Title: To George Washington from John Jameson, 23 September 1780
From: Jameson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            North Castle Septr 23d 1780

                        Inclosed you’ll receive aparcel of Papers taken from a certain John Anderson: who has a pass signed by
                            General Arnold as may be seen. The Papers were found under the feet of his Stockings he offered the Men that took him one
                            hundred Guineas and as many goods as they wou’d Please to ask I have sent the Prisoner to General Arnold he is very
                            desirous of the Papers and every thing being sent with him But as I think they are of a very dangerous
                            tendency I thought it most proper your Excellency should see them. No Troops have embarked as yet that
                            I can learn the Shipping lies ready and much talk in York about an embarkation.
                        From every account that I can hear they mean an Attack on the Troops at this place and I must beg leave to
                            assure you that it is out of my power to keep the Troops so compact as I could wish or to move so often as I really think
                            necessary from the scarcity of Provision & Forage & the difficulty of procuring
                            necessaries also that about one half of the Men are without Blankets or Cooking Utensils for which
                            reason I am obliged to quarter them at houses Col. Walls’s Men have Tents and most of their Baggage
                            which are rather difficult to move about. I am with regard & Esteem Your Excellenceys most Obedt Servant

                            John Jameson


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 23 September 1780
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Richmond Sept. 23. 1780.

                        I yesterday forwarded to you a letter from Colo. Wood informing you of his situation. That Post has been for
                            some time past pretty regularly supplyed, and I hope will continue so to be for some time to come. A Person whose punctuality
                            can be relied on offers to contract for victualling it. If We can agree on terms, and the Assembly will strengthen our
                            Hands sufficiently. We think to adopt that Method, as the only one to be relied on with certainty. I have heard it hinted
                            that Colo. Wood thinks of quitting that Post; I should be exceedingly sorry indeed were he to do it: he has given to those
                            under his charge the most perfect Satisfaction, and at the same time used all the cautions which the nature of his charge
                            has required. It is principally owing to his prudence and good temper that the late difficulties have been passed over
                            almost without a Murmur. Any influence which your Excellency shall think proper to use for retaining him in his present
                            Situation will promote the public Good, and have great tendency to keep up a desirable harmony with the Officers of that
                            Corps. Our new Levies are rendezvousing very generally. Colo. Harrison was uneasy at having none of them assigned to his
                            Corps of Artillery, who have very much distinguished themselves in the late unfortunate action, and are reduced almost to
                            nothing. We happened to have about 100 draughts raised in the last Year and never called out and sent on duty by their
                            County Lieutenants whom we have collected and are collecting. We think to deliver these to Colo. Harrison; they are to
                            serve 18 Months from the time of rendezvous. The number of Regulars and Militia ordered from this State into the Southern
                            Service are about 7000. I trust we may count that 5500 will actually proceed, but we have Arms for three thousand only. If
                            therefore We do not speedily receive a supply from Congress We must countermand a proper number of these Troops. Besides
                            this supply there should certainly be a Magazine laid in here to provide against a general loss as well as daily waste.
                            When we deliver out those now in our Magazine we shall have sent 4000 stand of our own into the Southern Service in the
                            course of this Summer: We are still more destitute of Clothing, Tents and Waggons for our Troops. The Southern Army
                            suffers for Provision which We could plentifully supply were it possible to find means of transportation: despairing of
                            this We directed very considerable quantities collected on the navigable Waters to be sent Northwardly by the Quarter
                            Master, this he is now doing, slowly however. Unapprised of what may be proposed by our Allies to be done with their Fleet
                            in the course of the ensuing Winter, I would beg leave to intimate to you that if it should appear eligible to them that
                            it should winter in Chesapeake they may be well supplied with Provision, taking their measures in due time before hand.
                            The Waters communicating with that Bay furnish easy (and in that case) safe Transportation, and their Money will call forth
                            what is denied to ours. I am with all possible esteem & respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & most humble
                            sert

                            Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 23 September 1780
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Trenton 23d Sepr 1780.

                        It appears by your Excellency’s Certificate of the 11th instant, & Mrs McKay’s Letter of the same
                            date to me inclosing it, that she has utterly misapprehended me on the Subject of her Pass to New York. It never entered
                            into my thoughts to tell her (as she says in her Letter I did) that "I would grant her my Permission to go to New York if
                            General Washington would signify his Approbation." What I told her was that as all her Recommendations to me came from
                            Gentlemen in the Army, I thought it most proper for her to apply for the Permission to his Excellency the General, who, if
                            he thought proper to grant the Pass, would give no Umbrage by it to the executive Power of this State, & that I
                            wish’d no Delicacy towards me might prevent him from doing it, if he otherwise thought it expedient, as I had no Objection
                            against it; but that as to myself I should never grant it save on the Terms of the Removal of the whole Family, &
                            their Engagements not to return into this State during the War. This Idea; in order to prevent further Mistakes, &
                            on the present repeated Application of that Lady & her Friends in the Army for a Pass from me, I take the liberty
                            to communicate to your Excellency. If any of our Officers are under Obligations to Mrs McKay or her husband, I am sure the
                            State of New Jersey is not. I have the Honour to be with the highest Respect Dear Sir your Excellency’s most humble
                            & most Obedient Servt

                            Wil: Livingston

                            P.S. your Excellency will not I hope understand me that my reason for refusing Mrs McKai the Pass, was
                                because she was recommended by the Gentlemen of the Army (tho’ I think some of them have been rather too importunate
                                in the Case) to whose Recommendation I shall always pay proper Attention. But it is really against my Judgment to let
                                her go—she is not intitled to any favour from this Government—and her disaffection to our Cause, as well as her
                                capacity to do mischief if she pleases, is so well known to the People, that an Indulgence to her which is almost
                                daily refused to some of the best Friends to America, would naturally give general Disgust. But upon the Score of her
                                Civility & good Offices to the Military, the like Favour from your Excellency, will doubtless be more readily
                                acquiessed in.


Title: To George Washington from William Phillips, 23 September 1780
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Elizabeth Town 23d September 1780

                        His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton expected I should have met a person from Your Excellency at this
                            place to have conversed upon various subjects relating to a General Exchange as, also, upon the appointment of
                            Commissarys to reside with the respective Armies, but, no such person from you, Sir having arrived at Elizabeth Town, I
                            have only to enclose to Your Excellency the rough draft of Sir Henry Clinton’s proposals upon this matter for your
                            perusal, should it meet your concurrence I doubt not but on your signifying so to Sir Henry Clinton, the two persons may
                            enter upon their respective Offices.
                        I most sincerely lament, that Major General Lincoln gave himself and me the trouble of a meeting at Elizabeth
                            town, that Gentleman being so entirely unprepared to enter in any the least degree upon the business for which it was
                            supposed we were to meet. I came fully instructed from Sir Henry Clinton to settle the plan of an Exchange of the Troops
                            of Convention against the American Troops taken at Charles Town and the manner with which the Troops on both sides were to
                            have met for that desireable purpose, Major General Lincoln did not on the contrary, from any thing I could perceive, come
                            to this place Authorized either by Your Excellency or the American Congress to enter at all upon the business. I shall
                            decline giving any opinion upon this fruitless meeting, but must be allowed to acknowledge my extreme surprize that it
                            should be conceived by any person necessary for General Lincoln and myself to confer upon the matter of his partial and
                            personal exchange which depended so entirely and absolutely upon Sir Henry Clinton and Your Excellency and might have been
                            settled by the receipt and return of a letter on either side. I have the honor to be Sir, with the highest respect Your
                            Excellency’s Most Obedient and most humble Servant

