Title: From George Washington to the Continental Congress Committee of Conference, 20 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Continental Congress Committee of Conference

Gentlemen.
Philadelphia 20 January 1779

That the Officers of the Army are in a very disagreeable situation—that the most unhappy consequences are to be apprehended, if they are not speedily placed in a better, and that therefore some provision more adequate than has yet been made is absolutely necessary—are truths so obvious and so generally acknowleged, that it would almost seem superfluous to say any thing to enforce them—But it is a point, in which in my opinion, the public safety is so essentially concerned—that I cannot let slip any opportunity of urging its importance and pressing it upon the public attention. I have more than once intimated that even a dissolution of the Army is not an improbable event, if some effectual measures were not taken to render the situation of the Officers more comfortable. If this event has not yet happened, we ought not to infer from thence that it will not happen. Many favorable circumstances have intervened to protract it, but the Causes that lead to it are daily increasing. Had it not been for the happy change which took place in our political Affairs last Winter, and the new prospects it opened, which for a time diverted the minds of the Officers from an attention to their distresses, and encouraged a hope of their having a speedy termination, it is much to be doubted from the discontents which then prevailed, whether we should now have had more than the shadow of an Army. The temporary consolation derived from this has subsided—their passions have returned into the former Channel—the difficulty of supplying their wants has greatly increased—the expectation of the War being near its end has vanished or at least lost a great part of its force—The large Fortunes acquired by numbers out of the Army, affords a contrast that gives poignancy to every inconveniency from remaining in it—The Officers have begun again to realize their condition and I fear few of them can or will remain in the service on the present establishment, It is unnecessary to add that an Army cannot exist without Officers.
The patience of the Officers has been a long time nourished by the hope that some adequate provision was in contemplation. Though nothing satisfactory has hitherto been done, their hopes have been still kept alive: But this cannot be much longer the case, and when they come onc⟨e⟩ to fix an opinion, that they have nothing to expect, they wi⟨ll⟩ no longer combat the necessity, that drives them from the service. It is worthy of observation, that the state of inactivity to which we may probably be compelled the next Campaign will give leisure for cherishing their discontents and dwelling upon all the hardships of their situation. When men are employed and have the incitements of military honor to engage their ambition and pride, they will chearfully submit to inconveniencies, which in a state of tranquillity would appear insupportable.
Indeed not to multiply arguments upon a subject so evident, it is a fact not to be controverted that the Officers cannot support themselves with their present pay, that necessity will oblige them to leave the Service unless better provided for—that by remaining in it, those who have no fortunes will want the common necessaries of life—and those that have fortunes must ruin them.
The object that ought to be aimed at, is not a partial expedient, so far to satisfy the Officer’s as merely to keep them from leaving the service—they ought if possible to be interested in it, in a manner that will call forth the full exertion of their Zeal. It is not enough that we keep an army together, we should endeavour to have one, with all those Cements that are necessary to give it consistency and energy—The principal one is to make the Officers take pleasure in their situation: If they are only made to endure it, the Army will be an insipid spiritless Mass, incapable of acting with Vigor and ready to tumble to peices at every reverse of Fortune.
But the great and difficult question is—what provision can be made to answer the purpose in view. I confess I am at a loss even to satisfy my own judgment. Men are in most cases governed first by what they feel and next by what they hope—present support and the relief of present necessity is therefore the first object to which we should attend. But after revolving the subject in every point of light, I can think of no practicable plan for this purpose that promises to be intirely effectual—An expedient long thought of, but never really carried into execution, will perhaps go furthest towards it and be the least exceptionable of any that can be adopted. I mean the providing them with Cloathing by public authority at prices proportioned to their pay, at the value of the Currency when it was settled—This expedient if undertaken, ought to be prosecuted in earnest. It should not prove a nominal but a real relief, and in order to this, not only every exertion should be made to provide supplies on Continental account, but each State should be seriously engaged to provide for its own Officers till the end is accomplished. If it should be found in some instances that Cloathing cannot be procured, a complea[t] equivalent in money is the next resource—With this the Officers may endeavour to provide themselves—but this substitute would be subject to many inconveniencies, that render it infinitely preferable they should be supplied with Cloathing. An Officer may often not be able to supply himself with the money—and in order to do it may be obliged to leave Camp and exhaust a considerable part of it in expences of travelling and subsistence.
It would be necessary to ascertain the quantity of Cloathing to be allowed in this way and the prices, and to have a pecuniary equivalent fixed in lieu of each Article when they cannot be furnished, according to the actual difference between the estimated prices and the real present cost of the Articles. This would place the provision upon a certain footing and be more satisfactory, than if it should be left to the discretion of the Cloathier to make what charges and allowances he pleased.
The measure, here recommended, alone would be far from sufficient—Something must be done in addition to enable the Officers to subsist themselves more comfortably in Camp. Their present Ration and the subsistence Money allowed are very inadequate—The manner of living of those who have no other dependence is not only unsuited to the Station of an Officer, but even indigent and miserable. It would serve in some measure to remedy this, if instead of the subsistence money now granted, the Commissary General was every month, or every two or three Months to regulate the Value of the extra Rations they formerly received according to the real Cost, at the time, of the Articles which compose it, and the Commander in Chief or commanding Officer in a department empowered to order payment agreeable to that estimate.
But these expedients, though I should hope they would go a great way towards satisfying the Officers would not give such perfect satisfaction as were to be desired—The most, that could be expected from them, if so much, is that they would make their present situation tolerable—They would not compensate in their minds for the sacrifices of private interest and ease which they think they are making to the public good, and for the disagreeable prospect of future indigence which their continuance in the service exhibits, after they are no longer wanted in the Feild. To attach them heartily to the service, their expectations of futurity must be interested. After the Steps which have been already taken in the Affair of a half pay and pensionary Establishment, it is not without great reluctance I venture to revive it—But I am so thoroughly convinced of its utility, that notwithstanding some disadvantages, which may attend it, I am firmly persuaded it would in the main be advancive of the public good. I therefore take the liberty to bring it a moment under review.
I beg leave to repeat what I have said upon some former occasions—that no step could, in my opinion be taken, which would be so pleasing to the Officers and which would bind them so forcibly to the Service. Our military System would certainly derive infinite Benefit from it—and it appears to me that it ought to be a primary object of Government to put that upon the best footing our circumstances will permit. On principles of Œconomy I think there can be no solid objections to the plan. No mode can I beleive be devised to give satisfaction which will be more convenient and less expensive. The difference indeed in point of expence between the present form of the half pay establishment and one for life would be inconsiderable—Seven Years will probably be the period of the lives of the greatest part of the incumbents—and few of the survivors will much exceed it—But the difference in the provision in the estimation of the Officers own mind is very great. In one case he has a provision for life whether it be long or short, in the other for a limited period which he can look beyond, and naturally flatters himself he will outlive—The Resolve directing the half pay for seven years contains some provisos and restrictions which though perhaps unimportant in themselves, were interpreted in a manner that gave an unfavorable aspect to the Measure—and more than disappointed its intended effect.
With respect to a pensionary establishment for Officers Widows—nothing can be a more encouraging reflection to a married Man than that in case of accident to himself his family is left with some dependence to preserve them from want, and nothing can be a more painful and discouraging one than the reverse.
The cheif objection I have heard to this plan is, that the principle of pensioning is incompatible with the maxims of our government. The truth of this objection I shall not controvert, but I think it applies equally to an establishment for seven Years as to one for life. It is alike a pension in both Cases—in one for a fixed and determinate—in the other for a contingent period. All that can be said is we submit to one inconvenience to avoid a greater, and if it operates as a bad precedent, we must endeavour to correct it when we have it in our power.
One thing, however, I think it necessary to observe—that unless the Committee should be fully convinced of the necessity of the establishment proposed—and should be clearly of opinion that it will meet the concurrence of Congress the best way will be not to put it to the experiment of a debate. If it be once known that such a question is in agitation, it will again raise the hopes and solicitudes of the Officers, and if it fails, renew all their former discontents on the same subject, and under their present circumstances with redoubled violence. It is a point in which their feelings are much engaged and they ought not to be awakened, if they are not to be gratified.
I have just received a letter of the 9th instant from his Excellency the Governor of the State of Virginia accompanied by several late Acts of the Legislature, both for recruiting their troops and more comfortably providing the Officers and Men. The general spirit of these Acts corresponds with the measures I have taken the liberty to recommend. I have the honor to be with very great Respect and Esteem Gentlemen Your most obt Servant
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Pennsylvania General Assembly, 20 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Pennsylvania General Assembly

Gentlemen.
Head Quarters Philadelphia 20th Jany 1779

The liberal Testimony of approbation which you did me the honor of transmitting by the hands of His Excellency the President, coming from so respectable an Assembly cannot but make the deepest impression on my mind.
However conscious I am that your generous sensibility attributes infinitely too much to me—my respect for you leads me to acquiesce in your request and gratefully to subscribe myself Gentlemen Your much obliged and most humble servt.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 20 January 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Camp at Mill Stone [N.J.] 20th Jany 1779

I have been long wishing for the pleasure of seeing you in Camp but Conclude from the Multiplicity of Buisness in which you are Engaged that it will be some time before we shall Experience that Satisfaction.
Our City is completely finished. it’s Regularity is equal to any on the Continent—& it’s Internal police at least as regular as that of Phila.
I can Assure your Excellency that we are much Improved in City Building; & that from Abstenance Soberiety Virtue &ca &ca we are become as Healthy & as Regular an Army as ever made a Winters Campaign.
The Assembly of Pennsa meets the first day of February I shall be under the Indespen[si]ble necessity of being in Phila. at that time—shou’d I not be favour’d with your leave of Absence sooner, I am sure your Excellency will have goodness enough to Indulge me in waiting on you there for the favour I now Solicite. Interim I am with every Sentiment of Esteem Your Excellencies most Obt & very Huml. Sert
Anty Wayne


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

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Thursday Jany 21st 1779.
Parole Archangel—C. Signs Bolton. Canton.

