Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 23–24 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

⟨Dear Sir⟩
⟨Head Quarters Morris Town 23d[–24] May 1780.⟩

⟨I am exceedingly sorry to learn, by your⟩ favr of the 19th, ⟨the distressed situation of your fron⟩tier, more especially ⟨at a time, when our attention⟩ will, in all probability ⟨be called, in a great measure,⟩ to the operations upon the ⟨Coast. My confidential⟩ letter of the 18th will explain ⟨my meaning.⟩ By that you will perceive ⟨the impossibility, under⟩ present appearances and ci⟨rcumstances, of sparing⟩ any further force from the Continen⟨tal Army to act in⟩ conjunction with the Militia. ⟨I imagine it will⟩ scarcely be deemed prudent ⟨to withdraw Colo.⟩ Van Schaicks Regiment from ⟨Fort Schuyler except⟩ matters take an unexpected ⟨turn in that quarter,⟩ altho’ the addition of so resp⟨ectable a Corps would⟩ be very essential, should ⟨the measures for which⟩ we are preparing be ca⟨rried into execution.⟩ From the state of our ⟨Magazines here, and from⟩ your representation ⟨of the situation of matters⟩ abov⟨e, I do not see how troops would be subsisted supposing they could be spared. We are now upon half allowance of Meat and every now and then the troops are intirely without. Whether the emergency of the occasion, and the flattering prospect of putting an end to the War by one vigorous⟩ effort, ⟨will induce the states to throw in extraor⟩dinary aids ⟨and supplies, I cannot tell; but⟩ if such effects are ⟨not produced, or some⟩ means can be fallen upon to ⟨procure Money to enable the Commiss⟩aries and Quarter Masters to ⟨provide in the co⟩mmon mode, I do not know what ⟨may be the⟩ consequences.
⟨I⟩ have thought, that as the peace of the whole ⟨Northern⟩ Frontier in a great measure depends upon ⟨checking the⟩ most dangerous Body of the enemy, ⟨which will⟩ act upon the Mohawk River, it might ⟨not be am⟩iss for the Legislature of your State ⟨to call upon⟩ that of Massachusetts, for an aid of ⟨Men from⟩ their Western Counties. They will shortly ⟨be informed⟩ of the necessity of assembling our whole ⟨Continent⟩al force to a point, and will, therefore, per⟨haps more rea⟩dily come into the measure.

⟨I am h⟩appy in knowing that your ⟨Excellency will attri⟩bute my refusal of your request ⟨to the true cause—inability—⟩It is certainly to be ⟨lamented that we cannot oppose a sufficient force to every point upon which we are attacked, but that not being the case, prudence and policy both dictate the expediency of directing our efforts against the source from whence all our difficulties springs. I have the Honor⟩

24th May. Since ⟨writing the foregoing I have been favd⟩ with your Excellen⟨cy’s letter of the 21st. I at the same⟩ time received one f⟨rom Colo. Van Schaick, in⟩ which he mentions the ⟨critical situation of Fort⟩ Schuyler for want of provisi⟨on, there not being more⟩ as he informs me, than one ⟨months supply in the⟩ Garrison by the last Retur⟨n—This is a matter of⟩ so much importance th⟨at every measure ought to⟩ be fallen upon to give re⟨lief. Genl Schuyler⟩ informs me of a parcel of ⟨Corn in the possession⟩ of Colo. Lewis. I shall direct ⟨Colo. Van Schaick to en⟩deavour to get it thrown ⟨into the Fort. As to Salt⟩ Meat, which is the only ⟨kind which is proper I⟩ know not from whence it ⟨is to come. We have⟩ so totally exhausted the ⟨Continental Stock, that the⟩ Commissary General ⟨has been obliged to borrow three⟩ hundred Bar⟨rels from private Gentlemen in⟩ Philadelphia ⟨to endeavour to support the Army untill Grass Cattle can be brought from New England—The Garrison at West point are, if possible, in a worse situation than we are here—I am confident that your Excellency and the Legislature will, considering the importance of Fort schuyler, and the inability to afford any present relief from the Conti⟩nental Magazines⟨, take every possible step to⟩ throw in a supply—⟨I shall not dra⟩w down Van Schaicks Regt ⟨untill we see further in⟩to the state of matters to ⟨the Westward.
I am⟩ infinitely obliged by your ready ⟨promise to⟩ concur with any requisitions which ⟨may be made⟩ to your State, should our expected ⟨cooperation⟩ be carried into execution—A ⟨Committee⟩ of Congress, appointed for the pur⟨pose of ca⟩lling upon the States for what supplies ⟨may be deem⟩ed necessary upon such an occa⟨sion are⟩ now in Camp—You may therefore ⟨expect to he⟩ar from them upon the subject ⟨in a few days⟩. I have the honor to be with ⟨mutilated⟩ Esteem ⟨mutilated⟩ Most obt Servt

⟨Go: Washington⟩


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 23 May 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir
Morris Town May 23d 1780

I have had a long conversation with General Schuyler this morning, and have seen the powers and appointments upon the present business

entrusted to the direction of the Committee, as well as their powers to act under: From all which I am fully of opinion that the plan is altogether incompetent to the purpose and end proposd. Time will not permit me to enter into the detail of objections, nor perhaps would their force appear in the same point of light to another, who has had less experience in the difficulties attending the business than I have.
It is my opinion that your Excellency ought to ask the decided opinion of the Committee in writing, whether they think their powers are competent to the business expected of them. If they say not, as I am sure they must, then I would require of them the powers and plan they conceive necessary to support the enterprize. The whole of which I would state to Congress, supported with my own sentiments, as well with respect to the defects of the present plan, as the plan necessary for the business. Nothing but some such decisive measure as this, will put the business on a proper footing. The measure will at least place your conduct in the fairest point of light. It will free the Committee from their present embarassments, and place the labouring oar where it ought to be. If you undertake the business upon the present footing, and exercise powers beyound the present scheme. It will be asked why you did not ask for an enlargement of the Committees powers, if you deemed them inadequate. And if you engage and fail for want of support, it will be asked why you embarked in such a business without being fully perswaded that the means were adequate to the end. In what ever point of veiw, I consider the subject, I see the greatest propriety in your Excellency stating to the Committee this query, whether it is their opinion, they can give you such support, as will warrant your engaging in a cooperation with the French forces, for the reduction of New York.
I have just seen Col. Hambleton who says your Excellency desires my opinion upon the position the Fleet off the Hook ought to take, upon the supposition it is a French fleet, and come with a view of cooperating with us. It is my opinion if your Excellency intends to support the expedition against New York at all events, without regard to the powers or plan laid down by Congress, (if that should fail or appear in adequate to the end) then the fleet and forces ought to be immediately brought into the Hook, and the Troops landed upon Statten Island, where our Army ought to reenforce them at the same instant of time. But if your Excellency is determined to depend upon Civil Government for support altogether, without any exertions of your own, and you think the present plan and powers of the Committee defective; it is my advice, to let the fleet and forces go into Rhode Island; unless you should think it advisable to put 1000 or 1500 Men on board, and push on the fleet without loss of time to the Southward.

To bring the fleet into the Hook without having taken some decisive resolution upon the line of conduct you mean to pursue, may tend to embarass you and injure our Ally. We ought carefully to avoid bringing our friends in [to] distress and disgrace, if we cannot avail ourselves of the benefit intended us.
I shall be at Head Quarters in a few Minutes, and will give your Excellency my further sentiments upon the matter. I am with great respect Your Excellency Most Obedieent humble Ser.

Nath. Greene


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 23 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

Sir
Head Qrs Morris Town May 23d 1780

I have the pleasure to inform Your Excellency in confidince—that a French fleet may be soon looked for on our Coast. The place where they will arrive is not certainly known, but they may probably come to Rhode-Island. The Chevalier Fayole is charged with some dispatches for the Admiral, which it is of great importance he should receive as soon as possible after his arrival. The Chevalier is also instructed to procure a sufficient number of skilful & faithful pilots to go on board the Fleet the moment they may arrive—and that there may not be the least possible delay in the business—He is to have a proper number of suitable Boats in readiness, in which they may proceed. Your Excellency I am persuaded will be impressed at the first instant with the importance of this event—and I take the liberty to recommend Mr Fayole to your good offices & to request that You will assist him in making the earliest provision of the Boats & pilots—of the description I have mentioned—and in every other matter where he may require it. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major David Humphreys, 23 May 1780
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
Hartford May 23d 1780

I have taken the liberty to present Your Excellency, with the Copy of an Address to the Armies under your command, which was begun for my own amusement, compleated with the Design suggested in the introduction, and suffered to be published, on the representation of my friends, that it might in some measure answer so valuable and important a purpose.
Should it be so fortunate as to have any effect in that way, or afford a moment’s amusement, and relaxation to your Excellency from the incessant and momentuous cares which are incident to your elevated station; it will give the most ample satisfaction, and pleasure to Your Excellency’s Most Obedient And most Humble Servant

David Humphrys.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Jones, 23 May 1780
From: Jones, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Dear Sr
23d May 1780

Col. Grayson has mentioned to me his receiving a Letter from Genl Weedon desiring to serve in the northern Army if any employmt can be carved out for him—This Gentleman for whom, as an Officer, I entertain a regard, has attributed the regulation of his Rank, wch has occasioned his retireing, in great part to me; tho’ God knows I did no more in the matter than was my Duty by moving in Congress that the dispute be refd to a Board of G. Officers. He has ever since his return kept himself aloof from me—abt this I have no concern. I promised Col. Grayson I wod mention the proposal to you and had no doubt if a place could be found for him you wod call him into service. his only objection it seems is his serving under Woodford—If you shall find an opening for Genl Weedon I believe it will be agreeable and convenient to him but I request it may not be known to him that I had any concern in the business. various Letters from the Southward recd yesterday mention the Enemies assaulting our Lines at Chs Town on the 25th last month and were repulsed with the loss of 300 killed and from 150 to 250 prisoners This account though by various communications originates with the Post Master at Edenton. Col. Blain⟨e⟩ shewed me a Letter received yesterday from Col. Forsyth at Richmond in virga dated the 16th mentioning that a Col. Henderson had come out from Chs Town the 28th ult. when no material change had happened except the loss of Col. Parker of our Line by a random Shot—Genl Scot without and under him abt 400 light Infantry some Horse and abt 1500 Militia—provision in the Garrison till July. 4000 N. Carolina Militia ⟨ordd⟩ down but no Arms for wch a maj: Eaton had come to Virga and was the Bearer of the News brot by Henderson. a Bill had been twice read for sending 2500 Militia from virga—thus for these accounts—If any assault had been made the 25th it wod have reached N. York and you wod have heard it ere now. very truly Dr Sr yr aff. Servt

Jos: Jones.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Henry Knox, 23 May 1780
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Morris Town, 23 May 1780.