                            W. Phillips.

                     Enclosure

                                Proposal

                                    23 September 1780

                            That the Commander in Chief each by his own Authority, and under his own immediate Direction, do appoint,
                                for the Benefit of Prisoners, a Commissary of Prisoners. The British Commissary to reside at Lancaster in
                                Pennsylvania, or at Fredericktown in Maryland, or in such other Parts as may be most contiguous to where the greatest
                                Number of Privates Prisoners of War may be confined. The American Commissary at New York. For the Conduct and Good
                                Behaviour of these Commissaries, they The Commanders in Chief shall be respectively answerable.
                            Such Commissaries on all Occasions are to consider themselves as under Parole, neither to send verbal or
                                written Intelligence to their own Party, or divulge any thing that may be prejudicial to the Party with whom they
                                reside, nor receive or forward any Letters but such as have been inspected by the Officers appointed for that Purpose,
                                and under no Pretence whatever to interfere with public Affairs or Politicks, but entirely govern their Conduct in
                                Office agreeable to the  following Regulations.
                            These are General Clinton’s proposals
                            1st The respective Commissaries are to be permitted to visit the Prisoners confined where they reside, at
                                least once a Week, in the presence of an Officer appointed for the purpose, in order to collect Returns, see that they
                                are regularly supplied with the Provisions to which they are entitled, to hear their Complaints if any, and in general
                                examine into the State of their Health, Accommodation, or Wants; all which they may report to the Commander in Chief
                                in whose Lines they are, and also to their own Commander in Chief, if they deem it essential. They are to be permitted
                                in like manner and for the same Purposes to visit such other Prisoners as may be confined at more remote Posts (if
                                judged necessary by the Commissary) under the same Restrictions, once a Month, with Permission from the Military
                                Commanding Officer at the Place where the Commissary resides.
                            2nd The Commissaries are to be allowed to receive and distribute among the Prisoners, such Provision,
                                Clothing, and Necessaries, as also such Comforts for the Sick as may be transmitted for their use from time to time;
                                they shall, also, be at liberty in Addition to purchase these Articles from the adverse Party and to negotiate Bills
                                of Exchange for the purpose of paying for such Purchases, the Board of the Officers and for their own Expences, and in
                                these Cases and for these Purposes the British Commissary to have liberty to go to Philadelphia from time to time as
                                (the) Exigencies may require.
                            3rd Each Commissary to be allowed to live in a House by himself with his Family & Domesticks,
                                without being subject to be billeted upon, or liable to perform any Military or public Duties, and exempt from all
                                publick Dues and Taxations be protected and secured in their Persons and Effects, and treated with suitable Respect
                                while they continue in Office.
                            4th Neither of the Commissaries to be allowed to pass to the Army to which he belongs without previously
                                informing the Commander in Chief within whose Lines he is, of the Intention of his Journey and obtaining Permission
                                for that purpose, and such Commissary being allowed to pass is to consider himself under Parole not to divulge or do
                                any thing prejudicial to the Party with whom he resides.
                            5th In case of Misbehaviour, or a Charge of Misbehaviour, in either Commissary, and on a complaint
                                thereof and request to the Commander in Chief under whom he acts, he shall be recalled, and another appointed.
                            6th If a Commissary should resign or be recalled, he is to be permitted to return with his Family
                                & Effects under the Sanction of a Flag.


Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Dummer Powell, 23 September 1780
From: Powell, Jeremiah Dummer
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            State of Massachusetts Bay Council Chamber Septr 23d 1780

                        Immediately upon Receipt of Your Excellency’s Letter a Committee of the General Court was chosen to enquire
                            what Quantity of Salt Beef had been captured by the Privateers belonging to this State in the Quebec Fleet & find
                            there was a much smaller Quantity than had been supposed The whole not exceeding twelve or fifteen hundred Barrels which
                            has been already mostly appropriated to the Use of the Privateers which have been since fitted out: no considerable
                            Quantity of Salt Beef if any can therefore be purchased in this State We are devising every Measure & exerting
                            every Nerve to furnish our full proportion of the Supplies required by Congress being fully sensible of the Embarrassments
                            under which Your Excellency labours for want of a regular Supply of Provision And hope like efforts have been made
                            & with better Success by the other States of whom Quotas of the same kind are required in which Case We have no
                            doubt that the Distresses of the Army will be fully relieved & the Publick Stores filled—We sincerely Wish Your
                            Excellency a Continuance of Health amidst Your arduous Exertions & every Blessing. In the Name & behalf of
                            the General Court I am, With every Sentiment of Esteem, Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & very hble Servt

                            Jer: Powell, President


Title: General Orders, 24 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Orangetown Sunday September 24th 1780
                            Parole Indostan
                            Countersigns Ireland Iris
                            Watchword Independence

                        For the day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Irvine
                        Colonel Gansevoort
                        Lieutenant Colonel Basset
                        Major Wiley
                        Brigade Major White
                        For detachment
                        Major Wallbridge

                        After Orders
                        Such of the regimental Surgeons as have not had a fresh supply of medicine are immediately to send their
                            Chests to Mr Cutting Apothecary General to the Army at his Store near Paramus Church where they will get a supply.
                        The Inspectors and brigade Quarter masters excepting those belonging to the Light Infantry are desired to
                            meet the Inspector General tomorrow morning at nine ô clock at the Adjutant Generals.
                        The whole army to be under arms at ten o clock—the horses belonging to the Artillery both in the Park and the
                            line to be in readiness to move the Pieces.


Title: To George Washington from John Mathews, 24 September 1780
From: Mathews, John
To: Washington, George

                            My Dear Sir,
                            Philadelphia Septr 24th 1780

                        I did myself the pleasure of writing to you a few days ago by The Minister of France: since which time, the
                            Committee have brought in a partial report on the affairs of the army. It has been acted upon by Congress & thus
                            far agreed to. To call on the States for an army of 32,000 men, to be in the field by the 1st day of January next. To
                            reduce the remaining sixteen battalions, & all the light corps, & add them to state lines, so as to have
                            no more than forty nine battalions, & out of the horse, to re-establish four regiments. The infantry to consist of
                            580 privates, & the horse 320. The remaining 2300 to compose the artillery. The battalions of Infantry, Artillery,
                            & horse, are quota’d on the several States, & the reduction—incorporation, & filling them up,
                            submitted to them altogether. The mode recommended for engaging the men is, either for the war,
                            or one year, & on the first day of every September the States are to be informed of the
                            deficiencies of their quotas of men in order that they may fill them up by the 1st of January. I stretched my abilities to
                            their utmost extent, I exhausted every argument that nature, & my enquiries, & observations on this truely
                            important subject, had furnished me with, to get the fatal alternative, "or, for one year" altered, thus—That if the
                            battalions could not be compleated by the 1st day of Decr for the War, then (the States to be called in the most forcible
                            language) to fill them up by drafts for not less—than one year, from the 1st of Jany, but if
                            not then relieved, to be obliged to continue in the field untill such time as their places shall be actually supplied, by other drafts, or enlistments for one year, or for the War. The Commander in Chief to be
                                empowerd to discharge from time to time, such of the men as he shall think proper as their places
                            shall be by others supplied. By this mode, whatever numbers are once fixed on, and got into the field, we should be
                            certain of always having a permanent army & no longer be subject to the expence, and intolerable delays,
                            supineness, & negligence of the States—There would be an indispensible obligation laid on the states to relieve
                            their annual recruits, if they did not, the fault wou’d lay with them, but we would have the men—undiminished—Not as
                            hitherto has been the case as soon as the times of the men expire, to be left at liberty to return home, & the
                            army thus dwindle to a mere skeleton, & through the shameful neglect of the States, remain in this disgraceful
                            situation, untill the season for operation is nearly expired. I think such a plan is also founded on principles of true
                            policy: for, it would operate on the minds of the people especially of the monied men, as a matter in terrorem. As soon as
                            they find themselves subject to a draft (not on the spur of the occasion, but that it is become an established maxim,
                            & to which they must be annually subjected,) it immediately becomes their interest, to devise some means by which
                            they can avoid, what they will conceive to be, a tremendous inconvenience. The mode readily enough suggests itself to
                            them, which is, by classing the people, & each class to furnish certain number of men. In each class, no doubt
                            will be found a sufficient number of men, who will be ready to take a good bounty, rather than pay a heavy fine: and if
                            they manage matters with prudence, by  making the proper distinction in the bounties, between men for the war,
                            & those only for one year, I dare say, most of the men may be got for the war: for the nature of man is such, that
                            he is but too lyable to be influenced by the powers of that enchanting metal called gold, & there will be one
                            strong incentive to their accepting the largest sum which is, the people have strongly imbibed a notion
                            that the war cannot last more than a year or two longer, therefore I suppose they will readily enough imbrace the old
                            proverb, "a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." Much may be said on the subject, but your Excys experience,
                            & knowledge of these matters renders it unnecessary. This was the plan Sir I proposd but after
                            a very long, & warm debate, it was rejected, & what I have before mentioned, substituted. I am extremely
                            anxious to have yr Excys opinion on this matter, therefore must earnestly request it of you. I mean it only for my private
                            information, as the business is already determined, & I suppose will not be altered.
                        There is one objection I am aware of that is the enormous expence it would create. To this I would answer, it
                            is better at once to incur the most enormous expence, & let there be an end of it than
                            to be every year running into very heavy expences, to answer little, or no valuable purpose, on the contrary, rather
                            tending to throw our affairs into the utmost confusion.
                        The reduction of the battalions, & consequently a great many officers, yr Excy will at once see the
                            propriety of keeping private, untill finally determined by Congress. I have the honor to be, with the highest respect And
                            the most sincere Esteem, Yr Excys most Obedt Servt

