron de frey, in which after giving me a State of his services, he requests either that he may be employed suitably to his rank—or have a recommendation to Congress to facilitate his retiring to Europe.  The former being impracticable in the present circumstances of the Army—the alternative cannot be refused him—I therefore do myself the honor of informing Congress that from an inspection of the certificates given him by the several commanding officers under whom he has served, it appears to me that his military conduct has uniformly gained their applause—and that he may retire from the service with the reputation of an officer who has on all occasions done his duty—I have the honor to be with the profoundest respect Your Excellencys most obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to Stephen Moylan, 2 November 1781
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Moylan, Stephen

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters 2d Novr 1781

                  His Excellency directs me to reply to your Letter of Yesterday—In Consideration of your Health he consents to your going to Phila. where you are to use your endeavours for placing your Regt in the best State for Service—If any Recommendation from him will be of Service, he is willing to second your Application—altho he has but Little Hope of Success from that Quarter.
                  Before your Departure the Genl wishes you to see every Arrangement made that is necessary for the Cavalry moving on to the southward as expeditiously as possible. Your Most Obt Servt

                     J. Trumbull Junr Secty


Title: From William Stephens Smith to Timothy Pickering, 2 November 1781
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Sir,
                     Head Quarters 2d Novr 1781

                  The General understands that it was your intention to move the waggons of the Army with the Baggage of the General & Staff Officers destined for the northward in the morning.
                  As Matters are not in that forwardness that he expected to find them in at this period, he desires that it may be postponed untill further orders upon the Subject.  I am Sir Your &c.

                     Wm S. Smith A.D.C.


Title: From George Washington to William Colfax, 3 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Colfax, William

                     Sir,
                      3 November 1781

                  Your Sick, Invalids and weak men—Your heavy Stores, & such other articles Papers excepted as you may judge proper, are to go by Water under the care of Mr Holden, or yourself, to the head of Elk; where they are to remain till the Waggons and other parts of the Baggage go round, to that place, by Land.
                  When the whole are united, you will, if you should not receive further orders, proceed to Philadelphia, and there wait my arrival or difinitive directions to govern yourself by.
                  In this Event the Deputy Qr Mr General of Pensylva. will furnish you with what is necessary, and a position on or near the Schoolkill will be better than one in the City.
                  I shall rely entirely on your vigilance & care—and that of Mr Holden’s for the security of my Baggage—also that no injury is done by that part of the Guard which Marches by Land, to the persons or property of the Inhabitants in their Rout—avoiding in a particular manner the destruction of Fences.  Given at H.Quarters near York. Novr 3th 1781.

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 3 November 1781
From: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur
                      3 November 1781

                  Mille raisons s’opposent au désir que j’aurois de rester plus longtemps dans cette Baye; la plus forte, c’est ma mission qui m’appelle ailleurs.  Trouvés bon en consequence, que j’ai l’honneur de Faire mes adieux á Votre Excellence, et de luy demander de me conserver une place dans son souvenir.  je regarde comme infiniment heureux pour moy d’avoir pû être de quelqu’utilité aux Etâts unis, mais je regarderois comme un avantage au moins aussi précieux, si je pouvois me flatter d’emporter avec moy votre estime et votre amitié.  j’ai l’honneur d’être avec un respectueux attachement De Votre Excellence

                     Comte de Grasse


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 3 November 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                  Dear General,

                     Head quarters, Continental village, Nov. 3. 1781.

                  The inclosed papers contain my latest advices from the northward.  The intelligence from that quarter has been very complicate and very uncertain.  As major-general lord Stirling is now on the spot, I hope the accounts in future will be more accurate.  Although there are no official or particular accounts from colonel Willet, yet from his situation when the last accounts were received from his quarter, and the number of prisoners he had sent in, it seems that he was in a good way.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 3 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                     Sir,
                      3 November 1781

                  The Troops which you will have under your command are to be Marched, after debarking at the head of the Bay, into the States of New Jersey & New York—Those of New Jersey will take Post somewhere in the Vicinity of Morristown, to cover the Country adjacent, & to secure the communication between the Delaware & North River.  The two Regiments of New York, unless the situation of our affairs to the Northward, should render it necessary to march them further, may take Post in the Jersey Hutts at Pompton, & send a detachment of Fifty men to the Block House at the mouth of Smiths Clove.  the remainder of the Troops are to march to the No. River, and are to be disposed of (if I do not arrive there before them) as majr Genl Heath shall direct, after the light Companies have joined their respective Regiments.  Those of York, & Jersey may do this immediately, if it shall be found more convenient.
                  Every necessary assistance is to be afforded at the head of Elk in unloading, securing or removg the Public Stores—And particular attention must be given to the Sick and Invalids to get them forward—or provided for—in the most convenient manner.