To digest a perfect plan of operations, of the magnitude of those proposed by Your Excellency, demands a much greater extent of abilities and military experience than I can pretend to have. It requires a mind, able to comprehend and provide for every possible exigence, so that, in case of success, we might be ready to urge it to the utmost, or, of misfortune, to render it as little distressing as the event would admit. However, zeal and duty induce me cheerfully to comply with Your Excellency’s request, in the best manner I can; and I shall be happy if any ideas of mine will in the least assist in the arduous business before you.
In the first instance, as a preliminary step to every other exertion, the departments of the quarter master general and commissary of provision must be placed on such a footing as to answer the end and design of their institution. These are the main springs of an army, and, unless they are in perfect order, every movement depending on them must be wrong and will in the end produce destruction.
There must be many things in the quarter master general’s department essentially necessary to be done previous to the intended operations; but what they are, and whether they can be effected, will better be determined by the quarter master general. Forage is included in that department—It is essential that a very large collection of dry forage

be made, with the utmost expedition, and deposited in the places that shall be agreed on hereafter.
Magazines of provision ought to be established at proper places, antecedent to any important expedition being undertaken. It would be superlative folly to enter upon an enterprize, which will require much time in its execution, without an adequate supply of provision for a certain time, and an assurance of the supplies being continued.
The provisions will, I presume, be principally furnished by the States of Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts, and, in some degree, New York. I suppose Jersey to be almost exhausted, and that Maryland has already furnished a very large proportion of the quotas assigned by Congress. Virginia, perhaps, is too remote to expect much assistance from in the present case. Besides beef and pork, bread and flour, rum is too material an article to be omitted. No exertions ought to be spared to produce ample quantities of it.
I think it a very material circumstance that the governors, or presidents of those States on which the main stress will lay should be called together at Head Quarters, or to whoever shall have the principal direction of affairs. This step is necessary, as well to infuse into them a proper degree of energy, as to determine the supplies to be furnished the quarter master’s and commissary’s departments, and the number of men each state shall respectively raise. If this is not eligible, or practicable, persons of influence ought to be dispatched to the different states to press the requisitions and expedite the supplies.
If the different states will not, or cannot, grant the means to supply the deficiencies of the two great departments of quarter master and commissary, I do not see how any expedition of importance can be attempted, consistent with reason or military principles. But I flatter myself that the country possess ample resources for the occasion; and that, as soon as a prospect of great success shall be held out, there will be found vigor to draw them forth for the good of the service.
The two departments upon which the existence of the army depends being properly established, the next object will be to enquire what expedition shall be undertaken. This will be necessary, to determine what force to call upon the states for in aid of the French army and continental troops. To adjust this point properly, we must suppose,
First, That the enemy have taken Charlestown and garrisoned it with three thousand of the troops who went to the southward; and that the remainder of the force, of perhaps between 4 and 5000 effective men, influenced by the intelligence of the designs of the French have returned to New York.
2dly—That they have not suceeded at Charlestown, but raised the siege in consequence of the above intelligence, and with their whole force,

except the diminution of killed, wounded, dead and sick amounting perhaps to 1200, have returned to New York.
3dly—That the french fleet and army arrive safely, previous to the supposed junction of the troops under General Clinton with those in New York.
It is likely that one of these supposed events will happen; and considering the importance of New York to the enemy and its being their primary object, all smaller ones will be obliged to yield to it. Therefore I am inclined to believe that Sir Harry Clinton, upon the first intelligence he received of the intentions of the French, raised the siege of Charlestown, if he had not reduced it, or had a moral certainty of reducing it in two or three days. He will not stay there upon the uncertain, or even certain, favorable issue of the siege, if it must be protracted, and suffer the power of Britain in America to be torn up by the roots.
The British ministry, knowing the designs of France, would not content themselves with sending one frigate only to New-York, which was liable to many accidents of the seas and enemies. Probably, besides that, they sent one to Newfoundland and Halifax, and a third directly to Charlestown. If so, we may conclude that Sir Harry received the information nearly as soon as they had it in New York, and that, by the time of Montague’s arrival at South Carolina, the preparations for raising the siege and returning to New York were pretty mature. But even if this should not have happened, yet, from the time the Iris sailed from New York, it is probable that Sir Harry at this period is on his return, and that he will return on or before the 10th of June.
I am afraid that the French fleet will not arrive, or the condition of our army be such as to be ready, in all respects, to commence our operations by that time.
From the circumstances thus stated, it is rational to suppose that Gen. Clinton will have formed a junction of a certain portion of his force with the garrison of New York, before it will be possible for us to be in readiness to act with vigor.
But, it may be possible for the French to arrive previous to the supposed junction, and take their station off Sandy Hook with a force superior to the British naval power in these seas. In that case, New York ought decidedly to be our object. Because the chances of success will be greater than of a failure, and more beneficial than the latter will probably be distressing.
But, even under these circumstances, our force ought to be as respectable as if Gen. Clinton had formed the junction. For his inducement to it will be so great, that we ought to believe he will leave no exertion untried to effect a measure of such infinite importance to him. Our force indubitably ought to be proportioned to probable events.

From the popularity of an attempt on New York, I am induced firmly to believe that any number of men might be obtained on such terms as we could wish. Indeed, some have doubted whether we could subsist them, but I should suppose that it would be easy to procure provisions if the respective governments will exert themselves. But I do not conceive this to be the first part of the military plan. For if a general shall receive orders to besiege a place, the first thing he requests will certainly be an adequate force to reduce it. If the country, or his employers, are unable, or decline, to furnish subsistance for the men indispensably necessary for the purpose, is it his fault if the siege should not be undertaken? Most certainly not, provided he has requested the necessary means.
In the divided state of the enemy, New York is clearly an object. Let us then suppose their force joined, and examine whether that event ought to make any change in our measures. The number of the enemy that went from New York last winter, in both divisions, might have been about 8500. Suppose 1200 of these to have been wasted in the campaign the remainder will be about 7000. Again, suppose Gen. Clinton has taken Charlestown and garrisoned it with 3000, the number that will be to return may amount to about 4000, which number, added to those in New York, are not, in my opinion, sufficient to divert us from attempting the siege of that place.
But, if that should not be the case, and that Sir Harry Clinton sent no troops to Pensacola, (which is rather improbable, considering the serious demonstrations the Spainiards were making against it) he will be able to bring back about 7000 men. This is undoubtedly a respectable body of troops, especially when added to the garrison of at least equal numbers. Yet, under this event, if we could obtain an army proportioned to the attempt, and provisions to subsist them, together with a decided naval superiority, I should prefer a siege, or, if that is not practicable, a blockade of New York to any other enterprize whatever. A successful operation against New York would totally annihilate the British power in America and terminate the war, which would not be the case with any other object we could undertake.
However, if it should be thought, upon a more critical investigation, having a proper and full knowledge of all circumstances, an attempt superior to the combined exertions of the French and American force, an expedition to the Southward, after the sickly season is passed, might be formed, to be pointed against Charlestown, (if in the enemy’s possession) Georgia, or East Florida. The composition of the troops to be principally French, aided by a few continental battalions and officers. Halifax, to people in our circumstances, without a navy, I think would be an improper object for us to attempt. Much might be said upon the propriety of an expedition to Canada, supported by a french fleet and

army; of the facility with which a conquest might be made by a double invasion, by the St Lawrence and the lakes; of the utility and importance of it, but as the matter does not appear to have been in contemplation, I shall only say, that, in my opinion, next to New York, Canada is the most important object that can claim our attention. This, however, to be understood upon the principles of the enemy’s having raised the siege of Charlestown and formed a junction of their force at New York, so as to render it unattainable by us.
If we undertake the siege of New York, which has, or probably will have, a garrison of nearly 14,000 men, we ought to have double that number for the purposes of York and Long Islands and their communications, exclusive of 4 or 5,000 which must be in Jersey. The force in Jersey will be necessary to besiege the posts which the enemy have, or may have, on the west side of Hudsons river, to cover the communication from Pennsylvania, to prevent the enemy making any incursions into Jersey previous to the reduction of Powles hook; and they ought to be provided with proper means of throwing themselves on York or Staten islands, or wherever they may be ordered. Upon the whole, I should suppose that the siege ought not to be undertaken, without we have 31 or 32 thousand effective men; exclusive of which number, a garrison of a thousand or twelve hundred will be wanted for West Point.
It is presumed that Congress will direct the Maryland line to return to this army with the utmost expedition. The propriety of such a decision is as clearly evident as any axiom whatever; and if they do not make it, I confess I shall conceive it to be a bad omen of our success, and of the vigor and decision which ought to animate that body upon whom so much, according to the constitution, must depend.
If the Maryland line returns, we may estimate the Continental troops at 8000, and the French at 6000. The deficiency then, according to my estimate, will be about 19000 men, which the states must be called upon for.
If the quotas of men assigned by Congress, last winter, upon the different states, to serve during the war, cannot be obtained, as I believe they cannot, at least so speedily as to be of any service in the intended operation, then for the men to be draughted to serve during the campaign, to end the first of January, or sooner, as circumstances shall permit. These men to be incorporated into the Continental battalions. When we consider the great number of veteran soldiers who have been discharged in the past winter, and at other periods, who would prefer this union to serving under the militia officers, there can be but little doubt that the requisite number of men might be easily obtained, and generally of those who, organized as above, would render essential service to their country.