                            Jno. Mathews


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Skinner, 24 September 1780
From: Skinner, Abraham
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Commy prisoners Office 24th Septemr 1780.

                        Having received your Excellency’s orders of the 17th instant, I proceeded to Elizabeth Town for the purpose
                            of meeting Mr Loring the British Commissary, to whom, on the 21st instant, I made the proposal of Exchange No. 1 agreeable
                            to your wish, and the next day received his answer thereto.
                        The enemy seem resolved to pursue their determination of not exchanging an Officer without the privates, and
                            threaten the removal of our prisoners from New York to Hallifax or the West Indies unless they are released.
                        I beg leave to refer your Excellency to the inclosed letter from Mr Loring (No. 2) in which is contained an
                            explicit answer to my proposition, and am with the greatest Respect Yr Excellency’s most obt humble Servt

                            Abm Skinner
                            Comy Genl Priss.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Elizabeth Town Septemr 21st 1780

                            Agreeable to His Excellency General Washingtons instructions to me, I am to propose to you the exchange
                                of all your Officers who are prisoner of War in our hands, and
                                also of all the Officers of Convention on parole in New York or in Europe, for an equal
                                number of ours of like Rank and according to the order of the captivity; and where the principle of equal Rank will
                                not apply: I will exchange them on the footing of composition, confining the composition to Officers only and according to the value or Tariff treated of and judged reasonable by the
                                Commissioners at the last meeting at Amboy.
                            That in the exchange on the principle of Composition, our Officers next in rank to those belonging to
                                your Army who cannot be exchanged on the principle of equality are to be included and in the order of their captivity.
                            These are the general principles by which I am to be governed in the execution of the proposed business,
                                and which are to operate only in general with respect to our Officers prisoners in this Quarter and for their benefit,
                                whose long captivity give them a claim to the public’s first attention.
                            There is however the exchange of Brigr Gen. du Portail and Lieut. Colo. Laurens, who were taken at
                                Charles town, which I am also directed to make, and also the exchange of Colo. Webb and Lt Colo. Ramsay upon the terms
                                heretofore proposed.
                            It is wished that the exchange of all the Officers prisoners of War in our
                                hands, and also of all the Convention Officers on parole in New York or Europe may take place, but if we cannot make
                                so general as to comprehend the whole, we will make it as extensive as we can. I am Sir Yr most obt humble Servt

                                Abm Skinner
                                Comy Genl Prisrs

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Elizabeth Town 22d Septemr 1780.

                            You must naturally imagine, how much I have been surprized at the receipt of your letter dated yesterday,
                                containing proposals of a general Exchange of the Officers prisoners of War, without any consideration for the
                                unfortunate privates. You will please to recollect that the proposal for the exchange of the American privates
                                prisoners of War in New York came first from you, in last February, in which, an Express Vessel was dispatched to His
                                Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton in South Carolina, for his orders concerning this matter, which were obtained
                                early in May, on the sight of which Month, I writ to you, consenting to an exchange of the privates as far as the
                                American privates prisoners of War in New York went, as also of all the Officers Rank for Rank, or otherwise, by
                                composition, where similar Ranks did not apply. This offer, for an exchange of Officers and privates, was repeated in
                                the Month of June, by the order of the King’s Commander in Chief in America, he being arrived at that time from South
                                Carolina at New York. Some time in July, you proposed an Exchange of Officers without privates, and desired a meeting
                                with me at Staten Island, to adjust any doubtful matters that might arise upon the subject. Willing in my part, to do
                                every thing for the humane purpose of an exchange, which His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton had expressed to have very
                                fully at heart, I obtained permission to meet you, but, unfortunately finding you positively instructed not to make
                                any exchange of the privates prisoners of War, I am under the necessity of informing you, that I could not engage in a
                                business that had so inhumane a conclusion. I repeat, therefore, my surprize, that you should meet me again at this
                                place with the same ungenerous proposals.
                            I have now, on my part, to inform you, that I am prepared and ready to make an exchange with you of all
                                the British and German Officers prisoners of War in your hands, for an equal number of American Officers prisoners of
                                War on Long Island, rank for rank, and where similar ranks will not apply, to pursue the exchange on the footing of
                                composition, according to the Value or Tariff treated of and adjudged reasonable by the
                                Commissioners at the last meeting at Amboy and that in the exchange on the principles of composition the Officers next
                                in rank to those who cannot be exchanged on the principles of equality may be included, and that General Washingtons
                                principle of Justice respecting the American Officers prisoners of War first taken to be first exchanged, may be
                                pursued. In this exchange will also be included such Officers, prisoners of War, as are on parole on both sides, as
                                also the American Officers, Violators of Parole, in their order of Capture.
                            I am also instructed and directed, to make the exchange with you of the Officers of the Troops of
                                Convention, who are on parole in New York or in Europe, and also of the Officers taken on board the Eagle packet, with
                                an exception to Major General de Reidesel, Major General Phillips and Lt General Burgoyne, and on the subject of these
                                Officers I am ordered to inform you, that however it may happen respecting the immediate exchange of the two Major
                                Generals, that of Lieut. General Burgoyne cannot come into contemplation or be admitted of untill two compleat
                                divisions of the troops of Convention are exchanged, agreeable to a plan conversed upon between the Commissioners at
                                the last meeting at Amboy; Copies of which plans of exchange the Commissioners on both sides had for the perusal of
                                their superiors. Lieutenant General Burgoyne can only therefore be exchanged with the third or last division of the
                                troops of Convention.
                            I am to inform you, that this Exchange of Officers, as now proposed by me, can only take place with the
                                exchange of privates prisoners of War on both sides, as far as the number of the American privates prisoners of War
                                now in New York, and according to the plan given by me to you in my letters of May and June last upon this subject.
                            I am also further to inform you, that I came to Elizabeth Town prepared to settle with you a plan for the
                                immediate exchange of the British and German Troops under the treaty of Convention of Saratogha, against the American
                                troops, under Maj. General Lincoln, taken at the surrender of Charlestown upon which subject, Major Genl Lincoln and
                                Major Genl Phillips have met at Elizabeth Town. I have been ordered to pursue this, under the instructions of Major
                                General Phillips, who directs me to inform you, that he is ready to give me full authority and advice upon this
                                matter, for the carrying such exchanges into immediate Act, supposing you have any power from your superiors to enter
                                upon that Business.
                            The making a general Exchange of both Officers and privates is so full of that humanity and generosity,
                                which ought to subsist between Armies, that I will not expatiate upon it, nor need I enlarge
                                    upon the constant attention we have had to carry these compassionate purposes into execution.
                                It will be left to a dispassionate World to judge of—But I am to inform you, that after having kept a considerable
                                part of your prisoners of War for above twelve months at New York, and the whole above six at a very great
                                inconveniency, and at a still greater expence; it becomes necessary that we should be released from one and the other
                                and if your superiors are cruel enough, not to suffer the Men who fight their Battles to be exchanged, we shall be
                                under the necessity of sending them to some other parts where they may be lodged and fed, under every description of
                                humanity, but without being at that inconveniency and expence, as I have before observed they are to us in their
                                present situation. I am Sir Your most obt hble Servt

                                Josa Loring
                                Comy Genl priss.


