Title: To George Washington from Abraham Skinner, 3 September 1781
From: Skinner, Abraham
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Elizabethtown September 3rd 1781.

                  In obedience to your Excellency’s commands I have obtain’d the release of all our Privates in the hands of the Enemy—I am this day to confer with the British Commissary on the subject of your Letter of the 28th ulto relative to the Exchange of General Burgoyne for our Officers, and shall immediately report to you my proceedings on my return from Statin Island the place appointed for our meeting.  I am with the highest Respect—Your Excellency’s Mo. Obedt Servt

                     Abm Skinner Commissy Genl Pris.


Title: To George Washington from François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 4 September 1781
From: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur
                     au Cap henry le 4. Septembre 1781

                  Cette lettre sera remise à Votre Excellence par Mr de St Cezaire Capitaine de Vaisseau, commandant la ville de Paris, mon capitaine de Pavillon.  Ses qualités plus que la place qu’il occupe m’ont fait le choisir pour la mission que je lui donne.  j’espere qu’il méritera votre estime et votre confiance.
                  Son premier soin sera d’assurer Votre Excellence, du désir que j’ai de faire sous vos ordres une opération décisive pour ces Provinces et d’employer efficacement les temps qu’il m’est prescrit d’y rester au secours des Etats unis.  heureux si je puis l’employer de façon à ne rien laisser a désirer pour le soulagement de ces Provinces.
                  Il est chargé aussi d’assurer Votre Excellence, que je regarde votre arrivée dans cette Province, comme si décisive, que je fais l’impossible pour accelerer celle de vos troupes en envoyant au devant de vous 6. à 7. Vaisseaux de guerre, choisis parmi ceux de mon armée qui tirent le moins d’Eau, pour prendre à leur bord le plus de monde possible.  Ces vaisseaux seront suivis de Régattes et généralement de tous les Bâtiments propres à remonter la riviere.  M. de St Cezaire que j’ai changé de cet Embarquement les fera faire avec le plus d’ordre possible; mais je supplie Votre Excellence de ne permettre d’embarquer sur les bords que les effets dont il sera absolument impossible de se passer.
                  Afin que les Bâtiments que je vous envoye, sous les ordres de Mr de S. Cezaire, puissent embarquer le plus de monde possible, je ne leur laisse seulement que les Mariniers utiles pour les manoeuvres.  De cette façon, ils auront plus de place, et ils pourront prendre plus de monde, soit françois soit Americains.
                  Je viens d’apprendre par l’Officier chargé du débarquement de mes troupes à James Town, que mes Bâtiments à ramer ont été employés à passer 1600. hommes de l’armée du Général Green qui s’est joint à M. de la Fayette et à M. de S. Simon.  Ce renfort ne nous nuira point, et il semble que la Providence seconde nos desirs par des jonctions heureuses.
                  je laisse à Votre Excellence le soin de joindre à mes Vaisseaux de guerre tous les Bâtiments propres au transport des troupes que les Vaisseaux ne pourront pas prendre à bord.  Les Bâtiments se trouveront probablement dans les differentes rivieres qui avoisinent celle d’Elke.
                  Il me tarde infiniment d’assurer de vive voix Votre Excellence de tout le respect et la vénération qu’elle m’inspire et de mériter son amitié par le zèle que je mettrai à seconder vos desseins de tout mon pouvoir.
                  C’est dans ces sentiments que j’ai l’honneur d’ître de Votre Excellence Le très humble et très obeissant serviteur

                     Le comte de Grasse

                     je viens dans le moment d’ître detrompe sur l’arrivée du Général Green, c’est M. Waine qui a rejoint par ma chalouppe les troupes de M. de la Fayette et de St Simon.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 4 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia 4th Septemr 1781

                  Two Days ago, I received your Favors of the 6th & 7th of August by Colo. Morris: As he does not return imediately, & as I have a favorable Opportunity of writing by a Gentleman, who is recomended by Mr Bee, I will give you a Sketch of our Proceedings, Circumstances & Prospects, without entering into a Detail of Affairs, which however, I will not fail to communicate, as soon as Matters have ripened a little more, thro Colo. Morris, or some other confidential Person.
                  In the first Place, I have to inform you that the Plan of Operations for the Campaign is totally changed—this was occasioned by a Variety of concurring Circumstances, two only of which it is necessary to mention Vizt The Arrival of a Reinforcement of more than 2000 Germans at N. York—& a certain Information that the Count D. Grasse, would make his first Approach in the Chesapeak & commence his Operations against the Enemy in Virginia, and that he could not continue a long Time on the Coast—no Alternative being then left—It was determined to improve the naval Assistance of our Allies in that Quarter to the best Advantage—For that purpose I am thus far advanced on my March with the whole of the french Army, a Detatchment of more than 2000 American Infantry, a Regiment of Artillery & such Apparatus for a Seige as we have been able to comand.
                  While these things were in Agitation, & the Enemy wholly unacquainted with our real Designs (our Army being then in Motion towards Staten Island, with the professed Intention & universal Belief of co-operating with the french fleet which was reported by us, to be hourly expected) a British fleet of 13 Ships of the Line, under Admiral Hood arrived on the 29th ulto at Sandy Hook, from the West Indies, and two Days after sailed (it is reported steering Southerly) in Conjunction with 7 Ships of the Line which lay at the Hook previous to their Arrival—A little before this Time, viz. on the 24th of Augt—Count de Barras sailed with his Squadron from Rhode Island, to form a Junction with the Count de Grasse in the Chesapeak—as the latter was expected from his own Account, to be certainly there by the Time the former left Rhode Island—Nothing has since been heard of either of the Fleets—From the Circumstances related, you will readily conceive that the present Time is as interesting & anxious a Moment, as I have ever experienced—We will hope however, for the most propitious Issue of our united Exertions.
                  Among the many Contingencies which may take place—should the french Fleet form a Junction, their Superiority will be decided—should the Count de Grasse only fall in with the English Fleet, it will probably be a fortunate Event, as his is stronger than the British by at least 5 ships—should either of the French fleets get possession of the River, & cutt off the Retreat of Cornwallis by Water, he must in all probability, be forced to surrender, unless he should make his Escape by Land—against which Event I have repeatedly written to the Marquis to take every possible precaution, and to advise you (should the attempt be made) to take such further Measures as you shall think proper on the Occasion.
                  I shall set out Tomorrow for the Head of Elk, & shall expedite the movements of the Troops, Ordnance, & Stores as much as possible, that not a Moment may be lost, when the fortunate, long wished for Period arrives.
                  Altho the Land Force which is expected in the fleet, will not, by my Information, amount to more than 3000 Men, yet if Heaven smiles upon us, our united Strength, will be equal to the Attainment of some very important Objects, before the Close of the Campaign—I will thank you for every Information & Advice which may be interesting in our Circumstances—and hope that a mutual confidential Intercourse, may be facilitated, by diminishing the Distance & Hazard of Interception, which have so much interrupted our Correspondence.  I am With the highest Regard & Esteem My Dear Sir Your most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 4 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Philadelphia Sept. 4th 1781

                  The Bearer of this, a Serjt of Hazen’s, is sent to apprehend some deserters from that Regt, and as it is probable a number will leave the Regiments, that are now on their march for the Southward, who will direct their course for the North River.  I wish you to place some cearfull Persons at every Ferry, from Kings ferry to Albany, who will apprehend them as they pass that River.
                  The Eastern States will still continue to supply you monthly with a large quantity of Beef Cattle, much larger than can be consumed in your Department; and as the Army here must at present depend on those supplies, I must request you regularly to forward, every week or fortnight, at the rate of an hundred of Cattle ⅌ Week. if the Cattle cross at Kings Ferry, you will direct them, under a proper Guard, to the care of Mr Robert Blair at Morris town, who will discharge the Guard & forward them here. but if it is more convenient to pass the Cattle at New Windsor, let them take the rout through Warwick & Chester to Sussex Court house, where Mr Edward Dunlap has orders to receive them.  I am Dear Sir, Your Most Humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 4 September 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                  My Dr General
                     Redley three miles from Chester 4 Sepr 5 oClock morning 81

                  The troops are now under arms and are just leaving their ground.  we Shall encamp to night a mile or two on the other side Willmington—I do not observe any discontent among the troops—A little money however would make us good natured.  I have the honor to be my Dr Sir with sentiments of esteem your most huml. Servt

                     B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 4 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Philadelphia Septr 4th 1781

                  I do myself the honor to enclose the Copy of a Letter, received last night from the Commanding Officer of the British Marine at New York, in answer to mine respecting the treatment of Naval Prisoners; and have to request the decision of Congress, whether an Officer shall be sent in, to inspect the situation of our Prisoners, under the proposed conditions.  I have the honor to be With perfect respect & esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, 4 September 1781
From: McKean, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia September 4. 1781.

