Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 14 October 1780
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir.
                     Pokeepsie Octr 14th 1780.

                  I transmit your Excellency inclosed Copies of several Letters I
                     received last Night at Kingston from Colo. Malcom & Lieut. Colonels
                     Lush and Livingston. They contain the only accounts I have of the disagreable
                     Situation of our Affairs to the northward & westward. I shall
                     immediately set out for Albany & employ every means in my Power to
                     oppose the further Progress of the Enemy and should Fort Schuyler be invested
                     as there is reason to apprehend I will endeavour to succor that Post. Your
                     Excellency will be informed by one of Colo. Macolm’s Letters that Vanschaicks
                     Regt has left Albany & are on their Passage to join the Army so that
                     our whole Dependence at present must rest on the militia. The Levies raised for
                     the defence of the frontiers compose the Garrisons of Fort Schuyler &
                     Malcoms Corps occupy the other Posts on the North & Mohawks Rivers
                     & at Schoharie & are of course very much dispersed. If it was
                     possible for your Excellency to spare some continental Troops on this Occasion
                     they would inspire the militia with Confidence & enable us to repel the
                     Enemy. The want of Supplies of every kind in that quarter will greatly
                     embarrass every Measure and I fear that with the utmost Exertions we shall fail
                     in collecting a sufficiency of Provisions for the Troops which it may be
                     necessary to keep in the Field on this Emergency. It is a little remarkable
                     that we had not the least Intelligence from the Grants of the approach of the
                     Enemy tho’ they passed their Settlements in Boats on the way to Fort Ann—This
                     Enterprize of the Enemy is probably the effects of Arnolds Treason &
                     when they are informed that the capital Object of it is discovered and defeated
                     it is to be presumed they may be discouraged in prosecuting the full extent of
                     their Designs—tho’ I think we ought not to Place any relyance on this
                     Presumption. I have the Honor to be with great Respect & Esteem Dear
                     Sir Your most Obedt servt

                     Geo. Clinton

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Albany Octr 11th 1780

                     A body of the Enemy—numbers very uncertain—from 400 to 850 as
                        is said came from Canada—landed So. Bay & took Fort
                        Ann on Tuesday where was a Capt. Sherwood wth 60
                        men—surrendered on Summons—they came to Hudsons River & burnt
                        several Houses about Fort Edwd—yesterday they went on towards the Lake—the
                        Militia are ordered out & I wished that Colo. Vanschaicks Regt could
                        have marched also: but the Colo. thinks the men would desert. I expect more
                        particulars every Hour which I wait for to determine the propriety of
                        calling for Troops from Genl Rensselaer—Genl TenBroeck thinks it is right to
                        reserve the City Regt & Schenectady, for Mohawk River Service in
                        case the Enemy should attempt any Thing there which is expected—Your
                        Excellency shall have more particular Accounts of these matters as soon as
                        possible. Your Excellencys most Obedt Servt

                        Wm Malcom

                        If we had men we have nor can get
                           Provisions—Genl TenBroeck thinks it will be difficult to get the Militia
                           out on this Acct—We have a notice of a considerable number being on their
                           March at Saratoga—nothing from the Grant’s—I suspect all is not sound.
                           Since writing the above I have an Express from Major Hugh’s—the Enemy are
                           at Oneida—An Indian Deserter says they have Cannon & Mortars—a 5
                           Inch Shell in every Mans Pack—that they are very strong—Sr John, Butler
                           & Brandt are with them. It will therefore be proper to augment
                           our force—the Militia is a poor Dependance—Vanschaicks Corps it seems
                           cannot go on this Service—it surely then will be right to have other
                           Troops sent on—I shall call out the Militia—Provisions must be sent on or
                           we are ruined.

                Enclosure

                        Sir.
                        Albany Octr 12th 1780

                     More bad news—Mr LeRoy just now informs of the Loss of Fort
                        George—I am very much at a Loss what to do—It is the Opinion of some that
                        the Enemy will now return—I am not of that Sentiment—the Militia come out
                        but very slow—what embarrasses us most is the want of Provisions—I only
                        wrote to Genl Rensselaer this Morning for 800 Men—at that Time I had no Idea
                        of so formidable a force being out. As Mr LeRoy can give full Information
                        your Excellency will be thereby enable to send by him such Orders as shall
                        appear necessary—All his Brigade will not be too many—In my Letter this
                        Morning I mentioned the propriety of calling for some continental Troops—it
                        seems that the Regt here cannot be carried back—they are on board the Troops
                        and will sail in the Morning—it is of all Thing most necessary that you come
                        up—to the Westward nothing New since my last Letter or rather Mr Lushs. Your
                        Excellency’s most Obedt

                        Wm Malcom

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir,
                        Albany 12th Octr 1780 6. P.M.

                     I this Moment arrived and am now at Colo. Malcoms
                        Quarters—Major Hughes in a Letter to him of the 10th which I have now before
                        me—says that an Indian Deserter then just arrived brings Intillegence that a
                        large Body of British, Tories and Indians under Sr John, Butler and Brant
                        were the Night of the 8th Inst. at Oneida from Niagara on their way to Stone
                        Arabia and ultimately for Fort Schuyler—that they were furnished with
                        Mortars & Cannon & a large Number of Shells (one of which
                        the Indian brought in his Blanket)—Major Hughes says every Preperation is
                        making to receive them.
                     The Enemy have also appeared to the
                        Northward. Lt Colo. Livingston in another Letter to
                        Colo. Malcolm (also before me) dated yesterday 5. o’Clock A.M. says he had
                        that moment recd a particular Account of the taking of Fort ann—that Capt.
                        Sherwood commandg there was summoned by Major Carleton of the Enemy—he
                        refused—but after their paradg their Forces amountg to 850. British, Tories
                        & Indians—in View of the Garrison they surrendered Prisoners of
                        War—Colo. Livingston writes that his Intillegence is that Carleton with his
                        party are now at Fort George & are to be joined by a party from
                        Balls Town under Command of Sir John—And that he means if he can with safety
                        to his Post march to the relief of Fort George.
                     Thus stands the Accts from our Northern & Western
                        Frontiers—Colo. Malcom has transmitted them to you by an Express to
                        Pokeepsie this Morning but upon my informg him that your Excellency was
                        probable at Kingston he is gone for another Express and has desired me to
                        write your Excellency the above Accts so as to have them in Readiness to be
                        dispatched as soon as the Express can be obtained.
                     This Brigade is ordered to March immediately and are now
                        prepairing to be disposed of as Colo. Malcom & Genl TenBroeck shall
                        think best for the Defence of the Frontiers—Colo. Malcom has made a
                        requisition to Genl V. Renselaer for 800. Men and intreats your Excellency if
                        possible to have the men hastened on by your Excellency’s Orders.
                     The Scarcity of Provisions and the Total uncertainty of
                        obtaining Supplies is truly alarming. If any means can be fallen upon to
                        supply the Troops now ordered out and those already on the Frontiers—Colo.
                        Malcom’s requests your Excellency’s Interposition—as without Supplies the
                        Militia must disband as soon as they take the Field. and if Reinforcements
                        of Men can be obtained from any other Quarter than those already mentioned
                        Colo. Malcom conceives they will be wanted provided they come with
                        sufficient Supplies of Provisions.
                     Colo. Livingston in a Letter of today says he is Surrounded by
                        the Indians & Tories who have invested the Fort for the last twelve
                        Hours—that they had not yet ventured an Attack—That he had sent out a party
                        of 20 men who were obliged to return the Enemy proving too Numerous that
                        they were burning abt 7. miles from the Fort—that he had only 60 Men fit for
                        Duty—and the Enemy supposed 400. I am with the highest Respect &
                        Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

                        Stephen Lush

                        The foregoing is a tolerable Exact State of Things I have
                           Sent a Letter to Colo. Clock requesting him to turn out the Tryon County
                           Brigade—It is necessary that we be able to advance with 1000 Men—the
                           Posts at the same time Guarded—Genl Renselaer is my only
                              dependence. will you come up—it is necessary—It
                           is yet impossible for me to know whether to go No. or West—provisions—if
                           possible send some from Esopus &c.—& do Urge Genl
                           Renselaer to send some on Genl TenBroecks Brigade is disposed off some
                           to Schoharey to Fort A. & some F—Edwd.