The Deputy Clothier General is to issue a woolen cap to each effective man present belonging to the brigades in this camp on returns made by the commanding officers of brigades, countersigned by the Adjutant General.
The men on detachment at Monmouth to be omited in the return as they will be drawn for separately.

The Brigade Commissaries are regularly to turn in all the cattle’s horns and feet, with the hides to the Commissary General of hides at least once a week; They will see that the butchers carefully take off all the hide from the feet, as much waste has been occasioned by a contrary practice.
The Officers commanding those brigades which have not yet complied with the order of the 26th of December last relative to Ammunition, are desired to see that the returns are made out and Ammunition drawn agreeable thereto immediately.


Title: To George Washington from Captain David Hopkins, 21 January 1779
From: Hopkins, David
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Capt. David Hopkins, 21 Jan. 1779. GW wrote Hopkins on 1 Feb.: “I have received your memorial of the 21st of January.”


Title: To George Washington from John Pierce, Jr., 21 January 1779
From: Pierce, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp Middlebrook Jan. 21. 1779

I would inform your Excellency that there is now in the Military Chest about 380,000 Dollars—which after the whole Army is paid for October, and the Money taken in of the two Emission’s which I see by resolve of Congress we are to Exchange, will not be sufficient for November—I imagine five or six hundred Thousand Dollars more will pay November & December and what exigences may arise in the course of the business.
Your Excellency being present at Congress I thought it not improper to inform of the above that you might make such requisition for Money as you shall think proper. I am Your Excellency’s most Obt Servant
Jno. Pierce Junr


Title: General Orders, 22 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Friday Jany 22nd 1779.
Parole Ontario—C. Signs Pogu—Quercy.


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 22 January 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 22nd Jany 1779

Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed a Copy of an Act of Congress of the 21st Inst. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem, Your Excellency’s most Obed. & Hb. Servt
J: Jay


Title: To George Washington from General Henry Clinton, 23 January 1779
From: Clinton, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
Head Quarters New York, January 23d 1779.

I was honoured with your Letter of the 26th of last Month, with its enclosure.
In order to prevent the irregularities, which, under the pretence of Reconnoitring, would otherwise be committed by individuals in every Army, it has been the custom in Europe (if I recollect right) that any Infantry patroling without a Non Commissioned Officer should be liable, if taken by the Enemy, to be treated as Spies or Marauders. As Brower & Lezier stood in this predicament when they killed Mr Richards, I should have been justified in any severities I had used towards them. I did not, however, consider them as Soldiers, but as belonging to a Banditti, who without Orders or any regular institution subsisted by plundering the peaceable Inhabitants of Bergen County: Regarding them in this light, You will feel that their Crime must have appeared heinous to me; Yet thro’ consideration of the general distraction of the Country, and from the fear that the case might have been misunderstood, I have neither brought them to trial nor have I permitted that they should suffer any particular severities. The enclosed answer from Major General Jones, Commandant of the City, to the enquiries which I directed my Secretary to make, will prove to you that you have not been rightly informed as to the treatment of those persons. To evince to You, Sir, the liberal footing on which I wish all my transactions should stand, as you have avowed Brower & Lezier, I have ordered them to be exchanged immediatly. I have the honor to be With due respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servt
H. Clinton


Title: From George Washington to the Continental Congress Committee of Conference, 23 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Continental Congress Committee of Conference

Gentlemen
Philada 23d January 1779

Cloathing the Army well is a matter of such essential and fundamental importance, that it ought not by any means to depend on contingencies, but some plan should if possible be concerted to produce regular and constant Supplies. Whether this can be best effected by governmental Contracts with the Court of France, or any other power disposed to assist us—or in the way of Commerce by a Committee appointed for the purpose—or an individual qualified for the trust by his connections, talents for Business and integrity—in either of which cases sufficient and certain funds must be established for the support of public Credit—or in the last place by calling upon the several States to provide each for its respective Quota of Troops; I say which of these three Modes will be most eligible, or how far it will be advisable and practicable to unite them—the Committee or Congress who best know the State of our national Credit, funds and expectations, will be better able to determine than I can—I shall take the liberty however to observe, that one of the two first modes corresponds most with my Ideas. The united funds and Credit of the Continent appears to me the only sufficient Basis for the extensive supplies which are required—Any other it is to be feared would be too contracted and render them too precarious. Should it be left wholly with each State to provide for its own troops, the business would probably be conducted chiefly on the principle of private mercantile Contracts and Adventures, and with the impediments that now lie in the way of trade, we could hardly promise ourselves from that source the ample and uniform supplies of which we stand in need. This mode I think should rather be considered as subordinate and auxiliary. If governmental Contracts can be made as suggested in the first case, they will put the matter upon a more certain footing than can be done in any other way. If this be deemed either impolitic or impracticable, the second mode may be made our principal dependance, and the plan of State supplies adopted in aid of it. If either of these two plans be adopted, measures ought to be taken in consequence without delay, but as it will be some time before the necessary provision can be made upon either of the two first plans, it will be proper to call upon each State in the most pressing manner to make every exertion for supplying its own troops.
In order to be certain of obtaining competent Supplies, much larger Quantities than are really wanted ought to be sent for, and every Cargo properly assorted—On this plan, the loss of one parcel would not derange the whole Stock, and we should in the worst event have a prospect of securing the supply necessary. If we should be fortunate enough to do more, and a larger quantity should arrive safe than the purposes of the Army require, it might be turned to infinite advantage by a Sale, which besides the profit attending it, would serve to releive the Currency by drawing a considerable part of the circulating paper into the public Treasury—With a view to this, that more of the materials may not be made up than are wanted and the better to fit the cloathing to the Men, as every Regiment I beleive has Taylors enough to make up its own, I would recommend that Materials for Cloathing rather than Cloathes ready made be imported.
Whether the Continent or each State respectively undertake the Cloathing the troops, it is equally necessary in my opinion that there should be
A Clothier General
A Sub- or State Clothier and a
Regimental Clothier.
The Clothier General in the first instance will be necessary to furnish Estimates of the Supplies wanted for the Army—to receive those supplies—superintend the distribution of them to the State Clothiers—make these account for what they receive at stated periods, every three, six or twelve months as shall be determined—to stand as it were between the public and the Army, seeing that the first is not imposed on and that the last gets whatever is allowed in a regular, direct and seasonable manner.
In the second Case a Clothier General will be necessary not only to stand between the public and the Army but between the Continent and each particular State. It will be his Business to settle all accounts with the State Clothiers according to the actual deliveries—he will also have to provide for the Cavalry, Artillery and all Corps not appertaining to any particular States.
The Sub or State Clothier should be appointed by his own State (especially if each State is to provide for its own troops) If the Army is supplied on Continental account—he will receive the proportion of Cloathing for the troops of the State to which he belongs from the Clothier General, which he will issue to the Regimental Clothiers, on Returns countersigned by the Colonel or commanding Officer of the Regiment—He is to keep exact accounts with each Regiment—inspect those of the regimental Clothiers—see that the Articles delivered them are duely issued to the troops; and that all Cloathing above the Bounty allowance drawn by the non Commissioned Officers and Soldiers be charged to them and credited in the monthly pay Rolls, and that the Officers receive what is allowed them and no more.
In Case the States should each provide for its own troops—the Sub or State Clothier who should always reside with or near the Army to know and supply the wants of the troops the better, is to call upon the Governor or purchasing Agent of the State for the Supplies wanted from time to time—and to perform the same duties in other respects as mentioned above. He may keep accounts with the Cloathier General in behalf of the public, charging the united States only with what is allowed by Congress to the Officers and Men.
The Regimental Cloathier who very properly under our present establishment is the Regimental Pay Master should observe the following Rule in drawing Cloathing from the State Cloathier. He should in the first instance have returns from the Captains or Officers commanding Companies, specifying the Mens names and the particula⟨r⟩ wants of each. These he should digest into a Regimental Return which being signed by the Officer commanding the Regiment and countersigned by himself with a Receipt upon it, should be lodged with the State Clothier and become to him a Voucher for the delivery in his settlements with the Cloathier General. He is to keep an Account with every Officer and Soldier for every Article delivered taking receipts from them as vouchers for the delivery. He is to credit them for the Continental Allowance and charge for every thing they receive, making stoppages in the monthly pay Rolls for whatever they may fall in debt to the public.
To prevent in future any unequal distribution of Cloathing either to the Regiments or Officers, and the confusion and loss which have heretofore been occasioned, and would for ever be occasioned by having no regular plan for issuing it, and to check irregular applications from commanding Officers of Regiments to public Agents in different parts—it ought to be strictly enjoined on those Agents—on the Clothier Genl and on the Sub or State Clothiers, to issue no Cloathing but through the Channels already pointed out—In a word, the Clothier General on the first plan, or the persons appointed to procure by the States on the second, ought to know no person nor deliver a single Article to any person but the State Cloathiers—These on their part should make no issues but to the Regimental Cloathiers. If this Rule be departed from in one instance, it immediately opens a door for endless irregularities and impositions and it becomes impossible to prevent double and unequal drafts or to keep proper accounts either with Officers or Soldiers. An adherence to these Rules may sometimes operate inconveniently to individuals, as Officers absent from Camp may frequently stand in need of cloathing from the Stores in the Country, yet the hardship of a refusal to them ought not to be put in competition with the evils attending a compliance.
Having suggested for the consideration of the Committee different modes to obtain Cloathing for the Army, and the best one I am capable of conceiving for the issuing it, I beg leave to give it as my opinion, that if Congress by a decisive Act of theirs would point out the Colour of the Cloth for each State, and the Uniform of each Regiment and adhere to it invariably, the following good consequences (without a possible bad one that I can foresee) would result—First it would prevent in case of State purchases an interference (as far as Cloth is concerned in these purchases) because the Colour of one State would not suit that of another—Secondly by having many Colours you do not increase the demand and of course the price of any one. Thirdly, it is a great advantage to have one Corps distinguished from another, because the good and bad deeds of the Soldiers—honorable and dishonorable Actions of the Officers are easier brought to light, the Uniform being a ready index to discoveries of this kind—And lastly, Officers by becoming acquainted with the fixed Uniform of their State and Regiment, and knowing that it is not to be changed as fancy and the caprice of a commanding Officer may direct, can take measures accordingly and avoid running into the unnecessary expence and trouble occasioned by the discretionary changes which happen. There may be a difficulty in fixing upon 13 Colours (one for each State) or as there may be favourite Colours it will be difficult to please all—How far the first is to be accomplis[h]ed I know not, but the latter might be determined by lot, unless it should be found worthy of attention to appoint the commonest Colours to the States which furnish the greatest number of Troops, for the more easy procuring them; and to give the Colours most rare to the small States for the contrary reason. If 13 Colours should be thought too many, perhaps four or five might answer by classing the States and varying the facings. I could even wish that Congress were to extend their orders to the Cut of the Cloaths and give each State Cloathier a pattern suit and order him not to deviate from it in the smallest degree, and would moreover forbid Breeches altogether, substituting Woolen Overalls in the Winter and linen ones in the summer as the most convenient and cheapest wear for the Soldier.
In my letter respecting the provision for Officers, I have suggested my Ideas on the necessity of furnishing them with Cloathing at prices proportioned to their pay and the manner of doing it. In the Report No. 2 of the Committee on the Cloathing department, I find that the Rate proposed to regulate the prices by, is that of two thirds of a dollar for one shilling Sterling—When we consider that even in the cheapest times the Officers pay was very moderate and required a good deal of Oeconomy to make it sufficient, and that now every Article of expence is greatly increased, this Rate will appear to be rather too high. Three hundred ⅌ Cent on the Sterling cost dollars at 7/6 is in my opinion as high as it ought to be placed. The Articles proposed to be furnished seem to be very ample and proper—But the money proposed to be paid in lieu of those Articles for the last Campaign is intirely inadequate. I would rather recommend the Idea of compensation to be laid aside intirely, or that it should be made a real and sufficient one. As it now stands it will rather have a bad than a good effect. The Committee will easily conceive the reasonings and feelings of the Officers when they find that the, at present, trifling Sum of 102 dollars is given as an equivalent for the advantage of having been supplied with a complete Stock of Cloathing at a moderate price in proportion to their pay.
It is a part of my plan suggested in the letter already mentioned, that when the Cloathing cannot be furnished by the public, a true equivalent in money should be given estimated on the difference between the cost of such Cloathing, at the Rate established between the public and the Army, and what they can actually be purchased for in the Country. This is the only satisfactory substitute which can be adopted, and even this, as I have before observed, will be infinitely less beneficial than the stipulated supply itself. With perfect Respect and Esteem I have the honor to be Gentlemen Your most obt and humb. Servt
Go: Washington