                  An Act of Congress of the 31st of last month was just now sent to me by the Secretary of Congress, which I have the honor to inclose for your Excellency.  And am with the greatest regard Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble servant

                     Tho M:Kean President


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, 4 September 1781
From: McKean, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia. September 4th 1781

                  I have the honor to inclose to your Excellency an Act of Congress in answer to your letter of this day, and am, with the greatest respect, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant

                     Thos M:Kean President


Title: To George Washington from Caesar Rodney, 4 September 1781
From: Rodney, Caesar
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Dover 4th September 1781

                  I have just received your Excellency’s Letter of yesterday on the Subject of specific Supplies for the army, and regret that I am unable to give your Excellency that decided Information, how far this State may be relied on for the Supplies requested and expected from it, which you desire.  The Quantities which are collected in the two lower Counties are, I believe, but small; and which from the present obstruction of the Commerce in the Bay of Delaware it will be impracticable to convey to any Post in the upper Part of the State, to be immediately serviceable to the Army.  The Receiver of Supplies for New Castle County informs me, by his Letter of the 2d Inst. (a copy of which I here inclose) that a sufficient Quantity of Flour and Hay is provided in that Country, but that the latter article is not at the Post of Christiana Bridge, where at present it might be advantageous for the Army; I have therefore directed him to use all the means in his Power to forward it to that Post.
                  With Respect to the specific Supplies required by Congress for the Service of the present year, I must inform your Excellency that none have been granted by the General Assembly.  A Tax has been laid in Specie which is subject to their Disposition, but no Part thereof is yet in the Treasury.  The Legislature were to have convened here yesterday by Adjournment, but they have not yet met; upon their Meeting I shall, without Delay, urge the necessity of their taking the most speedy and efficacious measures for furnishing the Requisite Supplies, and any Powers they may vest me with for that Purpose shall be unremittingly exerted to obtain the same effectually and as speedily as possible.  With Respect and Esteem I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servt

                     Caesar Rodney

                Enclosure

                        Sir,
                        Cantwell’s Bridge 2d Septr 1781

                     Mr Wright Q.M. at Christiana Bridge informed me yesterday, on his way from Dover, that your Excellency had requested him to call on me to provide for a number of Troops expected at that Post in a few Days for which your Excellency had invested me with sufficient Powers.  The Powers which I received from your Excellency last Fall were for procuring an immediate Supply for the Army at that Time, and which the Assembly divested me of last January—therefore I have no Power to act at present for the Public but as Receiver of Supplies, and as there was no Assessment in this County; but for the articles of Flour and Hay, it will not be in my Power to furnish any other Supplies for them, and of both those Articles there is a sufficient Quantity, altho’ the Hay is not at the Post of Christiana.  I am &c.

                        Wm Millan

                        (Copy)


Title: To George Washington from Edward Rutledge, 4 September 1781
From: Rutledge, Edward
To: Washington, George

                     My dear General
                     Sepr 4. 1781.

                  I have done myself the Honor of obeying your Commands in committing to Paper such matters as appeared to deserve Attention in the Conversation with which I was lately favor’d—In your mind, I am satisfied the Intention will excuse, what may be thought unworthy of notice—I beg Leave to repeat that, I am pretty confident Gillon’s Ship may be disposed of in the manner I mentioned if the French will consent to keep the Fifty Gun Ships within the Bar till the Business is effected—Gillon’s Ship mounts 28, 36 French pounders & 8, 12s & is daily expected.  The Pilot’s name is Stone—I think I have seen another in Town that belongs to Carolina of the name of Smith—If you should want a Map of So: Carolina I have one at your Service—With every Wish for your Happiness, & with a mind disposed to contribute to it on every Occasion I am my dear General your very affectionate Friend & humble Servt

                     E. Rutledge

                Enclosure

                        Philada Sepr 4 1781.

                     As soon as we shall take Post on Charles Town Neck which is exceeding narrow, & is the only Outlet from the Capital by Land, the Enemy will naturally turn their thoughts to those Parts of the State of South Carolina from whence Supplies of Provision can alone be obtained—I mean the Southward, & Northward—But few things are more easy than to frustrate any Attempt they may make in either of these Quarters; provided we shall be able to command the Bar—The only Outlet to the Southward by inland navigation is thro’ Wappoo Cut, which seperates James Island from the Main, is so extremely narrow as to admit of the Passage of a simple Schooner only at a time, which must be at the Pitch of the Tide; & in the Last Quarter’s Ebb the Water is so Low, as not to admit of the Passage of the smallest Rowing Boat—One or two loaded Schooners scuttled, & sunk in this Cut, with a few large Trees thrown across, or a Battery that is at all respectable, will render all communication to the Southward by inland Navigation entirely impracticable—No Vessels larger than Schooners can come from the Southern part of the State (from whence Supplies could be obtained) & they must pass so immediately under Sulivant’s Island in several Places that, a Post on that Island will cut off all intercourse with the Town thro’ that Channel.  I believe it will be found most proper to have the Post on that Part of the Island where the American’s had their advanced Guard while the Island was in their Possession; as every Vessel that will attempt the Navigation must come within Pistol Shot of the Post.  To reduce the impossibility of the Enemy’s obtaining Supplies from the Country to a certainty, it may be proper to keep the Grain in the same State in which it is gather’d, & to scuttle such Schooners as may not be wanted for our own Use: such as may be, will surely be kept under a Guard at a reasonable Distance from Town—Militia will do this Business as well as Regular Troops.  As in this Case all kinds of Craft that can be used for bringing provision to Town must be sent from Town for that Purpose the Enemy will be obliged (if they attempt to obtain a Supply) to send out a Corps sufficient to force their passage into the Country, to maintain and support themselves whilst there, & open to themselves, & their Supplies a Way thro’ such Force, as may be detached to reoccupy the former Positions—Difficulties which I believe they would soon find were not to be surmounted Especially when it is considered that, the Posts I have mentioned are not very far from the chief Encampment.
                     Nothing Larger than Fifty Gun Ships can pass the Bar of Charles Town, & such as the Enemy sent against us in 1776 & 1780 were lighten’d before they attempted it—Two Fifty Gun Ships, & a few Frigates on the Inside, will be able to command the passage of the Bar, & obstruct the Navigation entirely—Commodre Whipple’s Excuse for not keeping a position that would have prevented the Enemy from passing in 1780 was, (to the best of my Memory) the want of sufficient Anchors & Cables, in bad Weather.  Sir Peter Parker in 1776 kept that Station with a Fleet of Men of War, & Transports for upwards of a Month, in which time he experienced some very severe Weather, without sustaining any Damage: doubtless he was properly furnished with Anchors & Cables.
                     The place of Landing will depend very much on Circumstances—Should we be in possession of the Bar, & the Enemy have dismantled, & abandoned Fort Moultrie (which all Reports from the Southward confirm) the Debarkation may then be made at Haddrell’s Point, which is at the Extremity of a neck of Land, opposite to Charles Town, & distance from it (across Cooper’s River) three Miles.  From hence, the Stores may be transported to Lempriere’s by Land, which is not four Miles distance; & from thence by water, to Fulwood’s on Charles town Neck, which is scarcely three Miles.  If Genl Green should possess this Ground there could be no difficulty in effecting a Landing, but if not, great opposition might certainly be made, & the Troops to avoid it reduced to the necessity of a long March.  Under such Circumstances it may be more expedient to pursue in some part the plan of Sir H: Clinton, & land to the Southward of the Bar—He went into No: Edistoe, & after Landing his Troops on that inclosed Island, & marching them across a Causeway to John’s Island, sent his Transports into Stono River—where they lay remarkable secure—He then past them over to James Island, crost Wappoo Cut, marched to Ashley Ferry, which is about Six Miles from the Cut, sent his Boats thro’ Wappoo into Ashley River (a measure easily accomplished) & Landed his Troops from the Ferry, at Williman’s on the Dorchester Road, about Eleven Miles from Charles Town.  As soon as he had established his Post on Charles Town Neck, he transported thro’ Wappoo, & across to his post, all his Stores—Should the Enemy have any Gallies, & attempt to obstruct the Navigation by them, a Battery at Fenwick’s, at the Eastern Entrance of Wappoo, will easily remove them.  The only variation that it may be proper to make from this plan may be, the Entering at once into Stono Inlet, & thro’ that into Stono River, which will save Time.  But it must be observed that the Americans had formerly a Battery at the Mouth of this Inlet wch might give Trouble should it have been rebuilt by the British—Should the Landing be effected on Wadmelaw, & after the Troops had marched to John’s Island some unforeseen Accident might render it improper to cross them over to James Island, they may very easily pass from John’s Island, to the Main, crossing at a place called Guerins—Count D’Estaing when he came from the W. Indies brought all his Troops in his Ships of the Line, from whence arose great Delay & difficulty in Landing them, to guard against a similar Evil I think there would be great propriety in securing all the small privateers that, may be met with on the Coast, particularly Captain Anthony’s Whale Boats; they will facilitate the Landing of the Troops, & the latter will be found peculiarly useful should a discent on the Town be thought proper.  But he must be under the strictest Orders, or (speaking from Experience) he will be more detrimental than beneficial.