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir.
                        Fort Edward Octr 12th 1780 3 O’Clock in the morning.

                     This moment Lieut. Barret of Colo. Warners Regt arrived here
                        on his parole from Fort George which surrendered yesterday about four
                        O’Clock in the afternoon to eight hundred british Troops & two
                        hundred Indians & two Companies of Tories. Capt. Chipman sent out a
                        man in the morning to me for Provisions—on his way he was fired upon by a
                        Party of 25 men from whom he made his Escape & returned to the Fort.
                        The Capt. then immagining that the Party consisted of only a small  of the Enemy he sent out all his Garrison, except
                        fourteen men—they met the Enemy between bloody Pond and Gages Hill on the
                        west side of the Road who killed and took all the Party & then
                        marched to the Fort which surrendered Prisoners of War. The Day before Fort
                        Ann which Capt Sherwood commanded surrendered to the whole Party of the
                        british without firing a shot in which I think Capt. Sherwood is not by any
                        means to be censured. After taking Fort Ann they fully intended taking me at
                        this Post but by what means they avoided me I cannot conjecture, unless it
                        was owing to a man that was going up the very morning the Enemy took Fort
                        Ann, by whom I wrote to Capt. Sherwood that I was very strong & that
                        I would support him in case of an attack, expecting the Enemy would take the
                        man & the Letter as I had a hint that the man was not very friendly
                        to us—thus Sir I give you a true account of those two Fortresses that have
                        unfortunately fallen into the Hands of the Enemy. On the 20th they came down
                        in sight of this Fort about two Hours before Sunset—previous to that I had
                        sent out 20 men (about one third of my Garrison) to fight the Enemy, but
                        when my Officer came in sight of them he thought it prudent to retreat to
                        the Fort. they shew’d no Intentions to follow him but remained back in the
                        woods about two miles from me burning the Houses & destroying the
                        Cattle in the night—they crossed the River and destroyed all the Houses
                        ’till near Saratoga and then encamped about five miles from me. In the
                        morning I sent out 20 men again who followed on their Rear for a mile or two
                        & then returned the Enemy making the best of their way to Fort
                        George—On my receiving Intelligence of the Enemy’s coming which I do not
                        hear of until 12 OClock on the 10th I sent out Expresses to White Creek,
                        Castleton Saratoga & Still Water—As yet I have only 60 militia but
                        expect more in the morning—I believe the Enemy will march this way in the
                        morning, if they have not too many Prisoners—I am surrounded with the wants
                        of the militia; so must finish—we have only two barrels of Flour on hand.
                     3 of Colo. Warners Officers are killed
                     2 wounded.
                     4 Prisoners.
                     25 rank & file killed

                        50 taken Prisoners.
                     Capt. Sherwood with his two Officers
                     60 rank & file Levies taken
                     14 militia taken.
                     This is an accurate List of the men
                     35 Houses burn’t & a number of Barracks of Hay
                        & Wheat
                     I am in great haste. you will please to excuse any
                        inaccuracy. I am &c. &c. &c.

                        H. Livingston


Title: From George Washington to John Glover, 14 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Glover, John,Paterson, John

                     Gentlemen,
                     Head Qrs October 14th 1780

                  It has been suggested in several applications I have received of
                     late, that by some means or other many Errors took place in the arrangement of
                     your line by the Board of General Officers who sat at West point in July
                     & August 1779—in the line of Captains &
                        in the instance of the Inferior officers, principally in numbering some
                     of the Captains wrong in the order of their precedence in the lines and in
                     misplacing the Subalterns in their Regimental arrangements, and also in some
                     instances in fixing wrong dates from which they were to rank. Circumstances
                     seem now to permit an inquiry to take place with respect to those matters. I
                     therefore transmit a copy of the Arrangements of the Captains as it was then
                     made—and also of the Regimental arrangement of the Subalterns, and request that
                     You will as soon as possible examine into the matter and report under your
                     hands—the order as to precedence in which the Captains should then have been arranged—and also the order in which the Subalterns should have been then regimentally placed, with any such alterations
                     in the periods from which they should have ranked—if any errors should be found
                     to have taken place in that respect, as shall appear clear & just to
                     the Board. I request their most accurate attention in this business. They will
                     proceed in the matter as if the original arrangements by the Board of Genl
                     Officers took place just now—and every one named in it, were still in the Army
                     & acting under the rank & precedence given them. This will
                     prevent an infinity of trouble & an alteration of but few Commissions
                     or Numbers. The Board will return all the papers I inclose them—as well as the
                     order in which they shall find the Captains & Subaltern’s should have been arranged.
                  While I am on this subject—I must mention an Error which Sundry
                     officers have complained of & remonstrated against as having taken
                     place in the line in some instances—& to which I request the Board’s
                     particular attention in order to rectify it. If it has actually taken place, it
                     operates an injury, to many Officers in the state line, as well as to Many
                     others in the line of the Army at large. Memorials which have been proferred
                     suggest, that Several persons who were Serjeants & who have been
                     appointed by the Board of General Officers to Ensigncies &
                     Lieutenancies—instead of their having rank from the time they were actually appointed—have by some mistake or other been
                     so recommended, as to obtain Warrants or Certificates or Commissions in
                     consequence, giving them rank from the time the vacancies happened, as if they
                     had a right to fill them on a principle of succession. The arrangement made by
                     the Board of General Officers will lead to an easy correction of this error, as
                     no Officer, not mentioned in it, can have rank from a date prior to it
                     & in case of new appointments, but from the
                     time their appointments were actually made. I have
                     the Honor to be With great respect & esteem Gentn Yr Most Obed. St


Title: From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 14 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

                            Dear SirHead Quarters Prackness Octobr 14th 1780

                        Some circumstances have taken place, by which General Greene will have a different command from the one he now holds, and General Heath will command at West-Point.  If he should not have arrived already, from the Eastward, I expect he will certainly be there in the course of a few days, and request in the mean time that you will take charge of the Post. The inclosed Letter you will be pleased to retain till he arrives. I have requested General Greene in case General Heath is still at the Eastward, to communicate to you the Instructions he received respecting the Post, which you will observe and transfer when he comes. I have nothing new to inform you of and only to add that I am Dear Sir With great regard & Esteem Your most Obedt humbe servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 14 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                            SirHead Quarters Prackness Octobr 14th 1780

                        I had the honor of writing you the 12th instant approving the demand you intended to make to your count for an augmentation of your siege artillery to double the present quantity—I have since received your letter of the 8th. The season is so far advanced that I think you cannot too soon make the dispositions you propose for winter quarters, which are as agreable to me as they are judicious—I beg you at all times to use your discretion in the necessary arrangements for the army under your command, in which I have too intire confidence in your judgment not to be convinced, you will do that which will most effectually promote the common service. From the reputation of the Duke De Lauzun I am persuaded he will do every thing in his power to give satisfaction to the inhabitants of Providence, and I flatter myself he will find the greatest cordiality in them.We have nothing more definitive from New York, than was mentioned in my last—I momently expect further accounts. I am Sir With the truest attachment Your most Obedient humble servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Christopher Greene, 14 October 1780
From: Greene, Christopher
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                      Newport 14th Octr 1780

                  When Genl Heath left this post, the Command of the American
                     Troops devolved on me. The difficulty of geting Supplies of provisions has been
                     such, that we have been often almost Intirely without. This has greatly
                     retarded the completion of the very Important work at Butt’s Hill, where the
                     three Militia from the Massachusetts State have been Imployed; Their time of
                     Service expires the first of next month, I am confident they will not be able
                     to put the Fort in a defensible State by that time. Should your Excellency not
                     call my Regiment to join the Army They will undoubtedly be very Usefully
                     Imployed in making it so—I wish to know your Excellency’s pleasure as to our
                     Staying here or joining the Army. If we Stay in this State, in what part of it
                     to take winter Quarters—As The Season is far Advanced and the Times of the Six
                     months Levies expires the first of Jany perhaps the Short time they have to
                     serve may be as Useful here as with the Army, though for my Own part I ever
                     wished to be with the Army.
                  Winsor Fry whom your Excellency gave a Warrant for Executing
                     Dated on The 1st Day of June last, for Breaking Open the Commissaries Store and
                     Stealing, Made his escape before the Warrant came to hand, Was Taken up and
                     Sent to me about a fortnight Since—It is a doubt with me whether the executing
                     him now would have the same effect on Others as if I had it in my power to have
                     put it in Immediate execution nor do I think an example of the kind So
                     necessary now as then—An unwillingness to take life when it can possibly be
                     avoided Consistent with the general good, Induces me to Beg your Excellency to
                     pardon him. I have the Honor to be with the Greatest Respect your Excellencys
                     Most Obt Servt

