Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Roger Enos, 9 November 1775
From: Enos, Roger
To: Washington, George

Brunswick near Kennebeck [District of Maine]novr 9th 1775
Sir

I am on my Return from Colo. Arnold’s Detachment. I Brot up the Rear of the Whole, Capt: McCobb, Williams & Scots Company’s were assind to my Division. We proceeded as far as 50 miles up the Dead River & there were obliged to Return for the want of Provision when we Arrived to the Great Carying Place, By what I cou’d Learn from the Division forward that Provision was Like to be Short, I wrote to Colo. Arnold & Desired him to take an Account of the Provision forward, he wrote me word that there were 25 Days provisions for all the Divisions, A head. But to my Surprise before we got over the great Carying place, Majr Bigelow with 90 men was Sent back from Col: Green’s Division, to Mine for Provision. I Let ’em have all I cou’d Spare. I continued my march with all Expedition & When about 50 Miles up the Dead River overtook Col: Green with his Division Entirely out of Provision & by Reason of men being Sent back, with Orders from Col: Arnold for me to furnish them with provision to Carry them to the Inhabitants, my Division was Reduced to about 6 Days provision. Col: Arnold was gone ahead, the Chief of the Officers of Col: Green’s Division & Mine was together, When we took the Situation of our Divisions into Consideration & upon the whole for Several Reasons it was thot best for my Whole Division to Return & furnish those that proceeded with all our provisions, Except 3 Days to bring us back, wch I did without Loss of time. A More particular Account shall be Able to Give When I Return to Cambridge. Shall Lose no time if able to Ride I have for many Days been Unwell. Expect the whole of my Division at this place to Morrow, When shall Set out on our March for Cambridge. I am your most Obedient Humb. Servant

Roger Enos


Title: General Orders, 10 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 10th 1775
Parole Cumberland.Countersign Durham.

The General thanks Col. Thompson, and the other gallant Officers and Soldiers (as well of other Regiments as the Rifflers) for their alacrity Yesterday, in pushing thro’ the water, to get to the Enemy on Letchmore’s point; he is inform’d that there were some (names as yet unknown) who discover’d a backwardness in crossing the Causway—these will be marked, if they can be discovered—The General was much surprised and concerned, to see the order in which many of the Arms in several of the regiments appeared; he had not time to enquire the

Names of the particular Officers to whose Companies they belonged, but desires that this hint may be received, as an Admonition, by such Officers as are conscious of their Neglect of this duty; as other methods will be fallen upon, if it is not.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Benjamin Craft, 10 November 1775
From: Craft, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Camp Winter Hill 10 November 1775

Petitions for permission to resign his commission “for the following Reasons viz. 1[st]ly his wife and

Family being Scituated in a Sea-Port Town, and consequently much exposed to danger by the Enemy. 2dly your Petitioner having received Encouragement some Time since that no Difficulty would attend procuring a Discharge; agree’d to make and turn in to the Army one hundred pair Shoes Monthly; and having Already provided Stock for that Purpose, begs Leave to Suggest that his being longer detained will be extremely prejudicial.”


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Glover, 10 November 1775
From: Glover, Jonathan
To: Washington, George

Honoured sir
Marblehead [Mass.] 10 Novembr 1775

By the Barer Captt. Richard James I would Inform your Excellency, that Captt. Manley in your Schor Lee, Brought into Marblehead, this Morning a Schr of about forty Tuns Load with Lumber he took Sd Schr about three Miles from Boston Lighthous, I have found But two Letters on Board Which have Sent By Captt. James the Master & a Doctor which is Sd to be a pasinger on [board] have Sent with Capt. James for your Examination—Capt. Manly was Doging the fleet of Ships that whent into Boston Last Night But was kept of, By the Lively, Ship of war Manley is now Bound out please to give Me your Orders By Capt. James Concerning the Schr & Ill do my endvours they Shall Be Complyed with By your Most Obedint Humbe Servent

Jonathan Glover


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 10 November 1775
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia Novr 10th 1775

By order of Congress I have the Honour to forward you the Inclos’d Resolutions this moment come into. The suddeness of this order and your Zeal for the Service supercedes all necessity of Recommending this measure to your particular Notice, have only to Add that Congress leave the Appointment of the persons to you.
A Variety of Business has Occurr’d, which has prevented a final Determination upon the Report of the Committee of Conference, as soon as perfected, the Result shall be Transmitted you. I have the honour to be with the utmost Respect and Esteem, Sir Your most Obedt servt

John Hancock President


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Alexander McDougall, 10 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Sir,
Cambridge 10th Novr 1775

Having been favourd with your Letter of the 23d Ulto by Mr Ray, permit me to assure you, that I shall, at all times, esteem it a happiness to have it in my power to shew Civility to any Gentleman of your recommendation—It is exceedingly necessary for every person, appearing in the character of a Gentleman,

& not personally known, to bring Letters of Introduction from those that are, otherwise, a proper attention cannot be paid to them. Indeed even common Civilities may be injudiciously bestowd as we have some improper visitors—I am with great esteem & regard Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Ramsay, 10–16 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Ramsay, William

Dear Sir,
Cambridge Novr [10–16] 1775.

By Mr Harrison I have been favour’d with your Letter of the 16th Ulto, and am glad to find that my Address to the People of Canada, and Corrispondance with genl Gage have Merited the approbation of the Publick. I am not without my hopes that Arnold, and his Detachment have got into good Quarters in Quebec, long before this—I have heard nothing (directly) from him since the 13th Ulto; which, although it may be consider’d in a favourable point of view, keeps me in a very disagreeable state of Suspence.
A Number of Transports are just arriv’d at Boston, & from our Accts from thence, 2500 Troops are Landed; the truth, as yet, we know not—Our time of late hath been much taken up in building Barracks, & putting our Men undr Cover; which, in ten or twelve days more I hope will be compleated. Whether Genl Howe after receiving such a Reinforcement will remain quiet in his Quarters, is a matter to be determined. on thursday last about four or five hundred of them taking advantage of a very high Tide, landed at a place called Litchmores Point (opposite to Boston and then an Island) distant about ¾ of a Mile from our Lines on prospect Hill, but upon the appearance of two Regiments advancg towards them, over a Causey (waste deep in Water) they retreated having first kild & carrd off 10 head of Cattle, but with the loss of two of their Men (so near were our Regiments to them)—We had three Men wounded; two I fear mortally.

The destruction of Falmouth, and the Inclination which has been shewn of bestowing the same favour on other Towns (which, by being prepard for their reception, have averted the blow) is evident proof of the diabolical designs of Administration to prosecute, with unrelenting Fury, the most cruel, and Savage War that ever a Civilized Nation engag’d In as it also is, of the necessity of adopting every means which can be devis’d for the preservation of property. this led me to hint to your part of the Country through Lund Washington, the expediency of stopping the Navigation of the ⟨Poto⟩mack without loss of time; conceiving, that at an Expence, not amounting to one tenth of the damage which the Estates on that River may sustain in the course of next Summer, such obstruction’s may be laid as to prevent any Armed Vessell from passing. I do not pretend to point out the place where or precise manner how, this is to be effected. In Delaware they have attempted it by sinking of Chevaux, de Frieze, & Row Gallies—In Potomack I think it might be done by Chevaux de Frieze (or sinking of Vessels) and Batteries on one, or both sides of the River a[s] Circumstances might require. I have often heard, that somewhere below Quantico the Channel was so narrow as to ⟨illegible⟩ so, and the ⟨la⟩nd adjoining is proper, what ⟨mutilated⟩s the attempt? High land is the ⟨mutilated⟩ these kind of Batteries, beca⟨use mutilated⟩ from thence de⟨illegible⟩ pas⟨mutilated⟩age, at the same time that it ⟨mutilated⟩ receive no kind of Injury; where ⟨mutilated B⟩atteries upon a Level are ⟨mutilated⟩ys Silenced—Guns dismounte⟨d mutilated⟩ by the ⟨shi⟩ps—If Such a Situation ⟨mutilated Co⟩lo. Fairfax could be found le⟨mutilated⟩ d⟨mutilated⟩ it would be impassible; because ⟨mutilated⟩ Ves⟨sel⟩ is Raked from Stem to Stern (fro⟨m⟩ the time she gets within reach) of your Guns, till she is directly under them; & from Stern to Stem till she is out of reach of them, after passing; & this without bringing more than one or two Guns ⟨to bear⟩ on you, without heaving too which would protract her passage. I mention this matter, because I am very willing to have my property taxed to its proportionate amount to effect a Plan of defence to it—with sincere regard for Mrs Ramsay Yr Family, & all friends I remain Dr Sir Yr Affecte Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 11 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge Nov: 11th 1775.
Parole Effingham.Countersign Franklin


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin, 11 November 1775
From: Baldwin, Loammi
To: Washington, George

Chelsea [Mass.] Nov. 11th 1775 Saturday 11 Clock A.M.
May it Please your Excellency

I gave orders last night to have All the Stock in Chelsea that is Exposed drove back, & this morning Sent down to Pulling Point & Point Shirley to have their Stocks brought of & ordered all this party to Parade Early this morning & the officers to Scorch the Arms & Amunition and hold themselves in Rediness to march at a minutes Warning to any place that accasion may require This I did before I received your Excellenys letter (dated the 10 Inst.) not from the Appearanc of any Boats as mentioned in your letter nor any other movement that threatned Imediate danger Except the affair at Leatchmors Point which I thought ought to causion me to take Particular care of my Post which I think would not be so hasardous an Enterprise for the Ememy as there Last to Leachmore Point your Execelleny is Sensable of the dificult Situation of our Post to defend but Shall do my best in all cases I think our Stock of Amunition is Rather to Short for a party so far Removed from any Magazine having about 20 Rounds of Cartridges & not 2 flints to a man—I have tried to find out whither any troops Came in the last vessels but cannot discovr any yet.
we have nothing remarkable at preasent. This from you[r] Ecellency most obediant &c. Very Hum. Sert

Loammi Baldwi[n] L. Col.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 11 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Cambridge 11th November 1775