Title: From George Washington to William Moore, 3 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Moore, William

                     sir
                     Head Quarters near York 3d Novemr 1781

                  Colo. Moylan’s Regiment of Cavalry, assigned to the State of Pennsylvania, being ordered to join the Southern Army under the Command of Major Genl Greene, many of the Men are reported to me unfit to move for want of Horses, Arms, Accoutrements & Cloathing—It being of Importance to have those Troops fit for the Service to which they are destined, I have permitted Colo. Moylan to return to Phila. to use his Endeavours to have them put upon a better Establishment—and I take this Occasion by him to request that the Legislature of your State will give him every Assistance that he may require for the purpose mentioned—and that as early as possible.
                  Permit me to add, that to me it appears impolitic & unoeconomical, to have men raised at great Expence, & kept on public pay, who, for Want of proper Equipments are unable to render any effectual Service, when called to the field.  With Respect—I am—sir Your most Obedient Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Moylan, 3 November 1781
From: Moylan, John
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Boston 3d Novr 1781

                  Before I left Philadelphia I wrote Colonel Tilghman a few lines Requesting him to Inform Your Excellency that it had been determined to bring on the Clothing by Land, & that the Board of War had ordered me to proceed hither, for the purpose of sending it forward—I was accordingly furnished by Mr Morris with an order for the necessary Monies to Accomplish this Business; but on my Arrival here it gave me no small Uneasiness to find that the Funds he meant to Appropriate thereto had not been yet Collected; which reduced me to the necessity of recurring, as my only Resource, to the Exertions of this State.  I therefore Immediately applied to the governor whom, I must in Justice to him say, I have from the first Moment found Disposed to give me Every Assistance in his power, but it was not untill the 23d Ulto that the General Court voted a Sum for the purpose—In Certificates to be Received in paymt of Taxes and their nominal value.  a few Days were Spent in Endeavouring to pass those Certificates in the Country, but to no Effect.  I have however the pleasure to Inform your Excellency, that, after a good deal of Trouble & Difficulty I have at last contracted for the transportation of the Clothing as far as Fishkill.  35 Waggon Loads are all ready on the Way, & by the 8th Instt I hope to See all the goods Committed to my Charge in motion.  I shall follow them Immediately myself, & will Continue to give them all the Dispatch in my power on the Road at Fishkill I promise myself every Dispatch from the Exertions of the governor & Quarter Master of that State& if no Extraordinary Delays occurr I hope to have all the Clothing stored in Philada by the 8th of next Month.  it has Received no Considerable Damage on the Passage Every precaution has been Used to put the Bales & Casks in a proper condition for the Road.
                  I have given Directions to Appropriate the Clothing at Newburg to the Troops under the Command of General Heath.  the Coats I am Advised are nearly all dyed, & to make up any Deficiency of under Clothing I shall drop there such a proportion of what I bring on, as Justice to the rest of the Troops will Admit of.
                  It gives me pain to think that for some time past neither my Deputy nor myself have been at hand, to Attend more Immediatly to the orders of your Excellency.  on Receiving my orders for this place I wrote to Mr Brooks to proceed without delay to head Quarters but a Severe Indisposition wch he has not yet well Recovered from has hitherto prevented me from Setting out—& nothing been determined with regard to the salaries & other matters then Under the Consideration of Congress.  I had it not in my power to make Every Necessary Arrangement in the Department before I left Philadelphia.  Your Excelly I hope will have made proper Allowance for all these Circumstances, on my Return I hope to be Able to put things in a Regular Train.
                  Permit me Sir, from the Bottom of my heart to congratulate you on that late glorious Event wch Under the Direction of your Excellency has added so much Lustre to the American Arms, & which shoud Render the Name of a Frenchman for Ever Dear to this Country.  none believe me Sir, can more heartily participate in your feelings on this happy occasion, for none, I am Confident can be more Warmly Affected at Every thing that can contribute to your Happiness.  I request, Sir, you will Excuse this Freedom on the Respect & Attachmt with which I have the honor to be most Sincerely Your Excellencys Most Obedt & very Hble Servant

                     John Moylan
                     Clor Genl


Title: From George Washington to David Ross, Jr., 3 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Ross, David, Jr.

                     Sir
                     Camp near York 3d Novr 1781

                  You will be pleased to furnish for the use of the Hospital at Williamsburg the Above Articles, and proper Measures shall be taken to reimburse the cost of them.

                     G.W.