                     C. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 14 October 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     West Point Octo. 14 1780

                  Inclosed I send your Excellency the estimates of the annual
                     expence of the war; and the amount of what each State can pay towards the
                     charge. Nothing more can be expected from them than to prove that our income is
                     not equal to our expence. They are calculated upon as low or lower scale than
                     the real case will amount to.
                  Besides these estimates there are several other matters not
                     included in the bills namely the expences of the Navy, the charge of inlisting
                     Men, the support of our Ministers abroad at foreign Courts, the interest of our
                     funded Monies with a great variety of other matters which can only calculated
                     upon under the head of contingencies; but will operate upon the people in the
                     bills of general charges. On the other hand the States are taxed as high as
                     they can bear and much higher I am afraid than will be paid; unless our
                     governments are far more nervous than they have been.
                  By the account current your Excellency will see that our expences
                     overrun our income near one half; and this is a fact that I have been along
                     time convinced of; tho I did not think, our arrearages had been as great as I
                     now am perswaded they are.
                  I wish my knowledge was more competent to the
                     business; and that I had, had more leisure to have done
                     justice to the subject. I have devoted as much time, paid as much attention and
                     got as good information as my situation and circumstances would admit. If the
                     calculations shall in any manner reflect any light upon the subject; or pave
                     the way to further and more accurate estimates I shall be amply rewarded. I am
                     with great esteem & regard your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Sert

                     Nath. Greene

                Enclosure

                     Expenses annually for support of the War
                         Cr.Lawful moneyBy amot of annual tax of the State ofNew Hampshire exclusive of internalexpences as pr estimate No. 9 £ 70.000By do of Massachusettsdopr do300.000By do of Rhode Islanddopr do40.000By do of Connecticutdopr do220.000By do of New Yorkdopr do80.000By do of New Jerseydopr do90.000By do of Pensylvaniadopr do300.000By do of Delawaredopr do25.000By do of Marylanddopr do140.000By do of Virginiadopr do300.000By do of North Carolinadopr do130.000By do of South Carolinadopr do20.000By do of Georgiadopr do   20.000 £1.715.000Dollars5.716.666 2/3Dr United States in Acct Curr. of National With the Finances
                        of Government 1780.
                        To amount of deficiencies of arms accoutrements and ammunition as pr est: No. 1284 536To Amt of deficiencies in Ammunition for field artillery &a as pr No. 2
                        52.245 1/3To amt of deficiencies of shells shotts &a as pr account No. 3360.176 3/4 To amt of yearly pay for 49 Regiments of infantry 4 Cavalry four artillery No.
                        43.541 396To amt of 15.535130 rations necessary for 32.000 men for a year @ 1/4 each No.
                        53.452.251To amt of Qr M. General department No.
                        62.660.226To amt of Hospital department No. 7331
                        724To amt of Cloathing for 32000 men &a No. 8 736.000  Total Dollars
                        11.418.555Deduct amt of Stores supposed to be on hand in the Qr Master’s Clothier’s and Hospital departments870.000 10.548.555This is calculated on the lowest estimate without any
                        allowance for Contingent expences nor are the expences of the Foederal
                        administration included.Amount of annual expences 11.418.585Amount of Stores in the Qr Mrs Commissary Clothing and Hospital department 870.000 10 548.555


Title: From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 14 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Skinner, Abraham

                        Sir
                            Head Qrs Octr 14th 1780

                        Since my Letter of Instructions to You of the 7th Inst., I have received an Answer from His Excellency Governor Jefferson of Virginia, by which I find the Exchange of Lt Governor Hamilton or Major Hay can not take place upon the present occasion. You will particularly attend to this circumstance.A Captn Lyman, who was taken in the Mercury packet is a prisoner at Lancaster. I desire that he may be permitted to go into New York immediately on parole. He can afterwards be included in the exchange of Officers, which from some possible delays that may attend it, might procrastinate the relief he requests.I am informed by a Letter I have received from Major General Phillips of the 13th that You had proposed an interview with Mr Loring at New York, on the subject of exchanges. Previous to any meeting between You, I desire to see You—and that You will bring with You the List of privates, prisoners in the hands of the Enemy at New York, lately delivered or transmitted You by the British Commissary. I am Sir Your Most Obed st

                            G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 15 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                        Sir
                            Head Quarters near passaic Falls 15th Octobr 1780

                        I have been honored with your Excellency’s Favors of the 6th and 9th instants, with the Acts and papers too which they refer. The first did not reach me ‘till the 13th in the Evening.I shall, in obedience to the order of Congress, take the proper steps for a Court of Enquiry to be held on the Conduct of Major Genl Gates as Commander of the Southern Army; and also shall, agreeable to their direction, appoint an Officer to command in his room, untill such enquiry be made. Major General Greene, who is at present at West point, is the Officer I shall nominate.I am sorry to find, by the Copies transmitted in your Excellency’s letter of the 9th that our Affairs to the southward are in so deranged a state. I see not how we are to supply the defect of Cloathing and Arms, except those which have been long expected from France should speedily arrive.I inclose your Excellency a New York paper of the 11th which contains nothing material except Arnolds address to the inhabitants of America. I am at a loss which to admire most—the confidence of Arnold in publishing, or the folly of the Enemy in supposing that a production signed by so infamous a Character will have any weight with the people of these States, or any influence upon our Affairs abroad.Our accounts from New York respecting the intended embarkation continue vague and contradictory. A few days ago it was said that the troops designed for the expedition were all on board, and that the Fleet would sail immediately. I last night received intelligence, tho’ not thro’ a direct Channel, that the troops were again disembarked, and that a plan intirely new was in agitation. Unluckily, the person in whom I have the greatest confidence is afraid to take any measures for communicating with me just at this time, as he is apprehensive that Arnold may possibly have some knowledge of the connection, and may have him watched: But as he is assured that Arnold has not the most distant hint of him, I expect soon to hear from him as usual.I have, in my several late letters to Govr. Jefferson, mentioned the preparations in New York, and have advised him to have all public Stores removed from navigable Waters, lest the expedition should really, as they industriously propagate, be destined for Virginia. I have the  honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most obt and hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 16 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Totowa Monday October 16th
                        1780
                     Parole Neckar
                     Countersigns North, No.
                     Watchword Navy

                  For the Day TomorrowBrigadier General
                     WayneColonel MarshalLieutenant Colonel BadlamMajor T. MooreBrigade Major Van LaerAt a General court martial at Springfield (Massachusetts) April
                     1780. Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Reid president Mr Isaac Tichenea Assistant
                     Commissary for the Northern department was tried on the following charges.
                  "1st For not complying with the orders received from
                  proper authority—for forming a magazine of provisions on the
                     upper part of Connecticut river in the latter part of the year 1778 and in the
                     beginning of 1779.
                  2d Making frequent and repeated
                     misrepresentations of the ability of that part of the country which was
                     assigned him as his purchasing district as an excuse for such neglect and
                     disobedience of orders.
                  3dly The delivering or causing to be delivered over to
                  the issuing Commissary at Charlestown and Cöös a quantity of
                     salted Beef in a state improper to be received by him and in a condition which
                     it could not
                  be saved and afterwards neglecting to provide (tho’ frequently
                     requested) the necessary articles and means to save that species of provisions,
                     by which the public have sustained a Loss.
                  4thly A misapplication of public money in not procuring
                  a proportion of the several and different species of provisions
                     necessary to form a Magazine of Provisions and in particular neglecting to
                     secure the article of flour, the most essential.
                  5thly The want of a proper exertion in procuring the
                  allowance of Provisions and Rum for the Troops who were serving
                     under Colonel Hazen’s command, as that detachment were the whole course of the
                     summer on short allowance, and frequently without bread or flour.
                  6thly Not supplying his Assistant Major Child with money
                  to comply with the orders he had received and adequate to the
                     Wants to fulfill the bargains and Contracts made for the public by Major Child,
                     by which the good people of that district have been greatly deceived and
                     injured to the prejudice of the public service.
                  7thly Preventing Mr Child his Assistant from purchasing
                  Rum for the Troops at and about Cöös which was offered him at a
                     reasonable rate and at or about the same time selling a quantity of Rum (which
                     had been bought up for public use) at an advanced price, the Profits of
                  which it is presumed were then intended for his own private
                     emolument.
                  8thly For changing the district of Mr Jonathan Child his
                  Assistant to the prejudice of the public service and neglecting
                     the public Provisions bought up this season and now at Charlestown in danger of
                     being left, all which tend to discover a want of inclination to serve the
                     public: Judgement or Capacity to fill the office of a purchasing
                        commissary."