I had the honour to address myself to you the 8th Inst. by Captain Macpherson, Since which, I have an account of a Schooner Laden Chiefly with fire wood being brought into Marblehead, by the armed Schooner Lee Captain Manly. She had on board the Master, a midshipman, two Marines, & four Sailors, from the Cerberus man of war, who had made prize of this Schooner a few days before, and was Sending her into Boston.
Inclosed you have a Copy of an act passed this Session, by the Honble Council & house of Representatives of this Province. it respects Such Captures as may be made by vessells fitted out by the Province or by individuals thereof—As the Armed Vessells fitted at the Continental expence do not Come under this Law, I woud have it Submitted to the Consideration of Congress, to point out a more Summary way of proceeding, to determine the property, & mode of Condemnation—of Such prizes as have been, or hereafter may be made, than is Specifyed in this act.
Should not a Court be established by Authority of Congress to take Cognizance of Prizes made by the Continental vessells? whatever the mode is which they are pleased to adopt, there is an absolute necessity of its being Speedily determind on, for I Cannot Spare time from military affairs, to give proper attention to these Matters—the inhabitants of Plymouth have taken a Sloop Laden with provisions &a from Halifax bound to Boston, & the Inhabitants of Beverly have under Cover of one of the armed Schooners taken a vessell from Ir[e]land Laden with beef, pork, butter &a for Same place, the Latter brings papers & Letters of a very interesting nature, which are in the hands of the Honble Council, who informed me they will transmit them to you by this Conveyance[.] to the Contents of these papers & Letters I must beg Leave to reffer you & the Honble Congress, who will now See the absolute necessity there is, of exerting all their wisdom to withstand the mighty efforts of our enemies.
the trouble I have in the Arrangement of the Army, is realy

inconceiveable, many of the Officers Sent in their names to Serve in expectation of promotion others Stood aloof to See what advantage they Cou’d make for themselves, whilest a number who had declined, have again Sent in their names to Serve. So great has the Confusion ariseing from these & many other perplexing Circumstances been, that I found it absolutely impossible to fix this very interesting business, exactly on the Plan resolved on in Conference, tho I have Kept up to the Spirit, as near as the Nature & necessity of the Case woud admit of, The difficulty with the Soldiers is as great, indeed more So if possible, than with the Officers, they will not inlist untill they Know their Colonel, Lt Col. Major, Captain &a So that it was necessary to fix the Officers the first thing, which is at Last in Some manner done, & I have given out inlisting orders, You Sir Can much easier judge than I can express, the Anxiety of mind I must Labour under on this occasion especially at this time, when we may expect the enemy will begin to act, on the arrivall of their reinforcement part of which is allready Come & the remainder daily dropping in. I have other distresses of a very alarming nature. the Arms of our Soldiery are So exceeding bad that I assure you Sir, I Cannot place a proper Confidence in them, our Powder is wasteing fast, notwithstanding the Strictest Care Oeconomy & attention is paid to it, the Long Series of wet weather we have had, renders the greater part of what has been Served out to the men of no use; yesterday I had a proof of it, as a party of the enemy about four or five hundred takeing the advantage of a high tide, Landed at Leechmores point, which at that time was in effect an Island, we were alarmed, & of Course orderd every man to examine his Cartouchebox, when the melencholly truth appeard, & we were obliged to furnish the greater part of them with fresh amunition. The Damage done at the point, was the takeing of a man who watch’d a few horses & Cows, ten of the Later they Carryed of, Colonel Thompson marchd down with his Regiment of Rifle Men, & was join’d by Colonel Woodbridge with a part of his, & a part of Pattersons Regiment, who gallantly waded thro the water & Soon obliged the enemy to embark under Cover a man of war, a Floating Battery & the fire of a Battery on Charles town neck, we have two of our men dangerously wounded by grape shot from the man of war—& by a flag out this day we are inform’d,

the enemy Lost two of their men—I have the honour to be with my best respects to the Congress Sir Your Most Obedt H: Sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Experience Storrs, 11 November 1775
From: Storrs, Experience
To: Washington, George

Cambridge the 11th November 1775
May it Please your Exelencey

Upon the Repeated Request of Ensn Stanley to Represent to your Exelencey Something by which he may Obtain a Discharge from the Service, I have Inclosed the Doctrs Certificate & can Say no more in Favour of his obtaining a Discharge than that it Seems needless to hold Officers here that hant a Stomake. with Respect to the Company he Leaves there is but one Officer in it that Does Duty it Seems really Necessary that Some Care Should be taken of that Company more than now is. Your Exelencies most humble Servt

Expr. Storrs Leiut. Colo.


Title: To George Washington from William Watson, 11 November 1775
From: Watson, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Plymouth [Mass.] 11th Novr 1775

Immediately on Rect of your Excellencys Orders of the 6th Instant relative to my taking Charge of the Wine cast on shore at the Cape, I dispatched Major Soper, a Gentleman employed in the public service to Cape Cod, with directions, which the Major will show your Excellency and which I hope will meet your approbation.
I believe the Business is well done, & that Major Soper has conducted with Integrity as well as with great Dispatch.
It gives me pleasure that so much of this Cargo is secured for its proper owner & that the whole was not suffered to be Embezzled

by the Moon Curse[rs] of that place, which wo’d very soon have been the cas⟨e⟩ had not your Excellency Interposed in the matter.
Major Soper Informs me that there are Six Negros on their way to Plymo., which when delivered to me I shall take care of & will forward them to Head Quarter⟨s⟩ as soon as possible.
The Bearer will deliver your Excellency a packett containing the papers &c. relateing to this unfortunate Vessel, & will acquaint your Excellency that it was impossible for me to go myself on this business, as I am much engaged in public business at home & co’d not leave it with any tolerable degree of prudence. I am your Excellencys very obedient much obled Hb. Servant

William Watson


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 12 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 12 Nov. 1775. On 3 Dec. Lund Washington wrote to GW: “Two Letters from you came to hand this Week dated Nvmr the 6th & 12th.”


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 12 November 1775
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Mount Vernon Novmbr 12th 1775

Yours of the 30th Octbr I recievd last night, I ima[gine] the Letter you expected from home on the 12th was sent by Mr Harrison—for I have never missd writeg a Post except it was the one that set out a day or two before him.
The Dineg Room will I expect be finishd this week now come

in—it is I think very Pretty[.] the Stucco man agrees the Cielg is a Handsomeer one than any of Colo. Lewises, altho not half the worck in it[.] it was a plan recommen’d by Sears. I think it rather two late to Turf the Ha Has; for the ground freazees now every Night—but it shall be done very early in the Spring—we have done nothing to the Gateways—The Posts that were made for them, will be to do over again, for altho they have been twice Painted, they are rent all to pieces, they no doubt put plank on them not well seasoned[.] I intend to have the Stuff try’d up for the pallisadoes this Winter, but I am unwiling to put them up for I really am at a loss for the just proportion of each particular part, nor have I any body to direct me[.] I have once or twice talk’d to Lanphier about it but he mouths & talks in such a way that I do not understand him—I mean as to the dementions of the Pallisades—Sils, rails, Posts, & different Heights, but I cannot see that it will make any difference whether that worck is first or last done—you will direct early in the Spring what brick worck you will have done first, after buildg the Under pining & Chimney to the House that will be place’d opposite to the Store House. I shall if the weather will any Ways permit try if I cannot get the Wash House or Servts Hall—Plaister’d this Winter, I suppose there is a wall to be Built in the new Garden next the Quarter[.] I think I have heard you say you designd to have a House Built the whole length for Negroes perhaps you may direct that to be first done if so be particular in the Wall that there may be no difficulty in joining other walls to it so as to make out the House Divisions &c.—We are at worck upon the Servts House—I wish you woud give me some directions about grindg our Wheat[.] I am at a loss[.] it looks like doing nothing to give high wagers to a Miller to be in great Measure Idle for it is no very great Advantage to have a number of Barrels made they generally want so much rectifying after laying some time[.] I have not been able to purchase a Stave this Sumr therefore have kept the Coopers when they have not been at worck upon the Mill Dams & Race getg of Staves—Headg &c.—they are now imployd in that way—By Mrs Washington who sets of on tuesday or Wednesday I shall write you again & if you do not get a Letter from me the Post after this, it will be becaus I expect to be from home (in Stafford) where I cannot possilby delay going

any longer—haveg a division of my mothers Estate to make & I want to indeavour to send a parsel of negroes which I before had & get by her, over the mountain not knowg what Else to do with them—I immagine Lord Dunmore will now put of sendg up this River until the Spring[.] the Northerly Winds, Frost &c.—will make it troublesome & he will find Enough to do below—If he comes here I shall indeavour to destroy a few of his men before the House is fired, & if I get notice of his comeg I think he or any other will be disappointed—I shall not think myself so Secure as not to take care of what Household goods can be save’d—those gentlemen that [I] Inform’d you went to sound the River find in the narrowest part of the Channel 584 yds wide & from 18. to 28 feet water. Am Dr Sir your Affectionate Servt

Ld Washington


Title: General Orders, 13 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge Novr 13th 1775
Parole Granby.Countersign Barre.

The Colonels upon the new Establishment to settle, as soon as possible, with the Qr Mr General, the Uniform of their respective regiments; that the buttons may be properly number’d, and the work finished without delay.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Benedict Arnold, 13 November 1775
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

Point Levi [Quebec] [13]th Novr 1775
May it please your Excellency

The foregoing is a Copy of my last of the 8th Instant, by an Express sent me by General Montgomery, who, I am this Moment informed, was taken fifteen Leagues above this on his Return—I have waited three Days for the Rear to come up, and in preparing scaling Ladders &c.
The Wind has been so high these three Nights that I have not been able to cross the River, but is now moderated and intend crossing this Evening with about 40 Canoes; to prevent which the Hunter Sloop & Lizard Frigate lie opposite—however expect to be able to evade them. I have received the agreeable Intelligence that St John’s is in our Hands and Montreal invested. The Merchant Ships in the Harbour (about fifteen) are loading Day & Night, & four already sailed. I am very respectfully Your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble Servt

Benedt Arnold


Title: From George Washington to William Bartlett, 13 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Bartlett, William

 Letter not found: to William Bartlett, 13 Nov. 1775. On this date Bartlett wrote to GW: “I hereby Acknolidge the Receipt of Your favour of the . . . 13th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from William Bartlett, 13 November 1775
From: Bartlett, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Beverly [Mass.] 13th Novr 1775

I hereby Acknolidge the Receipt of Your favour of the 11th and 13th Instant and Notice the Contents.
With Regard to Such Vessells brought in as the North Britton I shall with Pleasure comply with your Excellencys Orders as I have had a Grate deal of Trouble & Got the Ill will of my Neighbours for having any thing to doe with her, Although I punctually Obey’d your Orders.
With Regard to the claim Captn Manly makes Upon the Vessell brought in here by Our People from Ireland from the best Information I can Get from them I think is Just, as their Storys with regard too her are Very differant I advis’d Capt. Manly togeather with his Officers to make Oath to the Truth of the matter, which I now Enclose to Your Excellency as I was not an Eye wittness to the Affair cannot with Propriety Judge So well would Refer Your Excellency to Colln Glover & Some Others in Marblehead who was Eye wittnesses to it and when Your Excellency is Rightly inform’d think You will be the Best Judge of the Matter, I must beg the favour of Troubleing your Excellency the Last time with Regard to the North Britton weather to deliver her with her Effects to the Committe of Safty before they pay me what Charges I have ben Out or not.
As to Capt. Manly Using any Voiolent measures to take possession of the Schooner from Ireland he has not & Shall Advise him by Your Excellencys Order not too. And beg Leave to Subscribe my Self Your Excellencys Most Obedt Hum. Sert

William Bartlett


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Cooke, 13 November 1775
From: Cooke, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence Novemr 13th 1775.