                     Articles wanted for the use of the General Hospital at Wmsburg.
                     800 Weight of brown Sugar.
                     1 Hhd of Molasses.
                     120 lbs. Bohea Tea.
                     2 Hhds of Rum
                     2 Quarter Casks of Port or Maderia Wine

                     Malachy Treat
                     Chief Phis. and Sergt Genl Hospl


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 3 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

                     sir.
                      3d Novem. 1781

                  Four hundred & Sixty british & German Convalescent prisoners marched this day under escort of Courtlands New York Regiment—for Fredericksburg—where they are to remain until sufficiently recruited to join their respective Corps—You will be pleased therefore Sir immediately to make the necessary dispositions for the reception of the said prisoners—and for relieving Col. Courtland with a Sufficient Militia Guard—I have written to the Governor both relatively to these & the remaining Invalids in the British Hospital at York—who are likewise to be removed to Fredericksburg.  Arrangements may be made relatively to this object—and for marching the prisoners under proper Escorts to their Corps—as soon as their health will permit—I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to William Dent Beall, 4 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Beall, William Dent

                     Sir,
                      4 November 1781

                  The detachment which you command, & which from the short time they have to remain in Service (according to the terms of their Enlistment) cannot with propriety be sent to the Southern Army—is to be employed in guarding the British & German hospital at Gloucester—& aiding their removal to Fredericksburg when means are providd for this purpose.
                  As the Deputy Comy of Prisoners Mr Duree, will have the direction of this business (under the authority of the Governor or Lt Governor of the State) you will regulate your conduct by his requests.
                  After this Service is performed you will March your detachment into the State of Maryland and have it discharged by Genl Smallwood or other proper authority taking especial care that the Arms, accoutrements and every species of Public property is carefully surrendered.  Given at Head Qrs this 4th day of Novr 1781.

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Simeon DeWitt, 4 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: DeWitt, Simeon

                     Sir
                      4 November 1781

                  To Simeon Dewitt Esqr. Geographer to the ArmyYou will have the Road from Williamsburg by the way of Ruffens ferry, King William Court House and Todds bridge to the Bolling Green—or its junction with the Hanover Road Surveyed.
                  You will Survey the Road from Todds bridge to Port Royal—thence to Hooes ferry—and from Hooes ferry on the Maryland side through Portobacco Piscataway—and the best & most direct Road from thence to Baltimore.
                  The Road from Bladenssburg to Baltimore is also to be Surveyed, and a correct & connected Map of the Roads from Kings ferry to York, made out & delivered to me at Philadelphia or the North River.
                  You will receive a Warrant on the Qr Master General for the Sum of Twenty pounds in Specie towards defraying your expences—And all Qr Masters and Commissaries are hereby requested to Furnish you with Provisions forage & other Aids.  Given at Head Qrs near York this 4th day of Novr 1781.

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 4 November 1781
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                      Nov. 4 1781

                  Ordnance and Stores prepared for the Southern Detatchments

                  Brass—5 1/2 inch Howitzers—4 Mortars—3Shells700Flannels empty162Dredging boxes6Funnels4Bellows 2Shell hooks7Setts3Chizels2Hammers2Kit ladles2Drawing knives2Case shFuzes Meal Powder
                     Fuzes SeraMaRaKiKitSponBrass Six Pounders—6 on travelling carRound shot fixed—605Case shSponges & rammers—16  WormeIn commonTrail hand spikes20Powder horns10Tarpolins3Haversacks16Tompidrs & collars2Portfires—dozens32Lead aprons10Tubes1656Drag ropes—sets20Slow Match110Portfir Storks24Powder—16 barrellsLint storks24Marline—7 hanksTube boxes14Dark lanthorns5Gunners belts10Axes3Complete10BudgeFlaxSpongSheepPadloFlagParkCartridges
                     1 Gunners Quadrant and 1 Spirit LeMuskets800Bayonets800Cartouch boxes800Flints10,000Musket cartridges250,000
                     Signed E. Ca

                     H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 4 November 1781
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur.
                     A Philadelphie le 4 Novembre 1781.

                  J’ai reçu la lettre que Vous m’avés fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 29. du mois dernier et les papiers que M. le Comte de Grasse Vous avoit adressés pour que Vous eussiés la bonté de me les faire parvenir.  Je Vous fais mes remerciemens de l’attention que Vous avés eue de me les envoyer par une occasion sure.
                  On nous fait esperer votre arrivée prochaine ici, Monsieur.  Je serai très heureux de pouvoir Vous temoigner de vive voix la joye que m’ont causée Vos succès,  cette joye est universelle et elle ne peut qu’accroitre l’attachement et l’estime de tous les ordres de Citoyens et de mes compatriotes pour votre Excellence.  J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un respectueux attachement Monsieur De Votre Excellence le très humble et  très obéissant Serviteur

                     Le che. de la luzerne


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 4 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters near York Nover 4 1781

                  The character and circumstances of Capt. McLean, which appear to have interested your Excellency, are such as incline me to favour his views of reentering the Service.  The vacancy in Armand’s Corps has been mentioned as the best opening for him—but the pretentions of the Officers in it, who claim succession were opposed as insurmountable difficulties; To obviate these it has been proposed that Capt. McLean should obtain authority to recruit a Company of Men, and afterwards be annexed with them to the Legion—This coming with such a reinforcement it is said would give him a superior title, that would silence murmurs—This appears to me the most eligible method of reintroducing a valuable Officer to the service, Colo. Armand consents to it upon this footing, as the gain of Men is a powerfull motive with him, and he even says that he will endeavour to make some conciliating arrangements with his officers.
                  Capt. McLean on his part gives positive assurances that he will without difficulty raise the number of Men, It depends therefore upon Your Excellency to procure a motion to be made in Congress, to authorize him in this business—and by this means restore him to the service. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  It is not understood that the Men raised by Capt. McLean, should be annexed as an additional Company, but that they should be amalgamated with the Corps agreeable to its present organisation, so as to avoid any deviation from the establishment.