Title: Remarks to Continental Congress Committee of Conference, 23–31 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Continental Congress Committee of Conference

Memorandums.
[23–31 Jan. 1779]

In consequence of the opinion of the Committee on the three plans submitted to them, some time ago, for the operations of the next Campaign, I have countermanded the orders which were given for the intended Expedition to Niagara but do not know upon what ground my Conduct will stand justified, as there are Resolves of Congress directing the necessary preparations for the enterprize and nothing will appear to contradict them.
Investing the Officer at the head of the Artillery Corps with sufficient powers, and placing the Business of the Ordnance department upon some precise and fixed footing are matters of exceeding great importance and ought not to be delayed a moment.
As General McIntosh will, more than probably, have occasion for the Aid of Militia in his operations to the Westward next Campaign, through what Channel and by what authority is he, or I, to apply for them? to what States are these applications to be made, and in what proportion?
I am apprehensive the public is much burthened with an unnecessary expence in the appointment of Barrack Masters—This is a matter worthy of enquiry—The Barrack Master General might be called upon to furnish a list of all those appointed by or under him, designating their pay and duty, and the Quarter Master Genl will then be able to judge of their usefulness or how far the States can be eased of the Burthen.
The Issuing Commissary’s department I am informed is under the same circumstances of the Hospital, with respect to districts and merits the same kind of releif[.] The arrangement of the Army is by no means perfected nor do I know certainly in whose hands the necessary Business is; but it is a work of such importance that no delay can be admitted.
The appointing of Brigadiers to the Vacant Brigades is expedient and advisable in every Sense. Giving a general command of the Horse if the four Regiments are to be kept up is also highly necessary. And determining which State Brig. Genl Hand is to belong, is also a matter of some consequence, as neither Pennsylvania nor N. Carolina will own him, and he is at present kept upon a detached command till something can be decided.
What can or ought to be done as matters are circumstanced with the independant Corps of Pulaski and Armand? They are very expensive—troublesome to the Inhabitants and dissatisfied in themselves—and yet a very great difficulty occurs in blending them together or discharging them, on account of the Officers.
Count Pulaski’s wishes will appear by his letter—As will also Colo. Armand’s.
The same difficulties are incident to the Case of Capt. Fowler (should he receive a military appointment in our Army) as have been pointed out in other instances.

Will the Committee take any Steps, or give any advice on the letter of Colo. Gibson?
It would be no small satisfaction to me to be informed of the Views of Congress respecting General Heath. At present he and myself are rather in an awkward situation for want of knowing the precise Ideas of Congress in respect to his being superseded in the command at Boston.
Would there be any impropriety in continuing the present Committee of Conference for the purpose of corresponding with the Commander in Chief after his Return to Camp, that the Business for which they were appointed may go forward and be brought to a speedier decision than by the usual mode.
Papers relative to the late Qr Mr Generals department what is to be done with them?


Title: To George Washington from Colonel George Gibson, 23 January 1779
From: Gibson, George
To: Washington, George

May it please Your Excellency
Philada 23rd January 1779

The Assembly of Virginia in their late Act passed for the reinlistment of their Troops have not taken any notice of the Two state regiments anex’d to the Continental Army. from what cause I Know not unless it may be that they conceived the regimts to have been Continental Troops from the time they were taken into the Service, Indeed His Excelly the Governor & many Gentn of the House of Assembly told me we were considerd as continental troops from the time we were taken into Continentl pay—The terms for which the troops were enlisted are expiring dayly, very few perhaps not more than thirty were enlisted for the War, the men are willing nay anxious to enlist on the same terms as the troops from Our state which induces me to pray Your Excellency’s Orders in the premises. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Huml. Servt
Geo: Gibson


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 23 January 1779
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Middlebrook 23d Jany 1779 9 O’clock P.M.

I have the honor to communicate to your Excellency (in addition to my information through Mr Tilghman of the 21st Instant) by Major General Lord Stirlings particular directions, that on the 17th a detachment of the enemy (of about two hundred men) from New York effected a landing on the Middletown shore (near one Thomas Browers)—But re-imbarked in the night, without penetrating the country, or venturing to attempt what may be supposed the purpose of their expedition.
The detachment under the command of Col. Noarth, which your Excellency ordered to Monmouth some time since; and which the enemy could not possibly be acquainted with (before landing) gave this sudden turn to thier expedition.

I have nothing more to add, but that Genl Maxwell’s information supposes the new levies and refugees (which I mentioned in my letter to Mr Tilghman) were destined for Georgia. I have the honor to be, with the utmost respect Your Excellencys Most obt servt
James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel William Washington, 23 January 1779
From: Washington, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lt. Col. William Washington, 23 Jan. 1779. GW wrote William Washington on 9 Feb.: “I have recd yours of the 23d and 30th ulto.”


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

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Sunday Jany 24th 1779.
Parole Rappahannock—C. Signs Sar. Tweed.