I some Time since informed your Excellency that Part of Two Companies of Men, consisting of about Seventy, raised by the Colony in order to join the Continental Army near Boston, had, upon the Arrival of some Transports at Newport, been sent upon Block-Island for the Preservation of the Stock there. Agreeable to your Directions they still continue upon the Island. I am now, at the Request of the General Assembly, to beg the Favour of your Excellency to inform me whether, in the new Establishment of the Army, you propose taking any Measures for engaging the Officers and Men on that Station in the Continental Service, and choose they should march to Cambridge, or whether they may be employed upon Rhode Island until the Time of their Inlistment expires. As they have received no Pay since the Troops of the Colony have been paid by the Continent I am also to desire you to direct the Pay-Master-General to take Order for the Discharge of their Wages and Subsistence.
Having the Honor of being appointed Governor of the Colony by the General Assembly at their Session last Week I thought it proper to acquaint your Excellency of it, and to renew my Assurances of giving you every Assistance in my Power. I am with great Truth and Regard, Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant

Nichs Cooke


Title: To George Washington from Major Christopher French, 13 November 1775
From: French, Christopher
To: Washington, George

Sir
Hartford 13th Novr 1775.

I hope you will excuse my begining this Letter in answer to your two Favors of the 19th & 25th October by noticing the last Paragraph of the former as it furnishes me with an Apology for intruding on your Time which I am sensible must be much more materialy employ’d.
I flatter’d myself from the Tenor of that Letter, and the Conversation I had with Doctr Franklin here (who avow’d the Liberty of wearing our Swords had been granted) that you would have determin’d in our Favor; judge therefore Sir of my disapointment to find it the reverse in the latter, and that the words Stipulation and Discussion seem to be the Causes that the whole of my Argument is set aside, yet I beg to observe I never made use of either of them throughout the whole of it, but it is your Pleasure and I must obey.
I never was a Prisoner of War before but have been several Times at the taking of such, and therefore pledge myself that I never saw that Indulgence refus’d to Officers, but as it is determin’d I Shall not give you any more trouble on this Topic—In consequence of your consent to our removal, I have writ to the Governor, and wait his Answer. I have endeavor’d to find out in what instance I have treated the respectable Citizens of any Town with Incivility or Contempt, and affirm I cannot, upon the strictest revisal of my Letters, observe the least Trace of it, unless my calling Hartford a little paultry Town can be so interpreted—I am not unacquainted, Sir that in the Military Phrase, an attack upon the Town is equally so upon the People, but I own myself at a loss to find out how my saying that I objected to shewing my Letters (written to the Commander in Chief) to the Committee &ca, can be deem’d an Attack upon them or the Inhabitants, upon whom I have no sort of right to decide as I have not the honor of their Acquaintance.
I thank you Sir very sincerely for your kind Wishes, and obliging Intentions, and I have the Honor to be Sir Your most Obedient and very humble Servant

Chris. French


Title: To George Washington from Richard Henry Lee, 13 November 1775
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia Novemr 13th 1775

I must beg leave at the beginning of this letter to apologise for any incorrectness as I write in great haste—Indeed the hurry of business is such here with many of us, that we have little time for the ordinary offices of life.
You may be assured that I will do Colo. Read all the service that I can in the way you desire. We have a Ship here in 6 weeks from London, that brought the original letter of which the inclosed is a copy. Tis from a well informed, sensible friend, and may be relyed on. All the other letters from London join in confirming it to be the fixt determination of K and Court to leave undone, nothing that they can do, to compel implicit obedience in America. One very sensible letter that I have seen, mentions that Gen. Amherst had recommended (& ’twas said it would be executed) to remove the Army this winter from Boston to Long Island, in order to get amply supplied by ravaging N. Jersey, N. York, and Rhode Island. Should this be attempted, I suppose you will be furnished with an opportunity of giving them a genteel parting salute. And besides, I should suppose that a winter favorable for us, would expose them to ruin from a timely, strong attack, of superior numbers on that naked Island. It seems that immense stores of Indian goods are sent to Canada in order to bribe the Indians to an early and vigorous attack on all our frontiers next Spring. God grant that Colo. Arnolds success and Montgomeries may frustrate this diabolical part of their infernal plan against the common natural rights of Mankind!
We hoped here that the surrender of Chamblé, with the military stores there obtained, would speedily procure the reduction of St Johns, but no accounts are yet come of this wished event. After Lord Dunmore, supported by the North British Tories, had long committed every outrage at Norfolk unopposed,

our people not having Arms or ammunition until lately; his Banditti at length attempted Hampton, where they met with the chastisement you will see described in the part of Dixons paper inclosed. The Lieutenant Wright there mentioned has been since found dead on the Shore, a bullet having been placed in his body before he jumpt over board. We have not yet heard the consequence of their next intended attack, but it seems a very heavy Cannonade was heared there the next day. If the Devil inspired them to come on shore, I make no doubt but we shall have a good account of them. I have a very particul⟨ar⟩ reason for entreating that you will inform me by return of Post, what number, and what strength of Armed Vessels could possibly be procured from the ports where you are, to be in Delaware Bay, if Congress should desire it, by the middle or last of December at furthest. Two or 3 Vessels of tolerable force, issuing from hence, may affect a stroke or two of great consequence to us at that Season. We have certainly 4000 weight of powder, and a very considerable quantity of Oznaburgs arrived in Virginia from Statia for the use of our little Army consisting of about 2000 men now at Williamsburg & Hampton—Be pleased to let Gen. Lee see the letter from England.
I heartily wish you every happiness and all the success the goodness of your cause deserves, & I am, with great esteem dear Sir Your affect. friend and obedient servant

Richard Henry Lee

Congress has ordered 500,000 dollars to you soon as they can be signed.
The Continental, and Virginia Commissioners, have just concluded a treaty of firm friendship with the Ohio Indians and those of the Six nations that inhabit near that Quarter. We have taken the most effectual measures, by sending runners from all the Southern provinces into the Indian Nations thro which he proposes to pass, to arrest and secure Ld Dunmores wicked Agent Conelly.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Lynch, 13 November 1775
From: Lynch, Thomas
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Philaa Nov. 13. 1775

In consequence of your Favr By Colo. Read I applied to the Chief Justice who tells me the Supreme Courts were lately held and that it will be some time before their Term will return, that he knows of no Capital Suit now depending and that it [is] very easy for Colo. Read to manage matters so as not to let that prevent his Return to you. I am sure Mr Chew is so heartily disposed to oblige you and to serve the Cause, that nothing in his Power will be wanting. I fear however that you will be some time in want of your Secretary, as I did not find him in hast to return when I mentioned to him what is just now related, he doubtless

has many private affairs to transact[.] the loss must be greatly increased by Mr Randolphs absence who I hear came to Town last Night.
I am happy to inform you that Congress has agreed to every Recommendation of the Committee and have gone beyond it in allowing the additional pay to the Officers. I rejoice at this but cant think with Patience, that pityfull wretches who stood cavilling with you when entreated to serve the next Campaign shoud reap the Benefit of this addition, they will now be ready enough but hope you will be able to refuse them with the Contempt they deserve and to find better in their room. Coud not some of the Gentlemen at Camp inlist the New England Men who have been perswaded to leave you, Frazier told me he coud. it woud be a Capital Point to convince the World that it is not necessary to have bad Officers of that Country in order to raise Men there. I can scarce bear their Tyranny.
I have a Letter from undoubted Authority that assures me, that the Destruction of the Parliamentary Army in America will certainly produce Peace and by another that the Seizing Quebec will produce the same Effect. I have no doubt America stands now indebted to her General for the One & will before the Return of Spring for the other, mistake me not, I have not altered my mind a jot since I left you, I mean not to anticipate your Determination, but only to approve your Design to hover like an Eagle over your Prey, always ready to Pounce [on] it when the proper Time comes. I have not forgot your Proposition relative to that City; I try to pave the way for it, and wait for the Season as you do.
No appearance of Peace unless produced by necessity on the part of the Enemy, every human feeling seems to have forsaken them, Fear and Interest only are listened to.
We hear Seven Tonns of Powder are arrived at Rhode Island & as many at Portsmouth, I hope tis true as it will possess us of advantageous Grounds & begin the Enemys Destruction. It is suspected in England Howes Army will give you the Slip [and] land at Long Island; which God of his infinite Mercy grant. we wait with impatience to hear of the totall reduction of Canada.
Your Virginians we hear have drubbed Ld D.—killed & took 50 Men and sunk one of his Vessells. may all such Vilains so perish.