To depend principally on militia formed into battalions under their own officers, for the arduous service we are about to engage in, will be to deceive ourselves most wretchedly—to accumulate a monstrous debt—ruin the hopes and entirely prevent the future exertions of the country—disgust our allies—and perhaps annihilate us as a nation. This plan, besides being infinitely more energetic than any other formation of the militia, will strictly be the most oeconomical that can be devised, as it will save us the vast expences of an army of militia officers.
I have as high a veneration and respect for the militia as any person can have. I know them to be individually brave, and in many instances to behave in such a manner as to reflect the highest honor on themselves as well as their country; but a siege requires troops of an essentially different composition. We must be explicit—the object in view is too great, and its consequences too infinite, to be entered upon, without the means shall be such as rationally to promise an happy termination. Without such principles, no success can justify, to a thinking mind, an enterprize voluntarily and deliberately undertaken. The glare of victory may for some time produce an eclat, but the judgement of sensible men will effectually prevent its being perpetuated; whilst on the other hand, a failure under such circumstances will instantly, and forever, rivet the folly of the attempt.
I would, with due deference, propose that the states be called upon for the number wanted for the campaign, in some degree proportioned to the following scale,

New Hampshire—
  1000

Massachusetts—
  5000

Rhode Island—
  1000

Connecticut—
  3500

New York—
  2500

New Jersey—
  2500

Pennsylvania—
  4000

  19,500.

The force being obtained, and every necessary arrangement made, I would propose that we should commence our operations by the way of Morrisania and its vicinity. That appears to me to be the most proper place for many reasons. The French transports can come into the sound, guarded by a proper force, and land their troops as near as may be thought necessary, whilst the principal part of the heavy ships are endeavoring to force a passage, by the hook and narrows, into the harbour of New York. The transports, after having landed the troops and stores, may either ride in the sound, or put into New London harbour if it should be necessary.
Being at Morrissania, with our boats or pontoons, we shall be in a

situation to distract the enemy, by making feints to land on York Island, by the north or east river, which will oblige them to withdraw their out posts from the upper part of the island, or so to divide their force as to leave us an easy passage over to it.
By commencing our operations that way, we may procure a safe passage over to Long Island, establish our communication with and secure a retreat from it, by fortifying the islands, which will also prevent the passing of any of the enemy’s vessels thro’ hell-gate. These are material points to be attended to, for Long Island is essential to the reduction of New York.
As many of our manoeuvres will be by water, it will be of the first importance that an hundred boats be provided, each to carry 50 or 60 men besides the rowers, and for the management of them there ought to be a body of a thousand or twelve hundred sailor⟨s⟩ obtained from the eastern states. Each boat must have a sea officer—a certain number of boats to constitute a division, under its principal officer—and the whole to be under the direction of the most intelligent, docile, brave sea officer that can be found, who must be perfectly skilled in the doctrine of tides and currents in the places where he shall act. These sailors and officers must be taught to place their point of glory in the perfect management and care of the boats, and obedience to orders.
The detatchment in Jersey to have a number of boats, as well for bridges as for transportation.
The boats must be placed on carriages, and move with the troops when necessary. Besides being properly fixed with oars to transport the troops, there must be plank, timber, cables, anchors, and every other material to fix them as bridges, also artificers, to repair or arrange them upon every occasion. This department appears to be the pivot upon which our manoeuvres by water will depend, and I cannot help repeating, that no pains or expence ought to be omitted to put it in perfect order. It may possibly be alledged, that the French and our own vessels may provide us with sailors for such purposes as shall be necessary. To this it may be answered, that altho’ it is possible they may, yet they cannot execute the critical business of the minute water matters, so well as persons who will place their reputation upon the right execution of what shall be entrusted to them. Besides, the sailors may be otherways wanted, at the same time our demands for them may be the most pressing.
Our supplies could be conveyed to us through the sound, and in some measure down Hudsons river to a certain distance, and from thence by land carriage to Morrissania. A magazine must be established at Morris Town, to receive flour and other articles which may be brought from Pennsylvania, and from thence transported to such parts of the North

river—as shall be safe and most convenient to our army. To transport flour from Philadelphia and the various parts of Pennsylvania wholly by water, would be tedious and uncertain, if not hazardous. Our existence will depend so much on bread, which I presume will mostly be from that state, that the conveyance ought to be safe and regular, although the expences and trouble should be thereby exceedingly extended.
The point from which to commence our operations being determined, the intention must be kept a profound secret; and not a single demonstration of it, until all things shall be ready for forming a junction of the French and Continental troops, and then our movements ought to be as rapid as lightning, to prevent the enemy from strengthening himself in the places where we intend to strike. But if any previous movements could be made by which the enemy would be deceived, it might amply compensate for the trouble.
Providence, in Rhode Island, on many accounts of convenience of buildings and security from the enemy, would be a proper place for the French to establish their hospitals and deposit their heavy stores. But I should prefer Norwich, in Connecticut, on account of its being nearer to the seat of action. It would be as secure, tho’ not quite so convenient, as Providence. But wherever the hospitals are established, there must be every kind of produce the country affords procured for the refreshment of the sick, and all kinds of live stock and vegetables at the place where the troops shall land. It will be necessary to have large quantities of these articles in the first instance, as a means to conciliate the affections of our allies.
The principal article of ordnance stores of which we are deficient is powder, and we shall not have a sufficiency of that article, even if the quantity expected by the Alliance should arrive safe. And except we can borrow some of the different states we shall have rather a small allowance for the contingences of a siege.
The shot and shells in this state must be transported to such parts of the North River as shall be proper, relatively to their safety, and the situation of our army. Those in Pennsylvania to be brought round by water, if there shall be no probable danger from the enemy. The military stores that shall be procured in Massachusetts and Rhode Island to be also brought round by water, under the same circumstances, and deposited at New London, except such as may be wanted for immediate service. Those which shall be obtained from Connecticut and Springfield to be brought down the river and deposited in some place near its mouth, until they shall be called for.
An estimate of the material articles wanted in the ordnance department, and necessary for a siege, together with what we have in

possession, shall be made out as speedily as possible and laid before Your Excellency.
Your Excellency asks, How far, with safety to both armies, could the French troops act separately, or with a few Continental troops? In an operation against the enemy in New York I do not conceive it would be prudent, either for the French or us, to act separately. The perfect knowledge of the country, character, language, genius, and temper of the people, which most of our officers possess are circumstances of infinite importance in favor of a junction of forces, and cannot possibly be gained by the French troops, in any considerable degree, in the course of a campaign, the want of which might be of the most fatal consequences both to us and them.
I would propose that the French troops, as auxiliaries, form the left wings of the first and second lines and corps of reserve, commanded throughout by their own officers; and that all their out pickets have some Continental soldiers mixed with them, whose fidelity can be relied upon and a continental officer subordinate to the French officer commanding the picket. There might be some reasons adduced to support an opinion for the troops to act separately, but they are trivial, when compared with the safety of the armies.
These are the outlines of the general plan of operations, which, in my opinion, would be most proper for us to prosecute. If my sentiments should, in any considerable degree, accord with Your Excellency’s ideas on the subject, and you should wish to have any part explained or enlarged, I shall do it most willingly. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect Respect, and attachment, Your Excellency’s Humble Servant

H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 23 May 1780
From: Muhlenberg, Peter
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fredericksburg [Va.] May 23d 17[80]

enclosd I have the Honor to transmit Your Excellency, a Letter I have receivd by this days post from Doctor Rickman; together with the return of the Sick remaining in the Hospital—as the post is just going out, I shall beg leave, just to mention to Your Excellency that I yesterday receivd a Supply of Money for the Recruiting Service—Colo. Febiger will superintend at this post, & Colo. Green at Winchester, I shall set out with Colo. Green for Winchester to Morrow Morning & shall return in Six days, & then take a ⟨tour⟩ to Chesterfield Courthouse—Next Week I shall send on the first Detachment of Fifty—our Accounts from Charlestown by this days post are so various & Contradictory, that they cannot be depended on—thus much is certain that the Town was safe on the 3d of May. I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt hble Servt

P: Muhlenberg


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 23 May 1780 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Joseph Reed, 23 May 1780. On 28 May, GW wrote Reed: “I am much obliged to you for your favor of the 23d.”