The Regimental Pay-Masters are immediately to make out returns of shoes actually wanted in their respective Regiments, which the Brigade Majors are to digest into Brigade returns regimentally, have them signed by the officers commanding Brigades and deliver them in to the Orderly-Office next tuesday forenoon.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 24 January 1779
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Camp Reading [Redding, Conn.] Jany 24th 1779

I am honor’d with your Commands of the 8th Inst. respecting the Cloathing purchased by Major Bigelow and the mode to be taken for supplying the Connecticut Troops, with a proportion of it.
I know not to what your Excellency alludes, in General Parsons’s Letter, which in your opinion, contains some insinuations not of the most delicate nature: As I never saw it, or heard the contents, except in the most General terms—But at the same time, that I am fully convinced, all the Troops of these States have ever experienced an equal share of your attention, I am as well persuaided, those of Connecticut, have fared much worse in the late distribution of Cloathing to the Army than any other. This, I am conscious, I have been verry far from attributing, in my own mind, to the partiality of any one—All that I have ever heard suggested was, that in the multiplicity of your other business, and the great number of returns which had been made to you from every Quarter, the real necessity’s of the Connecticut Troops might be overlook’d, by your ⟨e⟩ntertaining an idea, that there was a full allowance made to them, in proportion to the wants of the Army, and the quantity in the public possession. Nor have I ever learned, that any complaints have been excited because those Troops were referred to Major Bigelow for a supply of Cloathing, even after it was discover’d that the French Uniforms were far preferable; but solely because the better part of that supply, was concerted to the use of the Massachusetts Troops, whilst at Hartford, by order of the Commanding Officers, before my arrival, and because the remainder was order’d away, before they could obtain from it, one half of what they really wanted and were entitled to upon every principle—And it was not supposed, that any more of those Articles, were designed for them, as it was well known, that the route from Hartford to Reading was not usually through Fish Kill; and that the expence of Transportation must, in that case be vastly augmented.
Agreeable to your Excellencys directions I have orderd exact returns to be made, of the Shirts, Stockings, and shoes, which have been Received from the public, and which are now actually wanting to complete one pr Man, for the Connecticut Brigades, and find 2065 Shirts and 1589 pr of Stockings wanting—for shoes there is no urgent necessity at present, as a considerable supply has just come to hand from the State. And as to the Article of Blankets I am inform’d only one fifth part of the defective number has been Receiv’d. This I believe your Excellency will find to be the state of facts, upon enquiring of Mr Measam whether the Connecticut Regiments have not received their proportion of these Articles, in common with the rest of the Army—and I shall accordingly take the earliest opportunity to avail them of your order, on Mr Measam, in their favor.
After waiting more than twenty days for your Excellencys directions respecting the Prisoners, who were confined for being principally concerned in the late Mutuny, in Genl Huntingtons Brigade; I have, upon the particular application, of a great number of the Officers of the Brigade, orderd them to be released and to join their respective Regiments. previous to this however, perfect good order had been restored, and greater regularity, or better discipline I believe has never prevailed, at any time, amongst the Troops, than at present.
As three of our Whale Boats, which had been from Greenwich to Long-Island, a few nights ago, after intelligence, were returning, a Violent gale of wind suddenly rose, and drove them back, two of the Boats were wrecked in Lloyds-Neck, and the crews, consisting of a Subaltern and twelve men, were made prisoners of War: the other Boat with much difficulty reached Huntington Harbour. The men were concealed in the Town, the following day and the next night crossed to the main. From these, as well as from others I am informed of the ravages of the Enemy on Long Island, of their numbering the inhabitants, and taking all the grain from them, except three Bushels ⅌ Man, and of the great distress the British Troops were reduced to, for want of Bread, before the arrival of part of the Cork Fleet; how much their distress may be lessened by this, I know not; but sinse the Detachment of my Troops have been on the lines, a period has been put, in a great measure, to the supplies drawn from the Country by way of Kings Bridge.
The above accounts from Long Island are this moment confirmed by Mr Smith, a Gentleman who was employd by ⟨G⟩ nel Gates last summer, to obtain intelligence from thence, who left it but one day sinse, and brought with him, two persons who have made it their business for two or three Months past, to become acquainted, with the situation, and designs of the Enemy. These Gentlemen report, that there are between 8 & 9,000 Men at New York, and its dependancies—that Sir Henry Clinton has lately granted the petition of the Refugees, to ⟨I ⟩mbody themselves, under officers of their own election, which they have done, to the number of 1000 or rising of it, that these new Heroes are to make an excurtion soon, into the Country, to procure cattle, and carry off or destroy, whatever stores they can find; and that the British Troops are to cover them by land and water. How far this account is to be depended upon—I don’t pretend to determine—I shall apprize Gnel McDougall, of it and take such prudential Measures as I think necessary on the occation. So far is certain, some of the Refugees and West Chester Militia, have, not long ago, been as near to the White Plains as Youngs’s, and taken a Captain Williams of that state, together with Mr Youngs and some others, by surprize. My informan ⟨ts⟩ further add, that the defensses of the inhabitants, are greater if possible, than I had before heard, and that at several places, they are allowanced at one Bushel and an half of Wheat pr Man, for their subsistance untill next Harvest & that considerable part of the Fleet, which was said to be from Cork, was private property, & the supply by it not so great as was expected.
I am much obliged to your Excellency, for the order to Col. Shelden, to furnish the number of Dragoons which I requested, & shall attend to the caution you was pleased to give, of not Fatiguing th⟨em⟩ unnecessarily. I am also happy to have met with your approbation in the seizure and the other methods I have taken to prevent a viola[tio]n of your Orders. I must intreat your Excellency’s further direction concerning the goods; for at the same time Governor Clinton disavows the Captors being warranted to go on shore at the Island, by his Commission; he disclaims any right of disposing of the goods, and refuses to have any thing to do with this matter; and I do not know whether any body, will be willing to intermeddle with it, except Governor Tryon, who I am told has done one act of justice, by ordering reprisals to be made, upon the estates of the nearest relations of the men who brought off the goods, to the amount of about 800 pounds, (the value of them)—They will continue in their present situation till your final pleasure is known. I have the Honor to be with great respt Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant
Israel Putnam
P.S. I have inclosed, for your Excellencys perusal, the Newyork Papers of the 11th 16th & 18th Inst., as perhaps you may not have seen them.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 25 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir.
Head Quarters Philadelphia 25th Jany 1779

Your favor of the 29th December only reached me a few days ago—I shall lay before Congress, that part of Your Excellency’s letter, which respects the payment of those supplies which you were under the necessity of taking out of the regular line—after the loss of the Highland Posts—as it is not in my power to order the present Quarter Master and Commissary General to discharge accounts prior to their appointments.
I fancy there must have been some mistake in the report of General Rheidesels intention to spend the Winter at Wall Kiln, as he never made any such request—and has already past thro’ this State in his way to Virginia. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect and esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt Servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Clinton, 25 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

Dear Sir.
Head Quarters Philadelphia 25th Jany 1779.

I have received your favors of the 9th and 13th insts.—In my last of the 19th I informed you that it was the desire of Congress that a fort might be built for the Oneidas if they requested it—and I am therefore glad that you have ordered that work to be executed—I also at that time inclosed an order upon the Commissary of Military Stores at Springfield for what amunition you might think necessary for the troops under your command.
General Schuyler in a letter of the 2d inst: mentions the importance of a settlement called Burnets field near the German Flats— and advises that part of the troops now at Cherry Valley be removed to that place—as Cherry Valley Settlement is so nearly destroyed that it is scarcely an object of another attack—while that of Burnets field is of so much consequence towards keeping up the communication with Fort Schuyler that the enemy will in all probability direct their next blow at it, unless there is a force there to oppose them—Be pleased therefore to take the matter into consideration, and endeavour to make such a disposition as will secure a place of so much value—Under present circumstances I would not have you send the Rifle Corps down—if they have not received their full Cloathing, let the Commanding Officer make a return of the deficiency, and it shall be sent up to them.
I have suggested a particular matter to General Schuyler upon which he is to consult you—if it should be thought practicable and advisable to carry the thing proposed into execution, you will furnish the force that may be judged necessary for the Enterprise. I am Dear Sir with great regard Your most obedt Servt
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 25 January 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Head Quarters Pecks-Kill [N.Y.] Janry 25th 1779

I had the Honor to address you by Captain Bedlow. I have not been favored with any of your’s, since that from Paramus of the 16th Ultimo. Your being absent from the Army, occasioned the Caution on the Address of my late Letters, “not to be opened [but] by the Commander in chief.”
I take the Liberty to inclose correct Copies, of my Orders for Permits of Provision below, and the Regulation of military Prizes of Effects taken; which I hope will meet your Approbation. They are all things considered, the best I could devise—That no Officer or Inhabitant might plead Ignorance, to justify Irregularities or lax Conduct, I put the public to the Expence of the Press.
Four men of Reputation from Long-Island, lately banishd from thence, by the Enemy for treasonable Correspondence with us, confirm the Strength of the Enemy, and reduce the Number of British Regiments, to a Certainty, of there being at least fourteen—They are confident, that fourteen Companies of light Infantry are now quartered at South Hampton on Long Island. This Town, is at the E.S.E. part of the Island. In other Respects, they perfectly agree with the sensible Deserters, as to the Corps on that Island—They also confirm Delancy’s Brigade being there.
Poor’s and Wood’s Regiments of Militia, have not yet been dismissed. The former has been employed, on the Works at Kings Ferry; and as the Regular Troops were taken up with their Hutts, those at West-Point on hard Fatigue, it was judged expedient, to detain both, till I should be fully advised of the Strength and Cantonment of the Enemy—These being now obtained, I propose to discharge them the first of Febuary, if nothing extraordinary casts up—Considering the Scarcity of Flour in this State, the extreme Difficulty of Transportation, and the impossibility of procuring Forage, to deposit on the Road: I beg to suggest it for your Consideration, whether it will not advance the Service to order Poor’s Brigade to these Posts?—They can quarter in Nixon’s Cantonment, which are excellent Hutts; as the latter is to advance to Croton in a few Days, into Houses, to begin the Bridge and other purposes necessary for common Interest.
When I have collated the Examination of Deserters, a Copy will be transmitted, stating the Position, Strength and Cantonment of the Enemy’s Corps, on York and Long Island. I wish to know what that is of the Enemy, on Staten Island and Powles Hook. I am with great Respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient and most humble Servant
Alexr McDougall


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 25 January 1779
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Genl
Camp Reading [Redding, Conn.] Jany 25th 1779

I wrote your Excellency yesterday, in which I gave you all the intelligence that could be collected.
As my Domestic affairs, are in much confution, and there is many things which cannot be setled, but by myself, I am under the necessity of requesting yr Excellencys permission to be absent from Camp for about thirty days—If I may be permitted, I should choose to set off some time in the month of March, when Genl Parsons, & probably Genl Huntington will be here—I have a further view in soliciting this indulgance—which is to lay an Anchor to windward for a Wife, again the expiration of the War. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt Sert
Israel Putnam


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 25 January 1779
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Albany Jany 25th 1779.