A Mr Richd Hare Brother to the Porter Brewer, sailed in the Transport for Quebec. As you have, or must, take him let me recommend him to your Civilities while with you, and to send him to his Friends here, his Brother boards Miss Willing on thursday.
The Articles of War has all the amendments we reported, you will enforce them, you will not now suffer your Officers to sweep the Parade [with] the Skirts of their Coats or bottoms of their Trowsers, to cheat or to mess with their Men, to skulk in battle or sneak in Quarters, in short being now paid they must do their Duty & look as well as act like Gentlemen. Do not bate them an Ace, my Dear General, but depend on every Support of your Friends here. I have strove to keep two Battallions now raising in the Jerseys and one here quite disengaged that they may be ready, on a call to join you, shoud those you have desert you. I have not been quite unsuccesful. the Winter is our own, Boston will not during that Season be reinforced at least we have reason to think so.
I want the Return I desired from Gates exceedingly. Complts to him Lee, Putnam, Mifflin &ca.
’Tis so dark I cant read this Letter over or I woud save you the trouble of decyp[h]ering it. Dear Sir your most Obedt Serv.

Th. Lynch

ought not that Spirit of Independance and of Seperation from all other Authority, which appeared in the case of Capt. Dyer, to be abolished. will it be right to keep your Negroes for wood cutters?


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 13 November 1775
From: Massachusetts Council
To:

Sir
Watertown [Mass.] Novr 13th 1775.

Their is a number of men at this place who were taken in attempting to supply our Enemies with Provissions—the Council think they ought to be Confined—they therefore request that your Excellency would send to this Town a Guard of about Twenty men to be under the direction of the Board in order to convey the Said Persons, and the Prisoners which may be taken from time to time, to such place or places of Security as they are, or shall be Assigned by us.

In the name & by Order of Council
James Otis Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Thompson, 13 November 1775
From: Thompson, William
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Excellency
13th Novr 1775

The bearer Lieut. Cromer has for some time past been in a very bad state of Health, and is not likely to recover in this part of the Country and therefore has requested leave to resign. He has been a very Good Officer, but I believe his want of health will put it out of his power to do Duty during the Winter—And woud beg of your Excellency to Accept of his Resignation—All the rest of my officers are fond of the Service, & I hope this will be the last request of this sort I shall have Occasion to make—And am your Excellencys most Obedt and very Hume Servt

Wm Thompson


Title: General Orders, 14 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Nov: 14th 1775
Parole St Johns.Countersign Montgomery.

This moment a confirmation is arrived, of the glorious Success of the Continental Arms, in the Reduction, and Surrender, of the Fortress of St Johns; the Garrisons of that place and Chamblee being made Prisoners of war—The Commander in Chief is confident, the Army under his immediate direction, will shew their Gratitude to providence, for thus favouring the Cause of Freedom and America; and by their thankfulness to God, their zeal and perseverance in this righteous Cause, continue to dese[r]ve his future blessings.
That no kind of Confusion, or Disorder may arise, between the old and new Appointments, in case the despair and malice of the enemy, should call us into action; it is again declared, that the Men who inlist into the new Army are to continue in the Regiments and Companies they at present belong to until further orders.
It is earnestly recommended to all the Officers of the old Regiments, to see that their mens arms, are always in good order, and the men not suffered to straggle from Camp, nor on any Account, to quit their post when upon duty, but be ready to turn out at a moments warning; and they may rely upon it, they will be suddenly called upon, whenever it happens.
Very pointed Complaints having this day been made against the Commissary General, from several Field Officers &c., of Genl Sullivan’s brigade—The Commander in Chief assures the complainants, that the strictest examination shall be made, into the Conduct of the Commissary General, as soon as he arrives in Cambridge, which is expected this week.
Whereas the General has been informed that the orders of the 6th of Septembr, have been construed to permit any approv’d Sutler, to sell spiritous Liquors, to the Soldiers belonging to other Regiments, without the permission of the Commanding Officer of the regiment, to which such Soldier belongs; It is therefore ordered, that no Commanding Officer of a Regiment, shall authorise more than one Sutler to a Regiment, and such appointment shall be notified in Regimental Orders, and

no person being authorised, shall presume to sell spiritous Liquors to any Soldiers belonging to any other regiment, without leave in writing under the hand of the Commanding Officer to which such Soldier belongs.


Title: To George Washington from the Fairfax County Committee of Correspondence, 14 November 1775
From: Fairfax County Committee of Correspondence
To: Washington, George

Sir
Alexandria November 14. 1775

By order of the Committee of this County There was Ship’d from hence by Messrs Henley & Call, the 18th of November 1774–157 barrl flour, in the Schooner Volitile, Capt. Woodbury, Amountg £215.10/—and the freight paid here £23.11/—also fifty bushls beans amount £10—and Eleven barrl bread & five barrels of Flour, by the Capts. Hilton & Rust—Amount £14.9.3—The Contingent Charges pay’d here £5.3.6—Makes in the whole £268.13.9—say Two hundred Sixty eight pounds Thirteen shillings & nine pence. Our Committee has also by the favor of John Custis Esqr. sent £53.13.3, to be distributed as you see necessary Among the deserving poor of Boston; there are still some more Subscriptions to come in which shall be forwarded as soon as they are received.
This Committee has never been favoured with a line from the Committee in Boston, acknowledging, the receipt of any thing being received from hence, which surprizes them—You have too Much bussiness upon your hands to request an enquiry into it. May every happiness Attend you, in your endeavours in Establishing that Liberty so essentially necessary for the good of Mankind, and that You may return with Laurels among your freinds, is the Sincere wish of Sir your Mo. Obedt hble Servt

John Dalton, for Fairfax Commte Wm Ramsay


Title: To George Washington from Fielding Lewis, 14 November 1775
From: Lewis, Fielding
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Novr the 14th 1775

You will receive this Letter by my Son George who accompanys your Lady, the Winter is so far advanced that I am fearfull she will have a very disagreeable Journey but I expect she will meet with every assistance she may have occasion for on the Road and should there be little Snow I make no doubt of her getting to you safe and before the weather is very cold; George is very desireous of remaining with you as long as you stay with the Army, this I have no objection against provided he can have some little part that will bear his expences, I am in hopes you will find him diligent in whatever duty is required of him; Poor Charles died eight Days since at his Uncle Sams in Berckley of an Inflamitary Fever after a short illness. Virginia is in the

greatest confusion[.] only one Battalion of Minute Men compleat, and little prospect of the others being so, a convention is daily expected to regulate it, the choice of Officers in the several Districts I beleive has been the occasion of it, and the young Gentlemen not setting a good example by inlisting; Spotsylvania has her Men compleat, Caroline not one Company & the lower Countys scarce a Company. yet all are ready they say to serve their Country; we have had a small brush at Hampton which I expect you have seen in the Papers, Mr Custis can inform You of particulars, Woodford who Commanded & arrived there during the engagement says that had he been acquainted with the situation of the place he could have taken every Vessel that came to Hampton. He is now we hear gone to Norfolk with a sufficient force to protect that Town. I expect he will drive Ld Dunmore from thence to some other of our little Towns, or perhaps occasion his destroying the Gentlemens seats on the Rivers; all intercourse between Norfolk & the other parts of Virginia is forbid by the Committee of safety[.] most of the Inhabitants are Tories and give Ld Dunmore notice of every step that is taken[.] I hope an example will shortly be made of some of them; Newton has been Obliged with many others to leave Norfolk, so that I fear nothing is yet done with Barraud. Mr Lund Washington will be able to give you some account of the matter as I forwarded a Letter to him lately from Mr Newton, there will be no meeting of the Merchants this fall that I have heard of. Doctr Mercer cannot take up his Bond £400.0.0 which Mrs Washington has left with me, nor do I find that any Money is paid to any body. I do not receive a Shilling; I have never heard of your Painter tho’ suspected he was gone to Ld Dunmore[.] I do not expect he can be got as Dunmore wants Men; Our Gunn Manufactory is now beginning & expect by New Years day to have near fifty Men imploy’d who will make about Twelve Gunns compleat a Day (as we are informed,) we are now making Locks to replace those Ld Dunmore took off the Gunns in the Magazeen, we are daily expecting to hear that our Men have taken Quebeck. If we succeed there I think we may command the Indians who may be serviceable to us if the present dispute should continue[.] I am of Opinion that before the last day of March every thing will be settled to our satisfaction alltho’ I confess there is little appearance of an accomodation

at present, yet I think they must have our Grain and without the American trade Great Brita⟨in⟩ must fall, yet it’s our business to prepare for the worst that can happen, and the only way to make peace is to be well prepared for War. I think we shall be greatly assisted by the Tradesmen in England who cannot live unless we purchase their Manufactures. God send us better times. I am Dr Sir Your most affectionete Humble Servant

Fielding Lewis


Title: To George Washington from William Ramsay, 14 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Ramsay, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Ramsay, 14 Nov. 1775. In a letter of 4–11 Dec. 1775 to Ramsay, GW referred to “your favour of the 14th Ulto.”


Title: General Orders, 15 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 15th 1775
Parole Connecticut.Countersign Brown.

Lieutt Lyon of Major Johnson’s Company in the 34th Regt tried at a late General Court Martial whereof Col. Pattersons was president for “aiding and countenancing a mutiny in the Camp”—There being no proof of the Charge; the Court unanimously acquit the prisoner.
Lieut. Soaper and Ensign Parker, tried at a Genl Court Martial whereof Col. Douglass was president, for “striking & abusing Lieuts. Hanshaw & Craig, and keeping Lieut. Craig in the Meeting house Guard, all Night”—The Court are of opinion that the prisoners are guilty of a breach of the 46th Article of the Rules and Regulations for the Massachusetts Army, and therefore unanimously adjudge the prisoners to be discharged the Continental Army.
Lieut. John Bowker tried at a late General Court Martial for “divers times leaving the Camp without leave, and for countenancing the Soldiers in disobedience of Orders”—The Court are unanimously of opinion, that the prisoner is guilty of quitting the Camp without leave; but acquitted of the latter part of the Charge therefore only adjudge the prisoner to be mulcted Four Pounds of his pay, to be appropriated as directed by the 51st Article of war and be severly reprimanded by his Colonel at the head of the regiment.