Title: Passports for Ships, 4 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                      4 November 1781

                  To all Commanders of Ships of War and Private Armed Vessels belonging to the United States & their Allies Cruising in the High Seas.
                  These are to Certify that the Ship Cockran of 247 Tons Burthen, Captain Bolton Commander, Navigated by forty Six British Seamen, Prisoners to His Most Christian Majesty, Transporting The Right Honble Earl Cornwallis, with twenty Six other Officers, & forty two British Soldiers, Prisoners of War to the United States of America, under a Flag of Truce, Hath permission to pass from York Town in Virginia to New York, and return with an equal number of healthy French or American Seamen in exchange for the present Crew.  That the Usages of War relative to Flags, being observed on the part of the said Vessel She is to pass and repass without interruption as aforementioned.  Given at Head Quarters near York Town this 4th day of November 1781.

                     G. Washington.

                     N.B.  Passports granted to two other Vessels as follows Vizt: Lord Mulgrave...320 Tons.  Andrew Casterly, Master. 50 Seamen, Carrying 103 Officers, 125 Soldiers, Servants.
                     Ship Andrew, 250 Tons.  Francis Todridge, Master, 44 Seamen, Carrying 101 Officers, 118 Soldiers, Servants.
                     Sloop, Delight, 40 Tons.  John Kerr, Master,  3 American Seamen, Carrying 5 British Commissaries, 1 Commy of Prisoners (not a Prisoner) 13 Merchants.
                     Sloop Molly.  40 Tons.  Samuel Hicks, Master, 5 Seamen Carrying 3 Officers, 13 Merchants.


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Wayne, 4 November 1781
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear GeneralHead Quarters 4th Novr 1781

                  I wish you to do me the Justice to believe, that I never did not nor never will, be guilty of any Conduct, that will be prejudiced to a Cause in which my life Character & property are engaged.
                  As a friend I told your Excellency my feelings & situation—as a soldier I will submit to every Difficulty.
                  I only requested leave of absence for a short time, your Excellency has put it on a ground that prevents me from accepting it.
                  but I am necessitated to reiterate my request, to be permitted to move on, Independant of Command, until I join Genl Greene.
                  At the same time I Pledge my honour, that I will execute any duty, that the Exigency of the case may require, if Circumstances will possibly permit me.
                  Should this meet your Excellencys Approbation it will be conferring an additional Obligation upon Your Excellency’s Most Obet. & very Humb. Servt

                     Anty Wayne


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 4 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                     Dr Sir,
                     Head Qrs 4th Novr 1781

                  As you know that an enterprise against Wilmington is the first object in view for the detachment which is to March to the Southward, and that it is not more than half the distance of, and in the Rout to General Greene’s Army, I shall add no more on the subject, but leave you to act as you have requested—or, if it is more agreeable to you to be absent from the Army for a while, to consent to that also.  I am—Dr Sir Yr Obedt Servt

                     G.W.—


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 5 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                        5 November 1781

                  Having made my dispositions for retiring into winter quarters and being on the point of departure from this place—I am much concerned my dear General that circumstances deprive me of the satisfaction of renewing in person the sincere expression of those sentiments which are inspired by Your Excellencys illustrious services in the common cause—and by my acquaintance with your character and virtues—these have produced too powerful a desire of cultivating your friendship for me not to entreat Your Excellency in the most earnest terms to preserve me a share in your memory— and to console me in some degree for this Separation by the hope of a correspondence with your Excellency—and the prospect of your returning to decide the War on these Coasts.
                  The Chevalier de Mollevrier is so good as to take charge of two horses, with their provision of forage—I flattered myself with the hope of sending Your Excellency two of a much more conspicuous figure—but I have been exceedingly disappointed—The Enemy in their ravages of this Country which was celebrated for its race of horses—did not spare that useful accessary in war, and it has been impossible to recover such as I should have wished to present to Your Excellency—Such as these are I entreat you my dear General to accept them—and my excuses for their not being equal to my wishes.
                  The british fleet as I expected declined giving Your Excelly an opportunity for combat—they have been seen standing southerly and will probably confine their attention to reinforcing & supplying their most interesting maritime posts—Your continued presence here has given a security to our movements which is an additional obligation to us.
                  I entreat your Excellency to accept my ardent vows for the speedy and perfect reestablishment of your health—and the sentiments of sincere friendship with which I shall ever remain Your Excellys.