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 24 May 1780
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War office [Philadelphia] May 24. 1780

We have recieved a letter from Mr Pausch, Surgeon Major of the Hessian regimt of Knyphausen, informing that Major de Stein on his return from New York—brought a letter from Genl Knyphausen to Genl St Clair, intreating that Mr Pausch might be permitted to go into New York. Genl St Clair informs us that he communicated Genl Knyphausen’s letter to your Excellency, and that you consented to his request in favor of Mr Pausch. But as he has not actually recieved a passport, we imagine it may have slipped your Excellency’s memory, or the Comy has not attended to your directions. We therefore beg leave to remind your Excellency of General Knyphausen’s request, that such order may be taken thereon as your Excellency may think proper.
We are also induced, from the recommendations of divers persons in his favor, to inclose to your Excellency a letter from Ensign Hamilton

of the 17th British regt requesting permission to go into New York for a few days to settle some accounts; submitting to your Excellency the propriety of granting or refusing his requests. We have the honour to be with great respect your Excellency’s most obedt servants.

By order of the boardTim. Pickering


Title: From George Washington to the Committee at Headquarters, 24 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee at Headquarters

Gentlemen
Head Quarters Morris Town 24th May 1780

I have considered the powers vested in you by the resolution of Congress of the 19th Inst. The importance of taking every step on the surest ground induces me to request your opinion of the competency of these powers to the objects they are intended to answer—and whether you think they will enable you as far as is practicable in our circumstances, to draw forth the resources of the Country. If you should be of opinion they are not, I entreat you will have the goodness to point out in what they appear to you to be defective—and what alterations or additions may be necessary to render them as far as possible adequate to the

emergency. I have the honor to be with perfect respect—Gentlemen Your Mo. Obet Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Craik, 24 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Craik, James

[Morristown 24 May 1780]

A French fleet and army may possibly arrive in a short time at Rhode Island. At the request of Mr De Corni, Commissary of War to His Most Christian Majesty, (wishing to make previous to their arrival the necessary provision of hospitals and refreshments for the sick) I am to desire you will without delay proceed to Providence in the State of Rhode Island and undertake the care of this business.
The objects that demand your attention are these—to provide one or more convenient buildings for the reception of the sick belonging to the fleet and army which you will estimate at about twelve to fifteen hundred—They must have appartments sufficient to contain these without crouding them, and so as to admit a separate distribution and treatment of each particular disease. They must have an airy and salubrious situation—be contiguous to each other, if possible, have yards and gardens—admitting easy communications from one to the other, so as to unite and facilitate the service.
Independent of the apartments for the sick—there must be one or more kitchens—an apothecary’s shop—a magazine for drugs and remedies an oven—a bakery—a deposit for the provisions—lodgings for the director surgeons Phusicians and others employed with them—a Magazine near for the effects of the Hospital and in short all the conveniences that may promote this interesting service.
You will have provided such a number of oxen sheep poultry and

vegetables as you deem necessary for the first demands of the Hospital; I give you a letter for Governor Greene to furnish you with whatever aid you may want; you will make him an estimate and inform him to what extent his assistance will be requisite.
I rely on your judgment prudence and activity that all these arrangements will be made in the best manner circumstances will permit—and in a manner satisfactory to those for whose benefit they are intended. You know how much we owe to our allies & what claims they have upon our gratitude and affection for a reciprocity of good offices. Given at Head Quarters Morris Town May 24th 1780.


Title: General Orders, 25 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Morristown Thursday May 25th 1780
Parole Finland  Countersigns Pope; Port.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Stark[,] Major C. Stewart[,] Brigade Major 2d penna Brigade
The Criminals now under Sentence of death are to be executed tomorrow morning Eleven o clock near the Grand parade: Fifty men

properly officered from each brigade to attend—The Camp colour men from the Pennsylvania—Connecticutt and York Lines under the direction of a Serjeant from each to dig the Graves this afternoon.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Champion, Sr., 25 May 1780
From: Champion, Henry Sr.
To: Washington, George

State of Connecticut—Colchester May 25th 1780

May it please your Excellency, this State have adopted the Measures Recommended by Congress Regulating the Comys Dept., & have done me the Honor to appoint me their superintending Comy, but have Change’d the Chief of my Assistant Purchasers, those New appointed (tho very good men) are not so Experience’d, & Cannot go on at this, the most Critical Junction to advantage at first Setting out, I am now well supply’d from this state with Cash for further supplies & will Exert my Self to the utmost of my abillities, however the want of money from the Continent to pay off my old Debts of Six, Eight, & ten months standing, disables most of the good farmers that I depend upon for future supplies from filling their pastures, the price also being limited in this state; which the purchasers may give, & not Exceed, I fear, will prevent my being able to Increase the Supplies for Some weeks, I am very Sorry to trouble your Excellency, Especially with any thing disagreable, but from your request, & every other Consideration, Esteem it my duty to Inform you of my prospects in regard to present & future supplies.
I do still, & design, to Continue to purchase in the state of Massachusetts Bay under Colo. Blanes appointment till that state Comes into Some Regulations for themselves. I am your Excellencies Most Obedt H. sert

Henry Champion


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 25 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dr Sir
Head Qrs Morris Town May 25: 1780

Since my Letter of the 23d & 24th which accompanies this—I have also directed the Issuing Commissary Colo. Stewart, to forward a Hundred Barrells of flour from hence without delay to New Windsor to be conveyed from thence by Colo. Hay to Albany to Colo. Vanschaick, as a further supply for Fort Schuyler. I hope it will not be long before it arrives at Albany, from whence I have requested Colo. Vanschaick to exert himself in concert with the quarter master, to have it sent to the Garrison with the greatest possible expedition. perhaps it may be in Your Excellency’s power to facilitate the transportation in some degree—and if it should, I am confident it will be done. I should be happy if

we could throw a Hundred or more Barrells of Salt provision into the Garrison; but as I mentioned in my Letter of the 23d & 24th, I do not know from whence it is to come. I have found however on enquiry of Colo. Stewart, that he believes from Letters in his possession, there is a quantity belonging to the Continent in Connecticut. He does not know the places of deposit, but imagines these can be ascertained either by Mr Nathaniel Stevens, an Assistant Issuing Commissary at Fish Kill or by Mr Peter Colt, who was in the purchasing department at Hartford. I enclose Your Excellency an Order for a Hundred Barrells, wherever it may be found—and from the unhappy—thrice unhappy state of our finance and Quarter Masters department, must leave it with You to devise the means of getting it to Albany and to have it forwarded from thence to the Garrison. I confide in Your Excellency’s goodness to excuse the trouble I give You on this occasion, which nothing but the cause I have mentioned should have induced me to have offered. I have the Honor to be with the Most sincere respect & esteem Dr sir Yr Most Obedt st

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Committee at Headquarters, 25 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee at Headquarters

Gentlemen,
Morris-Town May 25th 1780.

I have attentively considered the circular letter to the different States which you did me the honor to communicate for my perusal, and I am happy to find, that my ideas perfectly correspond with those of the Committee.
The view they have given of our situation is just, full & explicit; The measures they have recommended are well adapted to the emergency and of indispensable necessity. I very freely give it as my opinion, that unless they are carried into execution in the fullest extent and with the greatest decision and rapidity, it will be impossible for us to undertake the intended co-operation with any reasonable prospect of success.
The consequences you have well delineated—The succour designed for our benefit will prove a serious misfortune; and instead of rescuing us from the embarrassments we experience & from the danger with which we are threatned will in all probability, precipitate our ruin. Drained and Weakned as we already are, the exertions we shall make, though they may be too imperfect to secure success, will at any rate be such as to leave us in a state of relaxation and debility, from which it will be difficult if not impracticable to recover. The Country

exhausted—The People dispirited—the consequence & reputation of these States in Europe sunk—Our friends chagrined & discouraged—our Enemies deriving new credit, new confidence, new resources.
We have not, nor ought we to wish an alternative—The Court of France has done so much for us—that we must make a decisive effort on our part. Our situation demands it—’tis expected. We have the means to success without some unforeseen accident, and it only remains to employ them. But the conjuncture requires all our wisdom and all our energy. Such is the present state of this Country, that the utmost exertion of its resources, though equal, is not more than equal to the object and our measures must be so taken as to call them into immediate & full effect.
There is only one thing, I should have been happy the Committee had thought proper to take up on a larger scale. I mean the supply of Men by Draught. Instea⟨d⟩ of compleating the deficiencies of the quotas assigned by the resolution of Congress of the 9th of February last, it would in my apprehension be of the greatest importanc⟨e⟩, that the respective states should fill their Battalions to their complement of five hundred & four rank & file. Considering the different possible dispositions of the enemy and the different possible operations on our part, we ought not to have less than Twenty thousand Continental efficient troops. The whole number of Battalions from New Hampshire to Pensylvania inclusive, if complete would not amount to this force. The total would be twenty three thousand one hundred & eighty four rank & file, from which the customary deductions being made, there will not remain more than about Eighteen thousand fit for the Service of the field. To this may be added the remainder of the Sixteen Regiments amounting to about one thousand.
Unless the principal part of the force be composed of men regularly organized, and on the continuance of whose Services we can rely, nothing decisive can be attempted. The Militia are too precarious a dependance to justify such an attempt, where they form a material part of the plan. Militia can not have the necessary habits nor the consistency, either for an assault or a siege. In employing them essentially, we should run a risk of being abandoned, in the most critical moments. The expence and the consumption of Provisions & Stores (which we are bound by every motive to economise) will be very considerably increased. As we should not be able to keep the same body in the field during the whole campaign, we Should a great part of the time have a double set of men to pay & feed—those in actual service—those on the March to relieve them or returning home when relieved. The operations of husbandry will suffer in proportion.
The mode by Draught is, I am persuaded the only efficacious one to

obtain men—it appears to me certain, that it is the only one to obtain them in time, nor can the period, you have appointed for bringing them into the field be delayed without defeating the object. I have little doubt, that at any time, and much less at the present junctu⟨re,⟩ the powers of government exerted with confidence will be equal to the purpose of Draughting. The hopes of the people elevated by the prospects before them will induce a chearful compliance, with this and all the other measures of vigor, which have been recommended, and which the exigency requires.
Notwithstanding the extension of the Draught which I have taken the liberty to advise, occasional aids of Militia will be still wanted, but in mu⟨ch⟩ less number in this case than in the oth⟨er⟩.
I have entire confidence th⟨at⟩ the respective Legislatures will be ful⟨ly⟩ impressed with the importance and delicacy of the present juncture, & will second the views of the Committee by the most speedy & vigorous efforts. With every sentiment of respect & esteem I have the honr to be Gentn Yr most Obed. Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: State of Matters Laid Before the Committee at Headquarters, c.25–31 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