Serjt Jonathan Putney, Corporal Harwood, Thomas Rollins, Isaac Larriby, Samuel North and Ebenezer Williams Soldiers of Capt. Hatches Company in the late Col. Gerrish’s Regiment tried at a late Genl Court Martial, whereof Col. Patterson was President for “Mutiny”—The Court are of Opinion that the Prisoners, Serjt Putney, Corpl Harwood, Rollins, North and Williams are Guilty of the Crime laid to their charge and adjudge the said Serjt to be reduced to the ranks and fined Forty-eight Shillings, to be appropriated as directed by the 51st Article of war—The said Corporal to be reduced to a private and whipped with Thirty-nine Lashes—The said Rollins to be whipped with Thirty-nine; The said North with Twenty-five; and the said Williams with Thirtynine Lashes upon their bare backs with a Cat o’Nine tails.
The Commander in Chief approves all the above Sentences of the several Courts Martial mention’d in this day’s orders and directs the execution of them accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Cooke, 15 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Cooke, Nicholas

Cambridge, 15 November 1775. “Inclosed you have a Copy of instructions given to Genl Sullivan on his departure for Portsmouth New Hampshire.”


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 15 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 15 Nov. 1775. On 28 Nov. GW wrote to Reed: “Your favours of the 15th & 17th are come to hand.”


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 15 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Sir
Cambridge 15th Novemr 1775

I received your favor of the 6th inst. in which you give a detail of Dr Chiney’s case as it appeared before you and Council, in which nothing but the fair side of his character appears.
You may be assured Sir that his tryal will be impartial, that no insidious designs of his inemies will have weight, and that it will give me much plasure to find he can acquit himself of the crimes he is charged with—The evidences are hourly expected. On their arrival the tryal will be no longer delayed.
General Sullivan set out the 12th inst. for Portsmouth New Hampshire—I enclose you a copy of instructions given unto him.
As it is now apparent we have nothing to depend on in the present Contest, but our own Strength, Care, Firmness and Union, should not the same measures be adopted in yours and every other Government on the Continent? Would it not be prudence to seize on those Tories who have been, are, and that are known will be, active against us? Why should persons who are preying upon the vitals of their Country be suffered to stalk at large, whilst we know they will do us every mischief in their power? These Sir are points I beg to submit to your serious consideration.

I congratulate you on the Surrender of St Johns, which hope will soon be followed by the reduction of Canada. I have the honor to be Sir Your most humble Servant

Go. Washington

By an Express arrived from Philadelphia I have the following Resolve of the Continental Congress.
Resolved. That Dr Church be close confined in some secure Goal in the Colony of Connecticut, without the use of Pen, Ink, and Paper, and that no person be allowed to converse with him, except in the presence and hearing of a Magistrate of the Town, or the Sheriff of the County where he shall be confined, and in the English language, untill further Orders from this or a future Congress.

            Attest Charles Thomson Secy
            By order of Congress

            Philadelphia 6th Novemr 1775
            John Hancock President

Sir In consequence of the above Resolve, I now transmit to your care Doctor Church under the guard of Capt. Israel Putnam, a Serjeant and seven men.
You will please to comply, in every particular, with the above Resolution of Congress. I am with great Respect Sir Your most hume and obedt Servant

Go. Washington


Title: General Orders, 16 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 16th 1775
Parole Canada.Countersign Montreal.

Motives of Oeconomy rendering it indispensibly necessary, that many of the Regiments should be reduced, and the whole

put upon a different establishment; several deserving Officers, not from any demerit, but pure necessity, have been excluded in the New Arrangement of the Army, among these was Col. Whitcomb; but the noble Sentiments disclosed by that Gentleman, upon this Occasion, the Zeal he has shewn in exhorting the Men, not to abandon the Interest of their country at this important crisis, and his Determination to continue in the service, even as a private Soldier, rather than by a bad example, when the Enemy are gathering Strenght; put the public Affairs to hazzard: When an Example of this kind is set, it not only entitles a Gentleman to particular Thanks, but to particular rewards, in the bestowing of which, Colonel Jonathan Brewer is entitled to no small share of Credit, in readily giving up the Regiment, which he was appointed to command, to Col. Whitcomb—Col. Whitcomb therefore, is from henceforward to be consider’d, as Colonel of that Regiment, which was intended for Col. Brewer; and Col. Brewer will be appointed Barrack Master, until something better worth his Acceptance can be provided.


Title: Instructions to Colonel Henry Knox, 16 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

Cambr[idge] Nov. 16 1775

You are immediately to examine into the state of the Artillery of this army & take an account of the Cannon, Mortars, Shels, Lead & ammunition that are wanting; When you have done

that, you are to proceed in the most expeditious manner to New York; There apply to the president of the provincial Congress, and learn of him, whether Col. Reed did any thing, or left any orders—respecting these things, & Get him to procure such of them as can possibly be had there. The president if he can, will have them immediately sent hither; If he cannot, you must put them in a proper Channel for being Transported to this Camp with dispatch before you leave New York. After you have procured as many of these Necessaries as you can there, you must go to Major General Schuyler & Get the remainder from Ticonderoga, Crown point, or St Johns—If it should be necessary, from Quebec, if in our hands—the want of them is so great, that no trouble or expence must be spared to obtain them—I have wrote to General Schuyler, he will give every necessary assistance, that they may be had & forwarded to this place with the utmost dispatch—I have given you a Warrant to the paymaster General of the Continental army, for a Thousand Dollars, to defray the expence attending your Journey, & procuring these Articles, an Account of which you are to keep & render upon your return. Given under my Hand at Head Quarters at Cambridge this 16 day of November Annoque Domini 1775

Go: Washington

Endeavour to procure what Flints you can.


Title: From George Washington to the Massachusetts Council, 16 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Masschusetts Council

Letter not found: to the Massachusetts Council, 16 Nov. 1775. On this day James Otis, president of the Massachusetts council, wrote to GW: “The Council received your favour of this day by the Officer of the Guard.”


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 16 November 1775
From: Massachusetts Council
To: Washington, George

Sir
Council Chamber [Watertown, Mass.] Novr 16th 1775

The Council received your favour of this day by the Officer of the Guard, and thank your Excellency for your care, and as the Prisoners sent hither, are all disposed of, there will be no occasion for any guard until others are sent in; We have therefore returned the Guard and the Committee of Council, who are appointed to hear and examine &c. Prisoners in the recess of Court (a Copy of whose Commission is enclosed) will apply to your Excellency for such Guards as may be at any time needed.

In the Name & by Order of the Council
James Otis Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 16 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 16 Nov. 1775. On 27 Nov. GW wrote to Reed: “Your Letter of the 16th by Post now lyes before me.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 16 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir.
Cambridge 16th Novr 1775.

My last to you was the 5th Inst. I have since received your most agreeable Favour and its Inclosures of the 7th—The Surrender of St John’s is a pleasing Presage of the Reduction of Quebec in effecting which I hope Colonel Arnold will cooperate, the last Account from him is dated 13th October at the 2d portage from Kennebec to the dead River, from whence he had dispatched an Express to you and expected your Answer at Chandiere Pond, where he hoped to be in eight or ten Days, by your not mentioning to have heard from him I apprehend the Express has been intercepted.
I am in very great want of Powder Lead Mortars, Cannon indeed of most Sorts of Military Stores, for want of them we realy

cannot carry on any spirited operation, I will therefore be much obliged to you to send me all that can be spared from your Quarter—Mr Henry Knox, an experienced Engineer will set out for your place & inform you of those articles that are most immediately necessary, but as this Gentleman goes first to New York you will please to get in Readiness for Transportation such Guns, Mortars, and Ammunition as you can and Mr Knox will on his Arrival send them forward.
There is Nothing of Consequence to acquaint you of from this Quarter, except the arrival of a Train of artillery & part of five Regiments from Ireland to reinforce the Ministerial Army at Boston. I am with great Regard & Esteem Dear Sir Your most assured H. S[ervan]t

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 16 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir
Cambridge 16th Novr 1775.

I wrote you this Day by Express and informed you therein the great Necessity I was in for Ordonance Stores & ammunition, and that [I woud Send] Henry Knox Esqr. to New York to procure there as much as can be spared, from thence to proceed to you, that Gentleman will deliver you this Letter, I recommend him and the Business he goes upon to your Attention, should he find more Money than he carries with him necessary you will please to supply him. I am with great Esteem Dear Sir Your most h: Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. As I am anxious on Account of your Health be so good as to mention the State of it in your Letter.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Nathaniel Woodhull, 16 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Woodhull, Nathaniel

Sir
Cambr⟨idge 16th Novr 1775⟩

it was determined at t⟨he Conference⟩ held here in the Last Month, th⟨at Such Military⟩ Stores as Coud be spared from N⟨ew york Crown point⟩ Ticonderoga &a shoud be Sent he⟨re for the use of⟩ the Continental Army—as it wa⟨s not clear to me,⟩ whether I was to send for, or that they ⟨were to be sent⟩ to me, I desired Mr Reed on his way to ⟨Philada⟩ to enquire into this Matter—as I have ⟨not heard⟩ from him on this Subject, And the Seaso⟨n advanceing⟩ fast, I have thought it necessary to se⟨nd Hen.⟩ Knox Esqr. who will deliver you this—after ⟨he⟩ forwards what he Can get at your place, ⟨he will⟩ proceed to General Schuyler on this very imp⟨ortant⟩ business. I request the favour of you Si⟨r⟩ and the Gentlemen of your Congress to give ⟨Mr⟩ Knox all the Assistance in your power, ⟨by So⟩ doing you will render infinite Service to y⟨our Country⟩ and vastly Oblige Sir Your most Ob. ⟨H: St⟩

Go: Washi⟨ngton⟩


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Freeman, 17 November 1775
From: Freeman, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Falmouth [District of Maine] Novr 17. 1775

Being prevented by a sudden departure from Watertown, from waiting on your Excellency as I fully intended I think it proper, by way of Letter, to inform you that our General Court have appointed The Hon. Joseph Fry Esq. “to take the command of the Men station’d in the County of Cumberland, who were raised for the Defence of the Sea Coast until their further Orders; And have impower’d him upon any emergency to alarm and call together the Militia of the said County, or such part thereof as their safety may require, and then to discharge, as soon as the Service will admit—And to lead and conduct them and the other Forces, and with them to encounter, repel and resist by force of Arms, all and every Person or Persons that shall attempt the enterprize, destruction invasion or annoyance of—that Town & County. And to cause such Fortifications to be erected at Falmouth aforesaid and elsewhere as he shall judge necessary for their (our) defence.”
This is all the Court have done at present.
Something more is absolutely necessary—So excellent an Harbour as that of Falmouth, it is of the greatest importance to secure—On the preservation of this Harbour depends in a great measure the safety of this whole Eastern Country, and shou’d our Enemies get Possession of it, I humbly think the whole Continent will suffer by the Loss—not only by the damage

it will be to us, but by the advantages which they will thereby gain. I doubt not therefore a due attention will be given hereto, and I believe if a Number of Men were plac’d in a Garrison here, and an armed Vessel or two station’d to guard the Coast, it wou’d be an Expence well applied.
I am unacquainted with Military Matters, but I think it a Duty incumbent on me to communicate my Mind, and if your Excellency thinks it proper I shou’d be glad this matter might be laid before the Continental Congress—However, I wou’d by no means pretend to dictate, but I hope some measures, wiser than I can propose, will be speedily adopted, to serve the general Interest.
Coll[one]l Phiney I suppose will inform your Excellency of the present situation of Affairs here I will not therefore add but that I am with great respect Your Excellencys most obedient and very hume servant

Saml Freeman


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 17 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 17 Nov. 1775. On 28 Nov. GW wrote to Reed: “Your favours of the 15th & 17th are come to hand.”