                        E. Rutledge


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Skinner, 4 September 1781
From: Skinner, Abraham
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Elizth Town Sept. 4th 1781

                  At a meeting with the British Commissary yesterday, I have made the Exchange of all our Officers Prisoners to the Enemy, (except those taken to the Southard) for those in our possession, as per the inclosed List No. 1, and shall immediately proceed to carry it into effect, agreable to your Excellency’s Commands.
                  I proposed the Exchange of Lt Genl Burgoyne, but the Enemy aware of the proposal for his Release for The Honorable Mr Laurens wou’d not assent to the measure for the present.
                  Your Excellency will be pleased to Observe from my last Letter and the inclosed Return, that all our Officers as well as Privates, are now Released; what remains Still to be done is to exchange some few Citizens remaining with the Enemy, and a few who they claim as holding Military Rank.
                  With respect to Exchanging the Cedar Prisoners claimed by the Enemy, it now rests upon their making a proper allowance for the Canadian Officers and nothing more will be done in this Business until I have your further Orders.
                  I have inclosed for your perusal No. 2. and 3. to shew that the Enemy wish to Exchange General Burgoyne against the Cedar Prisoners & a Brigadier General & a Colonel taken at Charles Town.
                  I am now on my way to the Eastward agreable to the request of the Honble the Board of War and your Excellency’s permission to make some arrangements in my Department in that quarter relative to the Naval Prisoners and shall immediately repair to Camp on compleating my Business.  I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s mo. obt Servt

                     Abm Skinner
                     Commissy Genl Pris.

                Enclosure

                        Copy
                        Sir
                        Dockers Ferry Staten Island Sept. 3d 1781

                     I am to propose to you the Exchange of Lieutt General Burgoyne against Brigadier General Irvin, and seven Colonels now Prisoners to you, the Ballance to be paid me in Officers now upon Long Island agreable to their Order of Capture.
                     With respect to your Claim of the Prisoners taken at the Cedars, I beg leave to remark that their Exchange must depend upon an Allowance of the Canadian Officers taken in 1775 and Sent to you on Parole in 1776.  I am Sir with due respect Your mo. Obt Servt

                        Abm Skinner
                        Commissy General Prisoners

                Enclosure

                        (Copy)
                        sir
                        Staten Island 3d Sept. 1781

                     In answer to your proposal of an Exchange for Lt Genl Burgoyne, I beg leave to say that Brigadr General Irvine & the Seven Colonels are otherwise applied alluding to the proposal made the 1st August 1781, and at the same time to make you the following proposal for his Exchange vizt
                     The Prisoners taken at the Cedars, Value by Tariff747One Brigadr from the Charles Town Prisoners200One Colonel from ditto 1001047Value of Lt Genl Burgoyne by the Commissioners at Amboy1044If acceded to, will be due the British   3
                     I am with respect your mo. Obt Servt

                        (Signed)   Josa Loring
                        Commissary General Prisoners


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 5 September 1781
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Freehold Wednesday 5th Sepr 9 oClock 81

                  An Indisposition for a few days past has prevented my riding out for the Better Intilligence—Your Excly is well informed that Intillegencers who live in the power of the Enemy must be delt with very guardedly on acct of there personal safety and to gain there confidance—I therefore dare not send a Messenger to them for fear of allarming them or Causing suspitions in Others.
                  That has prevented my being able to determin with certainty Whether any Troops sailed with Adml Graves.
                  I believe it may be depended on that three Regts did Arrive with Adml Hood and did sail with the Fleet—a person of Intillegence allso Informed me that Two thousand Troops were Imbarked at New York but for what servace to him unknown—four large Transports did Come from New York the afternoone that Adml Graves sailed and did go out with him—Which reather induces me to be of opinion the Troops Imbarked was on board them Transports.
                  I hope I shall be well enough to ride out tomorow and ascertain the Certainty of the Troops.
                  The British make shew of Considerable Encampments on the West End of Long and East End of Stratin Islands.  I have the Honr to be Your Exclys Most Obdt Humble Servt

                     David Forman


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 5 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     Dr Sir
                     5th Sep. 1781

                  Be so good as to commit the Box & Map herewith sent to some person in whom you can confide—to go by water to Christiana.
                  Present my Compliments to Mrs Knox, & repeat to her my wishes that she would spend her time at Mount Vernon—if it is convenient & agreeable to her to go to Virginia—I am very sincerely—Dr Sir Yr Obedt & Affecte Servt

                     G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 5 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                     sir
                     Chester 5th Sepr 1781 3 oClock

                  With the highest Satisfaction, I do myself the Honor, to transmit to your Excellency, the inclosed Copy of a Letter, announcing the arrival of the Count DeGrasse with 28 Ships, in the Chesapeak.  With the warmest Congratulations on this happy Event. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 5 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     sir,
                     Chester 5th Septemr 1781 3 oClock p.m.

                  With the highest Pleasure, I do myself the Honor to transmitt to your Excellency the inclosed Copy of a Letter from Genl Gist—It announces the safe Arrival in the Chesapeak of Admiral D. Grasse with 28 Ships of the Line.  On this happy Event, I beg your Excellency to accept my warmest Congratulations.
                  I shall proceed myself with all possible Dispatch—forwardg as I go on, the Troops, Stores &ca with all the Expedition in my Power.
                  On my Arrival at the Head of Elk, if I do not find Water Craft sufficient to embark all the Stores, Baggage &ca & the Troops—I shall forward on the former by Water—with as many Troops as can go by that Conveyance—& march the others by Land.  With the highest Esteem & Regard I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s Most Obedt humble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 6 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Head of Elk september 6th 1781
                     Parole
                     Csigns

                  It is with the highest pleasure and satisfaction the Commander in Chief announces to the Army the arrival of the Count de Grasse in the Chesapeake with a very formidable naval and Land force; at the same time he felicitates them on this auspicious occasion he anticipates the glorious Events which may be expected from the combined Operations now in contemplation—as no circumstances cou’d possibly have happened more opportunely in point of time, no prospect cou’d ever have promised more important successes, and nothing but our want of exertions can probably blast the pleasing prospects before us—The General calls upon all the gallant officers, the brave and faithful soldiers he has the honor to command to exert their utmost abilities in the cause of their Country and to share with him (with their usual alacrity) the difficulties, dangers and glory of the present Enterprize—The Commanding Officers of Corps are to cause abstracts to be immediately made for a months pay of their respective Commands, excluding any infamous characters who may have been so far lost to the sense of Honor, the pride of their profession and the love of their Country as to desert the standard of freedom at this critically interesting period—those men only are to be comprehended who are present with their several Corps.
                  Major Platt is appointed Division Inspector to the Division Commanded by Major General Lincoln and is to be respected and obeyed accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Brodhead, 6 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Brodhead, Daniel

                     Sir
                     Head of Elk Septr 6th 1781

                  I have receiv’d your Letter of 23d Augt, with its inclosures.  Had you adverted to the plain construction of mine of the 5th of May, you would not have been in doubt as to the propriety of your holding the Command at Fort Pitt, while your Trial was preparing and hearing—as you seem to have misconstructed my meaning in that Letter, I have now to request in positive terms, that you do immediately on receipt of this resign your Command to Colo. Gibson, who will immediately thereupon assume the same Command as has been committed to you.  In the mean-time I request that this unhappy dispute may be bro’t to as speedy an Issue as possible.  I am Dear Sir Your Most Humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Brodhead, 6 September 1781
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Fort Pitt Sepr 6th 1781.

                  The Savages have killed & taken three men since my last.
                  Col. Gibson still continues to counteract me, and the officers who favored his claim refuse my orders.  Others refuse his, and things are in the utmost confusion.
                  Mr Fowler has wrote me repeated insolent Letters, denying the right of any person to act as Judge advocate but himself.  I intend to take no notice of him at present; lest he should alledge, that I had prevented him from prosecuting his charges against me.  But so soon as I can get matters in such a train, as that my Trial may be had, I shall then punish him as he deserves.
                  I am convinced that a more malicious man doth not exist than Mr Fowler, and I am determined so soon as I prudently can, to convince the world of his Malicious intentions against my reputation.  With the most perfect respect & Sincere attachment, I have the Honor to be, your Excellencies most obedt Servt

                     Daniel Brodhead

                     Postcript  I have arrested Col. Gibson, on the 30th Augt.
                     1st  For assuming the cheif Command at this Post contrary to the Articles & discipline of war, thereby exciting & encouraging Mutiny & Sedition amongst a number of Officers in this Department.
                     2nd  For neglect of Duty & disobedience of Orders.

                     D.B.