[c.25–31 May Morristown]

The plan adopted by the committee in their late circular letter to the States is a very judicious preliminary step—but something more definitive ought to be done.
Offensive operations—on our part—are doubtless expected—We should in the first place then settle the number of Men requisite for the greatest enterprize we can undertake, and against the whole force the enemy can bring together. That is an enterprize against New York with the Troops acting to the Southward added to its present garrison.
The Enemy’s force at New York in this event cannot be estimated lower than fifteen thousand regulars besides refugees & militia which are reckoned four or five thousand—call the whole 17,500.
Double this number is the least we can ask to operate against it. That is 35,000 effective men besides two small corps we shall want in the Jerseys and at west point. In Europe to besiege Troops in their works, the proportion is Six to one in favour of the besiegers—We cannot ask less than two to one against New York, even allowing us the command of the water wch is an essential advantage.
The Corps of French Troops will probably not exceed five thousand effective men—the remainder say 30,000 must be furnished by us together with abt 1500 for the two detachments above mentioned.
To have this effective force, our total must not on the lowest calculation be less than [  ] rank & file.
The compliment of Troops required by the last circular letter will be 22680—the ballance of 15,320 must be in Militia.
It is therefore proposed to call upon the States from New Hampshire to Maryland inclusive for 15,320 militia rank & file, to be assembled at appointed rendezvouss by the last of June—to serve for three, at least two Months after they join the Army.
Operations of the present magnitude ought not to be undertaken but on good grounds, especially as another power will be involved in the consequences.

We should see Magazines formed before they commence—at least, we should be upon a certainty that they can be formed in time.
It is therefore proposed that Specific quantities of supplies be demanded of the States from New Hampshire to Virginia inclusive—to be at deposits determined on by the last of June, sufficient to subsist the force already mentioned together with the Corps of Artillery, Horse, & Staff of the Army & followers of it for at least two Months—and that the States be required to give explicit information whether they can comply with these requisitions & keep up Supplies in the same proportion to the last of November.
Magazines of grain for forage ought also to be formed on the same principles.
Estimates are directed to be made for this purpose.


Title: To George Washington from Alida Livingston Hansen Hoffman, 25 May 1780 [letter not found]
From: Hoffman, Alida Livingston Hansen
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Alida Livingston Hansen Hoffman, 25 May 1780. On this date, GW wrote Hoffman regarding her “letter of this date.”


Title: From George Washington to Alida Livingston Hansen Hoffman, 25 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hoffman, Alida Livingston Hansen

Madam,
Morris-Town May 25th 1780.

It gives me sincere pain to inform you that I cannot comply with the request contained in your letter of this date. In consenting to Mrs Ogdens coming out in the first instance, the feelings of humanity, & not my powers were consulted—the latter were exceeded—I was prompted to

the measure from the peculiar situation in which you were represented to be, at the time.
This I thought might justify a permission which I had refused to hundreds, but the occasion having happily ceased in your recovery I have nothing to authorize the Indulgence. It must come from the authority of the State. and if it is there pleasure to grant it at this, or any other time, I shall be happy in facilitating an interview, which you so earnestly desire, so far as it may depend on me. I have the honor to be—with the greatest respect. Madam Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 25 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Dear Sir
Head qrs [Morristown] May 25. 1780

I have received Your Two favors of the 22d Instant. The distresses of the Troops under yr Comd give me great pain and what adds to it is, I have it not in my power to administer to their relief. Our situation here is equally melancholy—for the Troops on several days have been entirely without meat—and at best on half & quarter allowance for a

considerable time. I very sincerely hope that You will derive support from Connecticut, in consequence of your Letter & the Representation which would be made by Colo. Hay. With respect to the Flour ordered to the North River—I find on inquiry, it has been stopped at Springfield for want of the means of transportation. Colo. Stewart the Issuing Commissary set out yesterday to get it in motion again if possible. If this difficulty can be surmounted—a further supply shall be attempted. On account of the deranged state of our finance and the total want of money—every thing is almost at a stand.
If You can spare any Men for the purpose—I wish You to employ them in making fascines & Gabions. The nearer they can be made to the River the better. I fear we shall find but a bad account of those which were prepared on the Sound—but even if this should not be the case, we ought to provide a considerable number.
I thank You for your intelligence. A variety of reports of the same nature with respect to Sir Henry Clintons raising the siege of Charles Town—and returning have been received through other Channels. How far they are to be depended on, I can not determine; but it seems beyond doubt that the Enemy are under great anxiety about something. I have had no Official Accounts from Charles Town myself since the 9th of April—but Letters have been received by Gentlemen from their Friends in the Country as low down ⟨as⟩ the 24th mentioning that the Enemy seemed to be turning the siege into a Blockade.
I am pained to find that the spirit of resigning still prevails in the Massachusetts line. A day scarcely passes without one or more applications on this head. This conduct at this time is very disreputable to those who practice it unless in cases of very pressing necessity—and cannot but be injurious to the service. If the same disposition should continue—when we come to act in the Field—there will not be Officers to command the Men. I wish You to speak to the Brigadiers & Field Officers on the subject who I am persuaded will use their influence to prevent so disagreable & pernicious a practice. I am D. Sir with great regard Yr Most Obedt sert

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 25 May 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Highlands [N.Y.] 25th May 1780

The Enemy have been lately out to Horse Neck—I warn’d the Officer of Militia of it, for I had Intelligence of their Intentions—Their Guard however was surpris’d—three were kill’d & two wounded, several Inhabitants carried off & two Houses burnt—They have been, & are collecting Horses from Long Island & elsewhere, & by the Choice they observe in the selecting them, they are for Men, not Teams, tho’ some fit for the Gears have also been taken—My Spies have inform’d me that Forage is their Object—that Horse Neck & Millen are to be amus’d by Attacks, While a strong Party of Horse supported by Infantry are to scour the Country & drive off Cattle, & that their Operations were to extend even to Crompond—This appears to be more probably their

Intention, as some of the Refugees of the Enemy, who have near Relations at Crompond, have sent out Emissaries to give private Notice to their Favorites of this Movement—advising them to get out of the Way.
In Consequence of which Col. Putnum is detached with a Party, to lay near the Croton, between Pine’s & new Bridge, which as it is said they intend to cross at the former & sweep downwards to the latter, is a proper Place to counteract their Designs—Millen is noticed of their Design, & every other Step taken not only to defeat their Success, but to render their Scheme as detrimental to them as possible.
I have late Papers from York—Rivington’s Silence as to the southern Operations is indicative of their ill Success—They acknowledge (as my Agents inform me) that the British are block’d up in Charle’s Town Harbour by the French, but boast that it is of no Consequence as they had a large Supply of Provision, & would be relieved by a superior British Fleet very shortly & therefore had nothing to fear but the Inclemency of the Climate. At the same Time they talk this Way they are evidently alarm’d to a great Degree, & hastening the finishing of their Fortifications & erecting new ones—have taken, & are taking their heavy Cannon from their Works remote from the City, & carrying them to the Town, or to those Works in its Vicinity—have removed their Troops station’d at Jamaica on Long Island to New York, & are seemingly contracting their Works of Defence.
Waggons & Teams however, have been press’d from Long Island lately, for what Purpose it is not known.
The Accounts I have of the Horse neck Affair is much to the Dishonor of the Enemy—an old Woman above seventy was burnt in one of the Houses, & many other Acts of Barbarity committed, as unwarrantable as savage. I am Dear Sir With every Sentiment of Respect Your Excellency’s most obedient Humble Servant

Robert Howe


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 25 May 1780
From: Laurens, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General.
Charles Town [S.C.] 25th May 1780.