Your Excellency’s Favor of the 31st Ult. I had the Honor to receive on the 20th Instant.
I feel myself sensibly affected by the generous and polite Manner in which your Excellency leaves me the Alternative to take the Command in this Department or not—My Letters of the 27th Ult. & 2d Inst. which could not have come to Hand when your’s was written will evince the propriety of my declining the Command. Your Excellency will probably have seen my Letter of the 27th Ult. inclosing my Resignation to Congress—The Reasons I gave for requesting Leave to resign were certainly amongst those which induced me to it; but they were not the principle ones—Those I witheld, because in addressing them I must of Necessity have arraigned the Conduct of Congress towards me, which, for the present I wish to wave—it is needless to give them to a Gentleman whose Sensibility will realize, altho’ he has happily never experienced, how painful it is to a Man of the least Sentiment to be deprived of the Means of Justification, for a whole Twelve Month, and deprived of an Opportunity of evincing that every Suspicion to his prejudice was equally malicious and groundless.
I am informed Congress had not accepted my Resignation on the 12th Instant—That it was deferred until the Delegates of this State should have advised me to recal my Resignation—Your Excellency will easily percieve what will be the Result of such an Application, for if it is inconsistent with the Dignity or Views of Congress to declare that my Services are necessary to the public (the only Reparation they can now afford me, and that very short of the Injuries I have sustained) it would be dangerous for me to continue their Servant, and however earnestly solicited to it by my Friends I must not yield to their Wishes.
From the Information contained in mine of the 17th Instant, which is in a great Measure corroborated by the inclosed, Your Excellency will see the Advantages which would result from an early penetration into Canada, should the Enemy you have in Front make such Movements as to permit one—I trust, notwithstanding the Difficulties that are to be surmounted, that the Means of Conveyance will be compleated in good Time—Sure I am, that no Exertions on my part shall be wanting, either in or out of the Army, to promote the Success of the intended Operation. I am with the Most Affectionate wishes Dr Sir Your Excellencys Most Obed: H[umbl]e Servt
Ph: Schuyler


Title: General Orders, 26 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Tuesday January 26th 1779.
Parole Uranburgh—C. Signs Verona. Week.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 26 January 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Boston 26th January 1779.

Since I had the Honour to write to Your Excellency, I have received the inclosed Letters from General Bayley, and Colonel Bedel. The intelligence contained in them, being nearly the same with that sent before, by several conveyances, to Your Excellency, I did not think it necessary to dispatch it by a Special Messenger.
By the Numbers of Prisoners sent lately from New York, Newport, and Hallifax, it should seem as if the Enemy’s Magazines of Provisions were in a declining State; not less than Seven hundred prisoners, have arrived at New London, providence, and Boston; and no more than about one half the Crew of the Somerset Ship of War has been returned, the rest having entered in the privateers of this, and the Neighbouring States. Mr Mersereau Commissary for the Continental prisoners of War is not yet returned to Boston. I am therefore under a necessity of representing to Your Excellency that there are near two hundred Prisoners of War, who draw Provisions at Rutland, and more in different Quarters, who get Provisions from the Magazines in this Department. I wish Your Excellency would please to Order them to some State, where they can be Cheaper Victualled. The exhausted condition of The Flower Magazines here, require that every means should be Used, not only to Spare, but replenish them. The Draughts of Officers, and Soldiers, who come from the different Armies into this State upon Furlough, are a great Drawback upon these Magazines. I doubt not but Your Excellency foresees the very great propriety of immediately conveying a large Quantity of Flour into this State. The Operations of the Ensuing Campaign, The Assistance which shall be required by the Fleet of our Allies, and the Preparations for Acting Offensively, or Defensively, at this port, are Objects of such importance that they cannot fail Striking Your Excellency. I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient hume Servt
Horatio Gates


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 26 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir
Philada 26 January 1779

I have your favr of the 12th instant, and one inclosing a return of deficient Cloathing which is without a date. Inclosed you have an order for all the deficiencies except the Blankets of which I cannot make a distribution, that will do equal justice, before my return to Camp.
You may do as you think proper with those people who the enemy will not admit within their lines. I cannot see what purpose their loitering about the town can answer after they have been denied a reception by the Commandant upon Staten Island. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 26–27 January 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth Town [N.J.] 26[–27]th Jany 1779

I have but little news to acquain Your Excellency with at present and that not verry certain, but such as it is I think it my duty to send it. There seems to be a good deal of a bustle amongst the new Levy’s and Refugees they have been making every atempt to see their Friends here, and declared with sheding of tears that they were going to leave the Continent or to the Southward so that they never expected to set foot in this part of the Continent again. The Refugees as I am told have been desired to take up arms or they must not expect to receive any subsistance there. Some of the British Troops expected to move their quarters in 5 or 6 days from this time. Genl Leslie they said had Orders to move from the Island; this Intiligence I had 4 or 5 days ago and communicated it to Lord Stirling.
I thought to have had better intiligence before this time but the sound has been so unsafe in passing with the ice, that I have been disapointed. Another affair that I emajin have contributed to my disapointment not a little; is that those persons who used to serve me in that way, I think their mainspring was traid that grown verry precarious they have grown equaly slack. There is a great part of the British Armey gone some time ago, to the East end of Long Island; it was, said to collect forrage, but it is asserted that forrage has been sent them; they are distressing the Inhabitants much there. It is said their real design was to induce our Troops to quit their winter quarters and attack their lines at Kings Bridge, and then the party from the Island was to have pushed across the Sound and fallen on our Rear, but this I think rather shallow, and that it is more likely they are recruiting their troops by getting them plenty of vigitables and good quarters amongst the Inhabitants.
I inclose Your Excellency two letters from our Prisoners which shews they are much distressed for want of Flour; I find by severals that is just now returned from Captivity, that there is many more of them in the same way. The Inhabitants cannot find them in bread. I wrote to them that I could do nothing in the matter with out your Excellency Instructions I also supposed that the Commissarys of Prisoners had their instructions on that head. I would here beg leave to mention something concerning the Commissarys. I think it is absolutely necessary that a Deputy should remain constantly at this post; this I have strove to get effected all this summer to no purpose. Here all the Prisoners from New York westward goes in, and comes out; here they are often obliged to halt for several days to wait for the Commissary or his Deputy, to settle their exchange, when this happens to be the Enemy (as it has often) it is not prudent at a Frontier post. The Deputy stationed here should be furnished with money to advance to our Officers coming out to carry them to their homes for want of which many of them is much distressed.
I have inclosed what N. York papers I have by me. I have recd no Philadela papers from Your Excellency only the first two.
27th I have further Accounts that the Refugees are forming into Companys and that their plunder is to be their pay. The Inhabitants of Bergan are much afraid and wants more troops to ly near the Lines there I am Your Excellencys Most Obedt Humle Servant
Wm Maxwell


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Phillips, 26 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Phillips, William

sir.
Head Quarters Philadelphia 26th Jany 1779.

I have had the honor of receiving your favor of the 4th December two of the 6th and one of the 16th Jany. The application relative to Lieut. Maxwell I find was answered in my absence from Camp—that respecting a conference intended to serve as a basis for a final negociation of the exchange of the Convention Troops, you have withdrawn—It only remains therefore for me to say on the subject of the Flag Ships destined to carry necessaries for your Troops—that whenever it is judged proper to dispatch them from New York—the Passports required will ⟨be⟩ immediately granted, upon my being made acquainted with the names of the Vessels and their Commanders.
With regard to the most convenient place for discharging their Cargoes I must beg leave to refer you to the Governor of Virginia—who will send directions to Hampton—as far as which place my Passports will authorise the Vessels to proceed—I inclose a Letter from His Excelly The presidt of Congress and have the honor to be with great Consideration sir Yours &.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 26 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord
Philada 26 January 1779.

I have been favd with yours of the 13th and 18th instt with the several letters and papers they inclosed.
Mr McHenry has informed me of the failure of the Refugee expedition to the Coast of Monmouth; but he mentions an account from Genl Maxwell of a Body of New Levies and Refugees having been embarked, supposed for Georgia. I could wish if it be so, that the numbers might be ascertained with as much precision as possible, and also what force Colo. Campbell did actually carry with him besides the 71st Regt I have two Reasons for this. One, that a tolerably certain knowledge of the force of the enemy to the southward, will serve as a guide for the measures to be taken for the releif of those States—the other, that we may form a better judgment of the force remaining at New York.