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 6 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                     sir
                     Wilmington 6th Septemr 1781

                  I thank you for your Favr of Yesterday—and have to inform that I am thus far on my Way to Virginia—that the Count DeGrasse with 28 Ships of the Line with some Frigates, is arrived in the Chesapeak—where Lord Cornwallis is at present Blocked up & fortifyg in York River.
                  Notwithstandg the Distance—if any Thing worthy Notice takes place under your Observation, I shall thank you for its Comunication thro’ the Q.M.G. Colo. Miles at Phila.—Your Expresses may be discontinued.  With much Regard I am sir your most obet

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Gibson, 6 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Gibson, John

                     sir
                     Head of Elk 6th Septemr 1781

                  Colo. Broadhead having been Directed, in my Letter to him of this Date, to resign his Comand at Fort Pitt, during the Dependance of his Trial on sundry accusations bro’t against him whilst in Comand—You will immediately on the Receipt of this assume the like Comand at the Post of Fort Pitt & its Dependances as has been committed to Colo. Broadhead.
                  Mr Fowler, who appears to have been a Principal in the accussation bro’t against Colo. Broadhead, insistg that he has a Right in this Instance to act as Judge Advocate, from his havg been in that Capacity for some Time past—you will—from the Manifest Impropriety in this Case—direct, that Mr Fowler do not appear nor act as D. Advocate in takg the Depositions necessary in this Trial, nor in any other Way in the present Case as Judge Advocate—And you will appoint some person whom you shall think proper, to act in such manner as directed in my Former Letters on this occasion—In this Way I hope to have this disagreable Dispute speedily issued.  I am &ca

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Mordecai Gist, 6 September 1781
From: Gist, Mordecai
To: Washington, George

                  Dear General

                     Baltimore 6th sept. 1781 6 oClock P.M.

                  I do myself the Honor to enclose You a list of the Vessels that have sailed from this port for the Head of Elk, ammounting in the whole to  1,012 Tons, which I hope are arrived before this.  About 300 Tons of Shipping are now in the Harbour discharging their Cargoes, including a Galley of four 18 Pounders, belonging to the merchts of the Town, who have had her sometime under repair, she is not yet compleated and is without hands—but I have prevailed upon the Captains of the French Cutters to put an officer and 14 hands on board to take her to the Head of Elk to remove the Troops.
                  The Captain informs me that he would proceed in Company with her—but expects to receive your Excellencys orders at this place before he sails.
                  The Governor and Council have directed Vessels to be sent from the different Harbours of this state to the Head of Elk.  of which I have no return, but do not expect that the whole will be equal (or more) than sent from this place: as we have at this time but very few vessels belonging to the inhabitants of the state in port.
                  I beg your Excellency may rely that every exertion in my power shall be used to forward the embarkations.  I have the Honor to be With perfect Respect yr Excellencys most Obedt Servt

                     M. Gist


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 6 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     sir
                     Head of Elk 6th Septemr 1781

                  I have been honored by your Excellencys Favor of the 2d Instant—& do myself the Pleasure to felicitate you on the happy Arrival of so formidable a Fleet of his most Christian Majesty, in the Bay of Chesapeake, under your Excellencys Comand—this happy Event, I hope will be improved to the most salutary Purposes, for the united Interests of both Nations.
                  Expecting to have the Honor of a personal Interview with your Excellency, almost as soon as this will reach your Hand, I shall not give you the Trouble in Writing, of a particular Detail of my Designs, Will only inform you, that the Van of the two Armies, the French & American, consistg of about 2000 men(there not being Transports for the whole), will be embarked in about two Days, & will fall Down the Chesapeake to form a Junction with the Troops under the Comd of the Ct de St Simon & the Marquis Lafayette, & to cooperate in Blockg up Ld Cornwallis in York River, & preventg him to make his Retreat by Land—or collecting any Supplies from the Country.
                  This Junction of the Van of our Troops is proposed to be made in James River, unless your Excellency & the Comanders of the Land Troops, should judge some other Point of Debarkation to be more favorable to our Intentions—in which Case, you will be pleased to meet the Transports while on their Way, with Orders to proceed to any other Point which may be fixed on.
                  The Remainder of the Troops from hence will be forwarded on with all the Expedition our Circumstances will admit—In the Mean Time, as it will be of the greatest Importance to prevent the Escape of his Lordship from his present Position—I am persuaded that every Measure which prudence can dictate Will be improved for that Purpose untill the arrival of our Compleat Force—when I hope his Lordship will be compelled to yield his Ground, to the superiour Power of our Combined Forces.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 6 September 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                  Dear General

                     Office of Finance 6th September 1781.

                  The bearer Mr Audibert will deliver you five hundred Guineas as for secreet Service Money according to the request made in your Letter of the 17th of August last from Dobbs’s Ferry.  I had directed Mr Audibert to bring with him the ballance which might remain of the 20.000 Dollars after paying the Troops, but upon Consideration I think it will be best if there be any Ballance that it should be paid to the Use of your Excellency’s Table.
                  You will perceive by my Letter to Mr Audibert that he is directed to take your Order wherefore I am now to request that your Excellency will be pleased to order the Payment of this Ballance for the Purpose above mentioned and direct a proper Receipt to be given to the paymaster.  I am respectfully Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & humble Servant

                     Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 6 September 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                  Dr General

                     Office of Finance Sept. 6th 1781

                  I had the Honor to send you two Letters this Morning by Major Clerkson.  This will be delivered you by Mr Audibert the Paymaster and encloses No. 1 a Copy of my Letter to him & No. 2 a Copy of my Letter to the Count de Rochambeau.
                  As it was not in Contemplation to make any Payments to the Civil Staff of the Detachment so the Heads of the Departments have made their seperate Applications to me for Money and I shall let them have what may prudently be spared.
                  It is possible that the Sum of twenty thousand Dollars may be insufficient in which Case I am to request of your Excellency that you would make Application to the Count for the Deficiency and I will readily replace the Whole on the first of October.  I am with the greatest Respect and sincerest Attachment your Excellency’s most Obedient

                     Robt Morris

                Enclosure

                     Sir

                        Office of Finance 6th September 1781.

                     With this Letter I deliver you a Letter to his Excellency the Count De Rochambeau In Consequence of which he will give you the Sum of twenty thousand Dollars for the Purpose of paying one month’s pay to the Officers and Soldiers of the Line under the Command of Major General Lincoln for which Sum you will give Duplicate Receipts.  I did expect that in Consequence of my Instructions to you I should have received a Return of the precise Sum necessary for the above Purpose and I am much disappointed to learn that no such Return is made out.
                     I deliver you a Letter to the Commander in Chief which you will take Care of when you have received the money from the Count you will take General Washington’s Orders for the disposition of it, and having paid the military Officers and the Soldiers their month’s pay bring with you your accounts and Vouchers with whatever Ballance may be remaining.  Return as speedily as you can, and upon your Return I will give such further Directions as may be necessary.  I am Sir Your most Obedt & humble Servant.

                Enclosure

                     Sir

                        Office of Finance 6th September 1781

                     In Consequence of the Conversation I had the Honor to hold with your Excellency yesterday and of your Promise to supply to the United States the sum of twenty thousand Dollars for an immediate Purpose, to be replaced on the first day of October next, I have directed Mr Philip Audibert the bearer of this Letter to wait upon you.  I shall be much obliged to your Excellency if you will be pleased to direct that the above Sum be paid to Mr Audibert, and that Duplicate Receipts be taken of him one of which I pray may be transmitted to me.
                     I will take Care that the money be replaced at the time agreed upon.  With every Wish for the most brilliant Success to the Allied Arms and for your own personal Glory I am very Respectfully Your Excellency’s most Obedient & humble Servant.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 6 September 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Dr General
                     Chester 6 Sepr 1781

                  Permit me most sincerely to congratulate you on the arrival of the french Fleet and to express my warmest Wishes for the Success of your future operations.
                  As soon as I arrive at Philadelphia I shall give Directions for the Deputy Paymaster to repair to the Head of Elk and make Payment of a Month’s Pay in Specie to the Detachment under the Command of Genl Lincoln.  I wish the States had enabled me to do more, but it is to be lamented that the Supinenness of the several Legislatures still leaves the Servants of the Public to struggle with unmerited Distresses.  It shall however be a Part of my Business to rouse them into Exertion and I hope soon to see the army better paid than heretofore and I confide that your Excellency will with every other Public officer exert your Influence to aid me in this necessary Task.  with the greatest Respect I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s most obedt & humble Servt

                     Robt Morris

                     P.S.  I shall send the 500 Guineas by the Pay Master, as they were left behind by yr Excy.


Title: From George Washington to Count de Damas, 6 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Damas, Count de

                     Head Quarters, Head of Elk Septr 6th 1781

                  Monsieur Dumat Aide De Camp to His Excellency the Count de Rochambeau and Aide Quarter Master to the French Army, being dispatched to reconnoitre the Ferries on the Susquehannah River; it is requested that all Persons well affected to the Cause of America, & the success of the Allied Armies will afford him their best information, aid, and assistance, in the prosecution of his duty.

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 6 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Sir,
                     Head Quarters Elk. Sept. 6th 1781

                  It is of the utmost importance to the Service, that Gentlemen who are acting at the heads of departments should at this present period be with the troops.
                  You will please therefore upon the receipt of this to join them with all possible dispatch.  I am Sir with Esteem Yours &ca

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                     Gentlemen
                     Head of Elk 7th Septemr 1781

                  Agreable to my Promise to you in Phila I have consulted Doct. Craig on the Subject of the Hospital Appointments—Inclosed is the Answer I have received—which I do myself the honor to transmit to you—And am Gentlemen Your most Obet Servt

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to William Colfax, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Colfax, William

                     Sir
                      7 September 1781

                  Three or four Trusty men—the Woman of the Guard—the Box of papers, and such parts of my Baggage as will be particularly named to you, with all the cover’d Waggons & such others as the Q.M. Genll shall direct are to go round by Land to the Army in Virginia.
                  The Guard—Stores & other Baggage, are to be embarked on board of some good Vessel (for which you are to apply to Genll Lincoln in time) and to proceed with the rest of the Transports to the place of debarkation in Virginia.
                  The best security for your liquors and other stores which are liable to be pilfered or otherwise wasted, will be to place them in a scituation in the hold where they cannot be got at early.  Given at the head of Elk this 7th day of Sepr 1781.