                     P.S. Five Flags with Ld Cornwallis & his Officer bound to N. York are raedy to proceed from York & will probably fall down to your Fleet this Day.


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 5 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     5th Novr 1781

                  Your Excellency was so good as to write in one of your late letters that there were several detained as british prisoners, who alledge that they are Americans—and that as their cases were doubtful you would have them delivered up for examination—I have received repeated petitions from several of these people who claim their liberation as Citizens of these States—some of them add that they have families which depend intirely on their labour for support.  It will be an effect of that humanity which characterises Yr Excelly to restore these unhappy individuals to their Country & friends if they can be discriminated—I avoided answering particular applications as I thought the matter would be generally decided upon.  Whatever measures Yr Excelly may be pleased to adopt for this purpose will be gratefully accepted by Yr.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 5 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     sir
                      5 November 1781

                  It is to be hoped that Forrage will be provided at proper places on the Rout by which the Army will march from hence to the Northward, to support the Waggons & others Horses which will be necessary— to this Matter however you will pay early attention—  If your Endeavours should not succeed in obtaing the necessary Supplies from the several States thro’ which you are to pass— You are hereby authorized, upon urgent Necessity, to Use the Power which the Army will afford, to provide what Forage you may find necessary— in such Manner, as is least distressing to the Inhabitants.  And for so doing this shall be your sufficient Warrant.  Given at Head Quarters near York In Virginia this 5th of Novr 1781.

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Francisco Rendón, 5 November 1781
From: Rendón, Francisco
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Novr 5th 1781.

                  I thank fully acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency Letter of the 12 of last month.  I have imparted its contents to General Galvez, who I am persuaded, is fully convinced of your Excellency good dispositions towards the Spanish Nation;  I lament as well as yourself those unhappy Political circumstances which most necesarily lay a restrain upon your good will, but I please myself with the hope of seeing them ere Long happily removed.
                  Give me leave Sir, to offer you my warmest & most sincere congratulations on the signal success which the Allied Armies under your Command have lately met with.  Be sure, for that I rejoice as much for the Personal Glory you have there by acquired, as for the honor and advantage which the Allied Nations must derive from such happy Event: It is certain you Sir, who mustfix the Independence of America & oblige at last all Europe to acknowledge it, that this is my most sincere wish, I hope I need not repeat.
                  I will be much oblige to your Exellency for using your influence with the french Commanders that General Galvez may be informed of their Intended operations if they should think it necessary for the good of the Common Cause, I have received this good, while no New from Havanna, I will not fail to comunicate to you all such as I shall think usefull or Interesting to your Exelly.  I have the honor to be with the utmost Respect Your Exellency most Obedt & most Hble Servant

                            Francisco Rendon


Title: To George Washington from Charles Thomson, 5 November 1781
From: Thomson, Charles
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Monday Novr 5th 1781

                  I have the honor to inform you that this day pursuant to the articles of Confederation the United States in Congress Assembled Proceeded to the choice of a President and have elected for the ensuing year, his Excellency John Hanson.  I have the Honor to be Sir Your most Obedt humble Servant

                     Chas Thomson


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 8 November 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,Head Quarters, Continental village Nov. 8. 1781

                  By a very intelligent Man who left New York the night before last at nine oClock and arrived here the last evening, I learn, that the British fleet returned to Sandy Hook the beginning of last week—that upon their arrival, transports were sent down, and the troops taken on board them from the men of war—that both the men of war and transports remain at the Hook—The reason given why the latter do not come up, is, that the wind is not favorable—Possibly they have some enterprize in contemplation.
                  Sir Henry Clinton returned to New York last Sunday afternoon.  Some Volunteers who went on board the fleet and had returned to New York reported, that the british fleet came in sight of the count de Grasse, but finding his fleet superior by eleven sail of the line, and their order of battle so well formed, that it would have been difficult, even with an equal number of ships, to have engaged with any prospect of success—The british fleet returned—That it is conjectured the british fleet will go to the West Indies.
                  Governor Clinton, in a letter I received from him the last evening, informs me that he had received intelligence, although not officially, that colonel Willet had returned from his pursuit of Major Ross, had taken in the whole about seventy prisoners, and killed and scalped young Butler—that there was no appearance to justify the idea of this enemy’s taking a permanent post at Ticonderoga—and that their force was not considerable in that quarter.
                  I have this moment a hint, that the enemy are meditating a blow on the posts in the Highlands while their troops are embarked, have sent a person to enquire into the particular state of every post, and give them an account immediately.  I have the honor to be with the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant,

                     W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, 9 November 1781
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear Sir
                     New Kent 9 Nov. 1781.