Title: To George Washington from Benedict Arnold, 25 September 1780
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            On Board the Vulture Sepr 25th 1780

                        The Heart which is Concious of its Own rectitude, Cannot attempt to paliate a Step, which the world may
                            Censure as wrong; I have ever acted from a Principle of Love to my Country, since the Commencement of the present unhappy
                            Contest between Great Britian and the Colonies, the same principle of Love to my Country Actuates my present Conduct,
                            however it may appear Inconsistent to the World: who very Seldom Judge right of any Mans Actions.
                        I have no favor to ask for myself, I have too often experienced the Ingratitude of my Country to Attempt it:
                            But from the known humanity of your Excellence I am induced to ask your protection For Mrs Arnold from every Insult and
                            Injury that the mistaken Vengence of my Country may expose Her to: It ought to fall only on me She is as good, and as
                            Inocent as an Angel, and is Incapable of doing Wrong. I beg She may be permitted to return to
                            Her Friends in Philada or to come to me as She may choose; from your Excellencey I have no fears on Her Account, but She
                            may Suffer from the mistaken fury of The Country.
                        I have to request that the Inclosd Letter may be delivered to Mrs Arnold, and She permitted to write to me.
                        I have also to Ask that my Cloths & Baggage which are of little Consequence may be Sent to me, If
                            required their Value shall be paid in Money. I have the honor to be With great reguard & Esteem Your Excellencys
                            Most Obedt Hble Servt

                            B. Arnold

                            N. B. In Justice to the Gentlemen of my Family Colonel Varick & Major Franks, I think myself in
                                honor bound to declare, that they as well as Joshua Smith Esqr. (who I know is suspected) are totally Ignorant of any
                                    transactions of mine that they had reason to believe were Injurious to the Public.


Title: From George Washington to William M. Betts, 25 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Betts, William M.

                            Sir
                            Head qrs Robinson’s House Sepr 25. 1780 1/2 after 7 O Clock P.M.

                        It is my wish from some matters which have just occurred, to call the Militia employed in cutting Wood to
                            Fish Kill, where they will receive further orders. The inclosed is to the Officer who commands the Detachment, on the
                            subject, which You will forward by Express. I am Sir Yr Most Obed. St


Title: From George Washington to Ebenezer Gray, 25 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Gray, Ebenezer

                            Sir
                            Hd qrs Robinson’s House Sepr 25. 1780 7 O Clock

                        From some intelligence I have received I think it necessary that the Regiment at present under your command
                            should march without a moments delay. You will therefore I request on receipt of this, put it in motion and with one half
                            You will occupy the North & Middle redoubts on the Heights above this place as soon as possible. The other half of
                            the Regiment will proceed on to the landing place above Mandevilles, near the old Connecticut encampment, and will cross
                            the river immediately after their arrival to West point. I am Sir with great regard Yr Most Obed. St

                            G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 25 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                            Dr Sir
                            Hd Qrs Robinson’s House 25 Sepr 1780—1/2 After 7 O Clock P.M.

                        I request that you will put the Division on the left in motion as soon as possible, with orders to proceed to
                            Kings ferry where or before they will be met by further orders. The Division will come on light, leaving their heavy
                            baggage to follow. You will also hold all the Troops in readiness to move on the shortest notice. Transactions of a most
                            interesting nature & such as will astonish you have been just discovered. I am Dr Sir With the most perfect regard
                            Yr most Obt St

                            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 25 September 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir
                             Sepr 25. 80

                        You will see by the inclosed we are too late—Arnold went by water to the Vulture—I shall write to General
                            Greene advising him without making a bustle to be in readiness to march and even to detach a Brigade this way for though I
                            do not believe the project will go on, it is possible Arnold has made such dispositions with the Garrison as may tempt the
                            enemy in its present weakness to make the stroke this night and it seems prudent to be providing against it. I shall
                            endeavour to find Meigs and request him to march to the Garrison—and shall make some arrangements here. I hope Your
                            Excellency will approve these steps as there may be no time to be lost.I am Yr most Obed. & hume S.

                            A. Hamilton

                            The Vulture is gone down to NY.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 25 September 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Newport Septr 25 1780

                        A few days since, and during the absence of General Comte de Rochambeau at Hartford I received very particular
                            intelligence from Major Talmadge that Adml Rodney arrived at Sandy hook on the 13th Instant with ten Sail of the Line and
                            two frigates—that on the 15th Admiral Rodney detached Commodore Drake with four Sail of the Line to Reinforce Admiral
                            Arbuthnot (these four ships formed a junction on the 18th near Gardner island, their object is said to be to intercept 12
                            Sail of French ships expected on this Coast from the West Indies, & that orders were given for an embarkation of
                            troops to take place immediately at New York—the whole of this intelligence was forwarded by Major Talmadge to Head
                            quarters, which your Excellency may have seen since your Return, if not before. In Consequence of the Receipt of it here
                            General Viomenil proposed to me the calling back Colonel Green’s Regiment which had passed over to the main on their way
                            to the main army—this I did and the Regiment return’d accordingly. The french General also proposed the notifying the
                            Militia to hold themselves in Readiness to come in on the Shortest Notice; but their readiness has been so conspicuous on
                            every occasion that I thought this last measure unnecessary—I cannot yet think the Enemy will make an attempt on this
                            place, altho’ their present great naval Superiority may prompt them to attempt the destruction of the French fleet. Since
                            this last intelligence was received the fleet has taken a new position, which with the support of three Batteries of heavy
                            Metal one on each flank, and the other in the Centre, it is thought their Situation is rendered Safe against an attack
                            from the Fleet altho’ so much Superior and that they cannot be destroyed, unless the Enemy come with Such a land force as
                            to get possession of Some posts on the Island.
                        Comte Rochambeau return’d here the last Evening. Admiral Arbuthnot’s fleet Remain near Gardner’s island. I have
                            the honor to be, With the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servant

                            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to John Lamb, 25 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lamb, John

                            Sir,
                            Hd Quarters Robinson’s House in the Highlands Septr 25th 1780 7 o’Clock P.M.

                        It is my wish to see Col. Jas Livingston to night, and I write him by you on the occasion. In his absence you
                            will take command of the posts at Stoney and Verplank’s Point, ’till further orders. I am, Sir, with great respect and
                            esteem Your most obedt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 25 September 1780
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General
                            Camp September 25th 1780