                     Go: W——n


Title: To George Washington from Christian Febiger, 7 September 1781
From: Febiger, Christian
To: Washington, George

                  Sir

                     Charlestown Maryland Sept. 7th 1781 10 o’Clock Night

                  Sensible, that your Excelly would be inform’d of my haveing travell’d this Way and anxious to see you.  I thought it necessary, least Your Excelly (however inconsistent with your wonted Generosity) might form an unfavourable Opinion of my Conduct in leaving the State, when Matters seem to approach towards a favorable Crisis.
                  Your Excelly will therefore be pleasd to pardon for explaining my Motives and the Situation I am in—After haveing been near 8 Months in Philada by Order of Major Genl Greene and in the Execution of his Orders I join’d the Army in Virginia last Spring, and after being some time disagreeably an idle Spectator upon repeated Sollicitations I obtaind a Command in the Militia, with whom I continued untill Baron Steuben joind at Dandridges with Lawson Militia and a Detachment of Drafts intended for Colo. Mathew my Senior Officer, in his Absence I obtaind with much ado the Command of them and thus remaind untill both Army’s became inactive; when the Baron (haveing repeatedly proposd it to me and obtaind Orders from the Marquis) directed me to Superintend the Recruiting Service and the Formation & equipping the Va Line and to form and take Charge of a General Rendezvous for that purpose (Colo. Davies by his Appointment in the War Office haveing left that Business) and to repair thence.
                  I accordingly proceeded to Cumberland old Courthouse, collected all the scatterd Cavalry Infantry & Artillery, who were unequippd and after haveing laid in a Sufficient Magazine of Forrage provisions  for Six Weeks, being destitute of monney Cloaths and almost every other necessary, I proposd and sollicited the Barons Leave to come to Philadelphia for a Supply and to return immediately.  I had not only those private Objects in View; But determind to use every Exertion in Philada & on my Rout to obtain Arms Accoutrements &c. for 300 Cavalry, which Number or thereabouts is now laying idle in Powhatan County under Colo. White & Major Call, neither is it possible to Supply them in Virga at present—under those Circumstances I sett off and on the 3d instant at Frederickburgh by Letter from the Marquis’s Quarters was in form’d of the Arrival of the french Fleet.
                  a Captain Livingston also reported, that your Excellency was approaching; But from former Accounts no one believ’d it.
                  I waited a Day to consider, what I had best do.  No fresh Intelligence arriv’d and I determind to proceed the lower Route and meet your Excellency, (being certain, that if I went down to Camp I could obtain no Command) and had not my horse given out this Evening should have waited on you.
                  I Knew also, that whilst the Militia were out, no Draft could take place consequently the Business of the Rendezvous be easily transacted ’till my Return especially when committed to the Care of Major Posey, who is at the Court house for that purpose.  I had no Objects in View at Philadelphia but those allready mentioned and on my Return to take Mrs Febiger to Virginia.  If therefore your Excellency shall think proper to order me on any particular Service or could I by any means be renderd usefull on the present Occasion or any other, nothing could give me more Satisfaction.  a Fear of inadvertently and undesignedly incurring your Excellencys Displeasure (than which nothing could injure my Feelings more) has induc’d me thus long to impose on your patience and but too precious Time, which I beg your Excelly will excuse.  I have the honor to be with every Sentiment of Veneration & Respect Your Excellencys Most obedient and most humble Servant

                     Christian Febiger
                     Colo. 2nd Va Regt &


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                  Dear Sir,

                     Head Quarters, Head of Elk Sept. 7th 1781

                  I have rec’d yours of the 6th Instant.  I feel myself not only personally, but with respect to my country so much indebted to you for your exertions on all occasions, that I cannot refrain from expressing my obligations on the subject.
                  Be assured Sir it shall alway’s be retained in grateful remembrance; and every oppertunity embraced to convince you of my esteem and friendship.
                  It is with particular pleasure, I inform you that the Count De Grasse with 28 Sail of the line arrived in the Cheasapeak on the 26th ult. and occupied the intermediate space between Cape Henry and the middle grounds which effectually secures the passage of the Bay; and places them in the most perfect situation of defence.
                  The Count immediately landed 3000 men with orders to join the Marquis De Lafayette so as effectually to prevent the retreat of Lord Cornwallis to the Carolina’s, which I flatter myself by the position the Marquis has taken will convince His Lordship of the impropriety of moveing.  I am marching with all possible dispatch with the light infantry of the american Troops and the French army commanded by the Count De Rochambeau with an intention of making steady and obstinate advance towards the reduction of his Lordships force which at present occupies the Towns of york and Gloster in Virginia situated on the south and North margin of york River fortifying with increased industry.
                  The fleet previous to their arrival, fortunately fell in with & captur’d a packett from Charles Town bound to Europe, in consequence of which Lord Rawdon became a prisoner who was on board returning to England.
                  I have not yet heard what is become of the British fleet commanded by admiral Hood, the last account was that they were seen on Monday last at 4 oClock P.M. a little to the Southward of Cape Henlopen standing north.  Should any thing of an interesting Nature come to your knowledge, I wish to receive the earliest account of it and by your returning expresses, I will forward the news of the Day & the success of our movements.  I am Dr Sir with every Sentiment of Esteem yours &a

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Mordecai Gist, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Gist, Mordecai

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Head of Elk Septr 7th 1781

                  This will be deliver’d to you by the Officer of the French Navy, who brought the Dispatches from the Count de Grasse; if before his return to Baltimore, you shall have found a conveyance for the Letter addressed to the Count which was forwarded from hence this morning, the Cutter will remain and act as a Convoy to the Fleet in its passage down the Bay; if on the contrary, those dispatches have not been sent on for the Count de Grasse, the Commanding Officer of the Cutter is to take charge of them and proceed directly to the Count.  I am Sir, Your most Obedient Humble Servant

                     Go: Washington

                     a duplicate of this was sent by an express this day, thro’ a mistake.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                     Dear Sir
                     Head of Elk Septr 7th 1781

                  I have been favour’d with yours of the 1st inst. and one by Capt. Webb, and am happy to hear that you meet with such little disturbance from the Enemy in your department.I have it now in my power to congratulate you on the arrival of Count de Grasse with 28 Ships of the Line & some Frigates, in the Chesapeack, with a body of Land forces on board, which he debarked immediately on his arrival.on his passage he took Lord Rawdon, who was bound from Charlestown to England.  This arrival, with Colo. Laurens’s from France, must fill the United States with the most happy prospects and expectations.
                  I am thus far on my way to Virginia with the Troops under my Command, we are now embarking the heavy Baggage, stores and some of the Troops, the remainder will march by land to Baltimore as we have not Vessels to convey them from this.
                  Any small Cloathing that has or may arrive for the Troops of the Connecticut Line, you will forward a proportion to the Detatchment of that line, that are either with Colo. Scammell or the Marquis, under the Guard of a few Men and a trusty Serjeant taken from the same Line.
                  I must beg of you not to forget sending the quantity of Beef I requested; as I must, at present, altogether depend on that supply.  I am Dear Sir, Your Most Obedient Servant

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  I wish your particular attention for apprehending a number of Deserters that have left this Army—& punish them with the greatest severity.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 7 September 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,Head quarters, Peeks kill, Sept. 7. 1781.

                  I did myself the honor of writing Your Excellency yesterday by Mr Flint, who was on his way to the army—This will probably reach you sooner.  The southern postrider was undoubtedly taken on monday last near Pumpton, and the mail carried off—this probably will furnish Mr Rivington with materials for some weeks to come.
                  On the 4th at 12 o’clock a fleet of about 26 sail, some of them large vessels passed by Stamford to the eastward—but whether they had troops on board or not, my informant did not mention.  It is said sir Saml Hood has put to sea with 16 sail of the line.
                  The last evening I received information from captain Pray at the block house, that all the enemy’s guard ships in the North river above fort Washington had gone down the river not a vessel was to be seen—Captain Pray was going down to make further discoveries.  It is reported an embargo is taking place in New York—We have no other news at present.  I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                     Memorandum, for General Lincoln7th Sep: 1781.