                  The Court are of opinion that the first second third fourth sixth
                     and eighth are not supported from which Mr Tichenea is of consequence
                     acquitted; in respect to the fifth charge the Court are of opinion that no
                     exertion on the part of Mr Tichinea was wanting in procuring provision but
                     think he wanted a proper exertion in procuring the Article of Rum.
                  In respect to the seventh charge the court are of opinion that Mr
                     Tichinea did prevent Mr Child from purchasing Rum for the Troops in and about
                     Cöös but are clearly of opinion that his selling the public rum was not only
                     justifiable but necessary; and that the Profits arising therefrom were not
                     converted to his own emolument, but to the use and much to the advantage of the
                     Public, but for want of a proper exertion in procuring the Article of Rum the
                     Court are of opinion that he receive a reprimand from the Commander in Chief in
                     general orders.
                  The Commander in Chief is sorry that he cannot agree with the
                     court in the propriety of reprimanding Mr Tichinea for not making proper
                     exertions to procure the necessary quantity of Rum as it does not appear that
                     he was furnished with the means of purchasing on the contrary the Court in
                     their opinion upon the seventh charge find that Mr Tichinea was justifiable in
                     disposing of part of the Rum on hand to defray some of the expences of the
                     Department and which was on or about the time that the Quantity alluded to was
                     offer’d to his assistant Mr Child for sale. Mr Tichinea is released from his
                     Arrest.
                  The regimental Surgeons are requested to send such sick as are
                     proper subjects for Hospital to the flying hospital at Doremis’s—Lord
                     Stirling’s former quarters on the Pompton road.
                  A Return of shirts actually wanting (estimating one per man) by
                     the corps of artillery, infantry and cavalry to be made tomorrow morning at
                     orderly time—none to be included but the soldiers inlisted for the war or a
                     term beyond the expiration of the present year. The Light infantry to be
                     included in the returns of the regiments to which they respectively belong. The
                     state cloathiers are strictly enjoined to make returns at the same time of any
                     cloathing they may have upon hand.
                  The Levies are not to be included.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Clinton, 16 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, Henry

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Octor 16th
                     1780

                  I have received your two letters of the 9th and 13th.
                  On the same principle upon which that of the 9th is founded, it
                     has been my endeavour to conduct the correspondence between us on the terms
                     which politeness and the nature of the intercourse demanded. In the affair to
                     which you allude, I persuade myself all the attentions were observed, which the
                     peculiarity of the circumstances would justify.
                  In my letter of the 6th Ulto I barely made an inquiry about the
                     persons who are the subject of it: I stated no particular report much less the
                     one you mention of a supposed plot for the destruction of Charles Town, which I
                     cannot but believe will on investigation appear as ill founded, as it does to
                     me in the present situation of things, improbable. I wish I could agree in
                     opinion with you on the spirit which actuates your Officers in Southern
                     command; but, I must conceive the inclosed intercepted letters of Lord
                     Cornwallis and Lord Rawdon breathe a very different temper. They not only
                     profess a flagrant breach of the capitulation of Charles Town and a violation
                     of the laws of nations; but under whatever forced description the unhappy
                     objects of the severity are placed it is in a form and carried to an extreme at
                     which humanity revolts. I flatter myself you will interpose your authority and
                     influence to prevent a prosecution of measures, which cannot fail to aggravate
                     the rigors of War and involve the most disagreeable consequences.
                  Major General Phillips in his letter in consequence of your
                     orders proposes an interview between himself and General Lincoln or some other
                     Officer for the settlement of the intended exchanges, but as the business is I
                     apprehend too simple and too desireable on both sides to admit of difficulty, I
                     think the meeting of the Commissaries will answer every purpose—I shall extend
                     the instructions given to mine to your last proposition in favour of Major
                     Generals Phillips and Reidesel with their families. I am Sir Your Most Obedient
                     humble servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Salisbury Franks, 16 October 1780
From: Franks, David Salisbury
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Robinsons House 16th Octr 1780

                  When last I had the Honor of seeing your Excellency, I requested
                     to be indulged with a Court of Enquiry on my Conduct, not only to investigate
                     what Knowledge or Share I might have had in the late General Arnold’s Perfidy,
                     but also to take in a retrospective View of my Conduct whilst serving in his
                     Family at Philadelphia.
                  You were so obliging as to accede to my Request and to promise
                     that a Court of Enquiry should be called to examine into the first Part, but
                     thought, that the Court could not with Propriety go into the second, as your
                     Excellency was pleas’d to say; there appeared no Accusation.
                  It is with Pain I do inform you Sir, that a Report has been
                     circulated thro’ this Part of the Country, and I believe has reach’d your
                     Excellencys Ears, of a most cruel and injurious tendancy, That of having
                     perjured myself last Winter to save Arnold from merited Punishment. This I feel
                     most sensibly, unsupported by Connections or Interests on this Part of the
                     Continent, I had here nothing but a Name unspotted I trust, untill Arnold’
                     baseness gave the Tongue of Calumny, Ground sufficient to
                     work upon against any one unhappily connected with him.
                  A conscious Innocence of this abominable & groundless
                     Charge of Perjury may cheer, yet cannot support me thro’ a World, too easily
                     misled by first Reports and Prejudices; it however imboldens me earnestly to
                     request your Excellency, to recommend to the Court, a strict examination into
                     both Parts of my Conduct. I shall write to the Secretary of
                     the Executive Council of the State of Pennsylvania, who
                     will, I make no doubt transmit to the Court every Paper found among Arnold’s
                     which may carry the smallest Tendancy to criminate me, and from
                     which I shall be fully able to exculpate myself.
                  I do not wish to trespass longer on your Excellency’s time
                     & shall therefore conclude myself with great Respect Your Excellency’s
                     most obedient and obliged humble servant

                     Davd S. Franks


Title: From George Washington to John Glover, 16 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Glover, John,Paterson, John

                     Gentn
                     Head Qrs Prackness Octr 16
                     1780.

                  As the Honble the Assembly of your State and the Committee
                     of Congress in consequence of their proceedings, which You will have seen
                     published in General Orders, have annexed Colo. Henry Jackson’s Regiment to
                     the Massachusetts line, it is necessary that the precedence of the Captains of
                     this Regiment, should have their stations fixed in the line of Captains
                     belonging to the State. I forgot to mention this Circumstance in my Letter to
                     the Board on the 14th Inst, which they will now be pleased to make a subject
                     of their attention & report the nos these Officers Commissions should
                     bear in the line, and the alterations in the nos which this may occasion.
                  Colo. Jackson will lay before the Board a List of the dates of
                     their appointments and the periods from which they are to rank, according to
                     the Arrangement which has been long since transmitted to the Board of War for
                     Commissions. I have the Honor to be with respect & Esteem, Gentlemen Yr Most Obed St

                     G. W.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 16 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Prekaness 16th Octobr
                     1780

                  I am fav’d with yours of yesterday, accompanied by a letter from
                     His Excellency Governor Clinton, who gives me an account of the incursion upon
                     the Frontiers. I am happy that you detached Gansevoorts Regiment
                     immediately—You will be pleased to order either Weisenfelds or Willets, as you
                     may judge proper, to follow, and to take orders from the Governor or the
                     commanding Officer. This is all the force I think we ought to detach from the
                     posts untill the views of the enemy are more fully ascertained. They put off
                     the long expected embarkation strangely. They had not sailed the 13th and it
                     was then said the expedition was delayed for some purpose. The numbers under
                     orders, by Estimate, are about two thousand or something upwards If the Militia
                     should not have been discharged when this reaches you, you will be pleased to
                     detain about five hundred to make up for the detachment you have lately sent up
                     the River.
                  I have received yours of the 13th as I have done that inclosing
                     the Estimate, for which I am much obliged.
                  You will be pleased to carry into execution what you proposed
                     respecting the posts at Stoney and Verplanks points. I am with the greatest
                     Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     Be pleased to forward Govr Clintons letter immediately.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 16 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters near Passaic Octr 16.
                     1780