Title: General Orders, 18 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 18th 1775
Parole Amboy.Countersign Bristol

There was a mistake in the Entry of the General Orders of Yesterday. The Hon: the Continental Congress ha[ve] thought proper to allow the first and second Lieutenants, the same pay, viz: Eighteen Dollars a month to each and the Ensigns thirteen Dollars and ⅓ of a dollar.
The Commissary General to order all the Horns of the Bullocks, that are killed for the Use of the Army, to be saved, and sent to the Qr Mr General, who is also to provide as many as he

can get, and have the whole made into good powder horns, for the Use of the troops.
The Honorable the Legislature of this Colony having thought fit to set apart Thursday the 23rd of November Instant, as a day of public thanksgiving “to offer up our praises, and prayers, to Almighty God, the Source and Benevolent Bestower of all good; That he would be pleased graciously to continue, to smile upon our Endeavours, to restore peace, preserve our Rights, and Privileges, to the latest posterity; prosper the American Arms, preserve and strengthen the Harmony of the United Colonies, and avert the Calamities of a civil war.” The General therefore commands, that day to be observed with all the Solemnity directed by the Legislative Proclamation, and all Officers, Soldiers & others, are hereby directed, with the most unfeigned Devotion, to obey the same.
Any Non Commissioned Officers, or Soldiers, confin’d on Account of leaving the Detachment, commanded by Col. Arnold, in any of the main, or quarter Guards of the Army, are to be immediately released.


Title: To George Washington from Britannicus, 18 November 1775
From: Britannicus
To: Washington, George

Sir
Novr 18. 1775

The enclosed Papers I Received a few days ago. I suppose they came from Mr Hitchborn. He appears very certain the Preston might be taken, but from her Situation, and being unrigged, it will be very Difficult, if not Impossible to secure her, for as soon as daylight appears, she might be Beat to pieces by the Batteries of the Town, to which she would be a fair mark; or she might be retaken by being Boarded from the other Ships and Transports, which can furnish (together with the Town) a large Body of Men for that purpose. If she could be taken, but not carried off, would it not be an Essential object to Secure her

Powder and Small Arms? for which purpose a Sufficient number of Whale Boats might Remove them to Chelsea in a short time and afterward the Ship be Burnt: first Removeing the men to Noddles Island.
If Mr H—’s plan be a good one, might it not be applyed with a better chance of Success to the taking of the Boyne? which, According to H— lies near the west End of Spectacle Island rigged. If she could be taken, she might be, from her Situation, not only secured, but made good use of for taking the Castle, which perhaps in its present dismembered state might be attended with no great Difficulty. Here would be probably found good Collection of Arms and Ammunition, the great Desideratum. I am with much Esteem your Excys most hume Servt

Britannicus


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Cooke, 18 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Cooke, Nicholas

Sir
Cambridge Novr 18. 1775

Your favor of the 13 Inst. by Mr Phillips I received; In answer thereto you will be pleased to Order the Officers and men that have been stationed at Block Island, to march to this Camp; Reinforcements are wanting, & probably will be, when they are here, they will be Incorporated in the Continental army, if they Choose it; The many circumstances attending the new arrangement of which, had in some measure occasioned me to forget these men before—When an account of the Wages & Subsistence due them, is transmitted, I shall give necessary orders for their payment.
I congratulate you upon your appointment to the Government of the Colony & am much Obliged by the Assurances you give me of such Assistance as may be in your power. I am Sir with great esteem Yr H. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 18 November 1775
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

My Dear General
Tyonderoga [N.Y.] Nov: 18th 1775.

I do Myself the Honor to congratulate Your Excellency on the Surrender of Montreal Inclose You Copy of the Terms that were proposed and allowed as also Copy of sundry Letters from a Mr Brook Watson, & that of General Montgomery to me; to Congress I have only sent Extracts of the last, for prudential Reasons. In your Hands it is safe.
Since my last to Your Excellency I have been more particular on the Subject which You recommended me to turn my Thoughts to. I have not Time to send You a Copy as I would not wish to detain the Express one Moment longer than what is absolutely necessary.

Your Favor of the 5th I received on the 16th. If General How’s Military Abilities do not exceed that Specimen of his Literary ones contained in the Proclamation, his Generalship is not much to be dreaded.
I shall write to General Montgomery respecting the Garrison of Niagara & those to the West Ward.
The Lead left this early in September & was immediately forwarded to Cambridge by Mr Phelps the Commissary at Albany.
My best Respects Your excellency will please to make to Generals Lee & Gates and Major Mifflin. I am with the sincerest Regard Your Excellency’s most Obedient & Most humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: General Orders, 19 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 19th 1775
Parole Coventry.Countersign Danby

The Brigadier Generals to make Returns of the Number of Teams necessary, to furnish their respective divisions with wood, and the teams appointed for each division, to be continually employed in the service of that division, and not to be shifted, from division to another, as great Confusion arises thereby, some Regiments having a double Stock of wood, while others, are suffering for want. The Qr Mr General to provide the Teams returned necessary for the above Service, and direct the Waggon Master General to continue them in that employ.
All persons are strictly prohibited purchasing any Cloaths, from the Non Commissioned Officers, and Soldiers—Any person violating this Order, to be sent prisoner to the Main Guard, by the Colonel, or Officer commanding the regiment, the Cloaths belong to, the Cloaths to be forthwith deliver’d up, and the loss sustained to fall upon the purchaser.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 19 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Cambridge 19th November 1775

I received your favors of the 7th & 10th instant with the Resolves of the Honble Congress, to which I will pay all due attention—As Soon as two Capable persons Can be found, I will dispatch them to Nova Scotia, on the Service resolved on in Congress—the Resolve to raise two Battallions of marines will (if practicable in this Army) entirely derange what has been done; it is therein mentiond One Colonel for the two Battallions, of Course a Colonel must be dismissed—one of the many difficultys which attended the new arrangement, was, in reconcileing the different interests & judgeing of the merits, of the different Colonels, in the dismission of this one, the Same difficultys will Occur—the Officers and men must be acquainted with maritime affairs—to Comply with which they must be picked out of the whole Army, one from this Corps, one from another, So as to break thro’ the whole System which has Cost us So much time anxiety and pains to bring into any tollerable form—notwithstanding any difficultys which will arise, you may be assured Sir that I will use every endeavour to Comply with their Resolve.
I beg Leave to Submit it to the Consideration of Congress, if these two Battallions Can be formed out of this Army—whether this is a time to weaken our Lines, by employing any of the forces appointed to defend them, on any other Service? The Gentlemen who were here from the Congress Know their vast extent, they must Know that we Shall have Occasion for our whole force for that purpose, more So now than at any past time, as we may expect the enemy will take the advantage of the first hard weather, and Attempt to make an impression Somewhere, that this is their intention, we have many reasons to Suspect.
we have had in the Last week, Six desertors & took two Stragleing Prisoners, they all agree that two Companys with a train of Artillery & one of the Regiments from Irland were arrived at Boston, that fresh amunition and flints have been Served out, that the Grenadiers & Light Infantry, had Orders to hold themselves in readiness, at a Moments warning.

As there is every appearance that this Contest will not be Soon decided, and of course that there must be an augmentation of the Continental Army, woud it not be eligible to raise two Battallions of Marines, in New york & Philadelphia where there must be numbers of Sailors now unemployed? this however is matter of oppinion which I mention with all due defference to the Superior judgement of the Congress.
Inclosed you have Coppys of two Letters, one from Colonel Arnold, the other from Colonel Enos, I can form no judgement on the Laters Conduct untill I see him—notwithstanding the great defection, I do not despair of Col. Arnolds Success, he will have in all probability, many more difficultys to encounter, than if he had been a fortnight Sooner, as it is Likely that Governor Carlton will with what forces he Can Collect after the Surrender of the rest of Canada, throw himself into Quebec, & there make his Last effort—there is no Late account from Captain’s Broughton & Sillman sent to the R: St Lawe the other Cruizers have been chiefly Confined to Harbour, by the badness of the weather the same reason has Caused great delay in building of our barracks, which with a most mortifying Scarcity of fire wood, discourages the men from enlisting the Last I am much affraid is an insuperable obstacle I have applyed to the Honble house of representatives of this Province, who were pleasd to appoint a Committee to negotiate this business, & notwithstanding all the pains they have, & are takeing, they find it impossible to supply our necessitys, the want of a Sufficient number of Teams I understand to be the chief impediment.
I got returns this day from elleven Colonels of the numbers enlisted in their Regiments, the whole amount is nine hundred & Sixty Six men, there must be Some other Stimulus besides, Love for their Country, to make men fond of the Service, it woud be a great encouragement and no additional expence to the Continent, were they to receive pay for the months of October & November allso a months pay advance, the present State of the military Chest will not admit of this, the Sooner it is enabled to do So, the better.
The Commissary General is daily expected in Camp, I cannot Send you the estimate of the Clerks in his department until he arrives.