I recd the inclosed from Genl James Clinton a few days ago, it contains a list of those Men who have recovered in the Hospital at Albany, but cannot join their Regt for want of Cloaths. Be pleased to give the list to the Adjt Genl and direct him to send the names to the respective Corps with an order to have the Cloaths collected and sent up to Albany under the charge of an Officer. Full Cloathing for the sick Absent was drawn at the distribution while at Fredericksburg, and therefore the Regimental Quarter Masters ought to have those now wanting in possession. I am my Lord &c.


Title: General Orders, 27 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Wednesday Jany 27th 1779.
Parole Kildair—C. Signs Lar. Man.

Ensign Henry Strupp of the German Regiment is appointed Adjutant to the same from the 1st day of October 1778.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 27 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Sir
Philada 27th January 1779

You are hereby directed to provide with all convenient dispatch Twenty five hundred pack saddles of the cheapest and strongest kind, fit for the purpose of transporting Provisions, Stores and Baggage. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt
G.W.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 27 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir,
Philada 27 January 1779

I am to request that Congress will be pleased to give directions to have the military chest supplied with a sufficient sum of money to enable me to carry into execution their resolve of the 23 instant for recruiting the army during the war. Every moment is so precious, that it is to be wished notime may be lost in improving this important measure to the greatest advantage.
In the papers from Mr Beatty referred to the Committee of Conference—I find it is mentioned, that “by an agreement made between General Philips and myself a number of invalids belonging to the Convention army were to be sent into New York”—The agreement referred to was not between General Philips and myself but between him and General Gates—They were permitted to go in, as I have since understood on very strong, if not positive assurances from General Philips that they would be exchanged.
Inclosed is a letter containing an application to me from Capt. Stoddard of the dragoons for permission to go to France for the benefit of his health—This it appears, by the certificates accompanying the letter, is recommended to him by his Physicians—As I do not think myself authorised to permit an officer to leave the states, I take the liberty to trouble Congress with a referrence of his case. I have the honor to be With the greatest esteem & respect Sir Yr most Obed. serv.


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 27 January 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 27th Jany 1779

Your Excellencys Letter, of this day, was this morning communicated to Congress, & immediately taken into consideration—By the enclosed copy of an Act, on the Subject of Captain Stoddard’s request, You will perceive that it is granted.
Your Excellency’s Recommendation respecting Provision for the speedy recruiting the Army is referred to the Treasury.
The Congress have, by Acts of the 22nd & 27th Inst:, (copies of which are also enclosed) directed the Marquis De Bretigny to repair to Count D’Estaing—They have granted him a Commission of Lieutenant in the Service of the United States, and recommended him to your particular Notice.
Should Your Excellency have any dispatches for the Count, I will, with pleasure, place them under the same cover with my own—The Marquis will not sail to morrow. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellencys most Obedt Servt
John Jay


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 27 January 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth Town [N.J.] 27th Jany 1779

This Accompanys a Packet from Sir Henry Clinton. The Octr Packet arived from London last Saturday, I inclose You yesterdays paper. I had it from a person living on Staten Island, that he had great reason to believe that the Enemy would soon evacuate that Island. I had an account from New Ark last evening that Capt. Laurence of the N. Carrolina Brigade with 50 Men who had gone into Bergan Town the evening before, had like to be surprized by a large body of the Enemy who had way laid the road he went down: He luckeyly got some Intiligence, and made his escape by the Cedar-Swamp road to Schuylers, having crossed Hackinsack on the Ice, some few of his Men was missing but they may come in yet.
I expect more particulars to day.
I have in formed Genl Leslie that I have refered the Inclosed to Your Excellency, and Am Sir Your Most Obedient Humble Sert
Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 27 January 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth Town [N.J.] 27th Jany 1779

The Enemy have got it amongst them that we are prepareing to carry on an Expedition to the Northward, that large quantitys of tools were collecting through the country and carrying to Albany, and great preparations making there.
One Officer was heard to mention the above to the other, who reply’d D—m them let them go, we will have a large Army up by way of Canada next Spring, and if the Rebells dare to proceed that way they would with the powerfull assistance of the Indians prevent our return again, and that they expected a large party would go from the Southward into the back Country on the same bussiness.
However wild this scheme may appear to some; yet if affairs is not setled in the Spring and the War is to be carryed on for another Campain: I make no doubt from the success that Butler and Brant has met with, they will make strong attempts that way. As it is supposed Your Excelly is setling with the Congress the plans of another Campaign should it be necessary. I beg leave to lay before Your Excellency some hints respecting the Northern department; as I am tolerable well acquainted that way. I would advise that large preparations might be made at Albany for a large number of Batteaus they will be wanted up the North and Mohawk Rivers possably; and should they not be wanted, the Boards &ca will sell for great part of the expences. Provisions should be gather’d together for the spring in that part of the Country.
Should a peace take place between Britain and America, it will be necessary to have a Post established at Oswego, till the sinikees are punished and routed out of that country.
The first plan I would recommend if Lake Champlain is fast, would be the destruction of the Enemys Vessels at Fort St Johns by the Eastern Troops; but if the preparations is not already on the way I am afraid it is now too late for this season, could we secure Mounttreall for one summer the back Forts Detroit & Michellmackinac must fall of course. I make no doubt but the Canadians would give us all the asistance in their power if we got into Canada. If a passage cannot be forced into Canada we ought at all events to establish a strong post at Oswego, the Enemy cannot keep Vessels there continualy to prevent us falling on the Sinikees, or on Niagara, they will have other bussiness for them; to transport Provisions to their back Forts.
There is plenty of good Timber there & good places for Saw Mills that we might soon build Vessels but a great deal might be done without The French had Vessels on the Lake last war and we had none, when we took Niagara.
The Enemy will not be able to get up provisions into that Country for a large armey to last them any considerable time, to supply their Forts for the winter will be verry difficult.
That is the place where the hart of Canada was broke before, and if it cannot be effected at Montreall it must be attempted at Ontario.
If any of these hints is of service to Your Excellency, my designs is fully answered.
but should they not, it is only a little of the labour cast away I owe the Publick. I am Your Excellencys Most Obedt Humble Servant
Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Caesar Rodney, 27 January 1779
From: Rodney, Caesar
To: Washington, George

Sir
Dover [Del.] Jany the 27th 1779

Your favour of the 19th instant came to hand, by Express, the 23rd in the afternoon. I immediately laid it before the General Assembly who are now taking order in the Matter, be assured nothing in my power to Aid the Quarter Master Shall be wanting.
I am Apprehensive Your Excellency Must have been misinformed With respect to the County of Sussex being Able to Maintain a part of the Horse. They have no forage but what is taken from the Indian Corn and Salt Marshes. The Indian Corn has produced verry little this Year Owing to a Storm before the time of Gathering—The Counties of Newcastle & Kent Will be able to Maintain a considerable Number and believe the Quarter Masters have got Stables, already Erected, Sufficient for Polaskis Legion—Mr Quarter Master Wade has not Yet Called upon me. I am, with Great regard, Your Excellency’s obedt And Most Humbe Servant
Caesar Rodney


Title: From George Washington to Captain Josiah Stoddard, 27 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stoddard, Josiah

Sir
Philada 27th January 1779

I have your favr of the 18th accompanied by several Certificates of Gentlemen of the Faculty of the necessity of your visiting some warmer Climate for the recovery of your Health. Your request of a Furlough to go for a considerable time beyond Sea is the first of the kind, and what I do not think myself authorized to grant without the particular concurrence of Congress. My being here enables me to lay your letter before them without loss of time, and the moment I obtain their determination you shall be made acquainted with it. I am &.


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Webb, Jr., 27 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Webb, Joseph Jr.

Sir
Philada 27 January 1779

I have your favr of the 18th instant accompanied by one from Mr Barrel owner of the privateer Vengeance. It gives me pleasure that the success of this Vessel has put it in your power to make an attempt to procure the Exchange of your Brother Colo. Saml Webb. If you can effect it for any of the Gentlemen captured in the Eagle packet, I shall not have the least objection, as I apprehend the owners of the privateer have a right in disposing of their prisoners to give a preference to their Friends.
You will oblige me by transmitting a list of the Officer’s taken, with an attested Copy of the obligation entered into by the British Consul, that I may be enabled, in a proper manner, to make a demand of an equal number of our Officers of equal Rank, after your Brother has been released. should any objections be made on the part of Sr Henry Clinton to complying with the obligation entered into by the Consul be pleased to furnish me with a Copy of them. I am &.


Title: General Orders, 28 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Thursday Jany 28th 1779.
Parole Savannah.C. Signs Campbell. Lincoln.

John Mehelm Esquire being appointed Commissary of hides for the State of New-Jersey with full power and authority to collect and receive all hides, tallow, horns and other useful offal of all the cattle slaughtered in the said State for the use of the Continental Army or any persons whatsoever appertaining to it; All persons belonging to the same are to respect him accordingly and to deliver the articles before mentioned to him or his order and to no other person whatever without orders from the Commander in Chief or General commanding in said State.
The discharge of three pieces of cannon at Major General Lord Stirling’s quarters will be the signal of Alarm, in which case the troops are to be instantly put in the position lately ordered.


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 28 January 1779
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philad. 28 Jany 1779.