                        I take this early opportunity to inform your Excellency that in the late interview no exchanges took place;
                            and that I see little prospect that any will be effected while the idea remains that officers only are to be the subject
                            of it.
                        In the course of conversation with General Philips (for nothing more took place between us relative to a
                            general exchange of prisoners, as I early informed him that I was not authorised to go into that matter) I found that he
                            supposed the reason why we declined the exchange of privates was that we were unwilling to throw into their hands in the
                            the middle of a campeign such a reinforcement as they would receive by an exchange of all the privates—to obviate this
                            difficulty he mentioned that the exchange of privates might be post poned to some future day, say the first of December,
                            sooner or later as should be agreed on but so as not to act this campeign—This I hope will remove the objections which
                            have existed against a general exchange of privates—I think policy, justice & humanity point to the propriety of
                            exchanging them if not immediately yet at the close of the campaign—Your Excellency will permit me to offer the reasons
                            in which I ground this opinion.
                        The men now prisoners of war (excuse the personality of my situation) are those who from an attachment to the
                            liberties of America engaged in her cause from a reliance that they should not only find every support from their fellow
                            citizens in the important contest but that they should enjoy all the immunities and blessings peculiar to the soldier in
                            the power of the people to grant—that an exchange when made a prisoner is one of the rights of a soldier none I think will
                            deny—and that he may claim a release when just and reasonable terms can be had.
                        The long and distressing captivity which many of the prisoners have endured, the severe sufferings to which
                            many of them are now reduced from nakedness and hunger, their constant attendants, and the want of almost every
                            convenience & necessary of life, the miseries of which are augmented and embittered by the narrow limits of a
                            loathsome jail, and their having no assurance that their sufferings will soon have an end call for redress.
                        The prisoners pained with regret, are become sore—their minds are soured, and their friends and connections
                            think them neglected by the public—this may prevent the recruiting our battalions and cause a disrelish for the
                            Service—every thing of the kind, I think, should be avoided, and never more necessary than at the present day, when it
                            seems to be the general voice that our only safety and the freedom of America, (under the supreme arbiter), depends on an
                            army raised for the war—If we should refuse to exchange the privates on the proposals made of man for man, it must, I
                            think, operate powerfully on the minds of those, who other wise might engage in the service, when they reflect how
                            uncertain are the events of war, and that it may be their lot to become the prisoner and be destined to a miserable
                            & perhaps to an endless captivity-And when the enemy shall have published their declaration of our refusal to
                            accede to an equal & fair exchange, we may find it a matter of much difficulty to justify our selves to the world
                            at large, who will naturally enough suspect us of injustice in not fulfilling our public
                            engagements, as they will accuse us of wanting humanity in neglecting those very men who have stepped forth to assert our
                            rights.
                        The daily decreasing of the number of the convention troops by deserting to the enemy, for which we have no
                            compensation, and the great expence to which we are exposed for the support of them, and of our officers and men, prisoners
                            of war with the enemy, must have their weight in urging to the propriety of an exchange.
                        To the foregoing reasons, in my humble opinion sufficient in themselves, permit me My Dear General, to assert
                            an apprehension for our unfortunate prisoners now in New York—the Enemy supposing themselves authorised by our refusal of
                            an exchange may, under the pretence of œconomising provisions, providing for their own safety, or some other plausible
                            reason, have our prisoners removed to some distant consequently disagreeable situation, where they may be subjected to
                            less expence &c. Should an event of this kind take place retaliation is hardly in our power, as all parts of the
                            continent are equally agreeable to the British.
                        I hope Sir on a review of the matter, as the objection of reinforcing the enemy this campaign is removed, a
                            general exchange will be adopted; by which many of your officers & men, now suffering under the most miserable
                            captivity, will be released, and once more have the honor of fighting under your Excellency’s particular command in
                            support of that independence of America which induced them to quit the sweets of a domestic life for the toils of a
                            camp—which no one will reenter with more cheerfulness than him who has the honor to be with the highest esteem Your
                            Excellencys most obedient & most humble servant

                            B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Caleb Low, 25 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Low, Caleb

                            Sir
                            Hd Qrs Robinson’s House 25 Sepr 1780, 1/2 after 7 OClock P.M.

                        You will be pleased to march early to morrow morning with all the Militia under your command & proceed to
                            the Landing opposite West point. You will send an Officer on to this place by whom You will receive further orders.
                        Colo. Gouvion, the Bearer of this, will apply to you for an Officer & a small party of Men. These You
                            will furnish. I am Sir, with esteem Yr Most Ob. St.

                            G. W.


Title: To George Washington from Leonard Miller, 25 September 1780
From: Miller, Leonard
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excellency
                            September 25th 1780

                        The Petition of Lt Leonard Miller, humbly showeth. That whereas. I have been constantly in the service of the
                            United States, since the Commencement of Hostilities, between Great Britain and these States. and should still rejoice in
                            the same was it not for the situation of my Family: which Utterly forbids it. Which situation they have been reduced too,
                            by my being in the service. So most humbly pray for a discharge from the service. Relying on your Excellencies Wisdom and
                            Benevolence—shall as in duty bound ever Pray.

                            Leonard Miller Lieut.
                            13th Massatts Regiment


Title: To George Washington from Beverly Robinson, 25 September 1780
From: Robinson, Beverly
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Vulture off Sinsenk Sepr 25th 1780

                        I am this moment informed that Major Andree, Adjutant Genl of His Majestys Army in America is detained as a
                            prisoner, by the Army and on your Command. It is therefore incumbent on me to inform you of the manner of his falling into
                            your hands; He went up with a flag at the request of Genl Arnold on publick business with him and had his permit to return
                            by Land to New York; under these circumstances Majr Andree cannot be detained by you, without the greatest violation of
                            flags, & contrary to the custom and usage of all nations, and as I imagine you will see this matter in the same
                            point of View as I do, I must desire you will Order him to be set at Liberty & allowed to return immediately;
                            every step Majr Andree took was by the advice & direction of Genl Arnold, even that of taking a fained name
                            & of Course not lyable to censure for it.I am Sr not forgeting our former Acquaintance Yr very H. Sert

                            Bev: Robinson , Colo. Loyal Americans


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 25 September 1780
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Newport September 25th 1780

                        With the greatest impatience, I wait till I hear from Your Excellency, I hope that your army will have seen
                            you returned in good health.
                        At my return here, I found that our fleet had been warmly alarmed at Sir George Rodney’s arrival; which has
                            produced good effect in making them add to their precautions in fortifying the Islands and considerably bettering the
                            batteries on them, But one thing displeases me lest Your Excellency should find fault with it, and it is that General
                            Heath has been desired to countermand General Green’s regiment which was only at Greenwich, that it might take its former
                            Station in this Island, which covers a Landing place very practicable; about 3. miles on the right of the place where the
                            fleet is imbossed; with all those means, Our sea captains are quiet, and seem now to have the greatest trust in their
                            position. I beg of Your Excellency to write me if you approve of that regiment’s staying here till we see where the Enemy
                            intends to go. I am very much afraid lest, we be again absolutely obliged to act on the defensive part till next spring. I
                            am Led in that opinion by the following extract of a Letter I have found here, coming from The Commanding officer at St
                            Domingo. "The day before Mr De Guichen’s Departure for Europa, an American Ship arrived here,
                            who told that you was blocked up by superior forces; I brought him a board the Admiral and did all my eandeavours to
                            persuade him that nothing would finish his glorious campaign so well, as to come to deliver you. he set sail The next Day
                            without telling me what he would do, or what he intended to do." You Excellency may well believe that I keep this
                            Intelligence very secret. I am with respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble servant

                            le Cte de Rochambeau

                            P.S. Mr De Guichen has left nine men of war at St Domingo.


Title: From George Washington to Nathaniel Wade, 25 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wade, Nathaniel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Robinson’s House Septr 25th 1780

                        General Arnold is gone to the Enemy. I have just now received a line from him, inclosing one to Mrs Arnold
                            dated on board the Vulture. From this circumstance & Colo. Lamb’s being detached on some business, the command of
                            the Garrison for the present devolves on you. I request you will be as vigilant as possible & as the Enemy may
                            have it in contemplation to attempt some enterprise even to night against these posts, I wish you to make immediately
                            after receipt of this, the best disposition you can of your force, so as to have a proportion of Men in each work on the
                            West side of the River. You will see or hear from me further tomorrow. I am Sir Your Mo. Obet Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 26 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Orangetown Tuesday September 26 1780
                            Parole Smallwood
                            Countersigns Gist,
                            Watchword Intrepid Marion

                        For the day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Glover
                        Colonel Bradley
                        Lieutenant Colonel Olney
                        Major Waite
                        Brigade Major Smith
                        The truly martial appearance made by the troops yesterday the order and regularity with which they made the
                            different marches and the ease and facility they performed the several manoeuvres does them the greatest Credit and
                            affords the most flattering prospect of substantial service reputation and military glory.
                        Nothing can be more pleasing to the officers who feel for the honor of the Army and the Independence of
                            America than to see the rapid progress made by the Troops in military discipline.
                        The good conduct of all the officers yesterday gave the general the highest satisfaction and the particular
                            services of the Inspector General and those serving in that line deserve his particular thanks.
                        Treason of the blackest dye was yesterday discovered! General Arnold who commanded at Westpoint, lost to
                            every sentiment of honor—of public and private obligation—was about to deliver up that important Post into the hands of
                            the enemy. Such an event must have given the American cause a deadly wound if not a fatal stab. Happily the treason has
                            been timely discovered to prevent the fatal misfortune. The providential train of circumstances which led to it affords
                            the most convincing proof that the Liberties of America are the object of divine Protection.
                        At the same time that the Treason is to be regretted the General cannot help congratulating the Army on the
                            happy discovery. Our Enemies despairing of carrying their point by force are practising every base art to effect by
                            bribery and Corruption what they cannot accomplish in a manly way.
                        Great honor is due to the American Army that this is the first instance of Treason of the kind where many
                            were to be expected from the nature of the dispute—and nothing is so bright an ornament in the character of the American
                            soldiers as their having been proof against all the arts and seduction of an insidious enemy.
                        Arnold has made his escape to the Enemy but Mr André the Adjutant General to the British Army who came out as
                            a spy to negotiate the Business is our Prisoner.
                        His Excellency the commander in Chief has arrived at Westpoint from Harford and is no double taking the
                            proper measures to unravel fully, so hellish a plot.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 26 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Dear sir
                            Head Quarters Robinsons Sepr 26th 1780