Being suddenly disappointed in my expectation of retiring from this place by land in company with Colonel Ternant—I have scarcely a moment for paying Your Excellency my respects and informing that

I am in the number of prisoners by Capitulation—It is the greatest and most humiliating misfortune of my life, to be reduced to a state of inactivity at so important a juncture as the present—My only Reliance in these circumstances is on the continuance of that goodness and protection which I have always experienced from Your Excellency—An Exchange would restore me to life—and I confide in Your Excellencys kind attention to this matter—if there is a possibility of effecting it. I am with every Sentiment of Gratitude and respect Dear General Your faithful Aid

John Laurens


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 25 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dr Sir
Head qrs Morris Town May 25. 1780

Since I wrote requesting You to join me at this Camp, some events have taken place, which will make it necessary for me to alter the arrangements I then had in contemplation. This being the case, You will be pleased to remain for the present where You are till You hear from me. I am Dr sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt st

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 25 May 1780
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

My Dear General
Phila. 25th May 1780

I was favored with yours of the 18th last evening—& will in consequence render myself in Camp the latter end of next week—when I shall esteem myself honored by any commands you may please to favor me with.
We have nothing new from Charles town—the Investiture was compleated on the 28th Ultimo—all rank’s of people are anxiously waiting the event, may it be favorable, & may your Excellency put a Glorious & happy period to the American War by the Capture of the Garrison of New York, is the Ultimate wish of Your Most Obt & much Obliged Hume Sert

Anty Wayne


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

Head Quarters Morristown Friday May 26th 1780
Parole Albany  Countersigns Parker; Byles.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Irvine[,] Major Reid[,] Brigade Major Church
For manœuvring tomorrow Colonels Livingston and Johnston, Lieutenant Colonels Sumner and Hay; Adjutants from the 2nd Pennsylvania and Hand’s Brigades; Colours as usual Brigade Major Bradford to attend the Formation &ca The Battalions to be formed on the Grand Parade at Six o clock in the Morng.
Four Battalions are to manœuvre next Monday on the Common

near Colonel Abeel’s: manœuvring Officers, Colonels Courtlandt, Ganzevoort Jackson and Angell; Lieutenant Colonels Willet, Robinson Mentgez and Huntington: They are to be formed on the Ground at 7 o clock precisely; Eight pieces of Artillery are to be annexed to these Battalions.
The manœuvring officers of the four battalions and the one to command the artillery are to attend the Exercise tomorrow morng.
Clinton’s Stark’s and the Connecticut brigades each give an Adjutant for these Battalions. Colours from the 1st pennsylvania, Clinton’s, stark’s, and the 2nd Connecticutt Brigades.
A Trusty Corporal from Stark’s Brigade and a trusty soldier from each of the other Brigades to parade tomorrow on the Grand Parade with their Packs and Blankets and from thence to be sent to Commissary Gamble’s; They will remain on duty ’till their regiments move from this Ground.
The Courts martial are to adjourn over to next Tuesday and the Officers composing them to have the privelege of joining their Battalions if next for manœuvring duty.
Guards the same as this day.

After Orders.
Colonel Meigs is appointed to Command one of the manœuvring Battalions vice Colonel Johnston indisposed.


Title: Proclamation of Pardon, 26 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

[Morristown 26 May 1780]

By His Excellency George Washington Esquire, General and Commander in Chief of The Forces of The United States of America.
Whereas Emanuel Evans soldier in the 3d Cornelius Nix soldier in the 1st And Thomas Brown soldier in the 2nd Jersey Regiments—Also Joseph Infelt & John Earhart Soldiers in the 10th Pennsylvania Regiment—likewise Matthew Bell Soldier in the 2nd James Hanly soldier in the 4th and Lancaster Lighthall soldier in the 3d New York Regiments—and Corporal Thomas Clark of the 4th and Thomas Calvin Soldier in

the 11th Pennsylvania Regiments after legal trial and Conviction of high crimes and Misdemeanors to them respectively imputed, were sentenc’d to Suffer death for the same, which Sentences respectively were by me approved and ordered to be executed this day.
Now be it know that for Sundry weighty considerations by virtue of the powers in me vested, I have thought fit to pardon the said Emanuel Evans, Cornelius Nix, Thomas Brown, Joseph Infelt, John Earhart—Matthew Bell—James Hanly—Lancaster Lighthall—Thomas Clark and Thomas Calvin—and they are hereby pardoned accordingly, and the Sentences pronounced against them and each of them as aforesaid wholly remitted and released.
Given under my Hand & Seal at Camp Morris Town this Twenty sixth day of May Anno Domini 1780.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 26 May 1780
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] May 26. 1780

Lt Colo. Connolly has a son about ten years old who is an ensign in the 17th regt British. His parents are anxious to get him into New York to put him to school. His father wrote a letter to your Excellency requesting your permission for his going in on parole: but as that letter may have miscarried, and the lad’s mother has repeatedly importuned us on the subject, We beg leave to ask your decision in the case, and that you would favour us with your determination. If a parole exchange of an American ensign can be obtained in lieu of the lad, it would doubtless be highly eligible. We have the honour to be with great respect your most obedt servants

Tim. Pickering by order


Title: From George Washington to Henry Champion, Sr., 26 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Champion, Henry Sr.

Dr Sir
Head Qrs [Morristown] May the 26th 1780

We are in a situation of extremity for want of meat. The Troops on several days have been entirely destitute of Any—and for a considerable time past—they have been at best at half—at Quarter—at an Eighth allowance of this essential ⟨Arti⟩cle—This distress produced a mutiny last night in the Connecticut line. I entreat your best & every exertion to give us relief. I am Dr sir, with great regard Yr Most Obedt sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 26 May 1780
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

My dear General.
Philadelphia 26th May 1780

We have Intelligence from Charles Town which leaves it in our possession as lately as the 3d or 4th Inst. and we may from the Silence of the Enemy at New york extend our Hopes to the 10th or 12th. The best and most direct account is to our Friend Mr Jones from Gen Woodford. He has this moment promised me to communicate it to your Excellency which he will do much better than I can from my Memory; otherwise I should attempt it. The Contempt with which Sir Henry Clinton treated the propositions of the Garrison is a sufficient proof of the strong Confidence he entertains of Success: and indeed the gradual Approaches,

and the Contiguity, of his Works, which we have not been able to prevent, or even obstruct, free him from the Imputation of Presumption. The determin’d Resolution of the Garrison to defend the Town to the last Extremity will do honour to our arms, and woud go far to relieve my Apprehensions, if I did not see the utmost probability of their being pushed from the only defensible Ground in our possession, by the weight of a superior force, operating under an impenetrable Cover, with all the Advantages of deliberate Caution, and military Skill. If, under such discouraging Prospects, we shoud come off Conquerars it will be a further proof of one of the mottos which we have appropriated to our Cause. and often seen verified, nil desperandum!
North Carolina is in motion, but something is always deficient The want of arms is now the Cry!
A St Kitts paper which you have probably seen gives an Account of a naval Engagement between the French and English Fleets in the West Indies. it is so palpably absurd that nothing can be collected from it: but that there has been a Rencounter: more Authentic Information is impatiently expected.
Be pleasd to present my respectful Compliments to Mrs Washington, the Gentlemen of the Committee, and of the Family; and to give me leave to assure you, that with All possible Attachment and Regard—I have the Honour to remain Dear Sir your Excellency’s most Affectionate & most Obedient hume Servant

Jas Duane


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 26 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Sir,
Hd Qrs [Morristown] 26th May 1780

I wish you to write to Providence for a return of the number of Boats there, & their condition—also to direct that they may be put in order without loss of time. Doctor Craick who is going to that quarter will afford you an opportunity of writing—You will likewise be pleased to give the same directions respecting those in Connecticut & Delaware Rivers. I am

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 26 May 1780
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
One Mile from Elizth Town [N.J.] 26th May 1780

I have to inform Your Excellency that a party of the British came from Statten Island last nigh[t], in boats and escorted by some gun boats to cover their landing, and embarking if necessary; they landed near New Ark about break of day, but made no surprise on the Troops; they came into the Town between break of day and sunrise, it is supposed they had from 200 to 270 Men and one Field piece. Capt. Reading met them with his men in small partys (assisted by the Militia who turned out spiritedly) a little on this side the Court House and fired on them from behind Fences &Ca so that they proceeded no further this way, but turned to their Boats and emba[r]ked; we had two men taken that was patroling and one Sergt that was seperated by some means from the Troops in Town. Capt. Knox is wounded in the Mouth, and two of the Militia are wounded also. Two boys that the Enemy let go on their embarking, informs that the Enemy had severlal wounded. Capt.

Reading with his Troops and the Militia kept on their flanks and rear with a constant firing till they got to their Boats I am informed they all behaved admirably well. A party or Picket we had at Bond Creek Bridge thought to have got in for a part of the Action but was too late, as the Enemy went of[f] so quick. They have taken of several of the Inhabitants but I am informed they are mostly all disafected. It seems that the Enemy had suffered it to leak out that they were to come out to New Ark some nights ago but did not come, it was again reported that they would be out last night but it was thought they could not pass Bargin point without being discovered by the Guards at Elizth Town point; but it seems they did pass undiscovered.
It is thought Capt. Noxes wound is dangerous—he has a part of his tung cut off and his Jaw broke. The Engineer promised to be down yesterday and his not coming prevents us going on with the work as we could wish. The Inhabitants say the ground pitched on for the Works will be very spungey when wet weather comes on. I moved to this place Yesterday and am Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Captain William McMurray et al., 26 May 1780
From: McMurray, William
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency—
Morristown May 26th 1780

We the subscribers Officers in the Corps of Sappers & Miners, hoped and expected, when we solicited and accepted Commissions in said Corps, that we should find our duty a species of service, well worthy the ambition and zeal of those who wish to acquire Military knowledge.
Had the first and sixteenth articles of the regulations of the Corps been put in practice, we firmly believe it would have answered our expectations; and as almost every General Order respecting the Corps expressed an intention of having the Companies formed without delay, we flattered ourselves we should have long since been put into a capacity of doing honour to ourselves, & essential service to our Country; but we find ourselves at a loss to know why a Corps represented to us of so important a nature, should be so long neglected when several other Corps have been formed, we conceive long since this was set on foot.
In case men could not have been draughted conveniently from the Line, we are fully of the opinion had the Officers been put upon a proper footing for the recruiting business, we should now have the pleasure of seeing the Corps compleated; but the unexpected delays we have repeatedly experienced, renders our present situation very disagreeable and uneasy, liable to the reproach (repugnant to the principles upon which we entered the Corps) of being supported by the publick, without rendering it any manner of service.
We therefore humbly implore your Excellency to take an active part in our favour (as in our present state of suspence we know not where to apply) hoping through your means we may be able, yet to serve our Country with honour & satisfaction. We have the honour to be your Excellencies most obedient and most humble servants