I found myself so much indisposd this morning that it was imprudent to go abroad; which will I hope apologize for my not meeting the Committee of Conference at your Excellency’s Quarter’s as was proposed.
General Knox has paid me a Visit and given me an opportunity of comparing his Remarks with the propositions of the Board of war. I am not sufficiently master of the Subject to decide; & must therefore without giving any Opinion of my own submit it to your Excellency & the Committee; who I presume will think it necessary to meet for the purpose in the Evning.
Col. Armond has favourd me with the enclosd Letter respecting his Corpse. I take it for granted Congress will Submit the formation of a Plan respecting the independent Corpses, including each of the 16 Regiments as were raised, to your Excellency. I know not how it is possible, any other way, to obtain an Arrangement which must depend on a Variety of Circumstances, and is encompassed with many dificulties[.] I do not know what progress has been made by the Committee of Arrangement, tho’ I think it necessary that your Excellency shoud be furnished with every thing they have done, or had in Contemplation as far as appears from their papers in the War office. Col. Armand seems at present to be contented with his separate Corpse, tho’ averse to an Incorpo[ratio]n with Count Polaski’s. If the latter takes place it seems to be his Intention to go to South Carolina as a Volunteer: & therefore he is pressing for a decision before your Departure. In my opinion he has a Claim to our Attention[.] Every thing, which is consistent with the publick Service, ought to be done for him. I have the Honour to be—with the utmost Respect—Sir your Excellency’s most Obed. humble Sert
Jas Duane


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Glover, 28 January 1779
From: Glover, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Providence 28th January 1779.

Urged by a sense of Duty & Regard for my much injured Country, I enter’d her service at the Commencemt of Hostilities, & have Continued to exert my Small abilities in her Defence to this day, & was fully determin’d to persevere therein (Notwithstanding the great sacrifices I have made, & must consequently Continue to make) so Long as I could any ways be serviceable, or my Country wanted me. But as it has been the Will of Heaven, I should feel the pang of a seperation, & part with a Companion who was most dear to me, (& in my Absence) the only support & stay of a Family of Eight small Children, the Eldest of which is seventeen Years; the Cares of which now altogether devolves on me & calls for my particular Attention.
These being my present Circumstances, which are truly distressing I am, from a sense of Paternal duty & regard I owe to my Little Flock, Compel’d tho’ with great Reluctance & Regrett, to ask a dismission from the service. At the same time, beg it may not be Conceived as proceeding from any other Motive, & that your Excellency would be pleased (if inconsistent to grant it yourself) to forward my Request to the Honble Congress.
I feel myself happy in being one of those who have stood forth in defence of the Liberties of America; & be assured Sir, that whenever her Honble Representatives or your Excellency shall call for my Exertions I shall Endeavour with Cheerfulness to Comply therewith.
I hope Sir, I shall always have a grateful Sense of the many Civilities shewn me by your Excellency, for which I beg Leave to return my Unfeigned thanks. I have the Honor to be, Your Excellencys, most Obedt hume sert
John Glover
        P.S. I beg Leave to remind yr Excellency I have not recd my Brigadiers Commission. I was appointed in the beginning of 1777 & should I be Honor’d with a Line from your Excellency, beg it as a favour it may be Inclosed therein.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Henry Knox, 28 January 1779
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 28th January 1779

The Corps of Artillery being raised in different States upon the same principles as the sixteen additional battalions, labor under great difficulty in obtaining of recruits for the Continental bounty of twenty dollars.
The service demands the Battalions of Artillery to be complete, but under the present circumstances it is impracticable.
There are four Battalions of Artillery consisting of twelve Companies each Vizt

P[resent] Nubr
w[anted] to com[p]l[ete]
establishment

Colonel Crains raised in Massachusetts

500
220
720

Colonel Lambs raised principally in Connecticut, New York, & some from Pensylvania and New-Jersey
}
400
320
720

Colonel Harrisons 10 Companies from Virginia and 2 from Maryland
}
450
270
720

Colonel Proctors 9 Companies from Pensylvania, 2 New Jersey and one from North Carolina
}
250
470
720

1600
1280
2880

The above is not an accurate return, although it differs but very little from the real numbers—The Corps being so dispersed that I have lately obtained no returns particularly from Providence, Fort Schuyler and this City.
I believe the states in which the above men were raised do not consider them as part of the quota’s assigned in September 1776.
No Continental artillery men have been raised in the states of New Hampshire Rhode-Island and Delaware.
Most of the men are engaged for three years which will expire in the commencement of next year. As it requires much pains and experience to make a good Artillerist it would be conducive to the good of the service that for the future they be inlisted for the War.
There are wanting in the Battalions a considerable number of Subaltern officers—It will be necessary that the mode be pointed out in which they are to be appointed.

Your Excellency will be able from these hints to give such information to the Committee as to enable them to fill up the Battalions to the establishment. As it will be necessary to have the best men, they can be procured only by Original inlistments.
If Congress should determine to render the Corps of Artillery subject to their orders only, and not be considered as the proportion of any of the states as those raised by virtue of the Resolves of September 1776, it would be necessary for an agent in particular to be appointed for them to supply Cloathing and such other Necessaries upon such terms as the troops of particular States are supplied. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servant
H. Knox B. General Artillery


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 28 January 1779
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lancaster [Pa.] January 28th 1779

I have been detained here some days by the breaking up of the Ice upon the River Susquehanna, and have expected, as I wished, an answer, to those parts of the letters with which I troubled Your Excellency regarding the accommodation for the Officers and Soldiers of the Troops of Convention in Virginia, and the passports necessary for Cloathing Vessels going to such Ports as might be judged proper and convenient.
I should be greatly obliged to you, Sir, for information who it is will command at Charlotte Ville, and whether directions are given for building Barracks for the Troops, as I understand they are for the present hutted in rather bad conditioned Huts which were made for the Trenton Prisoners of War—I here write regarding the Troops only without any view to myself who can use means and expence which other Officers will not be well able to do, and I have no doubt of your Excellency directing in every shape for that conveniency and comfort which the Troops of Convention, still considered I suppose, under the Treaty of Saratoga merit and which may be allowed to rise to superior claims than were they Prisoners of War: I have full confidence, Sir, in your notions of honor in these particulars, and I never have imagined the American Congress disposed to depart from strict justice in their conduct towards the Convention Troops—Permit me in my care for my friends and fellow Soldiers to observe that Major General Reidesel is particularly circumstanced having a Lady and a large family, and I willingly would forego any intentional care due my Rank hoping it might add to the comfort of that General Officer.
The Troops are at present without Money or Cloathing, and very greatly in want of necessaries—under this description it becomes indispensably necessary that Vessels should be permitted to go ⟨from⟩ New York to Virginia; it will depend on you, Sir, to name the Port and grant passports accordingly, and I suppose the American Commanding Officer in Virginia will regulate the Transports by Land.
As I shall require to send these passports with my demand for Money and necessaries to New York I wish to know if I am permitted to forward an Officer and by what Rout—I am cautious in this matter as I would not willingly break upon or offend any rules which You, Sir, or the American Congress may intend to preserve in this matter, but I am anxious for some certain mode of communication with New York under whatever restrictions your Excellency shall direct, and the extreme distance, and difficult method of procuring what may be wanted makes me more earnest upon the Subject—At Cambridge we had a near communication with Rhode Island and New York but at Charlotte Ville it will be, you are sensible, Sir, very different and therefore, will require a fixed mode of proceeding, which I will hope your Excellency will dictate.
I shall proceed on my journey on Saturday next and remain at York Town on Sunday in the hope of an Answer to this letter. I have the honor to be with very great respect Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient and Most humble Servant
W. Phillips


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 28 January 1779
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fairfield [Conn.] Jany 28th 1779

This day has come to hand the enclosed No. 7—from C——, which agreeable to directions recd from your Excellency in your favr of 2d instt, shall forward to Genl Putnam to go by one of his Expresses to Head Qrs.
In a Letter of Yesterday to C—— I directed him to have ready for me a Comprehensive acct of the Strength, Situation & Movements of the Enemy, by the 20th insuing; after which (for certain reasons which I shall explain shortly, as I intend being the Bearer of the next Letter from C—— to Head Qrs) He will not write again untill the 20th of March next, unless something important should turn up in the Interim.
I intend joining the Regt again at Durham, immediately, where I shall be found until the time appointed for the next dispatches as abovementioned. I am, with great Esteem Your Excellencys most obedt & very Hble Servt
Benja. Tallmadge


Title: General Orders, 29 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Friday Jany 29th 1779.
Parole Astracan—C. Signs Werden. Blith.


Title: From George Washington to John Beatty, 29 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Beatty, John

Sir
Philada 29th January 1779

Inclosed you will find two Resolves of Congress of the 23d and 28th Inst. The first contains some general Regulations for your official Conduct, the latter respects the exchange of those Officers on both sides who have actually violated their paroles. To carry the intentions of the Resolve into execution it becomes necessary in the first place to ascertain what Officers, British as well as American, really come under the description of such as are the objects of the Resolve. I have therefore, proposed to Sir Henry Clinton, that you and Mr Loring should meet at such time and place as you shall both agree upon, to settle that point. If he accedes I will immediately inform you. You will in the mean time be preparing yourself with proper materials to combat the charges against those of our Officers who assert that they have made their escapes in a justifiable manner, but are claimed as having broke their paroles—And also with proofs to support any claims we may have upon Officers of theirs, under similar circumstances.
Passports for the provision for our prisoners in New York were ordered previous to the Rect of yours of the 19th. I am &.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 29 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir
Philadelphia 29th January 1779

I do myself the honor to inclose you the Extract of a letter which I recd a few days ago from His Excellency Governor Clinton, and which I am to request you to lay before Congress agreeable to his desire. I have only to add that the settlement and payment of such Accounts as are referred to in the letter, is highly beneficial to our public Credit, and satisfactory to those individuals, who have been obliged to part with their property at a time when the situation of Affairs has rendered it impossible to pass regular Vouchers—If Congress would be pleased to authorise the present Quarter Master and Commissary General to discharge such of those accounts as are certified by Govr Clinton, it would be the most ready and effectual manner of doing justice to the public and individuals. I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect Sir Your most obt Servt
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 29 January 1779
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Lt. Col. Udny Hay, 29 Jan. 1779. GW wrote Hay on 10 Feb.: “Your letter of the 29th ultimo reached me in Philadelphia.”