                  It is represented to be indispensably necessary in the Course of
                     Smiths Trial, that Col. Lamb, Col. Livingston, & Mr Kearse the Qr
                     Master should attend the Court Martial as Witnesses—I have to request that you
                     will notify them, their presence will be necessary on thursday next, and give
                     them directions to attend accordingly if possible. I am Sir with great esteem
                     Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 16 October 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     West Point October 16th 1780

                  Your Excellency’s letter of the 14th appointing me to the command
                     of the Southern Army, was delivered me last evening.
                  I beg your Excellency to be perswaded that I am fully sensible of
                     the honor you do me and will indeavour to manifest my gratitude by a conduct
                     that will not disgrace the appointment.
                  I only lament that my abilities are not more competent to the
                     duties that will be required of me; and that it will not be in my power, on
                     that account, to be as extensively useful as my inclination leads me to wish—But as far as zeal and attention can supply the defect, I flatter my-self my
                     Country will have little cause to complain.
                  I foresee the command will be accompanyed with innumerable
                     embarassments. But the generous support which I expect from the partiality of
                     the Southern gentlemen, as well as the aid and assistance I hope to derive from
                     your Excellency’s advice and extensive influence, affords me some consolation
                     in contemplating the difficulties.
                  I will prepare my self for the command as soon as I can. But as I
                     have been five years and upwards in service, during all which time, I have paid
                     no attention to the settlement of my domestic concerns; and many division of
                     interests and partition of landed property between me and my brothers taken
                     place in the time, and now lye unfinished; if it was possible I should be glad
                     to spend a few days at home before I set out to the Southward; especially as it
                     is altogether uncertain how long my command may continue, or what deaths or
                     accidents may happen during my absence, to defeat the business—I beg your
                     Excellency’s opinion upon the matter, by which I will regulate my conduct;
                     however it will not be possible for me to leave this place for several days if
                     I put my baggage in the least order or my business in a proper train for such along journey. Nor is my health in a condition to set out immediately, having
                     had a considerable fever upon me for several days.
                  General Heath arrivd last Evening and will take the command this
                     morning. I shall make him fully acquainted with all the dispositions I have
                     made, and steps taken which concern the post and its dependancies; and will
                     give him my opinion what further is necessary to be done, to carry into
                     execution your Excellencys instructions for putting the garrison in a proper
                     state of defence, and prepare it for the approaching winter.
                  General McDougall is also here; and I have the pleasure to inform
                     you that he and I perfectly agree in sentiment in what concerns the garrison
                     and its dependancies. I am with great respect, esteem & regard Your
                     Excellencys Most Obedient humble Sert

                     Nath. Greene M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Harwood, 16 October 1780
From: Harwood, Peter
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Camp Totoway October 16th 1780

                  I am very Sorry at this time to acquaint Your Excellency that my
                     Domestick Affairs are Such that I am under necessaty of Resigning the Command
                     which I have been Honored with in the army; and pray for a Discharge—But your
                     Excellency will please to pardon me when I am the more encouraged to ask for a
                     Discharge from the probability of the Regts being Reduced; and of Consequence
                     Some Field Officers will be unprovided for in the Line—Should I obtain my
                     Request I will Asure your Excellency that all the influences I Can use
                     Consistent with a Domestick life shall be imployed in the Support of my
                     Countries Cause. Sir, I am with the Greatest Respect Your Excellencies Most
                     Obedient Humble Sert

                     Peter Harwood Majr 6th M.R.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 16 October 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     West point October 16. 1780

                  I arrived at Mr Mandeville’s the last Evening, intended this day
                     to have continued my journey for Head quarters; but crossing over to this place
                     this morning to speak with General Greene, had the honor to receive your
                     Excellency’s Commands of the 14th instant, to which I shall endeavor to pay
                     strict attention. I have the honor to be With the greatest Respect Your
                     Excellency’s Most obedient Servant

                     W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 16 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                     Sir
                     Head Qrs Octobr 16th
                     1780

                  I have the honor to transmit Your Excellency the Copy of the
                     Letter (No. 1) I wrote to Sr Henry Clinton on the 6th Instant with respect to
                     the Citizens of South Carolina, said to be confined on board a Ship of War—of
                     his Answer of the 9th (No. 2) and of my Letter to him of this date (No. 3),
                     with a Copy of the Letter from Lord Cornwallis & Lord Rawden to which it
                     refers. This Letter from Lord Cornwallis but illy
                     comports with the mild-humane character Sir Henry Clinton is pleasd to ascribe
                     to him upon the present occasion, and shows, as well as Lord Rawdon’s, that he
                     possesses a capacity for the most lawless domination over the rights of
                     mankind.
                  I have also the honor to transmit a copy of my Letter to Genl
                     Clinton of the 7th (No. 4) on the subject of Exchanges, alluded to in my
                     Dispatches of the same date to Congress—and of my Instructions to Mr Skinner
                     (No. 5) on the occasion. By the Inclosure (No. 4) in those dispatches, Your
                     Excellency would find that the Enemy in their propositions of exchange
                     respecting the Convention Officers in New York and Europe excepted, at the late
                     meeting at Elizabeth Town, Major Generals Phillips and Riedesel & Lt
                     Genl Burgoyne; but they have since agreed to include the Two first and their
                     families by a Letter from Sir Henry Clinton of the 13th (No. 6) to which mine
                     of this date refers.
                  Since my Letter of Instructions to Mr Skinner of the 7th I have
                     received an Answer from His Excellency Governor Jefferson, informing me that
                     from the great influence of Lt Governr Hamilton and a Major Hay with the
                     Western Indians and the ill consequences that would attend their release from
                     this circumstance, neither of them can be exchanged in the present instance. I
                     have written to Mr Skinner on the subject. I have the Honor to be with the
                     highest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obed. Sert

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S. Just as I was about to close my Letter I received One
                        from His Excellency Govr Clinton of the 14 with Inclosures; Copies of which I transmit
                        and which will announce the disagreable intelligence of the Enemy having
                        penetrated from Canada both by the way of Niagara & Lake
                        Champlain—taken Forts Ann & George & burnt many Houses.
                        Major General Greene has already detached Gansevorts Regiment from West
                        Point in consequence—and I have written to him to send Wiesenfels or Willets
                        also.

                     Go: W——n


Title: From George Washington to John Lamb, 16 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lamb, John

                     Sir
                     Hd Qrs Octr 16th 80

                  I would willingly dispense with your attendance agreeable to your
                     request if the Court did not deem it necessary. But as the case is capital and
                     the prisoner insists on your presence, our military laws require it. I am sorry
                     for your indisposition; but I wish you may find yourself able to be here on
                     thursday, or friday. The want of your testimony will otherwise be the only
                     delay to the conclusion of the trial. I am with great regard, Sir, Your most
                     Obedt servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 16 October 1780
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Newport, Le, 16e 8ber
                        October 1780

                  I shall obey the orders that your Excellency has sent me in your
                     Letter of the 12 inst., as to the Demands I am to make for the artillery of
                     siege. The Chevalier de Ternay has sent out a Cutter to get some news of the
                     British fleet, and he sends me word that he waits only for its rentry to make
                     his Frigates go out.
                  André is dead with honor, Arnold’s life will be attended with
                     infamy, his proclamation serves only to aggravate his crime.
                  We have this moment a signal at our signal-Tower, it’s a Frigate,
                     or a Cutter that is seen. I am with respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most
                     obedient and humble servant

                     le Cte de Rochambeau


Title: General Orders, 17 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Totowa Tuesday Octr 17. 1780
                     Parole Lapland
                     Countersigns Leik, Lar.
                     Watchword Lively.

                  For the Day TomorrowBrigadier General
                     HuntingtonColonel BradfordLieutenant Colonel North—Major WylleyBrigade Major WoodbridgeA regiment from the second Connecticut brigade to take post at
                     the Notch and relieve Major Parr who is to join the light corps of the
                  army.


Title: To George Washington from Lebbeus Ball, 17 October 1780
From: Ball, Lebbeus
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Camp 17th October
                     1780.