I Sincerely Congratulate you upon the Success of your Arms, in the Surrender of St Johns, which I hope is a happy presage of the Reduction of the rest of Canada, I have the honour to be Sir Your most Obedt H. Sert

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 20 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 20th 1775
Parole Essex.Countersign Falmouth

The Colonels & commanding Officers of regiments, upon the new Establishment, are forthwith to send one Officer, from each Company upon the recruiting Service into the Country, they are to take with them a Copy of the recruiting Instructions as contain’d in General Orders of the 12th Instant, and comply strictly therewith; care to be taken not to leave any Company under the old establishment destitute of proper Officers.
As the General is informed that this is the season, in which the people of the four New England Governments, lay in Provisions, Stores &c., for the use of their families; he has recommended (in the strongest manner he is capable) the Necessity of sending Money to Camp, for the immediate payment of the Troops for the Months of October and November, and in Order to enable those, who have again inlisted, and such others as are resolved to continue in service; to do this more effectually, he has also recommended them to the Congress, for one Months advanced pay, & has no doubt himself, of its being complied with, if Money can be forwarded in time.
No Soldier whenever dismissed, is to carry away any Arms with him, that are good, and fit for service; if the Arms are his own private property, they will be appraised, and he will receive the full Value thereof: Proper persons when necessary, will be appointed to inspect, and value, the Arms, so detained.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Benedict Arnold, 20 November 1775
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

Point aux Trembles [Quebec] Novr 20th 1775
May it please your Excellency

My last was of the 14th Instant from Point ⟨Levi⟩—the same Evening I passed the St Lawrance without Obstruction, except from a Barge, on which we fired & killed three Men, but as the Enemy were apprised of our coming, and the Garrison augmented to near seven hundred Men, besides the Inhabitants, it was not thought proper to attempt carrying the Town by Storm, but cut off their Communication with the Country till the Arrival of General Montgomery—We accordingly invested the Town with about 550 effective Men, took possession of a Nunnery & Major Caldwell’s House about half a League from Town—We marched up several Times near the Walls, in Hopes of drawing them out, but to no effect, tho’ they kept a constant Cannonading & killed us one Man.
On the 18th having Intelligence that Capt. Napier in an armed Snow with near 200 Men, having made his escape from Montreal, was very near, & that the Garrison, furnished with a Number of good Field Pieces intended attacking us the next Day, I ordered a strickt Examination to be made into our Arms & Ammunition, when to my great Surprize I found many of our Ca[r]tridges unfit for Use (which to Appearance were good) and that we had no more than five Rounds to each Man, it was judged prudent in our Situation not to hazard a Battle but retire to this Place, eight Leagues from Quebec, which we did yesterday, & are waiting here with Impatience the Arrival of Genl Montgomery, which we expect in a few Days. I have been obliged to send to Montreal for Cloathing for my People about 650 in the Whole, who are almost naked & in want of every Necessary—I have been as careful of Cash, as possible, but shall soon have Occasion for hard Money, as the French have been such Sufferers from Paper heretofore, & mine so large, I thought it not prudent to offer it them at present—I have wrote General Montgomery my Situation & Wants, which I expect will be supplied by him. Had I been ten Days sooner, Quebec must inevitably have fallen into Our Hands, as there was not a Man there to oppose us—however I make no Doubt Genl Montgomery

will reduce it this Winter if properly supported with Men which in my Opinion, cannot in the whole be less than two Thousand, five Hundred, tho’ it may possibly be effected with a less Number—The Fatigue will be very severe at this Season, and in this inclement Clima⟨te.⟩ I have the Honor to be with the greatest Esteem & Respect Your Excellencys most obedient and very humble Servan⟨t⟩

Benedt Arnold


Title: From a Friend to America, 20 November 1775
From: Friend to America
To: Washington, George

Sir
Novr 20. 1775

As the present seems the Suitable Season for Endeavouring to procure a Stock of Powder, your Excy will indulge a few thoughts on this Important Subject, even though they should not be wholly pertinent. I beg leave to propose to your Excy’s Consideration, that a good Schooner, a prime Sailor, should proceed as soon as may be, to Havre de Grace (in the English Channel) with a Suitable person on board (your Agent) who should Immediately on his arrival there go to Paris or Versailles, about 120 Miles, with Letters from your Excy to the prime minister of France, Requesting an Immediate Supply of Ten thousand Barrels (Quintals) of Powder, with one hundred Tons of lead: for the payment of which the Continental Congress will make Provision. Your Reasons to Induce the French minister to grant this Supply will so strongly coincide with the National Politics of France, it seems highly probable he will be glad of the Opportunity of Supplying or even of giving it, tho’ in some covered way. If your Agent Succeeds, he can Easily procure under the Auspices of the French minister five or Six Vessels, good Sailors, of 100 Tons each, to bring the powder and

Lead from Brest, or whencesoever the same may be Shipped. Each of those Vessels should have a pilot from the Schooner, which for that purpose should be doubly manned with the best men: your Agent instructing the masters and pilots of the sd Vessels how to Conduct on falling in with our Coast. The Reason for going to Havre de Grace is to have the Shortest and directest communication with the French minister. The same Advantage cannot be had so well in Spain, as Madrid is so distant from the Seaports. But another Schooner, alike circumstanced, might be sent to Cadiz, and the business perhaps Negotiated with the Spanish Governor for a like Quantity of Powder & Lead. If not, your Agent might proceed to Madrid, about 300 miles, and Settle the Business with the prime minister, by whose favour he could procure at Cadiz the powder & Lead, and Vessels necessary to bring them—Your Excy will probably think, that your Agents should treat only with principals, as Sub-managers are Scarcely to be trusted in so Important a Business. Two Schooners well fitted manned &ca might be happily employed in this manner during the Winter Months. It might procure the Freight of the Powder on easier Terms if the French and Spanish Vessels were allowed to carry off with them American produce. The Lead would answer for Ballast. The Agents should conduct with great circumspection to prevent their Business being even guessed at. Should it be known to the English Consul at Cadiz, or the Embassador at Madrid or Paris, or through any other Channel transpire, the Vessels will be stopt; or taken by English Cruizers, which will be sent to entercept them. If both Applications should Succeed, and the powder and Lead Arrive in Consequence, the quantity of each will probably be little enough for the ensuing Campaign: as Ministry seems to intend it shall be a Vigorous and Extensive one.
Your Excy knows whether fire-arms, Flints or tinplates for making Cartridge boxes, will be wanted. The Same Application will probably procure them. I have the Honour to be with the most perfect Regard, Sir, your Exy’s most obedt & very hume Servt
A Friend to America

An Estimate of the Cost, according to the best information to be had here, Vizt

            10000
            Quintals Powder a 70/
            £35000
            Sterg

            100
            Tons Lead a £16
            1600

            500
            M Flints best french a 20/
             500

            37100

            The same Quantity
            37100

            74200
            Stg


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 20 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

Dear Sir,
Cambridge 20th Novr 1775.

Your Letters of the 4th from New York—7th and—from Philadelphia (the last by Express) are all before me; and gave me the pleasure to hear of your happy meeting with Mrs Reed, without any other accident than that of leaving a Horse by the way.
The hint contain’d in the last of your Letters respecting your continuance in my Family; in other words, your wish that I could dispense with it, gives me pain—You already, my dear Sir, know my Sentiments on this matter; you cannot but be sensible of your Importance to me; at the sametime I shall again repeat, what I have observ’d to you before, that I ca⟨n⟩ never think of promoting my convenience at the expence of your Interest and Inclination; that I feel the want of you, yourself can judge, when I inform you, that, the peculiar situation of Mr Randolph’s affairs obliged him to leave this soon after you did—that Mr Baylor, contrary to my expectation, is not, in the smallest degree, a Penman, though Spirited and willing—& that Mr Harrison, though sensible, clever, & perfectly confidential, has never yet moved upon so large a Scale as to comprehend at one view, the diversity of matter which comes before me, so as to afford that ready assistance which every Man in my Situation must stand, more or less, in need of. Mr Moylan it is true, is very obliging, he gives me what assistance he can but other business must, necessarily, Deprive me of his aid in a very short time—this is my Situation, judge you therefore how much I wish’d for your return, especially as the Armed Vessels, & the capitol change (in the state of this Army) about to take place,

have added an additional weight to a burthen, before too great for me to stand under, with the smallest degree of comfort to my own feelings—My Mind is now fully disclosed to you, with this assurance sincerely, & Affectionately accompanying of it, that whilst you are disposed to continue with me, I shall think myself too fortunate, & happy, to wish for a change.
Doctr Morgan (as director of the Hospital) is exceedingly wanted at this place an⟨d o⟩ught not to delay his departure for the camp a moment, m⟨a⟩ny regulations being delayed, & accts Postpon’d, till his arrival—I have given G— S. and Colo. P— a hint of the prevailing reports in Connecticut, without intimating from what Quarter they came (for indeed I have recd them through different Channels) in order to put them upon their guard—they both deny the charge, roundly, and wish for an oppertunity of vindication—I thought, as this information had come to my Ears in different ways, it was best to speak to these Gentleman in terms expressive of my abhorance of such conduct, & of the consequences which might flow from it, & think it will have a good effect—the method you have suggested of the advanced pay, I very much approve of, & would adopt, but for the unfortunate cramp’d state of our Treasury, which keeps us forever under the Hatches—pray urge the necessity of this measure to such Members as you may converse with, & the want of Cash to pay the Troops for the Months of Octr & Novr; as also to answer the demands of the Comy—Quarter Master—& Contingencies—to do all this a considerable Sum will be necessary—do not neglect to put that wheel in motion which is to bring us the Shirts, Medicines, &ca from New York—they are much wanting here, & cannot be had, I should think, upon better terms than on a loan from the best of Kings; so anxiously disposed to promote the welfare of his American Subjects.
Doctr Church is gone to Govr Trumbull, to be disposed of in a Connecticut Goal without the use of Pen, Ink, & Paper. to be convers’d with in the presence of a Magistrate, only, and in the English Language—so much for Indiscretion! the D⟨o⟩ctr will say. Your Accts of our Dependance, up⟨o⟩n the People of Great Britain, I religeously believe—it has long been my political Creed, that, the Ministry durst not have gone on as they did, but under the firmest perswasion that the People were with