                  A skilful Navigator, and a man of respectable character should be appointed Commodore—He is to give to each Skipper his Orders—fix signals for the whole to be governed by—to keep them in compact order—run them to Burwells Ferry, or James Town on James River, where they are to debark unless they meet other orders, on the passage—and to return with all possible expedition to Baltimore for the remaining Troops.
                  If all the Siege Artillery and a sufficiency of Ordnance Stores cannot go down in the first trip, such as will be first and most wanted, must be preferred.
                  The Intrenching Tools must go without fail—as there is no dependence upon finding any with the Marquis.
                  The Boats would be very convenient to debark the Troops & Stores—and for crossing the River of York if we should establish ourselves on both sides but whether they can be got over in time for the first fleet (which ought not to be delayed a moment unnecessarily) is a doubt.
                  Such necessary Articles of Cloathing as are indispensably wanted for the Troops at this Moment or which will be wanted in a short time, had better (if it can be done without delay) be delivered before they embark as it will answer the calls of the needy, and lessen the transportation.
                  No moment is to be lost in baking bread & providing salt provisions of some kind or other for the voyage.
                  You will embark by the night, and will endeavour as much as possible, to keep the Corps compact, the Companies as little divided as possible, and that the Officers are not seperated from their Men.  Hazen’s Regt may be in the first embarkation.
                  Some Feild Artillery (in the proportion allotted to the Corps on the march hither) ought, I think, to accompany them by water (if it be practicable) depending upon Horses at the place of debarkation in Virginia.
                  In all cases—let every Corps, & parts of Corps have their Tents, Baggage &c. with them in the same Vessels that no inconveniency may arise from a seperation.
                  When it is ascertained what Vessels will be here, and the number of Men (exclusive of the Stores) they will carry—and when these are moreover assigned to the french Army as many as will be sufficient to carry the Grenadiers & Chasseiars that are to be embarked with the Infantry of Duke de Lauson’s Legion (amounting to about 1000 Men) you will be able to estimate the number of American Troops that can embark with the first division—All the rest are to move on to Baltimore to wait the return of the Vessels, or procurement of others to transport them to the point of operation in Virginia.
                  My Guard, except a few men & the Women of it; with my Baggage, is to go with the first Troops, and I shall be oblidged to you to take care that the whole are put into one Vessel—and a safe one—other things, and Troops (if the Vessel is sufficient) may serve to fill her.
                  The Horses & Carriages which go round by land ought (for ease & convenience) to march in Brigades—Some clever fellow as a Waggon Master should after having properly organized them for the March, precede them—mark the days marches, & the places where it may be necessary to give them a days rest—and take the necessary Steps to have a sufficiency of forage provided at all of them.
                  Whenever you shall have embarked the Troops and Stores & the whole have actually weighed Anchor—Give me an Account of it by the Chain of Expresses & forward an exact Return of each Corps together with a list of the Stores—the latter with a duplicate for me, being made out as they are embarked, will be ready at any Moment without the delay of taking Copies at the instant they are wanted.
                  If there should not be a sufficiency of Vessels at Baltimore to transport all the Troops at once—fix with the Baron Viomenil, (or officer Commanding the French Army at that place) the Corps that shall embark, and let them proceed by Corps as fast as Vessels can be obtained, as succours of this kind may be of infinite importance to our operations against Lord Cornwallis.
                  You are so well informed, & so fully impressed with the necessity of using every possible means that can promote dispatch, that I shall only add in one Word, that the success or disgrace of our expedition depends absolutely upon the celerity of our Movements.
                  In all things not particularly directed, your own judgement, on which I have an entire dependence, must govern.

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.   The Tow Ropes or Painters of the Boats ought to be strong, & of sufficient length, otherwise we shall be much plagued with them in the Bay, & more than probably lose many of them.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                     Dear Sir,

                        c.7 September 1781

                  Let the Corps of Sappers & Miners be part of the Troops which compose the first Embarkation of our Army.  I am sincerely & Affectionately—Yrs

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Macpherson, 7 September 1781
From: Macpherson, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia 7th Septr 1781

                  When I had the honor of seeing your Excellency at Head Quarters, your Excellency was good enough to inform me on my soliciting employment, that as soon as the operations of the campaign were determined on, your Excellency wou’d be able to know, whether I could be brought into service or not; I hope your Excellency will pardon my requesting to know, whether any opportunity has presented itself, and if there has, that I may be honor’d with your Excellencys orders on the subject.
                  I feel myself from the present appearance of affairs, extremely anxious to be with the Army, and shall esteem myself singularly unfortunate, if I cannot be permitted to join it, in some capacity or other.
                  I propose remaining at this place till I am honord with your Excellencys answer, and have the honor to be, with the highest respect—Your Excellencys Most obedient, humble servant

                     W. MacPherson Major C. Army


Title: From George Washington to John Jacob Mytinger, 7 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Mytinger, John Jacob

                     sir
                      7 September 1781

                  After leaving at this Place with me Two Dragoons, you will imediately proceed on with the others of your Comand, over the lower Ferry of Susquehannah, upon the Road to Baltimore—to which latter Place you will go on, & wait my Arrival there, unless you receive further Orders from me.  Given at Head Quarters the Head of Elk this 7th Day of Septemr 1781.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Purviance, Jr., 8 September 1781
From: Purviance, Samuel, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                  May it Please your Excellency

                      8 September 1781

                  The Citizens and Inhabitants of Baltimore, impressed with the warmest Sentiments of respect and Esteem, and with the most lively sense of the important Services rendered by you to them and their Country, beg leave (thro us) to congratulate your Excellency, upon your arrival in this Town, and to Express the general Joy diffused through every breast, at the return of your Excellency to this State.
                  It has been, with the Highest Satifaction, we have found our most sanguine expectations from your military Talents, exceeded by the abilities you have displayed, during a series of various Fortune, as well in the day of Battle, as the hour of distress.  Your fortitude and perseverance under all our calamities, the wisdom of your Councils, the Judicious and mild regulation of the army, your discreet attention to the Civil powers of the respective States, and the great address with which our military operations have been conducted, under your Excellencys direction, demand the warmest Expression of Gratitude, that can flow from the hearts of a free people.
                  Permit us also to congratulate your Excellency, upon the many Signal Successes that have lately attended the American Army in the Southern States, obtained with such distinguished honors to our Gallant Officers & Soldiers; and on the Arrival of the Fleet of our mananimous Ally, aided by whose noble and generous Exertions we look forward with pleasing hopes, to the day of peace, when we may freely enjoy the bounties, with which all Gracious Heaven has enriched our Country.  May your present operations prove Successful, and may the grand work in which you are engaged, be happily terminated.
                  Our prayers are for your Excellencys preservation, that you may continue, approved by Heaven, esteemed by Virtuous men, and feared by Tyrants; and (on the Restoration of public tranquility) that you may in peaceful retirement enjoy that satisfaction of mind, which the sense of great and noble Deeds always inspire; and may Posterity in the full Possession and Exercise of that Freedom, which your Sword has assisted to Establish, venerate, and do Ample Justice to your Virtues and Character, to the latest ages.
                  With Sentiments of the most profound Esteem and Respect we are, in behalf of the Citizens and Inhabitants of Baltimore Your Excellencys most Obedient and most humble Servants

                     W. Smith
                     Saml Purviance Junr
                     John Moale
                     Richard Carson
                     Jno. Dorsey
                     Jas Calhoun


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Purviance, Jr., 8 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Purviance, Samuel, Jr.

                     To the Citizens & Inhabitants of the Town of Baltimore
                     Gentlemen
                     Baltimore 8th Sepr 1781

                  With the warmest Sense of Gratitude & Affection, I accept your kind Congratulations on my Arrival in this Town—permit me to assure you that I participate in your Felicity, from the Happiness I feel in having this opportunity to pay my Respects to your worthy Inhabitants.
                  If during the long & trying Period in which my Military Services have been Employed for the Interests of the United States & for the Establishment of their Rights, I have acquitted myself to the Acceptance of my fellow Citizens—If my Various fortunes in the field—If my Attention to the Civil Powers of the States—have in any Wise subserved the general good of the Public; In this View of my Conduct I feel myself happy—& in this Consideration I rejoice in your general Joy.
                  The happy & eventfull Successes of our Troops in the Southern States, as they reflect Glory on the American Arms, & particular Honor on the gallant officers & men immediately active in that Department, warm my Heart with pleasure & Delight.
                  The generous & decided Part which our Allies are takg in our Cause, calls for our utmost Gratitude—the late arrival of the formidable Fleet of his most Christian Majesty on our Coasts, is a Source of particular Joy; & gives us the most pleasing prospect of the happiest Successes, which may terminate in an honorable & lastg Peace.
                  I most sincerely thank you for your Prayers & good Wishes—May the Author of all Blessing aid our united Exertions in the Cause of Liberty—And may the particular Favor of Heaven rest on you gentlemen—& the worthy Citizens of this flourishg Town of Baltimore.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 8 September 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear General
                     Williamsburg Sepr 8th 81