                  As a new Arrangement of the Army will probably soon take place,
                     by which severall of the Majors of the Massachusetts Line will necessarily be
                     discharged; I wish to improve this Opportunity of resigning my Command: and I
                     do it, Sir, with a greater degree of Satisfaction, as I suppose, from the
                     Number of Majors, that it cannot be injurious to the Cause of my Country or the
                     Army, which I have endeavoured to serve, from the Beginning of the Contest,
                     with Fidelity and hope I have done it to Acceptance.
                  My private Concerns, in Life, most Strongly urge me to take this
                     Step; My Family is large and not able to do much for themselves; my
                     Circumstances are not so affluent as to enable them to subsist comfortably
                     without my Assistance; and that Assistance, Sir, I am not able to afford them
                     from my depreciated Pay, were it even received at the promised Periods.
                  For those Reasons I must request your Excellency to consider my
                     Situation, to receive my Resignation and grant me a Discharge from the Army.
                  With the highest Respect for your Excellency and the sincerest
                     Wishes for your Happiness I am, Your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble
                     Servt

                     Lebs Ball


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Brodhead, 17 October 1780
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Fort Pitt Octr 17th 1780

                  Your favour of the 14th of August I had the Honor to receive on
                     the 7th instant, and am very thankfull for the Contents.
                  You must ’ere now be convinced that Colo. Bowman’s apprehensions
                     were founded on Certain intelligence, of an expedition intended against the
                     Forts on Kentucke.
                  I have sent out parties to take Cattle & Grain from the
                     inhabitants and expect to obtain a considerable supply of Flour, as the Mills
                     begin to have water sufficient to manufacture it, but the Inhabitants
                     disappoint us of getting Beef, by driving their Cattle into the Mountains. And
                     we have at present neither Bread nor meat, but expect a small supply
                     immediately.
                  Captn Brady is on command and Captn McIntire has leave of absence
                     to Philada as soon as they return I will express your Excellencies Thanks for
                     their Conduct.
                  In full confidence that a sufficient supply of Provisions would
                     sooner or later be furnished for the Troops in this District, as well as for
                     such number of Militia, as policy or the exigencies of affairs, might render it
                     necessary to call into Action. I, with a view to cut off the Wyondats and other
                     Indian Towns, that were very Troublesome to our Settlements, called fore
                        a Draft from the Militias at three Different times and
                     was as often disappointed in obtaining Provisions, which with the unsettled
                     state of the Boundary line between Pensilvania & Virginia, has greatly
                     discouraged the Inhabitants, and I apprehend, given a handle to the disaffected.
                  I take the liberty to inclose copies of Letters lately received
                     from Colonel’s Beeler & McCleary, purporting some of
                     the above facts.
                  The Delaware chiefs with upwards of thirty warriors, are come, to
                     aid me upon an expedition, but as I have neither Bread not Meat to give them,
                     they will soon discover that, it is not in my power to act offensively. They
                     appear much dejected on account of the total want of goods, which they were
                     promised in exchange for their peltry.
                  Unless supplies of Beef &c. Are procuring Below the
                     mountains, which I know nothing of, the Troops here will
                     experience great hardship before Spring, And desertions will
                     be very frequent.
                  I have frequently represented to the Honble Board of War, the
                     hardships of the Troops and am now informed by their Secretary that compulsion
                     is tolerated by the Supreme Executive Council of Pensa for a temporary Supply.
                  I continue my enquiries respecting the strength of Detroit and my
                     intelligence is of a piece with that formerly communicated. I have the Honor to
                     be with the most exalted Respect & Esteem Dear General your
                     Excellencies most obedt & most Hble Servt

                     Daniel Brodhead

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir,
                        October 10th 1780.

                     I Received yours of the 7th Inst. this morning but it is not
                        in my power to give you a just return as you request until the last of this
                        week, for I have been obliged to issue orders to press Horses &
                        draught men as I could not get Volunteers enough, of which I have not got a
                        return as yet; I am sorry to inform you that I am afraid we shall come but
                        little speed—I find that the Government of Virginia will not protect me in
                        anything I do by virtue of the laws of Virga since their last resolution,
                        & the laws of Peensylvania have not as yet taken us as yet under
                        their protection All this the Country is acquainted with, so that every
                        thing I do is at the Risque of my fortune unless protected by the States. If
                        it had not been to forward an Expedition I should have declined acting a
                        good while ago, as no man ever had a more disagreeable time of it than I
                        have at present, having no law to defend me— We are assured of your good
                        intentions for the safety of the Country & are very sorry that we
                        cannot act with that Spirit that we ought to do, but hope that the laws of
                        Pena will either be extended in a few days from this time, or the laws of
                        Virga be kept in force—It is very unhappy that the two Contending States
                        have not provided a better way for the defence of this Country than to let
                        it fall between them both until matters are settled between them. I have the
                        honor to be with the greatest Respect Dear Sir, your most Obedt Hble Servt

                        Joseph Beelor Coll

                        Copy  without law to protect me

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir
                        Monongahalia County the 11th day of Octr 1780

                     Your favour per Express just now came to hand it being on
                        public Service. Colo. Evans being at this down the Country, I open’d it, and
                        there find you are again Obliged to postpone your intended Expedition, you
                        call for a return of the number of men and Horses, that you may depend on
                        from this County, which I am unable at this time to furnish you with, as all
                        the returns were made to Colo. Evans, and he being from home, I can’t come
                        immediately at them. However so far I can inform you that upon the receipt
                        of your Letter I went to the Officers of the second Battallion of our County
                        Militia, who happen’d to be then assembled at General Muster, and made the
                        matter known to them, at the same time call’d upon them for a copy of their
                        returns made to Colo. Evans, that I might as near as possible comply with
                        your request and they (after some consultation held upon the matter) gave it
                        me for an Answer, That as they found all their hopes of Relief from a
                        Campaign being this fall carried against their Indian Enemys were abortive,
                        and knowing that their frontiers at least 60 to 70 Miles in length were
                        infested with the savages killing their People have at last Oblig’d them to
                        say they can’t spare any Men, further adding that they are heartily sorry
                        that there should be the least seaming Jarr or Desenting Voice from the
                        Orders of Colonel Brodhead, as a Commanding Officer, for the defence of this
                        Country but from his never having it in his power, for want (as we conceive)
                        of the necessary supplies to put his schemes in Execution, during the whole
                        course of the last summer & fall & our unhappy People daily
                        falling an easy pray to the Enemy Oblig’d them to throw of all dependance,
                        on any natural aid on this side of the mountain this fall, but that of
                        themselves for their relief, and therefore they mean to embody, and take the
                        most plausable methods for their defence, and under there Circumstances they
                        think their numbers is already too small, without any diversion
                        Notwithstanding they were ready twice last summer both with men Horses and
                        Provisions to have comply’d with your requisition fully, had you put your
                        plan in execution, I have (as I look upon it my Duty least any deception
                        should take place) Stated this matter truly, as I took it from the Officers
                        mouths—And now permit me to observe to you that the state of our frontiers
                        is really deplorable to see helpless women and Children flying before the
                        ravages of the Savage, and that even while part of us is engaged in burying
                        of our neighbours that have been Butchered by them, Others of us is falling
                        a Sacrifice to their Hellish Inventions, those and many other matters that
                        have come under your Cognizance I hope you will (as a friend to Human
                        nature) State in a proper light to the Board from the which proper relief
                        can be had, I have the Honor to be with due respect Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt
                        Hble Servant

                        Wm McClerry


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 17 October 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     West point October 17th 1780

                  Yours of the 16th Instant to Major Genl Greene was handed to me.
                     Colonel Vanschaick with his Regiment arrived here a few hours Since from
                     Albany, which place he left yesterday. The Colonel informs me that the Enemy
                     after taking and burning Fort George Fort Ann, and about thirty Houses and as
                     many Barns had gone back, but it was apprehended by the Commanding officer at
                     Fort Edward that after they had secured their prisoners they would return.
                     Colonel Gansvoort’s Regt embarked yesterday for albany, but the wind has
                     prevented their sailing. I have with the advice of General Greene, order’d the
                     Regiment commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Weissenfells to embark, and
                     as soon as the wind is fair, proceed to Albany, with the other Regiment, to
                     take Governor Clinton’s orders who had arrived at that place just before
                     Colonel Vanschaick came away. I wish to know your Excellency’s pleasure whether
                     one of those Regiments (should the Enemy desist from further operations in that
                     quarter) be ordered to Fort Schuyler for the Winter, or in what way the place
                     of the present Garrison, who have not long to serve, shall be supplied. I have
                     the honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient
                     Servant