                        I arrived here yesterday on my return from an interview with the French General and Admiral and have been
                            witness to a scene of treason as shocking as it was unexpected—General Arnold from every circumstance had entered into a
                            plot for sacrificing West Point. He had an interview with Major And the British Adjutant General last Week at
                                Joshua; Smiths where the plan was concerted; by an extraordinary concurrence of incidents, Andre
                            was taken on his return with several papers in Arnolds handwriting that proved the treason. The latter unluckely got
                            notice of it before I did—went immediately down the river got on bord the Vulture which brought up Andre and proceeded to
                            New York.
                        I found the post in the most critical condition and have been taking measures to give it security which I
                            hope will be to night effectual. With the greatest respect & regard I have the honor to be Your most Obt Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. Smith is also in our possession and has confessed facts sufficient to establish his guilt—


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 26 September 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp at Tappan Sept. 26 1780

                        Your Excellencys letter dated at Robinsons House 7 oClock last Evening came to hand 1/4 past three this
                            morning. Before the receipt of which I had put the first Pennsylvania brigade in motion; and put the whole army under
                            Marching orders, in consequence of a letter I received from Col. Hambleton dated at Verplanks Point. As the first brigade
                            had marched, I thought it most advisable to let the Second follow it, rather than break a division in the left Wing. The
                            Troops marched with out their baggage which is to follow them this morning. The rest of the Army is in perfect readiness
                            to move at the shortest notice.
                        I beg leave to congratulate your Excellency on the happy discovery; but am struck with astonishment at the
                            horid treason.
                        The plot being laid open I think the Enemy will be altogether disconcerted for some days to come; and give
                            you full time to make such dispositions for the better security of West Point as you may think necessary. I am with great
                            respect your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Ser.

                            N. Greene


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 26 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dr Sir
                            Robinson’s House 26 Sept 1780

                        In the present situation of things I think it necessary that You should join the army and request that You
                            will do it. You will come to Head Qrs youself. The rout thro Litchfield will be the most eligible for You, on account of
                            security, and You may direct your baggage to halt at Fish Kill for your further orders. I write to the Count de Rochambeau
                            by this conveyance, & I trust that your coming away now, will not be attended with any material inconvenience to
                            him.
                        I cannot conclude without informing You of an event which has happened here, which will strike You with
                            astonishment and indignation. Major General Arnold has gone to the Enemy. He had had an interview with Major André
                            Adjutant General of the British Army and had put into his possession a state of the army—of the Garrison at this post—of
                            the number of men considered as necessary for the defence of it—a Return of the ordnance—and the disposition of the
                            Artillery Corps in case of an alarm. By a most providential interposition Major André was taken in returning to New York
                            with all these papers in General Arnold’s hand writing, who hearing of the matter kept it to himself—left his Quarters
                            immediately under protest of going over to West point on Monday forenoon about an hour before my arrival—then pushed down
                            the river in the barge, which was not discovered till I had returned from West point in the afternoon and when I received
                            the first information of Mr André’s capture. Measures were instantly taken to apprehend him, but before the Officers sent
                            for the purpose could reach Verplank’s point, he had passed with a flag, & got on board the Vulture Ship of War
                            which lay a few miles below. He knew of my approach and that I was visiting with the Marquiss the North & Middle
                            Redoubts—and from this circumstance was so straitned in point of time that I believe he carried with him but very few, if
                            any material papers—tho he has a very precise knowledge of the affairs of the post. The Gentlemen of General Arnold’s
                            family I have the greatest reason to believe were not privy in the least degree to the measures he was carrying on or to
                            his escape. I am Dr Sir With very great esteem & regard Yr Most Obed Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 26 September 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Orange Town 26th Sepr 1780

                        How poignant is my Anxiety my Dear General that a Man of a Character so exalted, to whom by all Accounts his
                            Country owes so much, & from whom so much more might have been expected (as of Arnold) should to the Ruin of his
                            own Glory, the Disgrace of the Army, & the Disbasement of Human Nature sink into a Degree of Treachery so black
                            that Expression has not Colouring to paint it properly. I sorrow for my Country when I find that among
                            those of her Servants so high up one could be found so lost to every Sense of Virtue & Honor, to enter into
                            Compact with her bitterest Enemies to betray & undo her. A Man to whose ruling Passion appear’d to be Ambition
                            & which therefore one would have thought even in the Absence of Virtue, would have induced him to disdain an Art
                            that must inevitably intail both upon him, & his Memory eternal Infamy, & render him
                            the Scorn of the very People he was endeavouring to serve. How painful & embarrassing must this Affair be to your
                            Excellency—for who shall be confided in if Arnold could not be trusted—Some Time since if your Excellency recollects I
                            hinted to you that one of my Emissaries had assured me that a General Officer high up was in Compact with the Enemy—I also
                            mentioned it to Genl Greene & tho’ I could not credit it, yet the Information was so reiterated upon me, that it
                            induced me to hesitate, & gave me Concern—Little did I think then that Arnold was the Man, but since He was, how
                            providential is his Detection. His Escape is an alarming Circumstance—He is Master of secrets the Enemy ought not to
                            know—& rendered desperate by his Dissapointment, will exert himself to the utmost to injure America, in Order to
                            advance himself with the Enemy, His all is at Stake & every Thing he can do to spur them on to Enterprise may be
                            expected, & should be guarded against, & I doubt not will. Rocky Hill at West Point is a very commanding
                            Situation, possess’d by the Enemy Fort Putnam is in Danger, & that Commands Fort Arnold & the Plain—The
                            Work upon Rocky Hill is weak—& on that Side where it is most easily approachable the weakest Part of it—Examine it
                            you will find that Grounds within Point Blank Distance are elevated enough to batter it in
                            Breach—& that the Work is not Cannon Proof—nor is it assisted with any Battery from which
                            Cannon can be opposed to Cannon—or is it peirced for Cannon on that Side—These are capital Defects which
                            I fully intended to remedy had there been Time for it—& which I strongly recommended to General Arnold to attend
                            to & which is the more necessary as the Enemy may approach it by the Forrest of Dean
                             by any Work we have—Genl Arnold surveyed these Works in my Company, & dwelt much upon
                            the Defects of each—He spoke so particularly of the Rocky Hill Work, & with what Care it could be taken as struck
                            me oddly even then—tho’ I had not the least suspicion of him—But now that Event has sin’d his
                            Character, it will not I persuade myself be thought improbable that he had then the Plan of betraying it in Agitation,
                            & may now endeavour to have it struck at—this Communication therefore I think it my Duty to make to your
                            Excellency—that Success may crown your Efforts in Behalf of that Cause of which you are so capital a support, is the
                            warmest Wish of My Dear Sir your Excellency’s Affectionate & most obedient Servant

                            Robert Howe


Title: To George Washington from John Lamb, 26 September 1780
From: Lamb, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Verplank’s Point 26th Sepr 1780

                        your favor of yesterday, came duely to Hand. The Inclosed for Capt. Carnes I immediately forwarded.
                        I feel extremely happy that Smith is secured, and flatter myself that every Villain who is concerned in the
                            iniquitous Scheme, will be discovered.
                        As your Excellency’s Letter makes no mention of André, I am afraid he has escaped and wish to be informed if
                            he is in safe Custody. I am, with Sentiments of the greatest Respect your Excellencys Most obdt Huml Servt