them—the Weather has been unfavourable however for the arrival of their Transports, only four Companies of the 17th Regiment and 2 of the Artillery are yet arrived, by our last advices from Boston.
Our Rascally privateers-men, go on at the old rate, Mutinying if they can not do as they please. those at Plymouth, Beverly, & Portsmouth, have done nothing worth mentioning in the Prize way & no Accts are yet recd from those further Eastward. Arnold, by a Letter which left him the 27th Ulto, had then only got to the Chaudiere Pond, and was scarce of Provision’s—his Rear division under the Command of the Noble Colonel Enos, had without his privity or consent left him with 3 Companies and his Expedition (in as much as it is to be apprehended, that Carlton, with the remains of such force as he had been able to raise, wd get into Quebec before him) I fear in a bad way—for further particulars I refer you to Mr Hancock, who ha⟨s⟩ Inclosed to him Copie⟨s⟩ of Arnold’s & Eno⟨s’⟩s Letter’s; the last named Person is not y⟨e⟩t arriv’d at this Camp.
I thank you for your frequent mention of Mrs Washington I expect She will be in Philadelphia about the time this Letter may reach you, on her way hither. as she and her Conductor (who I expect will be Mr Custis her Son) are perfect strangers to the Ro⟨ad⟩, the Stages and the proper place to Cros⟨s⟩ Hudson’s River (by all means avoiding New York) I shall be much obliged in your particular Instruction’s & advice to her—I do imagine, as th⟨e⟩ Roads are bad, & the Weather Cold, her Sta⟨g⟩es must be short; especially as I expect her Horses will be prett⟨y⟩ well fatiegued; as they will, by the time she gets to Philadelphia, have performd a journey of at least 450 Miles. my Expres⟨s⟩ finding of her among h⟨e⟩r friends near Williamsburg 150 Mile⟨s⟩ below my own House.
As you have mentioned nothing in yr Letters of the Cannon &ca to be had from N. Y. Ticonderago &ca I have, in order to reduce the matter to a certainty, Imployed Mr Knox to go to those places; compleat our wants, & to provide such Military Stores as St John’s can spare. My respectful Compts to Mr⟨s⟩ Reed &ca—be assurd that I am Dr Sir with Affecte Regard

Go: Washington

Flints are greatly wanted here.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 20–21 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Reed, 20–21 Nov. 1775. On 30 Nov. GW wrote to Reed: “your favr of the 20th with the agreeable Post[s]cript of the 21st, is come to hand.”


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Trumbull, 20 November 1775
From: Trumbull, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Lebanon [Conn.] 20th Novr 1775
May it Please Your Excellency

The Disease I have been Afflicted with has given such a Shock to my Constitution, as still disables me from Travelling to Cambridge, where I want much to be, but Sickness must be

Submitted to; I hope soon now to be able to Travel, if the Weather is tollerable.
I have been making every necessary preparation, within my Department, for the Subsistance of the Army, & find I have got a good Supply of Flour, at Camp, & on the Roads leading thereto, & have now given Orders for all to stop Twenty Miles back from Cambridge & Roxbury, on the different Roads, from whence it can be haul’d at all Times, & in the worst Seasons.
I am now also Collecting Pork & Beef agreeable to direction of Congress, to drive to, & within twenty Miles of Camp, & there to be killed & Salted, & have Contracted to have it done so as, to make the saving to the Continent full equal to my most Sanguine Expectations—This Branch of Business, will make a heavy Demand on the Pay Master, which I hope he is able to Answer, as it Would give great uneasiness to the Farmers not to get their Money on the Delivery of their Cattle & Hogs, & me great trouble to have them to pay afterwards—On what Your Excellency wrote me when I drew last to pay my Flour Contracts, I took the Liberty to write, to the Delegates for this Colony, what Sums, I should probably want, & the necessity of my being Supplied, at the present Season, which I hope will forward Supply’s of Cash to the Paymaster, to Answer the necessary Demands on him.
Some Considerable Sums of Cash will be wanted for Beef & Pork, & to pay up the Officers Rations, those of them, who are like to leave the Service before I can come to Camp—& I have directed Mr Avery to apply to Your Excellency for a Warrant or Warrants, as may be needed—Whatever Sums, Your Excellency has or shall give Warrants for to him, I will be Answerable for, & underwrite to his Rects on my Arrival—I have made out an Estimate of the Cost of a days Ration—which is Annexed for Your Excellency’s Inspection & Approbation, as a Rule to pay the Officers by. I am, with the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & most Humble Servant

Jos: Trumbull


Title: Enclosure: Joseph Trumbull’s Estimate of a Daily Ration, November 1775
From: Trumbull, Joseph
To:

Novr 1775

An Estimate of the Costs of a Days Ration, as allowed the Troops in the Service of the United Colonies.

            ¾ lb. Pork—at 77/6 ⅌ bl

            £0.0.3.0

            1 lb. Beef—at 20/ ⅌ Ct—is nearest

            2.2

            1 lb. Salt Fish—at 18/ ⅌ Ct—is do

            2.

            1 lb. Bread or Flour—at 20/ ⅌ Ct

            2.2

            1 pt Milk

            1.

            ½ pt Rice or 1 pt In: Meal ⅌ Week

            £0.0.1.0

            Cyder, Beer, or Molosses ⅌ do

            2.0

            24 lb. Soap—7d.—⅌ Do ⅌ 100 men

            1.3

            3 pts Pease or Beans—⅌ do ⅌ man

                2.1
            7.

            Pork is Issued 3 days in the Week
            }

            Beef 3 days—& Fish 1 day in the Week

            £0.0.2.2

            the Mean Sum—is nearest

            Bread or Flour—2½d. Milk—1d.

            3.2

            Weekly Allowances—divided are ⅌ diem

            1.

            6 oz. Butter ⅌ man ⅌ Week—omitted—8d.—is nearest
                 2

            ⅌ man ⅌ diem
            £0.0.7.2


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 20 November 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 20 Nov. 1775. On 17 Dec. Lund Washington wrote to GW: “Your Letter of 20th Novmbr I have recieve’d.”


Title: General Orders, 21 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 21st 1775
Parole Gloucester.Countersign Hampshire

The Court Martial of which Col. Cleveland was president is dissolved. A General Court Martial to sit to morrow morning in General Sullivan’s brigade to try such prisoners as shall be brought before them. All Evidences and Persons concern’d to attend the court.
Mr Penuel Chiney Surgeon to the 34th Regt tried at a late General Court Martial of which Col. Cleveland was president for “drawing more hospital Stores than he had a right to draw, and for villifying the Characters of Majors General Lee and

Putnam” The Court were of Opinion that the Prisoner is guilty of speaking words tending to the dishonour of the Character of Major Genl Putnam, and therefore adjudge him to be cashiered.
John Davidson of Capt. Bancrafts Company, and Thomas Knolton of Capt. Towns Company, Col. Bridge’s Regimt tried at the above General Court Martial, for “quitting their post when upon duty.” The Court were of opinion that the prisoners are guilty of the crime laid to their charge, and do adjudge them to be punish’d with Fifteen Lashes each, but on account of the Youth and Ignorance of their duty; the Court recommend the prisoners for mercy. The General is pleased, upon the recommendation of the Court, to pardon the prisoners, but at the same time desires, it may be noticed, that such a crime will not meet with Mercy in future.


Title: To George Washington from John Brown, 21 November 1775
From: Brown, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Providence Nov. 21st 1775

I wrote you of the 3rd Instant, to which have not been favord with an Answer, This is to Offer you One Ton of good Pistol Powder at Six shillings ⅌ pound here, to which Desire your Answer, as also respecting the Cannon, in which youl Oblige Sir Your most Obt humble Servt

John Brown


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Thompson, 21 November 1775
From: Thompson, William
To: Washington, George

Prospect Hill, 21 November 1775. “Capt. George Nagle, of my Regiment, has lately been high Sheriff of Berks County in Pennsylvania his own private Business as well as that of the County must greatly suffer unless he can obtain leave of Absence . . . for about Six weeks.” Thompson encloses “a List of Gentlemen” recommended “for Commissions to fill up the Vacancies in my Regiment.”


Title: General Orders, 22 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Nov: 22nd 1775
Parole Ipswich.Countersign Kingston

The General has been informed more than once or twice, that an Idea prevails amongst some of the First Lieutenants, upon the New establishment, that if their Captains do not recruit a Company, the Command of it will be taken away, and given to such First Lieutenant, provided he can fill it up; which makes the First Lieutenants indifferent, and luke warm, in the recruiting business; whence such an Opinion could arise is not easy to say, but if it be possible, that there are any Officers in this army actuated by such principles, the General most positively

assures them, that they not only deceive themselves, but if proof can be given of such a charge, such guilty enemies to their Country, will with disgrace be dismissed from the Continental Army & service for ever—The General thought it his duty to give them this public notice.
Whenever the Commanding Officer of one of the new regiments gives a Furlough to a recruit, he is previously to give Notice thereof, to the Commanding Officer of the regiment, the recruit then belongs to, in order that he may be apprized thereof and know in what manner to make his weekly return, the doing of which is by no means to be neglected.
The men of the Artillery Regiment are not to be recruited into the other regiments.
As fast as the Men move into Barracks, the Colonels are to take especial care that the Tents be immediately delivered into the hands of the Qr Mr General, who after the present hurry of business is a little over, is to have them washd, repaired and laid by.
It is expected that the Colonels will frequently visit their Mens Barracks, and see that they are kept clean and decent; their Victuals properly cook’d &c.—nothing contributes more to the health of the troops or can add more to the reputation of the Officers than Men to be seen healthy, clean & well dressed.
Those Officers who have been all the summer in service, and recommended by the Honble the Council of this colony, for commissions, may now apply for them, through their Colonels; it is expected that those who have given in their Names to stay, and are appointed to some of the New Regiments, will not apply, as those Commissions will be given out by Regiments, so soon as the New Establishment takes place.
The General approves the sentence of the General Court Martial held upon Dr Chiney, and orders it to take place immediately.


Title: From George Washington to a Committee of the Massachusetts Council, 24 November 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of the Massachusetts Council

Gent.
Cambridge 24th Novr 1775

Capt. Aaron Willard reccommends Mr Moses Child to be his Collegue in the Journey to Nova Scota as I Know nothing of this Gentleman, I cannot approve or disapprove of him. Mr Willard informs me he is well known unto Doctor Taylor—if you think him Capable & trustworthy you will please to fill up the instructions with his name which Capt. Willard will give unto you I am with great respect Yrs
You will please to furnish Capt. Willard with Letters, to Capt.

oBryan & to Col. Cargill, to give every assistance to him & his Companion on their tour.

G.W.