Wm McMurray Capt.Js Beebee Capt.David Bushnell Capt. LtJ. Welch Lt


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Elisha Sheldon, 26 May 1780
From: Sheldon, Elisha
To: Washington, George

Sir
Windsor [Conn.] May 26th 1780

Enclosed is a Return of the 2d & 4th Regt L[igh]t D[ragoons] for the month of May 1780—Your Excellency has been informed of the manner in which my Regt has been cantoned thro’ the winter past—Without public Magazines, & wholly dependant on the exertions of

the Civil Authority, our Supplies of forage have been very short & precarious—Under these disadvantages, however, by the close attentio⟨n⟩ of my officers, I flattered myself with the expectation that the Horse would be well recruited by the opening of the Campaign. When I inform you[r] Excellency that for this month past, since no more money could be Issued from the public offices, many of the Horses have been 3 & 4 Days without forage, while to save life, other Troops have been turned to pasture while as yet the grass had scarcely began to grow, I say under these Circumstances your Excellency need Hardly be informed that many of the Horses must be poor indeed—And since this has been the Case, I have faithfully represented our situation to the Honbl. Assembly of this State, so that I hope and trust I shall not be Censured if the Horses, which but lately were in good flesh, should many of them be found unfit for Duty.
Agreeable to an order from the Board of War Major Tallmadge procured Cloathing for a compleat Regiment of Horse, the whole of which, as we were daily engaging Recruits, was ordered to be delivered to the Use of my Regt. Since this the A[ssistant] C[lothier] Genl has forwarded a similar order to Mr Bull, Clothier at Springfield, but he having recd directions from your Excellency, to issue only to the Number of men already engaged in the Regt, cannot comply with his former instructions—I would just beg leave to Inform your Excellency that as we have Recruits constantly coming in, and the next remove of the Regt will probably be at a great distancee from Springfield—I have made a Return for 300 Suits non Comssd officers and privates, noteing at the bottom of sd Return that some were for Recruits which might hereafter join. The Whole number of Suits procured by Major Tallmadge was 386—I would further observe that Major Tallmadge was fortunate enough to procure a few articles of Cloathing for the Officers of which the enclosed is an Account. Together with these articles the Agent at Boston sent up to Mr Bull, the bill at which these Articles should be charged to the officers, agreeable to resolve of Congress—Since Mr Bull recd your Excellencys orders, tho’ he had not doubt about delivering them to the Officers, yet as it was not particularly mentioned in the order, he was unwilling to deliver them—The Campaign being so near opening, and the Officers being much in want of Cloathing, we have re[ceive]d the above Cloathing of Mr Bull, promising to inform your Excellency thereof—A line from your Excellency on the subject before we leave this (merely for Mr Bulls satisfaction who is already instructed by the a. Cl[othie]r Genl how to Conduct) will much oblige me. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Regard your Excellencys most Obt and most Humble Sert

Elisha Sheldon Col. 2d L.D.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 26 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

My dear sir.
Head Qrs Morris Town May the 26th 1780

It is with infinite pain I inform You, that we are reduced to a situation of extremity for want of meat. On several days of late the Troops have been entirely destitute of Any—and for a considerable time past they have been at best, at a half—a quarter—an Eighth allowance of this essential Article of provision. The men have borne their distress with a firmness and patience never exceeded—and every possible praise is due the Officers for encouraging them to it, by precept—by exhortation—by example. But there are certain bounds, beyond which it is impossible for Human nature to go. We are arrived at these. The want of provision last night produced a mutiny in the Army of a very alarming kind. Two Regiments of the Connecticut line got under Arms &

but for the timely notice & exertions of their officers it is most likely it would have been the case with the whole, with a determination to return home. After a long expostulation by their officers and Some of the pennsylvania line who had come to their assistance—they were prevailed on to go into their Huts. But this without relief can only be momentary. I will not dwell longer on this melancholy subject, being fully convinced that Your Excellency will hasten to us every possible relief in your power. I am My Dr sir with the warmest regard & respect Your Most Obedt sert

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

Head Quarters Morristown Saturday May 27th 1780
Parole Carlisle  Countersigns N: U.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Colonel Stewart[,] Major Leavensworth[,] Brigade Major Clinton’s Brigade
A Corporal and six men from the 1st pennsylvania Brigade with two days provisions and their Arms to be sent tomorrow morning seven o clock to General Greenes Quarters in Morristown: They will receive their orders from him.


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 27 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dr Sir
Head Qrs Morris Town May 27th 1780

From the opinion I entertained of your services I was sorry to hear in the first instance when the matter was communicated to me, that You were about to leave the Army & had actually resigned your Commission to the Quarter Master General. An event is soon to take place which will still encrease my concern on this head. We have every reason to

expect, that an Armament composed of Land & Sea forces will soon arrive from France in these States, to cooperate with us against the Common Enemy. The department you filled is a very important one, and, on a proper discharge of its duties, our abilities to move in case of Active operations, will greatly depend. I should therefore be happy if you would remain in it, as from your experience—activity and entire knowledge of our resources in the line of it, I am persuaded, the public service would derive many great advantages at this interesting Juncture. But I find on recurring to your Letter of the 16th Instant, by which You communicated your resignation, that you are to be in philadelphia on the call of the Honble the Board of Treasury by the 1st of June. If you consent to remain and on which point I request your answer, I will take occasion to write by You to the Board and inform them of my wishes for your earliest return. In this event I shall consider your stay at philadelphia as rather unlucky however short, as we have not a moment to spare in concerting our Arrangements. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt st

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Title: To George Washington from Ephraim Blaine, 27 May 1780
From: Blaine, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

Please your Excellency
Sir
Philada 27th May 1780

I have used every Endeavour since I left Camp to procure and forward Provisions, and have met with some success—the Merchants of this City have lent me two hundred Barrels of Beef and Pork, I have purchased one hundred barrels, and taken Sixty Head of Cattle from the Graziers below this City, hope to make up two hundd more in this and Lancaster County—two hundred Barrels of Pork came from below yesterday, & with what Major Forsyth can spare from Virginia, expect to make up One thousand Barrels, exclusive of my Return to your Excellency at Camp—be assured of my utmost Exertions in adoptg Ways and Means to procure Supplies, tho’ I am loaded with debt and have not had a Shilling this two months—Inclosed you have an Extract of

a Letter receiv’d from Major Forsyth yesterday. I remain with all due respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & Most Hble Servant

Eph. Blaine C.G.P.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 27 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Gentn
Head Qrs Morris Town May 27th 1780

I had yesterday the honor to receive Your Letter of the 22d Instant. The exertions of the Board to relieve our distresses and the good Offices of the Merchants were most timely. The Army never stood in greater need of them. On several days the Troops have been entirely destitute of provision of this kind—and at best they have only received for a considerable time past, but an Eighth—a Quarter—a Half allowance. They have borne their distress with the greatest patience—and every thing is due the Officers for encouraging them to it—both by exhortation & example. On Thursday night however Two Regiments mutinied but after several expostulations & exertions by the Officers of their line & some Others who came to their assistance they returned to their Huts. Such reiterated—Such a constant series of distresses cannot but have the most pernicious consequences. I request the favor of the Board to forward the inclosed to Colo. Blaine, by which he is urged to push on every possible relief of Cattle in his power to procure. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem Gentn Yr Most Obedt st

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Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 27 May 1780
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
One mile from Elizth Town [N.J.] 27th May 1780

I have to inform Your Excellency concerning Jones and the Negro, I consulted two Lawyers and some Magistrates, they say, that there is a Law of the State that their crimes will come under, as a misdemsnor but will not afect their lives. Jones is a young lad, of about 21 Years of age, has the carracter of being very innofensive, and rather soft before this spring; that he has gone over 4 or 5 times in the traiding way, and got bewitched after hard money; he served 9 months in the 1st Jersey Regt the Year before last, and the last summer in the Militia, all the time with a good carracter; I make no doubt rather than stand his trial before a Court Martial he will sign an engagement to go on board one of the Continental Frigates during the War. Coll Dayton is so well convinced of his repentance that he would not make the least scruple to take him into his Regt during the War Mr Caldwell is of the same opinion with Coll Dayton. He declares he never took a Soldier over. I believe it would please the people to have some other punishment inflicted on him, than that of death, as he is not an old sinner. The Negro belongs to a Doctor Moss against whose principals and conduct I find no charge, but that he lives near the lines of the Enemy and dare not be active. He has beg’d I might inform Your Excellency that if you will please to spare the life of the Negro he will give sufficient security to send him to the sutherd, and never set his foot in the Jersey again; he hopes you

will consider the loss it must be to a young Man Just seting up in the world to loose so valuable a young Negro; and by that means punish the Innocent with the guiltey.
The Doctor Informs me that by every discovery he can make, the Negro has been over only three or four times and that he has only set over one Soldier which was a company affair between him an old Freed Negro & some others that has brought him into the measure and has fled to the Enemy since this one was taken.
I shall wait Your Excellencys further consideratio⟨n⟩ and answer before I proceed any further in the affair and am Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

Wm Maxwell


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

Head Quarters Morristown Sunday May 28th 80
Parole Dublin  Countersigns Elk. Esk

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Hubly[,] Major J. Moore[,] Brigade Major Stark’s Brigade
The Pennsylvania Division Hand’s and Stark’s brigades give the Morristown Guards & fatigue this Week.