Title: From George Washington to Isaac Ledyard, 26 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Ledyard, Isaac

                            Sir
                            Robinsons Septr 26th 1780

                        I return you my thanks, for your information conveyed through a letter to Colo. Lamb which has just arrived
                            here.
                        I shall esteem it a particular favor If you will instantly get possession of the Papers (which you mention,)
                            in the possession of young Mr Smith, & also to have him & the mate who is also noticed in your letter,
                            secured, provided you see sufficient cause for it—in this case, if you find assistance necessary, I have inclosed a line
                            to the Commanding officer at Fish kill, to afford it on your application. &a


Title: From Richard Kidder Meade to New York Officer Commanding at Fishkill, 26 September 1780
From: Meade, Richard Kidder,Washington, George
To: Officer Commanding at Fishkill, New York

                            Sir,
                             Septr 26th 1780

                        His Excy desires me to request, that if Doctr Ledyard should make application to you for an officer
                            & party of men, that you will be pleased to furnish it. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 26 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Near West Point Sepr 26 1780

                        On my arrival here a very disagreeable scene unfolded itself. By a lucky accident a conspiracy of the most
                            dangerous kind the object of which was to sacrifice this post. has been detected. General Arnold, who has sullied his
                            former glory by the blackest treason, has escaped to the enemy. This is an event that occasions me equal regret and
                            mortification; but traitors are the growth of every country and in a revolution of the present nature it is more to be
                            wondered at, that the catalogue is so small than that there have been found a few.
                        The situation of the army at this time will make General Heath’s presence with us useful. I have written to
                            him for this purpose. I hope his removal will be attended with no inconvenience to Your Excellency. With the greatest
                            regard, I have the honor to be Your most Obedt ser.

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 26 September 1780
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Lebanon 26th Septr 1780

                        Yesterday I received an Express from our Brig. General Silliman, informing that the two State Regiments under
                            command of Lieut. Colonels Wells and Bebee were removed further from Horseneck, by which that important pass is laid open
                            to the enemy—That not only that place, but also Stamford are in the greatest danger of ruin.
                        Your Excellency will remember that at our interview at Hartford I mentioned their return to their former
                            important station at Horseneck, and your answer, that they should be ordered back soon—Whereupon I have directed Genl
                            Silliman to expect—as it will not be long before their return.This post appears of very great importance to be defended. I
                            have the Honor to be, with every Sentiment of Esteem & Consideration Your Excellency’s Most Obedient &
                            very hble Servant

                            Jonth. Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 26 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                            Dr Sir
                            Robinsons Sepr 26th 1780

                        Instead of coming to The Ferry you will march your brigade by Storms and Clements to West Point sending your
                            baggage by water. You will, for this purpose, send forward your Qr Mr to Kings Ferry to prepare boats, with directions, if
                            there are not a sufficiency there, to come on to West Point for them. I am Sir Your most Obedt & hume Serv.

                            Go: Washington

                            If there should be two brigades on their march the Officer Commanding will detach one of them in the
                                above manner and half the other at some convenient place in the rear of Stoney Point abt William’s.


Title: General Orders, 27 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Orangetown Wednesday September 27th 1780
                            Parole West Point
                            Countersigns Fortune favours.
                            Watchword America

                        For the day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Paterson
                        Colonel Marshall
                        Lieutenant Colonel Vose
                        Major Cogswell
                        Brigade Major Woodbridge
                        For detachment
                        Major Maxwell
                        At a division General Court martial Septr 17th Colonel Swift President—Peter Rooney James Moore, John Miller
                            and James Welch Soldiers in Colonel Stewards regiment of Light infantry were tried for "Robbery" severally found Guilty of
                            the charge and sentenced to suffer death (more than two thirds of the Court agreeing thereto).
                        Major General Greene Approves the sentence.
                        At the General court martial whereof Colonel H. Jackson is President the 23d instant—Thomas Thomson Forage
                            master to General Hand’s brigade was tried for "Exchanging public Oats for bridles."
                        The Court are of opinion that Mr Thompson is guilty of the charge against him being in breach of Article 1st
                            Section 12 of the Articles of War and do sentence that he shall at his own charge make good the Loss or damage shall
                            moreover forfeit all his Pay and be dismiss’d from the Service.
                        Major General Greene confirms the Sentence of the Court and orders it to be carried into Execution.
                        At the same Court Abraham Cooper a waggoner was tried for "Embezzling public stores when employed in Carting
                            the same to the Army" and acquitted—He is to be released from Confinement.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 27 September 1780
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir
                            Pokeepsie Septr 27th 1780

                        Previous to the Receipt of your Excellcys favor of Yesterday which came to my hand abt 2
                            OClock this Morning, We had the Report of Arnolds Treaseny in such a Way as to leave little Room to doubt of its’ truth.
                            As ’tis more than probable there may be many more concerned, besides Smith, I could wish therefore the strictest Search
                            may be made & that you will without hisitation take all such Measures as to your Excell. may appear best
                            calculated for making the fullest discovery and apprehending all who may be concerned in this Plot & The
                            Legislature who are now sitting will, I have no Doubt, sanctify the Measure.
                        Sampson Dyckman on Arnolds application recommended to him some well affected Persons in Westchester County
                            from whom he might be most likely to Obtain Intelligence of the Movemts of the Enemy. On hearing of Arnolds
                                Treachery he determined to go down to the highlands & obtain Assistance to bring off the
                            Persons he recommended, lest Arnold should report their names & have them taken off by the Enemy—As I thought it
                            wrong that any Person who had been employed by Genl Arnold should be seen in that Quarter at prest I have therefore
                            detained him here—The enclosed Letter will give your Excellency the Names of the Persons Dyckman is anxious should be brot
                            off—I have therefore to request, that your Excellency will take such Measures for the Purpose as you deem expedient
                            & return the Letter to the bearer to be carried Forwd agreable to its direction.


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Hubbell, 27 September 1780
From: Hubbell, Isaac
To: Washington, George

                            Respected Sir
                            West Point 27th Septr 80

                        The inclosed few lines from Mr Smith by the commandants permission has been written, would be glad of your
                            Excellencys direction wheither you would have the prisoners indulged with the use of Pen, Ink & Paper—or not. As I
                            dont recollect you gave me any Instructions on that head. I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys Obedient Sarvant

                            Ic Hubbell A.D.ajt


Title: To George Washington from John Jameson, 27 September 1780
From: Jameson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            North Castle Septr 27th 1780.

                        This will be delivered you by John Paulding one of the Young Men that took Major André and who nobly refused any
                            sum of Money that he should demanded. The other two Young Men that were in Company with him are not yet found as soon as
                            they arrive they shall be sent on. I have just seen L. Kennicutt he thinks it will be impossible for him to go below again
                            he begs your instructions and assistance almost all his Furniture—Cloathes and Money are below. Some of the Plunderers
                            from above have Stolen his Horse which makes him very poor he has gone down between the lines to try to get out some of
                            his things and to give Notice to some people that have assisted him in his business. I should take it
                            as a particular favour if you woud use your influence with Governor Clinton to have some board appointed to enquire into
                            (and determine) the horrid practice of Plundering that is carried on in this part of the Country I have no doubt but that
                            the Plunderers above and below are connected. If some proper board could be appointed and or the commanding Officer on the
                            lines vested with proper Authority from Governor Clinton many petty Villians near the lines may be detected (I make no
                            doubt) who hold a correspondence with Delanceys Cow boys. I am very sorry that I wrote to G. Arnold I did not think of a
                            British Ship being up the River and expected that if he was the Man he has since turned out to be that he wou’d come
                                down to the Troops in this Quarter in which case I shou’d have secured him I mentioned my intention
                            to Major Tallmage and some others of the Field Officers all of who were clearly of Opinion that it
                            would be right) until I would hear from Your Excellency. The Queens Rangers I am
                            informed marched from Oyster bay last Saturday for Kings bridge—the 17th on Sunday and some others Ordered to hold
                            themselves in readiness. Two British Officers went on board the Vulture just above Tarry town: they were out in the
                            Country cloathed in mean ragged Country Cloaths and at the River side changed them for fine Laced
                            Regimentals. Some Gentleman came out from Kings bridge about a fortnight ago with a Handkerchief full of Gold changed his
                                Cloathes for an old Nan Ceen Jack Coat and pushed up the North River. I am with
                                regard and esteem Your Excellencies most Obedient & very humble Servant