                  I had the honor to write you lately giving an account of every thing that came within my knowledge,   I was evry hour expecting I might be more particular but if you new how slow things go on in this Country, that still I have done the best in my power, I have written and received twenty letters a day from Government and every department whatever.  the Governor does what He can the Wheels of His Government are so very rusty that no Governor whatever will be able to set them fiercely agoing, time will prove that Jefferson has been too severely charged—The French Troops my Dear General has landed with immasing celerity they have been already wanting flour meat and Salt not however so much as to have been one day without—I have been night and day so much the Quarter Master Collector and Beef driver I have drove myself into a violent Headake and feaver which will go off with three hours sleep the want of which has occasioned it,this my Dear General will apologise to you for not writing with my own hand—The French Army is composed of the most excellent Regiments, they have with them a Corps of Hussards which may be of immediate use—The General and all the Officers have cheerfully lived in the same way as our poorly provided american Detachment—I think a letter from you on the subject will have a very good effect, last night by leaving our own baggage and accepting of our Officers Horses we have been able to move to a position near Williamsburg, it is covered along the front with ravines, the right flank is covered by a Mill Pond on the road to James Town, the left by Queen’s Creek small rivalets and marshes we have Militia still in front of our right and left and a good lookout on the River,  our provisions may come to the Cappital Landing, Williamsburg and its strong buildings are in our front—I have upon the lines general Mughlenburg with one thousand Men four hundred of whom are Virginia Regulars and one hundred Dragoons.  in borrowing Whites unequipped horses we may add one hundred Hussards—Their is a line of armed Ships along James River, and a small reserve of Militia which may increase every day their are in Gloscester County eight hundred Militia driving off Stock—I had recommended with proper delicacy to Count De Grass to send some Naval force up York River, the French armed vessels in Pamunkey are come down to West Point, no movements of Count De Grass has as yet taken place except some Ships being below York.  Your Excellencys letters to him has been duly forwarded, we are under infinite obligations to the Officers and Men for their zeal.
                  I entered into so particular accounts my Dear General to show you that propriety and not the desire to advance has dictated our measures we will try if not dangerous upon a large scale to form a good idea of the works, but unless I am greatly deceived their will be madness in attacking them now with our force,  Marquis St Simon Count De Grass and General Du Portail agree with me in opinion, but should Lord Cornwallis come out against such a position as we have, every body thinks that he cannot but repent of it, and should he beat us He must soon prepair for another battle.
                  Now my Dear General I am going to speak to you of the fortifications at York—Lord Cornwallis is working day and night and will soon work Himself into a respectable situation, He has taken on shore the greatest part of His Sailors,  He is picking up what ever provisions He can get, I am told he has ordered the Inhabitants in the vicinity of the Town to come in, and should think they may do Him as much harm as good, our present position will render Him cautious and I think it a great point, no news as yet in this camp of Monsieur Count De Barrass’s Fleet.
                  I will now answer you that part of your letter respecting provisions for the troops now under your immediate command.
                  As I have already wrote to your Excellency there are some Flour some Wheat Indian Corn and Mills in this Country—I went to Richmond the Moment I reciev’d your first letter and afterwards sent Mr McHenry both crying out for magazines and pointing proper places, promises were made, and the liberty of navigation was the only objection, now they are over—I do not know in the name of God what prevents them coming, their is no Continental Commissary of Purchases and the State one has little sence, and no activity, I would recommend my Dear General to have great dependance on the Maryland Flour and that of Pensylvania, the State Quarter Master keeps writing letters and says He has no means—Government says He has them, but He fell sick a long time ago and we cannot get Him from the Mountains.
                  As to Beaves with the least activity their is enough in the Country and if necessary we must push military means which in other instances I have an utter aversion, they have Salt a plenty but we cannot get it—The sooner the Heads of the Departments come here the better it will be, a letter from Your Excellency to Government will have a good effect, to be forwarded to the different County Lieutenants, as Government has less attention paid them than even myself and the influence of Your request will be immence, as to Waggons my Dear Genl the People are so much attached to them and it is so easy for them to hide them that you cannot concieve what immence trouble I have been at for transporting our little Army to this place but the superiority on James River could alone help us on, as to Horses my Dear General Major Call is at Richmond almost without Saddles and Dragoons  He had orders from General Greene which I have respected, but have stopped Him in Richmond—there is one hundred Horses at Portroyal pressed for Colo. Lees Legion that may be here immediately upon your arrival, Mayriland speaks of four hundred Horse they are impressing, this State promissed 60 Waggons and I have ordered every one Clayborne had.
                  Notwithstanding what is said of our present wants yet I have good reason for believing that there will be found a sufficiency of Supplies in this State and Mayriland for our Armies.
                  With respect to a proper place for the debarkation of your troops it is the opinion of the Marquis St Simon, and myne, that it must be in James River but we have not had an opportunity yet of fixing on the best spots—it appears however that it must be at or near Williamsburg or James Town.  with the most affectionate regard and esteem I am Dr General Your most Obt Humbe Sevt

                     Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 9 September 1781
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

                     Philadelphia 9th Septemr 1781.

                  I need not tell you, my dear General, what I felt on the critical Arrival of Count de Grass’ Squadron.  Accept my warmest Congratulations.  The most decisive advantages may reasonably be expected from this generous & formidable Cooporation: but I will not anticipate.
                  The Financier has relieved my Solicitude for the New York Line.  A Month’s Pay however inadequate to their Claims will raise their Spirits, at least appease their discontent.
                  I have this moment dispatches from the northward particularly from General Schuyler.  The Indians have within a few days revisited Coble’s kill and Schoharie burned several houses and captivated some of the Inhabitants, and there is reason to be apprehensive that they will destroy the Grain which is doubtless their principal object in this Incursion.  General Schuyler mentions that there is not less than 80 or 90000 bushells of Wheat at Schoharie alone which he has "in vain essayed to bring away."
                  Since your Excellency’s departure we have thrown the Solitary Remnant of our Marine into the Management of our Financies.  It will save a Capital Expence as the Admiralty Navy boards and their Subordinate offices are dissolved.  When the number of our Ships & the Circumstances of our Treasury Justify it, the Appointment of the Minister of the marine will be seasonable.  The Board of Treasury & its dependants will in a few days undergo a similar Reform.  I expect those measures will prove a fruitful Source of Invective against those who have introduced and pressed them, and I am content to take my Share.
                  I have the pleasure to transmit this Letter by Lt Col. Laurens.  In the Execution of his late Mission he has acquired great Honour and given entire Satisfaction.  From having his Report under Consideration as a member of a special Committee I had an opportunity of minute Enquiry and I am convinced he has done every thing which coud be expected, under delicate Circumstances, from an able minister.  He has Justly encreased his Reputation by asking leave immediately after his Report to take the Field, and by declining any Recompence for His essential Services.  A disinterestedness which forms a striking Contrast between him and some other Characters!  Congress have given him a Testimonial of their Approbation which I do myself the Honor to enclose.  I wish it may be in your Excellency’s power to distinguish Col. Laurens by a Command.  you may be assured it will be highly pleasing to Congress.  With every Sentiment of affectionate Attachment and inviolable Respect and the most sincere wishes for your Glory and Success—I have the honour to be—Dear Sir Your Excellency’s most Obedient & most humble Servant

                     Jas Duane


Title: From George Washington to Peter Wagener, 9 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Wagener, Peter

                     Dr Sir
                     Mount Vernon Septr 9 1781

                  Instead of having the Militia of this County (who I am informed are now assembled) march immediately to join the Marquis de la Fayette; I could wish they Might be employed in repairing the Roads from George Town to the Ford of Occoquan—To do this without a moments loss of time, is of such essential importance that I cannot but repeat in the most earnest manner my desire to have it done—The Waggons of the French & American Armies—the Cavalry—& the Cattle will proceed by that rout & may be expected in a few days; & will not only be retarded but more than probably essentially injured if this necessary business is neglected or delayed.  I depend therefore absolutely upon your zeal & activity for the execution of it.  For dispatch let the Militia be divided into several parties, & impress the officers commanding each with the magnitude of the object & the necessity of compleat repair—there will be no Troops with the Baggage Waggons &ca of the Armies before mentioned—& the Maryland Corps now on their March I wish to join the Troops commanded by the Marquis de la Fayette as soon as possible.  With much esteem & regard I am Dr Sir Yr most obt Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  It is probable, that the farther service of the Militia on the prest occasion may be dispensed with if they perform with alacrity & perfectly well the beforementioned business.  I wish you to consult the County Leiut. of Prince William; whether some improvements cannot be made in the Ford of Occoquan & that it may be done if practicable—also that you will be so good as forward the Letter which accompanies this.