                     W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from John Hendricks, 17 October 1780
From: Hendricks, John
To: Washington, George

                     Elizth Town Octor 17 1780

                  As I have been Some Time Employd by Colo. Dayton for the Purpose
                     of Forwarding Inteligence, & The Colo. is now Sick, & Not in
                     the Way, I take the Liberty to Send the Inclosed Intelegence from two Different
                     Correspondences, Whome I Think Your Excelency may Depend, on their Fidellity,
                     one of Witch is a Liver in New York, The Other is Sent From Here.
                  My Brother Captn Hendrick’s Informd me, that His Excelency would
                     Be Glad of True Intelegence, @ any Time By Any Chanel.
                  He Can Inform Your Excelency of More Perhaps than Has been Wrote,
                     As He is Privy to all that Goes for That Purpose, from This Place.
                  I Should be Glad if He Could have Some Deritctions About the
                     Affair As Long as Colo. Daytons is Sick.
                  The Person that Lives in New York Is Desirous of having Something
                     Sent him As He is mutch Reducd by Sickness And Other Losses, He has had the
                     Promis of Something By Colo. Dayton.
                  If it Should be Perfixd I Should Be Very Happy to forward it to
                     Him The most Convenient Way, & if It is in my Power to Serve your
                     Excelency in that Way I Shall be Alway Ready. I am Your Exceleny most Obt Servt

                     John Hendrick’s


Title: To George Washington from John Mathews, 17 October 1780
From: Mathews, John
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear Sir,
                     Philadelphia Octr 17th 1780

                  At the time I wrote to you respecting that part of the system for
                     the army, that has been agreed on by Congress, I had despaired of it’s being
                     submitted to your opinion. I had moved for it, but my proposition was rejected,
                     on a principle, that the whole should go together. We have received your Excys
                     sentiments on this very important subject, such, as I evidently foresaw would
                     be the result of your serious consideration. Your observations are
                     incontrovertible, & unless Congress are so bigoted to the Idols they
                     have set up, & are determined to reject every principle that can have
                     the least tendency to invalidate the foundation on which it is erected.  They
                     must ultimately adopt the plan you propose. No other, I am convinced, can ever
                     answer our purposes. But even in this case a most tremendous inconvenience
                     arises—for here is the month of October better than half spent, &
                     probably, before Congress come to a final determination, November will be
                     arrived, & then there remains only two months for prosecuting this
                     great work—the time is certainly too short for its completion. I consequently
                     dread the arrival of the first day of January. Had Congress put this business
                     in the train that was proposed early in Septr so much precious time would have
                     been saved, as in all probability would have given success to the plan.
                     However, we must now use our best endeavours to put things on as good a footing
                     as the nature of the case will admit of. Yr Excys letter of the 11th inst. is
                     committed to the same committee who brought in the former report, together with
                     that report, but nothing is, as yet, done in it.
                  My plan respecting the annual recruits was only meant to render
                     the System as useful as possible, for if an alternative must be admitted into
                     it, we should endeavour to derive every possible advantage from it.  I therefore
                     thought it best, to have the power to detain the
                     men, & take our chances for its success, rather than
                     they should at all events be at liberty to disband themselves at a certain day.
                  Your Excy’s appointment of Genl Greene to the command of the
                     southern army has given general satisfaction—to the five southern states. I
                     know it has given the highest satisfaction. I have the honor to be with every
                     sentiment of Respect & Esteem Yr Excys most affect hmbe Servt

                     Jno. Mathews


Title: From George Washington to Peter Muhlenberg, 17 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Muhlenberg, Peter

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters near Passaic Falls 17th October 1780

                  I have recd your favor of the 29th Ulto. The proposed
                     exchange of stations between Lt Colonels Campbell and Taylor will be perfectly
                     agreeable to me—While I hear with pleasure of the forwardness of the
                     collection of the Levies, I cannot but regret the small prospect we have of
                     procuring an adequate supply of Arms Cloathing and other necessaries. We have
                     been hitherto disappointed in the arrival of those Articles expected from
                     France, and even should they arrive after this, it will be very long before
                     they can be got to you, from the difficulties which we experience in
                     transportation, and more especially, should they come to the Eastward, which is
                     the most probable.
                  His Excellency the Governor informed me that three hundred of the
                     Old Draughts had been ordered to join Harrison’s Regiment of Artillery, which
                     was a very proper measure. I am, &c.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge, 17 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

                           Dear Sir
                      17th October 1780

                  I recd your favr of the 11th with C. Senior’s inclosed.
                     I think you were right in declining an interview at this time, as the enemy
                     would act with more than common rigor just now, should an Officer be taken
                     under circumstances the least suspicious—I should be exceedingly glad to hear
                     from C- Junior, because all my accounts from other quarters are very
                     defective as to the number of troops to be embarked, or, indeed, whether an
                     embarkation is seriously in contemplation. The last acct was of the 13th and
                     it was then said the expedition was delayed for some purpose or other. I am,
                     &c.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 17 October 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Pines Bridge Octr 17th 80

                  I have this moment recd the inclosed from the C—s. As
                     Circumstances have since turned out I wish I had met C— Junr as mentioned in my
                     last to your Excellency.
                  C— has returned me five of the Guineas which I recd of your
                     Excellency at Tappan, for reasons which are mentioned in his inclosed letter. I
                     will forward them to Hd Qrs or otherwise dispose of them as I may be directed.
                  With respect to the Person mentioned in C— Senior’s letter, I
                     really believe he is a very dangerous Man among us, and from the Charges
                     adduced against him by C—, should suppose he ought to be apprehended. I am
                     informed he has lately been to Rhode Island; his business may be guessed at.
                     The Persons mentioned in C— Senior’s Letter, as friends to Aiglai Bqyim
                     Guy Howell are the Brothers of the Person who had a Permit
                     from Genl Parsons to Cross with Lt Brewster, but has since been prohibited
                     agreeable to your Excellency’s orders though Me—I am very confident Genl
                     Parsons was much deceived in the Man. I have the Honor to be with Great Regard,
                     Sir, Your Most Obedt Servt

                     Benja. Tallmadge

                Enclosure

                        Sir,
                         14 October 1780

                     Yours of The 30th of Sept: & 6th of October are now
                        before me, in answer to the first W——s assurances are as much as I could
                        expect. When I conclude to open another route you shall be inform’d of it. I
                        do not choose that the person you mention, or any other of his character,
                        should call on me.
                     I am happy to think that Arnold does not know my name.
                        However, no person has been taken up on his information. I was not much
                        surprised at his conduct, for it was no more than I expected of him. Genl
                        Clinton has introduced him to the General officers on parade as General
                        Arnold in the British service; and he is much caressed by General Robinson.
                        This will tend to gloss his character with the venal part of the army; but
                        the independent part must hold him in contempt; and his name will stink to
                        eternity with the generous of all party’s.
                     I never felt more sensibly for the death of a person whom I
                        knew only by sight, and had heard converse, than I did for Major Andre, He
                        was a most amiable character. General Clinton was inconsolable for some
                        days; and the army in general and inhabitants were much
                        exasperated, and think that General Washington must have
                        been distitute of feeling or he would have saved him. I
                        believe General Washington felt sincerely for him, and would have saved him
                        if it could have been done with propriety.
                     The long time I have been out of Town prevents my giving you
                        any information of consequence. The army which embarked last week, are
                        generally supposed intended to make a diversion in Virginia or Cape Fear in
                        No. Carolina, to favour Lord Cornwallis—they take but few Horses, but a
                        number of Saddle &c., with an intention to mount a number of
                        dismounted dragoons who are going with them. The Cork & English
                        Fleets are, I expect, arrived by this. I hope and expect that all my letters
                        are destroyed after they are perused. I am Yours &c.