                            John Jameson


Title: From George Washington to John Lamb, 27 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lamb, John

                            Dr Sir
                             Sepr 27th 1780

                        I wish You to return again to West Point and resume your command of the Artillery. I am, Dr Sir with esteem
                            Yr   Most Obed. sert

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Ledyard, 27 September 1780
From: Ledyard, Isaac
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Barracks Fish Kill . 27th Septr 1780

                        Upon the reception of your Commands I examined the papers that were in the hands of young Mr Smyth &
                            found them as I expected to be papers of Joshua Smyth. They being of such a nature I thought it advisable to send both
                            them & himself Down with a Guard which Lieut. Colton has furnished me.
                        I know of nothing more against the young Gentn but his first endeavouring to conceal these papers under his
                            own name (as your Excellency will see by the indorsement on the ruled paper which incloses them) and afterwards being
                            anxious to recover them.
                        The Mate, I can assure your Excellency is entirely innocent. he kept the papers very faithfully ’till I shew
                            him my Authority to take them. altho’ they were frequently called for by Mr Smyth—When they were handed to him the last
                            named informed him that they were to go to Genl Arnold. It was not then known that Genl Arnold had absconded, so it was
                            thought Mr Duffle (a Generals name being mentioned) would not hesitate to recieve & restore
                            them when called for.
                        The papers are inclosed to your Excellency just as they were found ixcept the Seal being broken.
                        There was no Commissioned Officer at this post except Lieut. Colton, so I am obliged to intrust this Charge
                            with a Searjt for whose fidelity Mr Colton vouches. I have the honor to be with the most perfect respect Your Excellency’s
                            most Humble and Obedt Servt

                            Isaac Ledyard


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Ledyard, 27 September 1780
From: Ledyard, Isaac
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            FishKill 27 Septr 1780

                        Since sealing my Letter to your Excellency I recollect to have mentioned that I know nothing against young Mr
                            Smyth besides his endeavouring to conceal these papers & I meant nothing which regarded Genl Arnolds & Joshua
                            Smyths Treachery.
                        I thought it necessary to make this supplement to my Letter of this morning, least that should apear to
                            contradict my former Letter to Col. Lamb wherein I mention Mr Wm Smyth’s being at his Uncle Wm Smyths on Long Island and
                            Govr Tryon’s coming frequently there expressly to converse with him. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s most
                            Obedt and Humble Servt

                            I Ledyard


Title: To George Washington from Mary Digges Lee, 27 September 1780
From: Lee, Mary Digges
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Annapolis September 27th 1780.

                        I have the honor to inform your Excellency that the Ladies of Maryland have manifested their gratitude, by
                            Subscribing a Considerable Sum for the relief of the American army—They are daily depositing the Money in my hands, and I
                            flatter myself the collection will be compleated in a Short time— I must therefore solicit your Excellency’s directions as
                            to the manner in which it shall be disposed of—If for necessaries which may be procured in this State, it will give me
                            pleasure to assist in the execution of your orders—at the Same time it may also be necessary, that your Excellency Should
                            fix their destination—whether for the Northern or Southern Army. I am Sir with the highest respect and Esteem, your Most
                            Humble Servant

                            Mary Lee.


Title: From George Washington to New York Officer Commanding at West Point, 27 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Officer Commanding at West Point, New York

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters Robinsons House Septr 27th 1780

                        You will immediately make a distribution of the Troops under your Command to the several Posts that the whole
                            may be in a state of defence at the shortest notice—You will also have each work supplied with Ten days provision, wood,
                            water and stores and keep up constantly that supply—and you will take every other precaution for the security of the Post.
                            The Enemy will have acquired from General Arnold a perfect knowledge of the defences, and will be able to take their
                            measures with the utmost precision. This makes it essential our vigilance and care should be redoubled for its
                            preservation. You will do every thing in your power to gain information of the Enemy’s designs, and give me intelligence
                            as early as possible of any movement against you.
                        A party of Militia who have been employed cutting wood and another as guards to the Stores at Fish Kill, that
                            have been called in are to return to their destination.
                        Colonel Gouvion will remain a few days at this Post to assist in the necessary arrangements. Given at Head
                            Quarters Robinsons House Septr 27th 1780.

                            G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 27 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                            Dear Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Robinson’s Sepr 27. 1780

                        I have just received your letter of this Morning. General Irvine with the second Brigade will move on to West
                            Point, and the first brigade remain where it is, ’till further orders, or ’till a movement of the Enemy. You will dispose
                            of your baggages as you find most convenient. I am Sir you most Obedt servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 28 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Orangetown Thursday September 28th 1780
                            Parole Rotterdam
                            Countersigns F
                            Watchword
                            Advance C,

                        For the day tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Huntington
                        Colonel Bradford
                        Lieutenant Colonel Sumner
                        Major Walbridge
                        Brigade Major Oliver


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 28 September 1780
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philada Septr 28th 1780

                        I am indebted to Andw Elliot Esqr. of New — York for many Acts of Friendship; Civilty & Humanity Shewn
                            by him at my request to various American Prisoners in that place, He has obtained their liberty to return on Parole, to be
                            exchanged, or advanced them Money just as their Circumstances required and I have had no call to make
                            return’s untill now, that a Captn Mure of the 82d Regt lately taken onboard a Packet bound from
                            England to New York, is a Prisoner at Lancaster, and Mr Elliot desires me to obtain leave for him to go into New York on
                            Parole and an exchange if possible as he will interest himself to have any American officer that shall be Named of equal
                            Rank sent out immediately in return for Capt. Mure who is a near Relation of His. as I am sure your inclination will not
                            only lead you to oblige me but also to enable any Friend of this Country to return obligations of the Nature of those, I
                            owe to Mr Elliot it is not necessary that I urge a compliance with this request which will not be refused unless the
                            interest of our Country or the Rule of your duty, forbid what I ask, and in either case, I woud neither make nor persist in
                            such an application. I applied to the Board of War, they informed me that Doctr Wetherspoon had
                            interested himself on behalf of Capt. Mure, but from the Tenor of some late Resolutions of Congress on the Subject of
                            Prisoners, they thought it more proper you shou’d alone decide on these points, otherwise they were disposed to permit
                            Capt. Mure to go in on Parole—With the most perfect esteem & Respect I have the Honour to be Your Excellencys most
                            Obedt hble Servt

                            Robt Morris


Title: Richard Varick’s Memorandum on Benedict Arnold’s Movements, 28 September 1780
From: Varick, Richard
To:

                            Memo.
                            Robinson’s House Sept. 28th 1780

                        On Friday Evening Sept. 8th Genl Arnold went down in a Barge to Kings Ferry & from hence to Mr Joshua
                            Smiths with a declared Intention of Meeting Mrs Arnold & returned on Sat. Eveng 9th, accompanied by two South
                            Carolina Officers & Sr James Jay only, Colo. Sheldons of the 9th inclosing Anderson’s Letter to him, was then
                                delivered Genl Arnold.
                        On Sunday Eveng 10th Genl Arnold with the S.C. Officers went down to Mr Smiths & the next Morning
                            Arnold proceeded to Dobbs’s Ferry to meet the Flagg mentd in Anderson’s Letter & retd in the Night of the 11th
                            & 12th.
                        On Friday 15th Genl Arnold went to Mr Smiths to meet Mrs Arnold & retd with her on Saturday 16th.
                        On Thursday 21st He went down, under Pretext of ordering in Batteaus to Dobbs’s Ferry two stocked 9. pounders
                            as Alarm Guns, which he had ordered to Kings Ferry for that Purpose; And to consult with Mr Leavenworth abt the
                            Disposition of Meigs’s Regt & retd on Friday 22nd with Colo. Gray & Major Leavenworth.

                            Richd Varick