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 29 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir,
Philadelphia January 29th 1779

My long and unexpected stay in this city being attended with many inconveniences to the common business of the army, and in other respects—I feel myself under a necessity of requesting the permission of Congress to return; and if consistent with their views, I should be glad to set out for the camp at Middle-Brook, on monday next. There are several matters, which have been the subjects of conference between the Committee and myself, that are yet undecided, and which, with other points that may occur occasionally, may be proper objects for an intercourse of letters, if it should be the pleasure of Congress to continue the Committee for this purpose—the experience and propriety of which they will judge.
I shall wait the orders of Congress; and have the honor to be With the greatest respect and esteem—Sir Your most Obedt servant
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 29 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia Jany 29th 1779

I have been duly favoured with your several letters of December 10th January 11th and 19th, with their inclosures. They have all been received in this city, where I have been for some time past, intirely engrossed in a variety of important business with Congress, which has put it out of my power, to give them an answer so full and particular as I could wish; and as the same impediment still exists, I must beg to defer it, ’till my arrival in camp, which I hope will be in a few days.
I have some specie at Head Quarters at Middle-Brook; part of which, so soon as I am arrived there shall be forwarded to you for the purposes, you mention. With the greatest esteem and regard I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt servant
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 29 January 1779
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lancaster [Pa.] January 29th 1779

I have by accident met this day with Colonel Mathews who is going to New York to return to his Parole.
I have had by this Gentleman a description of the situation of the Troops of Convention, and of the means taking for their conveniency which engages me to return you my thanks for the directions which have been given, and I make no doubt but that in a little time the situation of the Troops will be as comfortable as can be expected or is possible.
But, Sir, I find that the Officers are obliged to go many miles distant from the Barracks for Quarters, which renders it impossible for them to give that care of their Soldiers as will be necessary—And it is more over in direct opposition to the Treaty of Convention of Saratoga which declares that the Officers are not to be separated from the Soldiers—I readily suppose this present separation will be only for a time, and I take a liberty of requesting your Excellency’s influence that convenient and proper Barracks may be constructed for Officers, so that a sufficient number may be always with the Men, which can not fail of producing good order and propriety of conduct, and will be a sure means of preventing complaints on the part of the Country.
I understand that Fredericksburg on the Rappahannock River and Richmond on James River are within a few miles the same distance to Charlotte Ville, it depends therefore on the navigation and the Port best calculated to receive Cloathing Vessels of a large burden for passports to be given to allow our Vessels from New York a passage to Virginia.
The Susquehana is still impassable, and it will defer my crossing it of some days, and will hope to hear from your Excellency. I have the honor to be with much respect Sir. Your Excellencys Most Obedient and Most humble Servant
W. Phillips


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Mitchell Varnum, 29 January 1779
From: Varnum, James Mitchell
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. James Mitchell Varnum, 29 Jan. 1779. GW wrote Varnum on 14 Feb.: “I received your favor of the 29th Ultimo.”


Title: General Orders, 30 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Saturday Jany 30th 1779.
Parole Ulierbeck—C. Signs Congo Tobago.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of Treasury, 30 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of Treasury

Gentlemen.
Philadelphia 30th Jany 1779

In answer to your question respecting the Sum to be furnished the military Chest, for carrying into execution the Resolve of Congress of the 23d inst. I am to inform you that Five hundred thousand Dollars will in my opinion be a sufficient foundation to commence upon.
A farther Supply will be required in the ordinary course, as appears from the following State contained in a Letter from the Deputy Pay Master of the 21st inst.—he says there are now in the Military Chest 380,000 Dolls.—which after the Army is paid for October and the Money of the two Emissions exchanged pursuant to order of Congress—will not leave sufficient for the month of November—He concludes with saying that five or six hundred thousand Dollars—will pay November and December, allowing for such exigencies as may arise—this I submit to the board and have the honor of being with great Respect their most obedt and most hble servt.


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 30 January 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 30th Jany 1779

On the 23d Inst., Congress passed two Acts, One relating to the Commissary of Prisoners, the other to the Director General; Copies of both are herewith enclosed.
Both your Excellency’s Letters of the 29 Inst., One covering an Extract of a Letter from Governor Clinton, the other, a Letter from General Du Portail, have been delivered to me—Whatever Acts they may become the Subjects of, shall be without delay communicated to You. I have the Honor to be With the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellencys most Obedt Servt
J: J.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Phillips, 30 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Phillips, William

Sir,
Philadelphia Jany 30th 1779

I am this moment honored with your letter of the 28th.
I beg leave to inform you that my charge with respect to the Convention troops extended only to their march from Cambridge to Charlotte ville; and when they have arrived there will cease of course. The arrangements for their accommodation there have been conducted under the direction of Congress. But I cannot have the least doubt, that every possible provision has been and will be made to render their situation as comfortable as circumstances will permit. Barracks are built and building for their reception; and by accounts, just received, will probably be completed as fast as the several divisions arrive. Col. Lewis of Virginia, is appointed to the command; and Mr Harvy is to act as Commissary of Prisoners—From the established characters of these gentlemen, every thing that justice honor or humanity dictates may be expected—I promise myself, with pleasure, that General Reidesels peculiar situation will experience the attention to which it is intitled.
The enclosed letter which you will perceive was written previous to the receipt of your last—contains an answer to that part of it which relates to the subject of Flagg-ships for conveying necessaries to the Convention troops—You will excuse my not permitting an officer to pass with your dispatches to New York; as I think the purpose may be equally well answe[re]d without it—The mode, most convenient for your communication with New York will be to transmit your dispatches to me; and you may rely, they shall be forwarded in the most punctual and expeditious manner.
I am sorry to find the troops are in such immediate want of money and necessaries—I imagined, they would have been supplied in passing the North River, as I had signified my consent to Sir Henry Clinton, that he might send up that River, any necessaries, they should require. With great respect I have the honor to be Sir Your most Obedient servant
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 30 January 1779
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 30 Jan. 1779. GW wrote Putnam on 5 Feb.: “I have your favr of the 5th and 30th ulto.”


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel William Washington, 30 January 1779
From: Washington, William
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Lt. Col. William Washington, 30 Jan. 1779. GW wrote William Washington on 9 Feb.: “I have recd yours of the 23d and 30th ulto.”


Title: General Orders, 31 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Sunday Jany 31st 1779.
Parole Dephford—C. Signs Semlin—Elbe.

The Morristown guard to be increased to a Captains command & relieved monthly ’till further orders.
The officers will see that all the Ammunition now in the men’s hands be returned to the Regimental Quarter Masters, and in future when their men return from guard or detachments they are in like manner to see it turned in.


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 31 January 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 31st Jany 1779

Congress, agreeable to Your Excellency’s Recommendation, have directed the Commissary, and Quarter-Master General to pay such of the Accounts, mentioned in Governor Clinton’s Letter, as he shall certify—And by their Act of the 30th Inst., of which the enclosed is a copy, have consented to Your Excellency’s Return to Camp.
The Opinion of Congress, respecting the continuation of the Committee of Conference, is, as yet, undetermined—To me it appears proper, as well as necessary, that until they become dissolved, by making a Report on the several Matters committed to them, they should consider an epistolary correspondence with your Excellency on those Subjects to be as much within the Line of their Appointment as personal conferences.
There are several Acts of Congress, of which I ought to have sent You Copies, & application has several [times] been made to the Secretary’s Office for them. I am now informed that the Clerks, instead of delivering them to me, have left them with Your Excellency—These Irregularities will, I hope, be in future avoided. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem, Your Excellency’s most Obt & Hble Servt
John Jay—Presidt


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 31 January 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Dear sir
Head Quarters Philadelphia 31 Jany 1779

I have had the honor of receiving your Excellencys two letters of 9th & 15th inst. As the deserters of the Convention Troops apprehended in Jersey, cannot at present be conveniently disposed of—I must entreat that measures may be taken for Securing them, ’till orders can be given for their Removal—With regard to the two whose evidence you think will serve to convict the seducers of the party—there can be no objection to their being detained till that end is answered.
The request of Your Excellency and the Council founded on the scarcity of forage has been anticipated by my orders to send from Camp into the neighboring States horses of every denomination that are not indispensible in Winters Quarters—No Corps of Cavalry remains in Jersey except Major Lees which is quartered in the lower part of the Country where the Quarter Master informed me there wd be a sufficient supply of forage with least inconvenience to the Inhabitants.
In the hurry of Affairs I omitted informing your Excelly that I had ordered a party under Col. North into Monmouth County with a view of restraining the Malpractices which prevailed there—this measure may lighten the service of the Militia—as the party may supply the place of so many who wd be otherwise employed on that duty. I have the honor to be with the greatest regard Dr Sir &
G.W.