                  Influenced by every motive, every consideration to regard the welfare and happiness of my dear Sister & her Family as my own, I cannot but be most sensibly afflicted by her late great Misfortune; the time and the manner of it’s happening is indeed very affecting to us all, and from the unhappy situation of my own Family particularly so to me, as I am hardly in a situation even to attempt that Consolation to my Sister & other Friends that my Affection for them would dictate, but I hope their Patience & resignation will not forsake them, this awful Decree, however grievous to human nature, much more grievous to parental Affection, is still the Act of unering Wisdom, and the same beneficent hand, from whom we derived the Blessing we now lament (the loss of) and all others, has undoubtedly sent us this Affliction for some wise purpose.  He I hope will enable us to bear this his Visitation with Patient Submission.
                  The distemper amongst my Negroes still proves fatal to them, and I am afraid is extending itself, the hopes of assisting them myself, and of procuring still greater relief than I can afford them prevents my waiting on you to day as I wished & intended to do, which I hope you will excuse.  I thot it proper to send the Bearer to let you know this that in case you should have any Commands for me before you go up you may leave them in writing.
                  The regard I have for every Member of yours & Mr Custis’s Family, or the Affection & Respect I had for my dear departed Friend & Relation, would either of them be motives sufficient to enduce me to do any thing and every thing in my power to serve His afflicted Widow & Children.  If therefore upon consulting Mrs Custis it should be your Opinion that I can be serviceable, either by joining her in the Administration of his Estate, or any other way, I shall with pleasure undertake it, and if I am alive & in health will wait on her about Fairfax Court in January, for that purpose, from the present situation of my Affairs it does not seem probable I could conveniently do it sooner;  But as to the Administration there is a difficulty that it may not be amiss to mention, as from your situation in life it may escape you.  the law requires security for the faithful discharge of the trust, and when I consider the great desparity between Mr Custis’s Fortune & my own, & how considerable his Estate is, it seems probable that I might not readily find Security that would be approved, especially in a place where I am but little known, my Acquaintance has generally been confined to Persons of my own rank & fortune, and I have no intimacy with hardly one Gentleman of a different Class except yourself & Col. Bassett. Conscious of the uprightness of my own Intentions, & knowing that no danger could arise to my Security’s but thro’ a want of Integrity in me, I should have no scruple to accept a willing offer of it, but I could not desire a Gent. to be my Security, who had the least doubt that he ran a risque of suffering by it, it is in your power to remove every doubt of this sort & I trust you will do what you think necessary & proper respecting it,  The Administration of the Estate may probably be compleated within the next year when it may be settled & the Estate delivered to the Widow & Guardian to the Children.  Providence seems to point you out as the proper Person for that Office, and I can’t help flattering myself that by that time our publick Matters will be so situated as to enable you to do it with Conveniency.
                  Be so kind as to accept a tender of the Affection of my Mother, My Wife & Children, & myself to yourself, my Sister, Mrs Custis & the dear little Children.  I hope the same good Providence that has hitherto guarded you will still continue to protect you, and once more bring you safe to your native Country, That you may be blessed in every thing you undertake is the constant Prayer of Dear Sir Your sincerely affectionate & obedt Servt

                     B. Dandridge

                     Mr & Mrs Burbidge desire me to present their respectful Complimts to you and to all our Friends & to assure you that you constantly have their best wishes & Prayers for your welfare & happiness.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 9 November 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                  Dear General

                     Head quarters Continental village Novr 9th 1781

                  since I had the honor of addressing your Excellency, this morning I have received the enclosed papers from Major General Lord Stirling by which, your Excellency will perceive, that the enemy have been compleatly disappointed in their designs on the northern frontiers of this State, and defeated with considerable loss.  The Address, gallantry, and persevering activity exhibited by Colonel Willett on this occasion, do him the highest honor.  The conduct of Major Rowley, and the brave Militia under his command, at a critical moment, merit particular commendation.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