Title: From George Washington to François-Jean de Beauvoir, marquis de Chastellux, 10 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Chastellux, François-Jean de Beauvoir, marquis de

                     Dear Sir
                     Mount Vernon 10th Septr 1781

                  The Count Rochambeau is just arrived at my Home—I propose to halt here Tomorrow with the Gentlemen, to ease their fatigue, & to give them fresh Spirits to pursue our March the next Day.
                  It will add exceedingly my Dear Sir, to the Pleasure I experience in havg the Company of the Count at my Home, to have the Happiness to see you at the same Time—I beg therefore that you will be so good as to join us with your agreeable Company as early Tomorrow as is convenient.
                  This Halt at my Home will occasion no Delay in our march, as I shall have fresh Horses, with Carriages provided for our next Days March, which will help us on with greater Rapidity than otherwise we shall get on with fatigued Horses.  With the greatest Regard & Esteem I am my Dear Sir Your most Obe Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Moses Hazen, 10 September 1781
From: Hazen, Moses
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir,
                     Head of Elk 10th Septr 1781

                  The unexpected rout of the Army destin’d for Virginia; induces me to sollicit your Excellencys favor in a Respectable Command—When I spoke to you on this subject at Springfield, I had not an Idea of the Troops marching this way.  Your Excellency was then pleased to determin as was related to me by General Lincoln, that I should continue to Command my Own Regiment and to do Duty as Brigadier in the Line on Detashment &ca untill something better should offer.  As I am a stranger in this Country, anxious to shew in the Honor of this Campaign, I hope it will be convenient for you to give me a Command, that my Rank and services intitle me to.
                  Should the Light Troops be formed into two Brigades, I beg leave to sollicit a command in that Corps.  Should I be continued under Major General Lincolns Command, I beg to propose, the forming a Brigade of the Rhode Island & my Regiments, which will be nearly equal to either of the others—Should I be continued to command my Regiment only, I must in that case, request your Excellency will please to direct the Light Infantry Company, now with the Marquiss La Fayette, to join the Regiment.  All which, is humbly submitted to whatever may be Your Excellencys wise distribution thereon; as I should rather wish to serve a Volunteer in the Army, than to interfere with, or injure in the point of Command, any officers in the Army.
                  The multiplicity of Business which attended Your Excellency at Philadelphia, and at this place, prevented my speaking to you on this subject, and I should not have troubled you with a Letter on this occasion, had it not fallen to my lott, to come on in the Second Division.  I have the Honor to be, Your Excellencys Most Obedt and Most devoted Humble servt

                     Moses Hazen


Title: From George Washington to James Hendricks, 10 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Hendricks, James

                     Dear Sir
                     Mount Vernon Septr 10th 1781

                  The Baggage Waggons & Cavalry & Cattle of the French & American Armies are to cross at George Town, where I am told the landing Places are bad.  I have desired Colonel Wagener (instead of marching the Militia to Williamsburg) to employ them in repairing the Roads from George Town to the Ford of Occoquan; and entreat you in earnest terms, to see that the landings on both sides are made good, and at all events encreased—that proper kinds of Boats for the transportation of Carriages & Horses are collected, and every thing in readiness to give quick dispatch, as the occasion is pressing & delays may be dangerous—unless the landing places are encreased, a number of Boats will be useless, and great delays follow.  I am Dear Sir your Obedt Servant.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 10 September 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     My dear General
                     Williamsburg 10th September 1781

                  Gouvion is just Arrived—He says you may be on your way—We hasten to send to the Commanding Naval officer in the Bay—Hitherto I had no way to write to you by water—But Count de Grasse Being at sea we request the officer he has left to have every precaution taken for the safety of navigation—It is probable they are taken, but I would be too uneasy had I not added this measure to those that have been probably adopted.
                  I wrote several letters to you—The surprising speedy landing of the French troops under Marquis de St Simon—our jonction at Williamsburg—the unremitted ardor of the ennemy in fortifying at York—the sailing of Count de Grasse in pursuit of 16 sails of the line of the British Fleet—were the most principal objects—I added we were short of flour, might provide cattle enough—I took the liberty to advise James River as the best to land in—for the particular spot refered to a more particular examination the result of which we shall send to morrow.
                  Excuse the haste I am in—but the idea of your being in a cutter leaves only the time to add that I am most respectfully Yours

                     Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 10 September 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                  Dear Sir

                     Office of Finance September 10th 1781

                  The sole intent of the present is to acknowledge the receipt of your two Letters of the 7th Instant that which related to the Months pay you woud see was answered by the Steps previously taken but I am a good deal disappointed and put to inconvenience by the Money at Elk falling short of the object which obliges me to send Money thither that was absolutely necessary to fulfill my engagements here I must struggle thro these difficulties, but the doing so requires that attention and time which ought to be bestowed upon greater objects.
                  The letter respecting the Criminal was too late, the poor Fellow was gone.  I am sorry for it, and remain Your Excellency’s Most Obedient humble Servant

                     Robt Morris


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 11 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

                     sir
                     Mount Vernon 11th Septemr 1781

                  I intended, on passing thro Maryland, to have done myself the Pleasure to have seen your Excellency—but Circumstances pressing upon me as I advanced on my March, & Time slipping from me too fast, I found a Necessity of getting on with such Rapidity that I have been obliged to proceed without calling at Anapolis.
                  I am exceedingly pleased, to find, as I passed thro your State, that a Spirit for Exertion prevails universally in such Manner as gives me the Happy Prospect of receieving any effectual Supports from you.
                  Great Attention is Necessary to be given to the Article of Supplies—I mention this Circumstance, as I am just informed from below that the Army is in Distress at this Moment for Want of Provisions, particularly Flour, let me entreat your Excellency to give every the most expeditious Relief on this Head that is in your Power.  With very great Regard &a

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 11 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                     Dear Sir
                     Mount Vernon 11th Septemr 1781

                  It is to be feared from the Scarsity of the Craft which appears on the Bay—that you will not be able to embark the whole of the Troops on two Trips—of this however you will be the best Judge, upon a Calculation of the Vessels that carry the first Division—& the Number which may be collected at Baltimore by the Time of the second Embarkation—If you should find that the whole cannot be transported by the second Trip, I think it will be adviseable to put the remainder immediately in March without waitg the Return of the first Transports—Of this you will please to consult Baron Viominel, to whom the Count Rochambeau writes on the same Subject by this Opportunity—The Time is fast Slipping away—the most expeditious Mode must be taken to bring our whole Force to the Point of Operation.
                  You will be pleased to keep me fully Informed, by the Line of Express, of every interestg Circumstance which takes place with you.
                  I have no Accounts from below since parting with you—from whence it is probable nothing material has occurred.  With great Regard & Esteem I am D. Sir Your most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 11 September 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     My dear General
                     Head of Elk Sepr 11th 1781

                  The first division of the troops were embarked and ready to sail to -day at 12 o’clock, and are now only waiting for the turn of the tide.  The embarkation would have taken place 24 hours sooner, had not several of the large vessels run on ground.  We have on board Colo. Scammell’s Brigade, Colo. Lamb’s Regt, 2d Regt of Jersey, Sappers & Miners and the corps of Artificers—Besides the Grenadiers & Chasseurs, the Infantry of Duke Lauzun’s Legion, and the Artillery.  A return of their strength I enclose.  I also enclose a return of the stores on board this fleet.
                  I purpose to embark to-morrow, with the 1st Jersey, the Rhode Island, & Genl Hazen’s regiments in the few vessels left and in the batteaux, and will go in them until I meet more convenient craft.  The strength of these regiments is also enclosed.  A number of other stores will arrive with us—A return I cannot now forward.  I should have sent Genl Hazen with the first division, had not his men been better for the boats.
                  Genl Clinton will set out this afternoon for Baltimore where, I have informed him, he is to embark his brigade after the first brigade of the French troops have been provided with vessels.  I have the honor to be my Dr sir with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obt servant

                     B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 12 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     Sir
                     Dumfries 12th Septr 1781

                  Meeting the enclosed Packet at this Place—I have taken the liberty to open it, expecting to find a Letter for myself which proves to be the Case—I now enclose the Packet, which goes on with my Apology for the Liberty taken.
                  I am pursuing my March from this—& expect to join the Marquis in two Days from this Time.  With highest Respect & Esteem I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 12 September 1781
From: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Septr 12. 1781.

                  I am exceedingly sorry to be obliged to intrude a single moment on your Excellency’s time at a juncture so important as the present; but the desire of being freed from Captivity as soon as I am justly entitled to it, and of being enabled again to take an Active part in the Cause of my Country will I trust plead my excuse.
                  I have for some time understood that your Excellency had determined that "where officers were of the same rank, the eldest in Captivity should be entitled to a priority of exchange, and that where they were captured at the same time the eldest of similar Commissions should be exchanged first."  As this rule appeared to me to be highly equitable, I have never attempted, since I have been acquainted with it, to make any Interest to have it departed from in my favour, being as unwilling to do, as to suffer, wrong.  I was informed last night that General Burgoyne was about to be exchanged for a number of Colonels, One or two of whom were not entitled to an exchange before me, agreeable to the rule above specified.  If my information is right, I am in hopes your Excellency will not give your sanction to an exchange so injuriously made; but insist on the Observance of a rule founded on the strictest Impartiality and Justice.  And I easily flatter myself that this will be done, as I recollect that when my Brother Major Pinckney was wounded and made a Prisoner at the Battle of Camden, and could not obtain leave from the British Commandant of Charlestown to remove to this place, or Boston, notwithstanding both the American and British Surgeons certified that his removal to a Northern Climate was absolutely necessary; and his exchange was therefore earnestly sollicited by Governor Rutledge and General Gates; this Rule was referred to, and your Excellency was of opinion that the Justice due to other Officers would not permitt it to be departed from, notwithstanding the very critical and particular situation Major Pinckney was then in.
                  In the fullest Confidence that your Excellency will not suffer me to be deprived of my tour of Exchange, and with the most grateful remembrance of the many favours I have received at your hands, I have the honour to be Your most obliged and faithful humble Servant

                     Charles Cotesworth Pinckney

                     My Commission as Colonel is dated Sepr 16th 1776.  I was captured on the surrender of Charlestown May 12th 1780, and am the Senior Colonel then taken.

                     C:C:P.