A Detachment from the Line to parade tomorrow at Guard mounting with three days provisions their blankets and 40 rounds ⅌ man: Major Talbot will take command of them: a surgeon or mate from Stark’s brigade to join the Detachment.
The manœuvring Battalions instead of parading on the Ground at 7 o clock as mentioned in orders of the 26th instant are to be formed in the road in the rear of the Quarter Master General’s, precisely at five o clock tomorrow morning, where they will receive blank Cartridges: Brigade Major Alexander to attend the Formation: Sixteen Marechausie light dragoons with a Commission’d officer to attend at the same time and place.
Colonels Stewart and Craig are to command two of the manœuvring Battalions tomorrow vice Colonels Cortlandt and Ganzevoort and Lieutenant Colonel Murray vice Lieutenant Colonel Willet obliged to be absent.
The 2nd pennsylvania brigade to furnish a regimental Standard, and give an Adjutant vice Clinton’s.
At a General Court martial whereof Colonel Elliott was President held at Newport the 1st Instant Windsor Fry Soldier in Colonel Green’s regiment was tried for “Entering the Commissary’s Store, stealing from thence a quantity of Beef, Candles and Rum; also for breaking open two Wind Mills and Stealing a Quantity of Meal” pled Guilty.
The Court having maturely considered the heinousness of his present Crimes together with his former bad conduct are unanomously of opinion that he suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief confirms the Sentence and Orders it to be put in Execution at such time and place as Colonel Green shall think proper.


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 28 May 1780
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

sir
Morris Town May 28. 1780

As the Forage to be furnish’d by the different States will be wanted for the use of the Army and should be hastend to such points as it may most

probably be consumed at, it will be necessary to apply to the executive Authority of the States of Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania, not only to hasten the delivery of the Forage at the places name’d by your Excellency, but to give their utmost Assistance in transporting it from thence to such places as may be required by the Qur Master General or Commissary Genl Forage.
If your Excellency should think it proper to write to the Governors of those States I shall take every necessary Measure to hasten the Forage to such places as You shall Order and I request to know, if Trenton will be the proper point to draw a large supply of Forage to from the parts South & Westward of that place.
In Case of a superior naval Force in our favour on the Coast a large part of the Grain from Virginia & Maryland may be brought by water Carriage to near the place of Consumption—I am directed by Genl Greene to make this Application to your Excellency & am with great respect Your mo: Obedt & very hume servt

Clement Biddle


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 28 May 1780
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Sir
Morristown May 28. 1780

The Opinion you are pleased to entertain of my past Service and my Capacity to be of further use, in Case of active Operations, does me the highest honour.
I should not have proposed to retire if the Situation of my Accounts had not required my Attention to settling them, but the prospect of such a happy Event as the receiving powerful Aid from France to Co operate with us, will make it necessary for those Officers who have acquired a knowledge of the resources of the Country to continue their services on this important Occasion and both duty and inclination prompt me to offer to continue in the Office which I filled, during such part of the Campaign as your Excellency may think it necessary.
I will set off for Philadelphia on tuesday Morning to attend the Orders of the Honle the board of Treasury & shall deliver the Letter you are pleased to write to them and so soon as they think my Services there can be dispensed with I shall immediately return to my Duty in the

Army. I am with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt & very hle ser⟨vt⟩

Clement Biddle


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Elias Dayton, 28 May 1780
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Elizabeth Town [N.J.] May 28th 1780

From New York I understand they are in daily expectation of a French fleet upon the coast—They are busily employ’d in building a large fort at Cuyler’s hook—the naval force very small not more than one frigate and three or four privateers in the harbour. The Galatea on tuesday last brought into the harbour, the privateer ship Harrison and sailed again the day before yesterday on a cruise. Four or five days since, a packet from England with the April mail was driven on shore upon the south side of Long-Island; the Captain reached the Island with & saved the mail, but the vessel was totally lost & stripped by our privateers of ev’ry thing they thougt proper to take.
I understand that Genl Maxwell has determined to continue me in the command at this town and, intends to order my Regt to join the Brigade at two miles distance, doing the duty of the post by daily detachments. Should your excellency approve of my continuing at this place, I shall do it with pleasure, but must beg the favor of being indulged with my own Regt as I conceive that the duties of the post can be done with greater regularity & safety by them, than by the detachments as proposed. I am your Excelencys most Obedient and very Humble Servnt

Elias Dayton


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 28 May 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir
Morristown. 28th May 1780

I herewith send your Excellency the Estimates which Colonel Hamilton requested me to furnish yesterday.
The want of full information upon several points, from the deranged state of the Quarter Master’s department for some time past, prevents my being as exact as I could wish; but I believe the Estimates are sufficient to ground the applications upon for all such articles as the states are to furnish, or will agree to furnish. I am with great respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Humble Servant

Nath. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 28 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 28th May 1780

I have recd your favs. of the 26th and 27th and this day the inclosed representation from a number of the inhabitants of the neighbourhood of Elizabeth Town was handed to me. Their account of the nature of the Ground which you have pitched upon for your encampment and for the Works agrees with what you mentioned in yours of the 26th and I would for that reason wish the commencement of the Works at that place suspended for the present. And as I do not imagine the position which you have just taken with your Brigade is a very safe one, I would recommend your removing a little back to some place which looks equally to Newark and Elizabeth town—leaving Colo. Dayton with his Regt at the latter, and sending a stronger party than before to Newark to prevent a jealousy which I find arising on acct of the superior protection afforded to Elizabeth town.
In the mean time be pleased to keep parties busily employed in making Fascines, we shall have occasion for a great number of them.
If there is a law of the state competent to the punishment of Jones and the Negro, you had best turn them over at once to the Civil Authority—letting them know that if they are caught in similar practices, they will be executed without any delay.
I am informed that one Swan who lives near Moss’s Mills has lately been upon Staten Island, and that upon his return he immediately went up to Sussex County where he bought some Cattle, which he has brought down to his farm. This has so suspicious an appearance, that if the Cattle are fit for Beef, I should make no scruple of taking them and giving him a Certificate to the County Commissioner or purchaser.
Colo. Hamilton laid some letters before me from Colo. Baylor to you, on the subject of permitting Mr Norton and his family to come out of New York. As Colo: Baylor informs that an act of the Legislature of Virginia has passed in favr of this Gentleman, he may be permitted to come out—You had best detain the letters which are directed to him, untill he arrives at Eliza. Town. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 28 May 1780
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
One mile from Elizth Town [N.J.] 28th May 1780

I wrote to Your Excellency on friday, informing that I arived at this place on thursday last, which day the Engineer was to have been here, to begin the works; otherwise I should not have left my old station so soon; as he is not come according to promise, and I have had no reason asigned me why he did not come I am at a loss what to think of the Matter.
As the Engineer only sett one stake at each of the four corners there will no one undertake to carry on the work.
Coll Ogden is sick at Chatham who propos’d to have done something at it. I should not have troubled Your Excellency with this only that I

thought it probable I might be suspected of neglect in carrying on the works, though the lightness of our diet, would hardly authorize us working much. My sittuation is such that I think they cannot surprize me, but if they come out with a much superior force, they may move me from my Baggage & Camp equipage. Coll Dayton is under apprehensions that some intiligence he had coming from New York in writing is lost; it was certainly on the way that night, the Enemy came out to New Ark; the man nor intiligence not heard of since; it is supposed the Enemy have taken him. I send You a New York Paper of the 24th on account of one piece directed to Mr Rivington.
Capt. Reading informed me Yesterday that he had a Sergt a Corporal and four men taken by the Enemy when over, they took also two men of the Connecticut line that was confined by the Civil authority; they attempted to burn the Jail but some woman put it out. The Sergt was left at a certain place to conduct some Men that was expected in from Pattrole, to the main body, but he staid too long. Capt. Thos Blanch of the Bergan Militia has sent me one Lieut. & one private of the New York Militia; he says he took them near Bergan woods on friday morning in company with John Berry commonly called John De Regular, the noted Horse thief whome they killed and burried there. They were all taken in arms, and sent to the Commissary of prisoners for this State. He is at Sussex Court I shall keep them till he arives.
The Enemy sent back the same night by one of our Flag Boats that was over, 10 or 12 of the most suspitious persons they had taken in the morning on parole. This is a game they are playing I find every where they can, to keep their friends clear of duty and to call them in & send them out when they please, either for intiligence Trade or carrying out counterfit money; possibly if our Legislator was fully acquainted with the matter, they would devise some mode to disolve such paroles and prevent the like in future I submit it to Your Excellency, and am Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

Wm Maxwell


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 29 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

Dr Sir
Head qrs Morris Town May 29th 1780

I have received Your Letter of the 28th. The Honourable the Committee in a circular Letter they have written to the States, have pressed them in the strongest terms, to furnish the supplies required of them by Congress, by their Act of the 25th of February; and the places for depositing the forage as well as other Articles, which had been agreed on, had been communicated to them before, by Letters from My self. If the States You mention are written to on the subject of Monthly specific supplies, according to the Estimates which have just been made, the necessity of providing the forage and the means of transportation on the request of the Quarter Master General or Commissary General, will be urged again.
It appears to me that Trentown will be a proper place for collecting a large quantity of Forage at, from the parts you mention. I am Dr sir yr Most Obedt st

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