                     W. Heath

                Enclosure

                        My Lord
                        Fort Rensiler November 2nd 1781

                     Haveing just returned from pursuing the Enemy, my first business is to acquaint your Lordship of the particular transactions that have taken place in this quarter from the time of their first appearance.
                     Eight OClock P.M. of the 24 Ulto I received advice that a considerable body of the Enemy were discoverd in the upper part of the Mohawk District—every means was instantly taken to collect the Force of the Country in order to oppose them without loss of time, so that by one oClock the following day I was within two Miles of Fort Hunter with between four and five Hundred Levies of Militia—there I learnt that the Enemy haveing burnt several Houses and Barns at Warrensbush had crossed the River at a Ford some distance below & were marching to Johnstown, this obliged me to cross the River as soon as possible and march by the shortest route to the place whither they were directing their course—when within two Miles of Johnstown I was informed they were already there—had halted and busy in killing Cattle belonging to the Inhabitants.  Thus situated & determined to attack them as soon as possible, and ordering the left wing of the few Troops I had to perform a Circuit through the Woods and fall upon their right Flanks while the right Wing advanced in Front—a few minutes brought us in view of them.  the Troops of this Wing were pushed on to a Field adjoining to the one possessed by the Enemy where they displayed to the Right & advanced in a Line towards them who retired with precipitation to a neighbouring Wood closely pressed by our advance who began to Skirmish with them while the remainder of the Wing was advancing briskly in two Columns—in this pleasing situation without any aparent cause the Whole of this wing turned about & Fled—nor was it possible to Rally them, a Field piece which was left upon a Heighth at a small distance from the Wood to secure a Retreat, was abandoned and fell into the hands of the Enemy, at this critical period our Left wing commanded by major Rowley of the Massechusetts State & composed of the Militia of the county except about sixty of the Levies of the above State made their appearance in the Enemies rear—these soon regained every thing our Right Wing had lost and more,  night came on and the enemy retired into the Wood leaveing a large number of their packs behind them.  After marching 6 Miles they encamped on the Top of a Mountain.  By information from prisoners who made their escape from them in the night it appeared to be their intention to strike at the Frontier of Stone Arabia in order to furnish themselves with provisions, this induced me to March to that place the next Morning where we remained all that day and night without hearing any thing further from them than that they were pointing their route further into the wilderness, I was not sure they were unable to make any sudden stroke below the little falls & in consequence on the morning of the 27th I removed to the German Hutts in order to be between the enemy and their Boats which they had left at Oneida Creek.  On my way I learnt that the party which I had detached to destroy them had returned without doing their duty—the 28th was passed in furnishing the Choicest of the Troops with Five Days provisions & Sixty Oneida Indians who had this Day joined me.  It now appeared clearly that the Enemy haveing given up the hope of returning to their Boats were directing their March to Bucks Island or to Osswagawe.  The Troops intended to persue them to the amount of near 400 besides Indians crossed the Mohawk at Fort Harkimer and incamped in the Woods—the Day following We Marched upwards of 20 Miles north into the Woods through a Snow Storm.
                     And about 8 oClock A.M. of the morning of the 30th we fell in with the Enemy between their rear Guard and a detachment of 40 Men with some Indians—These it was intended should procure a Fresh supply of provisions and follow after their Troops who were to continue their route—some of this party were taken, some killed, and the rest dispersed.  Their Main Body set out on a Trot in indian File & were pursued as warmly and closely as possible untill quite night—our persuit they but once indeavoured to resist which was at a very bad Ford on Canada Creek where they left Major Walter Butler and several more—(this is the same Butler who commanded the Massacre at Cherry Valley in Novmr ’78)  We have lost but one man on the persuit—Our Indians were very usefull and behaved with their Usual alertness, upon such occations your Lordship knows they are the best Cavalry for the Service of the Wilderness.  Strange as it may appear it is true that notwithstanding the Enemy had been four Days in the Wilderness with only half a pound of Horse Flesh each Man pr Day yet in this famished situation they troted 30 Miles before they stoped.  Many of them indeed fell a sacrifise to such treatment—their pack & Blankets were Strewn through the Woods, all their Horses except 5 which were sent a considerable distance forward in their Van with their wounded and a few prisoners—fell into our hands.
                     In this situation I left the unfortunate Major Ross—unfortunate I call him for he was surely so in takeing Charge of so fine a Detachment of Men to execute so dirty and trifling piece of business as he was sent on at such imminse hazard and Exquisite Toil—to Fatiague the  Troops any longer appeared unnecessary—the Enemy who continued their Flight great part of the night had got greatly the Start of us, and almost certain destruction appeared before them—A seven Days March, Rivers passable but upon Rafts, a barren wilderness in an inclement season of the year to be encountered with before they can obtain any provisions.  Besides our situation had we pursued them a Day or two longer might become little better than theirs,  Indians and many of the Troops in order to persue them with greater Vigour had thrown aside their Blankets & provisions which was now 20 Miles or more in their rear—in fine we left them in such a Situation perhaps more suited to their Demerit than a Musquit, a Ball, a Tomahawk or Captivety.
                     I shall not attempt to give your Lordship an Account of the whole of the Enemys Loss, from the beginning to the End of the affair—The fields of Johnstown, the Brooks & Rivers, the hills and mountains, the deep and gloomy marches through which they had to pass, these must tell these only can tell, & perhaps at least the Officer who ever he is that detach’d them on this Paltry expedition. The desolate region they travers’d in their flight while we were persuing them lies upwards of thirty miles North of Fort Schuyler—It would be wrong in me to close this Letter without assuring your Lordship that the Troops in general who were with me on this Service, supported the great fatiques they had to incounter with a Soldier like fortitude—To Andrew Fink Esqr. formerly a Captain in Colo. Van Schaicks Regiment but at present a Majistrate in this County, who perform’d the services of a Brigade Major I am under great obligations, for his particular attention great dilligence and manly deportment through the whole of this expedition.
                     Inclos’d is a particular return of the force of the Enemy—Returns of our kill’d & wounded and such as shall be proper to transmit to your Lordship shall be put forward as soon as collected.  I remain with Sentiments  of the great Esteem and respect your Lordships very humble Servant

                        Marinus Willet

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir,
                        Saratoga Novr 3d-6 1781

                     I had the honor to receive your letter of the 29th on the first instant with the glorious news of the surrender of the Earl of Cornwallis, with all the force under his command to our illustrious Commander in Chief on the 19th.  an event that has few parallels in history; and of the highest importance in the scale of the war: one of the probable consequences will be the establishment of this Independant Empire acknowledged by Great Brittain as well as all the rest of the maritime powers in Europe and I do most sincerely congratulate you on it—We had it announced here by fourteen Cannon, the last in compliment to our Friends in Vermont who have with great alertness joined us to repel the attempt of our common enemy.
                     Considering the advanced season of the year, the late heavy rains which have swolen the rivers so as to render every ford impassible, the probability of the lakes soon being rendered unnavigable by the ice, together with the last intelligence from the Lakes which was that on thursday last there was not the least appearance of an enemy on this side the narrows of lake george, and but a few at Ticonderoga.  I am clearly of opinion there is no longer any danger of the enemies invading this Country in force, and consequently there is not any necessity of keeping the Militia longer in the field: this opinion induced me to take the sentiments of General Schyler, general Stark, and all the other general Officers and Officers commanding Brigades on this subject, and finding they all agreed with me in opinion. I issued an order of the which the inclosed is a coppy.
                     I have no intelligence from Colonel Willet since the 28th when he was prepareing to pursue the enemy.  I am exceedingly anxious to hear the result of it.
                     I have advised General Stark to erect two enclosed redoubts on the heights at this place in order to cover the Barracks from a supprise.  This is become more necessary from the apprehensions of the Enemies establishing a post at Ticonderoga; In which case I think it will be prudent, that the two New Hampshire regiments remain at this place, and Tappans at Albany, they can all be commodiously covered—Some Troops will be necessary on the Mohawk river, when the term of inlistment of Colonel Willetts Corps is expired.
                     I intend to return to Albany to morrow, & if after remaining there for two or three days, I find the enemy have returned, I shall proceed to Camp, unless you have further commands for me in this Quarter.

                        Novr 6th

                        Since writing the above I have received a letter from Colonel Willett, Coppy of which is inclosed.  The returns he alludes to were never sent.  The vigilant prudent conduct of the Officer thro the whole affair, was such as reflects the highest honor upon his Military Character—and the essential service he has done his Country will give him a pleasing remembrance in every honest breast.  The number he has taken killed & wounded, with the distressed situation in which he left them, will amount to little short of a total defeat.  Eight days march will scarcely bring them to a Country where they can be supplied with provisions.  I have to acknowledge the receipt of yours of the 30 Ulto & of the 3 inst.  I am most perfectly Your Obedient humble servant

                        Stirling


Title: From George Washington to David Ross, Jr., 9 November 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Ross, David, Jr.

                     Sir
                     Colo. Bassetts 9th Novr 1781.

                  Colo. Martin will be the Bearer of this who will present to you three Indians of the Cherokee Tribe, who are Men of some Consequence among those people—& an Interpreter—Considering their Circumstances, & the Standg which we would choose to keep with those Tribes, I think it may be Policy to make them a present which may be agreeable to them—You will therefore please to deliver to each of the four some Articles of Cloathing such as you shall think proper & which may be acceptable to them & charge the same to this state; with this provision—that if any Objections are made on the Part of the State, that I will engage the Expence shall be born by the United States.  I am Sir Your &c.

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from John Hanson, 10 November 1781
From: Hanson, John
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Nov. 10th 1781

                  I have the honor of transmitting to your Excellency a copy of an Act of Congress of the 7th instant, for your information and satisfaction.
                  Your Excellency’s letters of the 27th and 31st ult. have been received and laid before Congress.
                  As this is the first opportunity I have had of writing to your Excellency since Congress were pleased to elect me to the singular honor of being their President, and as a literary correspondence, from our mutual situations, becomes indispensibly necessary between us, give me leave to assure you, Sir, that it will not only be a pleasure of a superior nature, but invariably my study, to render that correspondence as advantageous and agreeable as possible.
                  Any intelligence worth communicating, which first reaches me shall be related with unreserved freedom, candor & punctuality—And permit me to hope for a similar treatment from your Excellency.  Already my knowledge of your Character leads me to anticipate infinite satisfaction.
                  I cannot avoid mentioning that the present Aspect of our Public Affairs is particularly pleasing: And so much do we seem extricated from our perplexing difficulties, and such, I hope, is the power and force of recent Experience, that we shall not lapse into our former state of imbecility and distress.  The events of the present Campaign will, no doubt, fill the most brilliant pages in the history of America.  May Heaven still continue to smile on our efforts!  With the highest sentiments of respect & esteem, believe me to be Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient & very humble Servt

                     John Hanson Presidt