                        Samuel Culper Junior

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                         14 October 1780

                     Your favour of the 5th Instant hath bene
                        duly received—And observe the contents—I am pleased with your intention of
                        apprehending Aiglai Bqyim Guy Howell. Pray be active
                        and vigilant to secure our Country No mans character Stands in better light
                        with the Enemy. And hath bene a particular fraind of Tryons. And whilst
                        rescued at his Native Town held a constant carespondence with Tryon
                        & Coll Burch. He never faild in his request for favours when asked
                        for. Could obtain permission for five Thousand Pounds worth of goods at one
                        time. When others could not for fifty You may rest assured that
                           Heathcot & Francis Muirson are his Bosom
                        friends and know his heart. Not long Since Muirson told
                        me he was very uneasy about him Said he had bene expected back for some
                        time, asked me if I had not heard nothing about him, and desired if possible
                        to inquire after him, Said this was the second time he had bene out in the
                        Service of Goverment And was afraid he would be found out. He is largely
                        indebt at New York And his departure appeard like one
                        fleeing for refuge but it was all to Cloudy his villany.
                        Arnolds affair hath now become an old Story, I am Sorry for the death of
                        Major Andre but better So than to loose the Post, he was
                        seeking your min. C. Jur is now with me and Shall refer
                        you to his letter for intelligence I was in hopes you might have come and
                        Seen him. I have inclosed you a receipt for fifteen gines. The other five
                        pieces were two light and could not be of any Service to me two of which
                        were Qurter Joes and have Sent them back again

                        S. Culper

                           Words in square brackets are translations of the
                           code.


Title: To George Washington from James Wilkinson, 17 October 1780
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Phila Octr 17th 1780

                  Since my Letter of the 11th Inst: I have had an Interview with
                     the Board of War and obtained the inclosed state of their Purchases; I am sorry
                     that the subsequent Correspondence (of which a Copy is inclosed) should damp
                     the expectations raised by my first Information: I have every reason to
                     conclude that the Woollens alluded to in the Letter of the 16th Inst
                     comprehend the whole of the Blankets & Winter Clothing in the Hands of
                     Otis & Henly, and I am morally certain, from some deception in the
                     Contract, that the Public will never be the better for them. I have not yet
                     been able to obtain a farthing of Money, tho I expect this day to borrow a
                     sufficient sum to carry me to your Excellencys Quarters, and propose seting out
                     Tommorrow or next day.
                  Col: Febiger is here & will I doubt not carry every
                     Article which can be scraped together in this Quarter to the southward—The
                     Western Dept has not I beleive the least Provision made for it. I have the
                     Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellencys Most Obdt ready Servant

                     James Wilkinson

                     N.B. I hope to be able to carry your Excellency the
                        determination of the Committee now seting on the Clothing Dept. J. W.

                   Enclosure

                        War Office 14th October
                        1780

                     There are in Otis & Henleys hands—Woolens enough for
                        14.000 blankets 2,300 Suits & 400 or 500 Vests, & breeches,
                        exclusive—and Linen for 8 or 10,000 Shirts and 2 or 3,000 Overalls.
                     J. Reynolds at Rhode Island—has on hand Woolens enough for 3
                        or 400 Suits—and Linen for 3, or 4000 Shirts and some Overalls.
                     William Gardner has Linen for 2 or 3000 Shirts perhaps more—he
                        has also a quantity of Hatts—Some Linen Overalls
                     Col. Blackden at

                         has 1500 or 2000 Shirts—probably more.
                     Samuel Caldwell has linen for 5000 Shirts—some linen Overalls.
                     This estimate made upon a Supposition, that the Agent
                        Clothiers have not made any deliveries to the Clothr Genl Since his Return
                        of August the 8th.
                     (Copy)

                            Benjn Stoddart Secy

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        War Office Octr 16th
                        1780

                     The Board have been favored with yours of this day—Having
                        already given you all the general information in their power relative to
                        your department, they have nothing further to add on the Subject—only that
                        the business of procuring supplies has been taken up by a Committee of
                        Congress, who the Board understand, but not officially have reported to
                        Congress, that the several States be called upon for the articles wanted. I
                        am Sir Yr Most Obedt humbe Servt

                        by Ord. Ben Stoddert Secy

                        N.B. Since the information alluded to above, the board
                           have received a letter from Otis & Henly of a very disagreeable
                           nature from which it appears that there will be some difficulty in
                           obtaining the woollens at Boston.
                        Copy

                Enclosure

                        Gentn
                        Philada Oct. 16th 1780

                     In addition to the Genl Information which I have already
                        received, I shall be glad to have it in my Power to communicate to his
                        Excellency on my Arrival at Head Quarters, the further prospects of the
                        hono. Board & the Objects of the Committee of Congress (as far as
                        have come to your knowledge) now setting on the subject of the Clothing
                        department. I am &.

                        J. Wilkinson Cloth. Gen.

                        (Copy)


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 18 October 1780
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Albany 18th Octobr 1780. 10 OClock
                     P.M.

                  I wrote your Excellency from Poughkeepsie on Saturday last and
                     communicated to you the Accounts which I had then received from this Quarter,
                     the next Day I set out for this place and arrived here on Monday. Upon my
                     Arrival I found the main Body of the Enemy which appeared in the Northward had
                     returned by the Way of Lake George and that part of the Country seemed again to
                     be in a State of Tranquility. Yesterday Morning however I was informed that a
                     party had made its appearance at Ballston and distroyed some Buildings there
                     and about Noon received Accounts that the Enemy were at Schohary and it is now
                     confirmed that they have distroyed the whole of that valuable settlement, their
                     Numbers of one Division are computed at about 600 and the Account, of the other
                     Division is uncertain, they have Artillery with them Major Woolsey who commands
                     200 of the Levies made a sally from one of the small Forts there and took two a
                     Regulars and killed five Savages—by what rout they came or mean to return I
                     have not been able to ascertain. Yesterday Morning I ordered General
                     VanRensselair with some Troops to Schenectady with Directions as soon as he
                     could make the proper discoveries and if his Force should appear competent to
                     march and endeavour to intercept them.
                  By a Letter from General Schuyler at Saratoga I am informed that
                     the Enemy yesterday burnt the settlement of White Creek in Charlotte County and
                     the smoke was discoverable from the Heights near his House.
                  The Port at Fort Edward after the removal of the Stores is
                     evacuated, the Levies who were stationed there having insisted that their Time
                     of service is expired and Colo. Livingston the commanding Officer with the other
                     Officers are now on their return. I have ordered out the whole of the Militia
                     from this part of the State; a considerable part are already in the Field and I
                     shall leave this immediately for Schonectady in order to make the necessary
                     Arrangements.
                  From this State of Matters your Excellency will perceive the
                     necessity of sending a Force if it can possibly be spared for the defence of
                     this part of the Country no dependance can be placed on the Militia remaining
                     from Home and the three Months levies will soon be dismissed so that without
                     some farther Protection Schenectady and this place will be our Frontier.
                  I received no Intelligence from the Grants either whether the
                     Enemy have done any Mischief there and whether their Militia is turning for our
                     Assistance—I am Dear Sir your Excellency’s Your most Obedt Servant

                     Geo: Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 18 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir,
                     Head Qrs Octr 18th
                     1780

                  Your letter of the 16th was delivered me an hour since—I am
                     aware, that the command you are entering upon will be attended with peculiar
                     difficulties and embarrassments; but the confidence I have in your abilities,
                     which determined me to choose you for it, assures me you will do every thing
                     the means in your power will permit to surmount them and stop the progress of
                     the evils which have befallen and still menace the Southern States. You may
                     depend on all the support I can give you; from the double motives of regard to
                     you personally and to the public good.
                  I wish circumstances could be made to corrispond with your wishes
                     to spend a little time at home previous to your setting out; but your presence
                     with your command as soon as possible is indispensable.
                  The Embarkation at New York sailed the 16th, in all probability
                     destined to cooperate with Cornwallis who by the last advices was advanced as
                     far as Charlotte—I hope to see you without delay, and that your health will be
                     no obstacle to your commencing your journey. With the sincerest regard I
                     am—Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 18 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                     Dear Sir,
                     Head Quarters Prackness Octr 18th
                     1780

                  I am glad to find by your letter of the 17th that you were
                     arrived at West-Point and had taken the command of that important post. I
                     approve of the measures you were taking to succour the Northern frontiers. Both
                     the regiments You are sending will remain till the danger is intirely past—You
                     will Order Wysenfelts to Garrison Fort Schuyler. With the greatest regard I am
                     Dear Sir Your most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington