Title: To George Washington from Peter Scull, 21 May 1779
From: Scull, Peter
To: Washington, George

Sir.
War-Office [Philadelphia] 21st May 1779

Your Excellency has been pleased to forward us the report of the Board of Officers respecting Majors Murray, Mentges, & Nichols, which were receiv’d at the office yesterday. As I should conclude from the tenor of the letter accompanying that report, that there no longer subsist any disputes in the pennsylvania line of field officers, I would request to be instructed in what manner the omissions in the inclosed paper are to be rectified, that the commissions may be made out.
In the arrangement sent by the late Committee, Major prowell’s appointment to the 11th Pennsylva. Regiment is dated in January 1778 whereas it ought to be in the month of July of that year; as his right of succession accrued on the resignation of Cap. Grubb, who left the service a few weeks after the battle of Monmouth. I inclose the resolves of Congress directing the incorporation of Patton’s & Hartley’s Regiments, which I believe were not sent with the arrangement of the Corps. I have the honour to be with the utmost respect Your Excellency’s most hbl. Serv.
P. Scull Secretary


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Sherman, 21 May 1779
From: Sherman, Isaac
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Isaac Sherman, 21 May 1779. On 30 May, GW wrote to Sherman: “your favor of the 21st came duly to hand.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Israel Shreve, 21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Shreve, Israel

Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 21st May 1779.

I have duly received your favor of yesterdays date.
The Inclosed letter to Mr Daniel De Hart contains a permission for Mrs Chamier and her daughter, a chariot two horses—a servant and baggage to pass to Maryland. You will therefore suffer her on her coming from New York to proceed on her journey.
I shall write to the board of war for the alteration in the dates of Appleton and Pecks commissions. I am sir &
G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Smallwood et al., 21 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

Gentlemen
Head Qrs [Middlebrook] May 21: 1779

I have the Honor of transmitting you a Copy of the Arrangement of the Field Officers in your line by the Board of General Officers—and of the Captains Lieutenants &c. &c. by the Committee appointed for the purpose—both of which are confirm’d; and I have to request that you will digest the whole regimentally as soon as possible and return the arrangement to me that it may be sent to the Board of War to issue Commissions upon it. You will make the arrangement as complete as you can, by filling up the Vacancies which have happened—with the Officers entitled to succeed to them and the dates the Commissions should bear. I have sent you Copies of some former Regimental arrangements, which may assist you in the business. It will be well to Number the Officers—as it [was] done in the two arrangements sent, which will always determine their precedence. You will be pleased to return me all the Papers again. I have the Honor to be with great respect & regard Gentn Yr Most Obedt sert
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 21 May 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Extract of a Letter From General Sullivan.
Dear General
Easton [Pa.] 21st May 1779

“General McDougle was apply’d to for Frocks and overhalls for the new Hampshire Troops he ordered one pair of over halls ⅌ man but nothing else and I believe There is not a single article sent from that Quarter for the Regiment of Courtland and Spencer, these things must be remedied but I cannot point out a method perhaps Tents may be sent on from the magazine at the main Army or at Moris Town, and also the other articles, if it is not done we shall be delayd exceedingly. If the necessary supplies are sent on your Excellency may rely upon no time being lost on our part but if those unaccountable mistakes (notwiths[t]anding Your Excellencys Efforts to prevent them[)], should continue to invade us I cannot be answerable for the Consequential delays.”


Title: To George Washington from the Virginia Delegates, 21 May 1779
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from the Virginia Delegates, 21 May 1779. On 25 May, GW wrote to the delegates, “I was last night honoured with your favor of the 21st Instant.”


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

Head-Quarters Camp Middle-Brook saturday May 22nd [1779]
Parole Tyrannicide—C. Signs Hallet Allen.

        The duty of Sub-Inspector.
The Sub-Inspectors are to consider themselves at all times subject to the orders of the commanding officers of the divisions to which they are respectively attached.
They are to receive their instructions relative to the department from the Inspector General and are to see that the new regulations are carried strictly into execution.
They will take the general orders daily from the Adjutant General and communicate them to the Major Generals or officers commanding the divisions.
They are also to receive all division orders and communicate them to the Majors of Brigade.
When the divisions to which they belong are detached they are to perform the duties of Adjutant General, regulating the details &c.
On a march they remain with the General commanding the division and assist in the execution of the Manœuvres he may direct.
In camp or garrison they are to see that the established duties thereof are regularly performed—& are particularly to attend to the formation, and above all the service of the guards.
The communication of orders being of the greatest importance in an army, the Sub-Inspectors are to take care that all orders are communicated with the greatest precision and dispatch and must therefore see that the Majors of Brigade themselves take the orders regularly of the Adjutant General; and in case a brigade Major by sickness or any other cause is hindered from taking the orders, that duty must be performed by some other Major in the Brigade, or oldest Captain.
The Sub-Inspectors are also to see that the Majors of Brigade keep their rosters and details in exact order that no regiment may furnish more than its proportion for the service.
In camp the Sub-Inspectors will have daily two orderly-serjeants from their divisions to carry orders; and when on detachment, if the officer on detachment has Cavalry with him, he will assign as many horsemen as he thinks necessary for the same duty.
At a Brigade General Court-Martial in Maxwells brigade May 15th 1779—Major Ross President, Edward Hawkins soldier in the 2nd Jersey regiment was tried for, “Desertion and exciting others to desert to the enemy.”
2ndly “Being drunk, absent from his quarters after taptoo, abusing and attempting to fire on an inhabitant in the night”.
The court find him guilty of the different charges exhibited against him, particularly of breaches of the 1st & 4th Articles of the 6th Section of the Articles of War and sentence him to suffer death.
The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence.


Title: Circular to the States, 22 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook 22d May 1779

The situation of our affairs at this period appears to me peculiarly critical, and this I flatter myself will apologise for that anxiety which impels me to take the liberty of addressing you on the present occasion.
The state of the army in particular is alarming on several accounts—that of its numbers is not among the least. Our battalions are exceedingly reduced, not only from the natural decay incident to the best composed armies; but from the expiration of the term of service for which a large proportion of the men were engaged. The measures hitherto taken to replace them, so far as has come to my knowledge have been attended with very partial success; and I am ignorant of any others in contemplation that afford a better prospect. A reinforcement expected from Virginia, consisting of new levies and reinlisted men is necessarily ordered to the Southward. Not far short of one third of our whole force must be detached on a service undertaken by the direction of Congress, and essential in itself. I shall only say of what remains, that when it is compared with the force of the enemy now actually at new York and Rhode Island, with the addition of the succours, they will in all proba[bi]lity receive from England, at the lowest computation—it will be found to justify very serious apprehensions and to demand the zealous attention of the different legislatures.
When we consider the rapid decline of our currency—the general temper of the times the disaffection of a great part of the people—the lethargy that overspreads the rest—the increasing danger to the Southern States—we cannot but dread the consequences of any misfortune in this quarter; and must feel the impolicy of trusting our security—to a want of activity and enterprise in the enemy.
An expectation of peace and an opinion of the enemy’s inability to send more troops to this country, I fear, have had too powerful an influence in our affairs. I have never heard any thing conclusive to authorise the former, and present appearances are in my opinion against it. The accounts we receive from Europe uniformly announce vigorous preparations to continue the war at least another campaign. The debates and proceedings in parliament wear this complexion. The public papers speak confidently of large reinforcements destined for America. The minister in his speech asserts positively that reinforcements will be sent over to Sir Henry Clinton; though he acknowledges the future plan of the war will be less extensive than the past—Let it be supposed, that the intended succours, will not exceed five thousand men. This will give the enemy a superiority very dangerous to our safety, if their strength be properly exerted, and our situation is not materially altered for the better.
These considerations and many more that might be suggested point to the necessity of immmediate and decisive exertions to complete our battalions and to make our military force more respectable. I thought it my duty to give an idea of its true state and to urge the attention of the States to a matter in which their safety and happiness are so deeply interested. I hope a concern for the Public good will be admitted as the motive and excuse of my importunity.
There is one point which I beg leave to mention also. The want of system, which has prevailed in the clothiers department has been the source of innumerable evils—defective supplies, irregular and unequal issues—great waste loss & expence to the public—general dissatisfaction in the army—much confusion and perplexity, an additional load of business to the Officers commanding make but a part of them. I have for a long time past most ardently desired to see a reformation. Congress by a resolve of the 23d of March has established an ordinance for regulating this department. According to this, there is a sub or state clothier to be appointed by each State. I know not what instructions may have been given relative to these appointments; but, if the matter now rests with the particular States, I take the liberty to press their execution without loss of time. The service suffers amazingly from the disorder in this department; and the regulations for it cannot be too soon carried into effect. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect & esteem Yr Excellencys Most Obet hum. Servant
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 22 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Gentlemen
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 22 May 1779

I herewith transmit the board two letters, one to Colonel Bland, the other to Lt Col. Washington with the resolve of Congress of the 7th, ordering them to proceed to join the Southern army.
The inclosed copy of a letter from Lt Col. Washington has induced me to imagine that the resolve has not yet reached him. I therefore send the letters open, through the board, lest in their transmission I should contravene any recent orders on this subject. either from Congress, the board, or the committee of Congress appointed for Southern affairs. I am Gentlen &
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 22 May 1779
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Dr General
Pittsburgh May 22d 1779

I am Honored with yours of the third instant and the Inclosure.
The Strictest Attention Shall ever be paid to all the Instructions your Excellency may from time to time be pleased to give me and I am very happy in having permission to establish the posts at Kittaning and Venango and am Convinced they will answer the Grand purposes mentioned in your letter, The Greatest difficulty will be to procure Salt provisions to Subsist the Garrisons at the dift advanced Posts but I have taken every Promising Step to Obtain them.
Your Excellencies letter to the Board of War will doubtless have the desired effect, and I Shall be happy in Seeing the Troops properly furnished.
You can Scarcly Conceive how difficult it has been for Some time past to procure meat for the Troops at this post⟨.⟩ I think we have been without that article upwards of Twenty days, Since Genlr. McIntosh went down the Country and yet I have the Satisfaction to inform you that the Troops have not at any time Complained.
In my last I mentioned a Great Supply of Salt provisions having arrived at Bedford which could not be brought on for want of forage, but the information I had then recd was wrong and I am informed by the Quarter Master at Carlisle, there is only forty nine Barrels of Porke, I have Since wrote to the Purchasing Comsy at Carlisle but whether another Small Supply can be Spared from thence I have not learnt, but it certainly cannot be purchased from the Starved Inhabitants on this Side the Hills.
I have at this time four young Delewars with me who upon every Alarm join the Troops that are Sent out and Seem determined to fight against the Enemy. But I am too poor to engage them to bring me a Mingoe Scalp or venture far into that Country, the Spies I had before Sent went no further than the old Town on River La Bœuf, which is diserted by the Indians.
By the Returns of Assist Comsy at Fort Laurence there appeared to be a Sufficient Quantity of Provisions to Subsist the Garrison at the allowance of one pound of flour and one pound of Beef for a Ration untill the first of June but the Returns being erroneous the Garrison there had Suffered Greatly before the Supplies mentioned in my last could Arrive and Major Vernon was Obliged to Send Off the Greatest part of the Garrison as your Excellency will See by the Inclosed Copy of his letter but I have hopes that the escort arrived Safe before a total evacuation took place Indeed I Should not have had it in my power to have Sent the Smallest Supplies of Salt Provision had I not by the most unwearied exertions Collected about three Thousand Weight of Bacon and Pork and Robbed Fort M’Intosh of Some Stinking Beef.
I am Sorry to hear my Son is out of the line because I think he has a Military turn and might have been of some Service to his Country, but if his Conduct has not deserved the notice of the States he must live a private life.
You may rely on my close attention to the movements of the Enemy, and that they Cannot approach near to any advanced post without my receiving intelligence from the Delewares and I have found a Short route to Fort Laurence over which a great road can Soon be made to move on a piece of Artillery of which I have only one light piece fit for Service.
The Boat Builders Tools were left with the Salt provisions at Bedford and are not yet come on but I have Sent a Special messenger to hurry them up I have about Twenty Canoes ready made of poplar and more making Some will carry two tons. I have not heard a word from Colo. Rawlins nor any of his Officers and fear they are not yet relieved by the Militia. With the Most perfect regard and Esteem I have the honor to be your Excellencies Most Obt Hble Servant
Daniel Brodhead


Title: From George Washington to Archibald Cary, c.22 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Cary, Archibald

Dr Sir,
[c.22] May 1779

I very sincerely lament that the situation of our service will not permit us to do justice to the merits of Major Monroe, who will deliver you this, by placing him in the army upon some satisfactory footing. But as he is on the point of leaving us and expresses an intention of going to the Southward where a new scene has opened, it is with pleasure I take occasion to express to you the high opinion I have of his worth. The zeal he discovered by entering the service at an early period—the character he supported in his regiment, and the manner in which he distinguished himself at Trenton, where he received a wound, induced m⟨e⟩ to appoint him to a captaincy in one of the additional regiments—This regiment failing from the difficulty of recruiting, he entered into Lord Stirlings family and has served two campaigns as a volunteer aid to his lordship. He has in every instance maintained the reputation of a brave active and sensible officer. As we cannot introduce him into the Continental line, it were to be wished the State could do something for him, to enable him to follow the bent of his military inclination and render service to his country. If an event of this kind could take place it would give me particular pleasure, as the esteem I have for him, and a regard to merit conspire to make me earnestly wish to see him provided for in some handsome way. I &c. &c.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Clinton, 22 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

Dr sir
Head Qrs [Middlebrook] May the 22d 1779

I have been favoured with Your Letter of the 13th Inst. by Colo. Du Bois—with the several Inclosures.
I have given Colo. Du Bois Orders on the Cloathing department for such articles as the state of our supplies will admit of, for the Troops which have not been already furnished—and I hope they will reach them ‘ere it is long.
I am sorry you have met with some disappointments in respect to Ammunition—I trust however you have or will obtain a suitable supply. I have written to Genl Knox upon the subject of your disappointment.
With respect to Drafts or Others who will inlist during the War, they will be ⟨e⟩ntitled to a pecuniary bounty of Two hundred Dollars & the other usual bounties. If any can be enlisted—the bounty money shall be transmitted by the first safe conveyance after notice and your ⟨c⟩ertificate of their names.
The affair between Cols. Cortlandt Gansevoort and Du Bois has been sent by Congress to me. It is probable they will send me a Copy of Colo. Du Bois’s Memorial when the point will be taken into consider⟨ation⟩. In the mean time I flatter myself, the Gentlemen from a spirit of accomodation and their zeal for the service, will not suffer it to be impeded in any instance by their claims.
I am sorry to hear that Major Fish may possibly be obliged to leave the service, on the score of indisposition. He is an Officer of merit—also his services would be of advantage to His Country and honourable to himself. I do not know that I could comply with your request respecting the Gentleman who lives with you, under our present Military system—and it is probable you will not be so much engaged in writing for some time to come, as you have been during the course of the Winter.
Genl Schuyler transmitted me the particu⟨lars⟩ of the excursion to Oswegotchie. I wrote him some time ago on the subject of the prisoners. If it should be necessary to remove them for their security—You will advise with him upon the occasion and have such measures purs⟨ued⟨ as may be proper. I am Dr sir, with great regard Yr M. Ob. sert
Go: Washington


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

Sir,
Philadelphia 22nd May 1779

I have the Honor of transmitting to you, herewith enclosed, Copies of three Letters respecting the Enemy’s Operations in Virginia—two from his Excellency Governor Henry of the 11th & 12th Inst.—& the other from Thompson Mason Esquire of the 17th Inst.
Last Night I received a Letter from James Calhoun enclosing a Virginia Gazette of the 15th Inst., and a deposition of Joseph White taken the 20th Inst., These Papers have not yet been communicated to Congress, but as the Intelligence they contain is interesting I transmit you a Copy of the last, & some Extracts of the first. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Humble Servant
John Jay Presidt


Title: From George Washington to George Measam or James Geary, 22 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Geary, James,Measam, George

sir
Hd Qrs Middle Brook May 22. 1779

On the 18th Instant I wrote you, requesting that you would send 5000 Shirts and five Thousand pair of Shoes as soon as possible to this Camp and I have to day directed Several Orders to be drawn upon you for sundry Articles for the Troops under the command of Genl J. Clinton. If you should not have Shirts and Shoes sufficient to comply with that Order and those of to day—the latter in favor of the Troops under Genl Clinton must be first answered. I am sir Yr Most Obedt sert
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Juan de Miralles, 22 May 1779
From: Miralles, Don Juan de
To: Washington, George

Honble Sir
Philadelphia May the 22d 1779

I have been obliged to defer my returning Your Excellency my most respectful Thanks for all the favours with which you have honored me during the short stay I made at Camp in the visit which I had the honor to pay Your Excellency, as I expected daily an Opportunity to transmit you a few trifles which I destined for your acceptance and that of your worthy Spouse. Colo. Mitchell having at last told me that a safe opportunity presented itself, I make use of it to acknowledge the favours of Your Excellency. I dare hope from your Excellency’s goodness, as well as your Lady’s, that you will please to accept of the small Trifles which I take the Liberty to present you with, and of which a List is hereunto annexed.
I beg Your Excellency will please to present my respects to your worthy & amiable Lady, in whose agreeable Company I wish you may always find the most Complete satisfaction May Heaven bless you with prosperity and prolong your precious Days. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Honorable sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient and most humble servant
Juan de Miralles


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 22 May 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Sullivan, 22 May 1779. GW wrote to Sullivan on 23 May (in the first part of his letter of 23–24 May): “Your favor of Yesterday has just come to hand.”


Title: General Orders, 23 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Sunday May 23rd 1779.
Parole Acomac—C. Signs Amber. Africa—

The executions &c.—mentioned in orders the 18th instant to take place tomorrow morning eleven ôclock.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 23 May 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] May 23d 1779

The Board have been honoured with yours of the 22d enclosing Letters to Col. Bland & Lt Col. Washington. Copies of the Resolve of Congress have been sent to the Officers commanding these Regiments merely for their Information. The Board avoid in all Cases except by the immediate Direction of Congress giving any Orders about the Movement of Troops presuming these Matters more properly to come from your Excellency. We therefore did not order the Regiments of Cavalry to march I will immediately send forward your Excellency’s Letters. Major Jamison is now here procuring Supplies for Bland’s without which the Regiment cannot proceed. We do not understand it to be the Sense of the Resolve of Congress that Col. Bland should leave Charlotteville & we should be sorry for his quitting that Post especially at this Time. We have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Your very obedt Servts
Richard PetersBy order


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Clinton, 23 May 1779
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Albany May 23rd 1779

Your Excellency’s Letter of the 9th instant with one for Col. V. Schaick hath been received yesterday—Mr Mitchell the Quarter Master at New Borough thought proper to enclose them all under Cover to Genl Schuyler, who was then at Saratoga, where they were sent, after lying in Albany some time—this Circuit was the Occasion of the Delay of which I informed your Excellency.
As there are two light three Pounders at Fort Schuyler, which were taken during the Siege, & which are portable, I purpose to take them with me, leaving the Brigade Artillery at the Fort to supply their place, unless I shoud recive your Excellency’s Orders to the contrary.
There is now in this City an eight inch Mortar, which was found up at Saratoga, and brought down by a certain Mr Clute, whom I ordered one hundred Dollars for his Trouble; it shall be sent where ever your Excellency may think proper.
The onondoga Prisoners with a few other Prisoners of war are confined in this City—I have discouvered that there is a certain Major Wright of Col. Peters’s Corps, who was taken with a Permit from Genl Powell, dated Montreal April 23d 1778, as also four or five other Officers, some as high as Captains, who are out on Parole, I woud be glad to know what is to be done with them, as I do not conceive them to be safe after I march. I am with great regard Your Excel’s humble Servt
James Clinton B. Genl


Title: To George Washington from the Maryland Delegates, 23 May 1779
From: Maryland Delegates
To: Washington, George

Dear General
philadela May 23d 1779.

We had the Honor of a Letter from his Excellency the Governor of Maryland last night, by express, dated on the 20th Inst. The Devastation and cruelties hourly committed by the Enemy in Virginia, and the probability of their acting the same part in Maryland, unless timely prevented, has justly alarmed the people of that State. We lament that the Army under the Command of your Excellency does not admit of a Detachment from the Maryland Troops. Were it possible to head the Malitia by a small Body of regular Troops, they would turn out with more alacrity and act with greater vigour thus incorporated, than alone. It may indeed happen, that the present views and progress of the Enemy may render any extensive preparations for Defence in Maryland unnecessary. But the Destruction of portsmouth and Suffolk joined to the Threats of the Enemy are sufficient to induce a belief in the minds of the Citizens of Annapolis and Baltimore, that their Cities are not safe unless defended by superior force. We have no accurate knowledge of the strength of your Army, nor any precise Ideas of your Excellencys present plans of operation, and therefore tho’ we, as individuals and Citizens of the State of Maryland wish, yet we do not look for any immediate aid from the main Army. Such as is consistent with the good of the whole, should the State be actually invaded, we know we shall receive. The principal Design of our writing to you at this time, is to inform your Excellency of the desire of the Governor of Maryland, to have Genl Gist sent down to Baltimore to head the Militia. He is a native of that place, has considerable weight with the Militia and will be of much Service if that City is attacked. Should the State be invaded, we cannot help suggesting in addition to the request of the Governor, considering the inexperience of Militia officers in general, that one or two other regular officers would also be found, extensively useful, if the state of the Maryland Troops will admit of it, but the propriety of this step we leave altogether to your Excellency and have the Honor to be with the most cordial affection your Excellency obedt & Hble Servts

Geo. Plater
Wm Carmichael
John Henry Junr
Dan. of St Thos Jenifer


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 23 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 23d 1779

I have received your several favours of the 13th 14th and 18th with their inclosures—I shall pay due attention to the contents and acquaint you with the result as speedily as possible. For the present, I shall only say, that I would not wish you to distress the posts under your command, in order to cover that part of the country, you mention in your letter of the 18th.
I request you to furnish me without delay with a return of the articles delivered to General Poor’s brigade and sent on for the troops as directed in mine of the 14th instant, that I may know the better what additional supplies will be necessary—General Sullivan mentions a deficiency of overalls in Cilly’s regiment which is a further reason for requesting this return, that I may discover whether the men may not have misapplied those they received. He also says the regiment had left its baggage behind. My direction on this head meant only to comprehend the superfluous or spare baggage described in a late general order—if any other has been left you will be pleased to have it sent after the troops—I am informed by Mr Measom of a quantity of hunting shirts and shoes on the way from the Eastward. We have none of the former article in this quarter and all that we can spare of the latter are unequal to the demand for the Western expedition. If the hunting shirts are arrived at Fish Kill or as soon as they do arrive, you will be pleased to have 3500 instantly forwarded to Easton. If it can be done so as to leave a sufficiency for the occasional demands of the troops with you, you will also send on a couple thousand ⅌ of shoes, to the same place. I doubt whether it will be in your power to comply with this; and though it is very essential the troops on the Western service should have an ample stock of shoes, yet it cannot be done at the expence of the rest of the army. You will judge what you can spare. With great regard & esteem I am Dr Sir Your most Obed. ser.
Go: Washington
I request you to forward the inclosed with all dispatch.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 23 May 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Head Quarters Pecks Kill [N.Y.] 23d May 1779.

Since I came last to these posts, I have generally been under no apprehension, of an attack from the Enemy. The reasons which induced me to be of this opinion, were that the Enemy had no object beyond them, equal to the risque of the enterprise. And he cou’d not hope, to carry the Works before the Grand-Army and the Troops in Connecticut wou’d arrive to succour the Posts. But as this Conduct has, almost in every instance, bafled all conjecture, and he has scarsely in one instance, acted as an Enemy wou’d do in his circumstances. I have now my doubts about it. I think the inclosed intelligence, renders an Attack probable and if he shou’d be successfull, it wou’d in the present State of our Affairs, be advancive of his Object. You have the Intelligence in the same Ideas it was given to me. Two Days ago Sincoes and Lord Cathcarts Corps, moved out on this side of the Bridge, they are composed of Horse and Foot. The former with a Troop from Long-Island annexed to Colo. Emmericks, I imagine they will amount to near 200 Horse, exclusive of the 17th light Dragoons. I am not without anxiety for my detachments on the Lines; They however have the most particular Orders I can give them, to Guard against Surprise. It will not be expedient to reinforce them, as it will take too much of my Strength remote from the post. And if I call them off, the Enemy will derive many Supplies from the Country, which our Army will want, when the Campaign is opened, and prevent our Friends carrying on their Agriculture. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant
Alexr McDougall
P.S. The two New-Hampshire Regiments marched from hence in the morning of the 17th Instant.


Title: From George Washington to George Measam, 23 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Measam, George

Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 23d May 1779.

I have given orders on the Store at Peeks-kill for 3,400 Hunting shirts, 2,000 pair of Shoes to be sent to Easton with all possible dispatch. I am fearful lest the former demands on this quarter may have totally exhausted the Store—you will therefore, take the most immediate measures to have a supply at least equal to this order brought forward to Peeks kill. I shall on this occasion expect your particular attention, as it will be a great disappointment should any thing detain these articles. I am sir Your most hble sevt
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 23 May 1779
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Redding [Conn.] 23d May 1779

I have inclosd the Commission and Resignation of Lt Hitchcock of the 8th Regiment, and request your Excellency to discharge him. I am Satisfied the good of the Service and Peace of the Regiment require it. I hope your Excellency will not be troubled with many more from my Brigade. I expect Two or three will resign which I beleive will close the Scene.
By your Excellency’s Last Letter I suppose the Board of War fill the Vacancies & make the new appointments to whom we must make Returns for that Purpose. Nothing is wanting to Compleat my Brigade to take the Field but Markees & Portmanteaus, if these cannot be provided we shall reduce our Baggage as much as possible under our Circumstances. I am with Esteem and Respect yr Excellency’s Obedt Servt
Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Israel Shreve, 23 May 1779
From: Shreve, Israel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizabethtown [N.J.] May 23rd 1779

Col. Van Dyke a Sagooned Officer of the Refugees Came out of new york yesterday to meet his Wife agreeable to a promise from Gen. Maxwell.
She was Conducted Hither by Col. Henry Van Dyke of the Somerset Malitia, and Brother to Mrs Van Dyke, who upon a Conference with the tory Col: was informed by him that the Enemy had Collected their whole force, Except their out Guards, he Says to the Number of five thousand, who were under marching Orders, and that Gen. Clinton had Lately Got Intillegence that ten of Our Regiments had marched from head Quarters to the Southward, that it was Rumered in New York that Sir Harry meant to Come to this State, to take the Advantage of the Weakness of Our Army &c. This Intillegence I Send Just as I Got it, But from Several other Channels I have Reason to beleave the Enemy are Actually prepareing for an Expedition Some where, as they are fixing the tholes of their flat Boats with Spun Yarn &c., to prevent Noise in Rowing.
By order of Gen. Maxwell, tents for my Regiment was Drawn at Morris town, and yesterday Sent to this place, But not a Single waggon at my Command to Move Baggage or any thing Else Should any thing Happen. I have wrote to Gen. Green on the Subject. But thought Best to Just mention it to your Excy, Should the Enemy Attempt to Land near this place. we have No Alarm Guns to fire, But Shall Send the Earliest Intillegence, Possable. I am with Great Respect your Excys Most Obedient Humble Servt
I. Shreve Colo:


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 23–24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dr sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May the 23d[–24] 1779

Your favor of Yesterday has just come to hand. Fusees for the Officers would be proper; but unfortunately there are none here. You will write to the Board of War upon the subject, and mention the number that will be necessary. I have written them a line also upon the occasion; but I am not certain that they will be able to furnish either Fusees or Light Muskets—or Carbines which I have mentioned. The state of our Magazines in this instance, is by no means such as I could wish. If the Board should be able to supply any, it will be necessary for the Officers receiving them, when they are delivered to give receipts for them, that they may be accounted for in future. The great loss and expenditure of Arms make every precaution necessary for their preservation.
24th May. I have received a Letter from Governor Clinton of the 18th containing the following Extract “From the best information I have been able to obtain there is a Collection of Indians (consisting of those who are called the Esopus Indians & other Straglers) and Tories, at Shohawken and Kalbitye on the Delaware, at one of which places it is said, they have erected a Block House or some other small works of defence—Our accounts were that they consisted of upwards of One hundred mdash;we have the best Evidence of their having been lately joined by a very considerable additional number of Tories & Deserters. It is the Banditti that have committed the most of the Mischiefs which have been done in the Counties of Ulster and Orange and have occasioned all the late distressing alarms. They are supplied with provisions from the different Settlements on the Delaware by the disaffected Inhabitants who live on the Frontiers. They are perfectly acquainted with the back Country and I am apprehensive will be very troublesome by rendering the supplies to our Western Army precarious and by keeping the back settlements in perfect apprehensions of danger. The amazing Tract of Uninhabited and Mountainous Country which lies between the intended Route of our Army and the Western settlements will afford them a secure Asylum as long as they can procure provisions. I would therefore submit to Your Excellency the propriety of marching a body of Men into those parts sufficiently large to scour that Country and rout the Enemy there and destroy the settlements which feed & harbour them. As those settlements are scattered and remote from each other and as the Enemy may be succoured from the contiguous Indian Settlements on the Susquehanna, not less than 500 Men will be competent to perform this Business effectually. If the measure is approved by your Excellency I will most readily furnish that number from the Militia for this Short service and undertake to conduct the Business myself—nothing will be wanted but the means of transporting about 10 days or Two Weeks provision and some other little matters from the Quarter Master’s department, which cannot be obtained otherways and which I presume may be spared from thence without inconveniency for so short a period. It may be thought most adviseable to delay this matter until the Army intended for the western service begin to move, in which case this may serve as a favourable diversion. The intermediate time may be only sufficient to get out the Men and make the necessary preparations.”
I approve much of the Expedition proposed by the Governor and will give him every assistance in my power to aid him in the execution. And as a co-operation between you may answer very salutary ends I would wish you to correspond with the Governor upon the occasion. I have also given Orders for the necessary Supplies of Cloathing to be furnished from Fish Kills for the Troops under Genl James Clinton—and hope they will be forwarded from thence in the course of a few days—as Colonel DuBois went from hence Yesterday morning with the Orders. I have mentioned this matter—that you may be the better able to govern your views with respect to their movements and co-operations with you which are to be directed by your Orders. When you write Genl Clinton respecting the line of conduct he is to pursue—you will transmit him the inclosed Letter, which you will seal. I am Dr sir &c.
G.W.
P.S. As it seems to be your opinion and the sentiment of some Others—that the Enemy will collect their force and attack you on your march from Wyoming to Tioga—Might it not be adviseable on this principle, for the Expedition under Govr Clinton to take place a few days before you march from Wyoming to produce a diversion. I only mean this as a hint—and leave you to improve it or not as you shall think best.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 23 May 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Easton [Pa.] May 23d 1779

Though General Hand has not yet answered my Letter Containing a number of Questions yet I think it necessary to Inclose you Copy of his Letter in answer to mine of the 8th & 10th Instant which will in Some measure Show the State of affairs in that Quarter I think it will be necessary to Send on two or three hundred Troops from hence to Wyoming. I Inclose your Excy Copy of a Letter from the Board of war & one from major Forrest to Show how matters go on in that Quarter. I also Inclose Copy of General Hands Orders to Colo. Cox of the 30 of April as also Copy of his orders to Major Prowel of the 8th Inst. which will Show the Steps he has taken to forward on the Stores. I fear no Delay but from the want of waggons apprehensive of this I wrote Governor Reed on the 12 Inst. but received no answer; I also wrote Congress on the Subject But I find by the Letter from the Board of war that they are as much perplexed to obtain waggons as I am.
I Inclose those papers to your Excy to Account for the Delay which I fear will take place; to Show that Every thing has been done on our part & to Enable you to Judge when we Shall be able to march. I know of no Steps Left untryed to Expedite the Business & none Shall be Left unattempted. I have the honor to be with the most profound Respect Dr General your Excellenceys most obedt Servt
Jno. Sullivan


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dr Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 24 1779

I was yesterday honored with your favour of the 18th—I most heartily approve the expedition you propose and thank your Excellency for suggesting it and offering to furnish the men and conduct the business yourself. I have consulted the Qr Master General, who thinks he can furnish the requisite means in his department and writes to you by this opportunity to put the matter in train.
I have communicated the plan to General Sullivan who commands the Western expedition & directed him to open a correspondence with your Excellency, that you may concert between you the time for carrying it into execution which will be most favourable to his operations. I have the honor to be with the truest respect & esteem Yr Excellys Most Obedt sert.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Clinton, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May the 24: 1779

You will be pleased to consider yourself under the command of Major General Sullivan—and to follow such Orders as you may receive from him respecting the conduct and operations of the Troops under your command. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr Most Obedt servant
Go: Washington
P.S. The Corps which you are to consider as under your command, when ordered to march by General Sullivan are—Gansevoorts—Dubois’s—late Livingston’s—Aldens—Butler’s—and the Rifle Corps.


Title: To George Washington from Margaret De Lancey, 24 May 1779
From: Lancey, Margaret De
To: Washington, George

Sir
May the 24th 1779

Having asked Mr Jay’s Opinion about procuring a permission to bring my Clothes out of New-York, he advis’d me to apply to your Excellency, & was so kind as to give me a Letter of recommendation, which I have taken the liberty of inclosing.
I left New York at a very short warning, & expecting Mr DeLancey’s arrival daily, brought out scarcely any Clothes for myself & Children. Your Excellency will perceive that I have order’d a few Articles to be bought for me, but as some of the Articles are difficult to be procur’d here, & all my Money is in New York, I flatter myself there can be no objection to it. I beg my Compliments to Mrs Washington and am Sir, your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant,
Margaret DeLancey


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Ford, 24 May 1779
From: Ford, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Shrewsbury [N.J.] May 24th 1779

Early this Morning a fleet of Twenty Seven Sail put to sea from the Narrows 17 of them were ships but Standing a great Distance from this Shore I could [not] discover whether or not they had any Troops on board from the best accounts I have been able to get from New York I am induced to believe They are a fleet for Cork for provisions.
When Jas Mount a refugee from New York was apprehended at this place Several Articles of Merchandize was taken with him, which I conceived need not have been condemned by a Majestrate as they were taken from an Enemy who is out of the Allegiance of the states. It has been the practice I am told for the Captures to make what disposition they pleased of the Goods—By my instructions I am directed upon seizing any Goods coming from the Enemy to have them Condemned by the Civil Majestrate & Transmit an Invoice thereof to Head Quarters before any Disposition or sale is made of them, I have in obedience thereto herewith transmited an Invoice—also an Invoice of some other Goods I have taken and had condemned and shall wait Your Excellencys directions for a before I proceed farther. Some Doubts have arose among the Captures “whether or not the whole of the Detachment at this place are Entitled to a Dividend or whether the party Actually present at the seizure are entitled to the whole,” I should be happy in having your directions thereon—It may perhaps not be unnecessary to inform your Excellency that I had certain information of the Goods being here and only took a Small party of the Detachment sufficent to secure the prisoner & his Goods.
I have sent Mount & Allen the two persons taken here under Guard to Head Quarters & gave the Adjutant Genl as full an account of them as I was able to do—which I presume will be laid before your Excellency.
should your Excellency think it necessary, I believe a person might be sent into New York from this place that wou’d collect all the intelligence possible to be Collected there—I should have endeavoured to collected intelligence by that means but I am induced to believe I can’t without your Express Orders agreeable to some late Resolutions of Congress—If there are any Articles in the inclosed invoice that would be acceptable to your Excellency I should be happy in being informed thereof that they may be reserved—On Wednesday last sixteen Square Rigged Vessells said to be from Cork with provision went into New York. I have the Honor to be with the Greatest Esteem your Excellencys Most Obedt And Very Humble Servant
Benjamin Ford


Title: To George Washington from Edward Hand, 24 May 1779
From: Hand, Edward
To: Washington, George

        Letter not found: from Edward Hand, 24 May 1779. GW wrote to Hand on 31 May acknowledging receipt of a letter from Hand of 24 May.


Title: To George Washington from Major Henry Harnage, 24 May 1779
From: Harnage, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
Cambridge [Mass.] May 24th 1779

I take the earliest occasion of Returning you my most sincere thanks for the Attention your Excellency has kindly shewn to my Request of 27th March. Altho’ we have been very particularly unfortunate in not having succeeded; yet Sir, Gratitude will Oblige us ever to Remember the considerate Attention you generously shew’d to Our Sollicitations!
A Thousand Insurmountable Obstacles, join’d to Mrs Harnage’s ill health, has rendered all my endeavours of removing from hence, to Charlotteville, fruitless, We are therefore necessitated to remain here some time longer.
Might I trouble your Excellency again, with what purely relates to us Individuals! I wou’d request, that Shou’d you hear of Our being Exchanged, you wou’d Order us to be Acquainted with it, by the first Opportunity? Certainly it was intended that Capn Hawker, and me, Shou’d be included in the Exchange of Those Invalids belonging to the Troops of Convention, Who were sent into New-york!
My feelings on account of Mrs Harnage’s Distresses are great, and I fear have made me trespass on your Patience. With Sincere Assurances that She, and Capn Hawker, join me, in respect to your Excellency, permit me to Subscribe Myself—your Excellency’s much Obliged and most obedt humble Servt
Henry Harnage


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May the 24: 1779

I received the inclosed news papers to day—and as they contain intelligence of an interesting nature I take the earliest opportunity of transmitting them to Your Excellency by Express. I have the Honor to be with sentiments of the highest esteem & respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 24th 1779

I have just received a letter from Col. Shreve stationed at Elizabeth Town of which the inclosed is an extract. This corresponds with other accounts through different channels. It would seem as if the enemy really had som[e] expedition in view, possibly against the posts under your command possibly against this army. The circumstance of muffled oars indicates silence and secrecy. It appears to me far from improbable that an attempt to surprise the forts may be in contemplation. As the tide favours, one night will convey them up the river. The appearances are sufficiently serious to justify precaution; and I doubt not you will be effectually guarded. Whatever may be the object, it will be adviseable to draw in your out posts and so far collect your force, that the whole can with certainty be brought to act on an emergency. The inclosed is to advertise General Putnam, that the troops with him may be ready to reinforce the Highlands.
In case the enemy should move against this army, so soon as you have sufficient reason to believe it, you will immediately detach this way two of the Massachusettes brigades, Patterson’s and Nixons to cooperate with us as circumstances and the directions they may receive from me shall point out. In this event also, Parsons’ brigade will join you. When this brigade moves to the Highlands, General Putnam is to come to this army. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt servt
Go: Washington
P.S. In the general disposition of the army which will soon take place, the two Massachusettes abovementioned brigades will compose a part of the main body. You will therefore be pleased at all events to have them collected and stationed on this side the river in readiness to march at the shortest notice. They will then be on the spot to defend the forts and in a situation the more easily to join or cooperate with this army.
I send General Putnams letter open—when you have read—you will seal & forward it.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dr Sir,
Middle brook May 24th 1779

By recent intelligence, thrô different Channels, I have the best reason to believe that, General Clinton has drawn his whole force to a point at New York and its vicinity—That he has collected (& some accts add removed, to Kings bridge) a number of flat-bottomed Boats with Muffled Oars—and that, every appearance indicates an expedition at hand—There are but too important objects he can have in view—to wit—this army, & the Posts in the Highlands; Should either be attempted therefore, or a movement made, which has a tendency to either, you will cause General Parson’s, Brigade to March without a moments loss of time for the Highlands, & put themselves under the Orders of Majr Genl McDougall. Every preparation is to be made in the meanwhile for this event, that no delay may happen after a call from General McDougall or your knowledge of the matter previously obtained through any other channel. The Brigade may move by the way of Mahopack Ponds to be equally in the way to Peeks kill or Fish kill subject nevertheless to any other rout which circumstances may induce General McDougall to give. Baggage is to be no impediment to the March—for as the occasion more than probably will be urgent, the march, & junction with the Troops on the North River must be rapid.
As I mean to give you the command of one of the Wings of the Main Army (to which many of the Troops now detached will be drawn) I wish you to repair to it immediately with your Baggage, leaving these orders in full, clear, & precise terms with the Officer next in command, that no mistakes may happen, or bad consequences follow. I am Dr Sir Yr most Obedt Servt
G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Israel Shreve, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Shreve, Israel

Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 24th May 1779.

I am to acknowlege your favor of yesterday with the New-York papers.
The smallness of the force at Elizabeth town makes it necessary to exert the utmost vigilance, and to pay more than common attention to your security. During your continuance I make no doubt but you will effectually guard against surprise.
It may be prudent to remind the militia officers, to give the country the earliest alarm by firing the beacons, should the enemy attempt a landing in force.
And that you may be no sufferer in tents & should any thing of this kind take place you will have them immediately sent forward to this place. The quarter master General has sent you orders for waggons for this purpose.
As your intelligence is interesting, you will do every thing in your power to have the further motions of the enemy watched, and such objects as may lead to a knowlege of their intentions. I need not say how important it is to know this expeditiously, and to have it communicated as soon as possible. I would just remind you of the order to be in readiness to march at the shortest notice, that there may be no cause of delay when the order is to be executed, should that be tomorrow. I am &
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 24 May 1779
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
at General Morris’s [N.J.] May 24th 1779

I Was in hopes that my busyness before the Legislature of New Jersey would before this time have been in such a State as would have enabled [me] to return to Camp but I have had Sufficient experience to teach me that Whoever is to be attendant on their motions, need be possessed of a good Stock of patient phylosophy. however I have got my Bill ordered to be engrossed & hope to Morrow to get it passed in the Lower house. and that it will meet with no difficulty in the Council. I shall be obliged to return to Trentown this Evening, and Sincerely wish to be in Camp and hope that will be sometime this week. Some operations which have lately occured to me & which I think practicable, I have reduced to writeing and now submit them to your Excellency’s perusal.
Be pleased to present my best Respects to Mrs Washington, and am with great Affection & Esteem your Excellency’s Most Humble Servant
Stirling,


Title: To George Washington from Captain Josiah Stoddard, 24 May 1779
From: Stoddard, Josiah
To: Washington, George

Sir
Salisbury [Conn.] May 24. 1779

My Brother Doctor Stoddard waits on Your Excellency for a furlough agreeable to the inclosd Copy of a Resolve of Congress, which I understand not to be a furlough but only enabling Your Excellency to give one & to determin the term of it.
Cou’d wish to be indulgd with six or seven months that a little want of time shou’d not frustrate my attempt—have never till now been able to go abroad.
Your Excelly will please to return the Resolve to my Brother as the Original is at head Qrs. I am Sr with the higest respect your Excells. most Obedt hum. Servt
Josiah Stoddard Capt.2d Lt Dragoons


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 24 1779

On receipt of your letter of the 21st I wrote to the Board of War urging them immediate⟨ly⟩ to send forward the shoes which they had promised to collect for the supply of your troops amounting to about 4500 and 2000 ⅌ of Overalls. The former was to have been collected at Lancaster and is directed to be forwarded to Sunbury—the latter will go to Easton—I have requested them to send as many more shoes as they can procure; but the above number is all that can be depended on. In addition to these, I have directed the Clothier here to dispatch 2000 ⅌ of overalls and 2000 ⅌ of shoes to Easton—I have also written to General McDougall to forward to the same place 3.400 Hunting shirts and 2000 ⅌ of shoes; if the form⟨er⟩ should be arrived at Fish Kill and the latter can be spared so as to leave a sufficiency for the occasional demands of the troops with him, of which however I am in great dou⟨bt.⟩ Supplies of these articles were on their way from the Eastward; but I am uncerta⟨in⟩ what progress they may have made.
These orders comprehend a full supply of Overalls and hunting shirts with wh⟨at⟩ have been already delivered—It was my intention to furnish you with a couple of spare pair of Shoes for each man. Our supplies are so defective that I am apprehensive it will hardly be possible to accomplish it—I shall endeavour.
I do not think you need be delayed on account of the articles you want—The shoes and overalls will speedily get to you—which are the essential ones—When other matters are ready you may be advancing on—you will necessarily make some delays in your route, which will give time for such of these as do not arrive before hand to overtake you.
In a letter of the 10th from General Schuyler he mentions the examination of some prisoners taken at Oswegatchie—The⟨ir⟩ account is that no troops have passed that place this spring and that they have heard of none coming from Canada—An inhabitant of Albany County made his escape from Montreal on the 22d of April where he was a prisoner, and informs that no troops had been sent from Canada. With great regard & esteem I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt servt
G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 24 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 24. 1779

In mine which was dispatched a few hours ago, I acknowleged the receipt of your favour of yesterday—I think with you it will be expedient to send two or three hundred more troops to Wyoming.
It will be lamentable, if there should be any material delay on the score of waggons—General Greene has possitively assured me there would not—I shall immediately speak to him again on the subject, and you may depend that every thing in my power shall be done to expedite a supply.
But the difficulty of procuring waggons and the enormous expence of transportation join themselves to other still more important reasons to make it adviseable to contract your stores and baggage as much as the nature & duration of the service you are going on will permit. The success and efficacy of the expedition depend absolutely on the celerity of your movements, and may be defeated if you do not proceed as light as possible. I am led to this observation by the large demand on the ordnance department especially in the article of rifle powder. The quantity required is in my opinion more than can on any calculation be necessary—I know it proceeded from your anxiety to prevent a scarcity; but you will excuse the freedom of cautioning you against another extreme—that of accumulating a superfluidity. I am with very great esteem & regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt servt.


Title: General Orders, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Tuesday May 25th 1779.
Parole Charleroy—C. Signs Co’os—Cambray—

The 2nd Virginia brigade to be reviewed tomorrow morning; the review to begin on the right at seven ôclock.
The 1st Maryland Brigade to be reviewed on friday, and the 2nd on saturday next.


Title: To George Washington from Captains Thomas Bartholomew Bowen and Benjamin Bartholomew, 25 May 1779
From: Bowen, Thomas Bartholomew,Bartholomew, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
Camp Millstone [N.J.]May 25th 1779

The Captains of the Pennsylvania Line, having some time ago had the honour to address your Excellency on the subject of Captain Prowells promotion; and having since received a Letter from Governor Reed, containing some facts relative to that matter, with his Idea thereof; Also the Copy of a Letter from Mr Secretary Scull to Major General St Clair, inclosing certain resolves of Congress, on which he with certain emphatical marks is pleased to put his own peremptory construction. do with the utmost deference beg leave to lay them before your Excellency—intreating that you will, amidst the multiplicity of more important concerns, be pleased to grant them a moments consideration; when we flatter ourselves your Excellency will readily see, not only the principle on which Captain Prowell holds his present rank, but the means by which he obtain’d it.
As the Gentlemen aggrieved wish only for a candid investigation, they have not the least objection to the mode proposed (or rather dictated) by Mr Scull should your Excellency be pleased to approve it.
We intreat your Excellency’s pardon if we again presume to beg your interposition in a matter which we humbly conceive injures the whole line of Officers belonging to our State. And are with perfect reliance on your Justice. Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Hble Servts
(Sign’d by order & in behalfof the Pennsylvania Captains)T.B. Bowen Captn 9th R.P.Benjn Bartholomew Capt. 5th P. Regt


Title: To George Washington from George William Fairfax, 25 May 1779
From: Fairfax, George William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Bath [England] May 25th 1779.

On the other side is a Copy of a Letter, that Genl Burgoyne was so obliging, as to undertake should be forwarded to you, Since which many things have happened, except that of another favourable opportunity of Addressing you untill now. My Nephew Billy Lee having quited all his Schools a year and a half ago, and being so nearly of Age, I really think it necessary for him to Fix to something, and no where so proper as his Native Country, and upon his own Estate, and we have availed ourselves of a very Friendly offer of a Gentn that is returning to the Island of Maderia, under a strong Convoy to take Mr Lee with, and to be at his House untill a favourable opportunity offers to some Port in America, which our friend says frequently happens, and not unlikely to Virginia, but in Case Sir it should be to the Northward, or near where you may be, I have taken the Liberty of desiring him to wait upon you, and to beg your kind advice how to pursue his journey thither. One of the informations that I have had since writing to you last, Is that our State has not carried things quite so far against Absentees, as that of Carolina, having only Pass’d an Act for Sequestring British Property, and to put the Lands, Slaves, & Crops of all Absentees into the hands of Commissioners, who are empowerd to direct, by Agents, Stewards, or Overseers, the Management of such Estates, and to provide out of the Crops, and Profits, for the maintenance, charges, and Taxes thereof in the 1st instance, and the residue to be carried into the Loan Office, subject to the future direction of the Legislature, So that my good Friend, it may be needless, (if not done before) to give you the trouble of making out a deputation in my behalf, as the State has taken the management of those Estates, intirely in their own hand to prevent remittances, & Strength[en] their Enemies hands Consequently I see very little, if any prospect of getting any assistance from mine, and shall chearfully Acquiesce, as I find the impossibility of draughing a line. Was any to be excused, I flatter myself that I should stand amoung the foremost, as it’s well known, that I was not a Fugitive, but came away before the Commencements of the present troubles, to see after some Family affairs, and for the benefit of our healths. I was mush pleased to hear by an acquaintance of ours, who left Dumfries in Prince William, in June last, that most of our numerous Connections were then well, and that Belvoir was occupied by Mr Wagener, as it shews it was not so much out of repair, as I apprehended, but in case It should want any essential ones, I trust and hope the Commissioners will suffer it to be done out of the Profits of the Estate, for the benefit of some now residing in their State. Our united Comp⟨ts⟩ and best wishes attend you, good Lady, and all friends that may be in your circle. and am Dear Sir Your Most Obedient, and Affectionate humble Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 25 May 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Providence [R.I.] 25th May 1779.

At Eight O’Clock last Night, I had the Honour to receive Your Excellency’s Letter of (Blank) day of May 1779, by Fredrick Deitz, who says he left Middle Brook Saturday Sen’night. The Letters from the President of the Congress, to the Councils of Massachusetts, & New Hampshire, were immediately forwarded. The Effect of all my former Applications to the three Neighbouring States is as Follows; Connecticut, in a manner decline giving any Aid; urging that New London is threatened, and their Southern Frontier too much exposed to the Ravages of the Enemy. The Copy of Governour Trumbull’s Letter to me upon that Subject, will convince Your Excellency of the Intention of that State.
The inclosed Copy of a Letter from The President of New Hampshire, shews no Troops are to be expected from that Quarter. Massachusetts Bay have Ordered One Regiment to be raised, by giving an Enormous Bounty, which, with the additional Pay they have granted, will, as I am informed by General Cornell who Commands at Tiverton, amount to the extravagant Sum of Forty pounds a Month, ⅌ Man, for the time they are engaged to Serve. As yet, no more than One Hundred and Fifty of this Regiment have arrived at Tiverton, their Rendezvous. I doubt if they will ever amount to Five Hundred, which is but one third of the Stipulated Quota of That State.
The General Return, which I inclose, will shew you how very Deficient This State is, in the Numbers they agreed to provide for their immediate Defence. I think I need not say any more upon the Subject; Your Excellency’s Wisdom, and Experience, will draw all the necessary Conclusions. I must now beg you will turn Your Eyes to the State of the Enemy’s Force upon Rhode-Island. Yesterday, Two German Surgeons Mates, and One Serjeant, with an Inhabitant of Newport, made their Escape to us from the Island. Their intelligence, which Your Excellency will find in the packet, has every mark of Authenticity; and is, I firmly believe, as exact as it is possible for such information to be. Your Excellency will Also find in the Packet, the Examination of a Lad a Mariner on board the Sloop George, taken last Thursday, at a point about Four Miles below East Greenwich.
The Commissions for the First, and Second Rhode-Island Regiments, received by The Express, are delivered to the Officers Commanding those Corps.
I have attentively considered the Contents of Your Excellency’s Letter; and think with you, that the States in General are shamefully tardy in providing their Quotas of Troops. It is to be feared that, nothing less than some great Misfortune will bring them to a proper Sense of their Duty.
As I am totally unacquainted with the plans in Contemplation between Your Excellency, and the Congress, I shall not presume to give any Opinion upon them. I have already informed You, that I think a formidable Expedition with Cannon, with a view to reduce the Fort of Niagara, is, in Our present Circumstances, highly improper. Nothing that I conceive, can be attempted with reasonable hopes of Success, in the Back Country, but in the manner that the Surprize upon the Onandagas was conducted. Pitsburgh, Wyoming, and some advanced Post between them, might be good places whence such large Scouts might be detached. Could a Blow have been Struck upon the Senecas, at the same Instant with that at Onondaga, it might have Ended the Indian War.
I have not obtained an Authentic Account of what Number of The Enemy went from New York, in the Embarkation Your Excellency mentions to have taken place. Whither that Force is Bound, and what are Your Designs in consequence of that movement; what reinforcement it is expected the Enemy will send, & what we are to depend upon from the House of Bourbon, are Objects so intimately connected, that the one can be viewed but imperfectly without the other; but since I can neither Advise, nor reason without the means, I Shall Silently wish for the Independence, Peace, and Freedom, of the United States.
Inclosed is an Extract of a Letter just received from Carolina. By this, it seems, General Lincoln was in a prosperous Situation: I pray Heaven it may be so!
The Money lately sent to this Department, will barely pay the Arrears due to the Troops, and Militia, as part of General Spencer’s were yet to settle with, and all of General Sullivan’s Command. The parts of Rations, &c., of which I wrote to Your Excellency in my last Letter, remains unpaid; many, if not all the Continental Troops, might be reinlisted for the War, but without money down, that cannot be done; I must desire Your Excellency to request The Congress to Order a further Supply of Money to this Department. I am Sir Your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant
Horatio Gates


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook 25th May 1779

Correspondent accounts from New York point so strongly to a movement of the troops there, that I have scarce a doubt of its happening soon, perhaps within a few days, the object is not quite so clear, but in any event it is indispensably necessary for us to be in a condition to march and transport our stores. I therefore desire you will exert your utmost diligence in preparing accordingly.
Let your Tents be in readiness to deliver at an hours warning, & in just proportion to the Troops.
The detachment of the enemy now in Virginia seems to be upon a predatory plan, and the destruction of our provision and stores their principal object; I have therefore to desire, that you will not suffer any in your department to remain ⟨long,⟩ or in quantities at any place or places accessible by their shipping—and that you will afford every aid in your power to remove those of other departments of the army when called upon. I mean this as a general standing direction.
I send you a letter with some inclosures which I have received from Genl Sullivan. You will therefore see his apprehensions on the score of waggons. After reading you will be pleased to return them. I am Sir your Most Obet Servant
Go: Washington
        P.s. Have you made the inquiry proposed on Sunday morng of Mr P—— respecting Boats?


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 25 May 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp [Middlebrook] May 25th 1779

In consequence of what your Excellency said to me yesterday morning I had given orders for distributeing the Camp Equipage before the receipt of yours to day. The business is now executing as fast as possible.
I dispached the orders to Col. Cox for ordering in the Teams Saturday Evening past. I have now repeated the orders, to hasten them in as soon as possible: with such additional Stores as may be necessary to equip both Officers and Soldiers for opening the Campaign. I have not been very urgent to bring forward the Stores as we have not been in a condition to move.
I have also sent copies of your Excellency’s orders respecting the preservation of public Stores to Fenny, Hollingsworth & Wade who seem to be exposd to Naval invations. I wrote to General McDougal yesterday respecting my apprehensions of a predetory war; and of the necessity of haveing the public Stores seasonably removd from places exposd; as it was imposible to replace them should they be lost. I shall write to Col. Hay upon the same subject this afternoon.
The following is a paragraph extracted for Mr Mitchels letter of the 23d which induces me to believe the Military Stores are gone forward.
“I find great difficulty in geting Carters tho I keep men constantly out to enlist all they can. Am obligd to make use of some brigades of Continental Teams to convey stores from the Commisary of military Stores & to Estherton & Easton, but hope it will not be above one trip I do not wish to impress Waggons if possible to avoid it.”
I have wrote Mr Mitchel—advertizeing him of the complaint from the Board of War & others; and directed him to call out as many Waggons at once as may be necessary to forward all the Stores designd for the Western expedition. But I am in great hopes from the pressing Letters I have wrote him on this subject four or five days past, that the whole are gone forward. For fear there should not be due attention paid to the business I have also wrote to Mr Pettit to give Mr Mitchel such aid and advice as might be found necessary to facilitate the removal of the Stores.
I shall wait upon your Excellency either this Evening or tomorrow Morning with a plan for propotioning the Stores. Particularly with respect to Markees & Horsemans tents. A General Order will be found necessary to prohibit the Officers from having a greater propotion even if they find them themselves as it will swell our baggage too much.

I have wrote to Mr Pettit to make the necessary enquiry respecting the number and condition of the flatbottom’d Boats upon the Delaware and Schuylkill. In my letter I wrote to him to make the enquiry in such away as not to set the spirit of curiosity in motion. I expect his answer hourly. I am with great respect Your Excellencys most Obedient humble Sert
N. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 25 May 1779
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Peeks Kill [N.Y.] 25 May 1779

I transmit your Excellency an Arrangement of the 2nd Connect: Regiment, aggreable to your Directions. Col. sherman was call’d upon for a Certificate of the Appointments by the Gov: & Council—but had not got them—he says Mr Sherman Member of Congress is a Member of the Board of War—that he was present when those Appointments were made & took Minutes of them—I am with the greatest Esteem & Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient servant
J. Huntington


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 25 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 25th May 1779

Copies of three Acts of Congress are herewith enclosed—One of the 22nd Inst., respects the Exchange of Citizens captivated by the Indians—Another of the 22nd provides that the Officers, exchanged, & not continued in Service, be considered as supernumerary Officers—The third is of the 24th Inst., and directs a copy of a Memorial from Colonel Lewis Debois to be transmitted to your Excellency. I have the Honor to be With the greatest, Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant
John Jay Presidt


Title: From George Washington to the Maryland Delegates, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Maryland Delegates

Gentlemen,
Head Quarters Middle Brook 25th May 1779

I had the honor last night to receive your favor of the 23d Inst.
In compliance with the wishes of His Excellency the Governor, which you have been pleased to communicate, I have requested General Gist to repair to Maryland as soon as he can, though his service with the army is now material, and from the train of intelligence I have received from New York for some days past, it may become still more essential. I am sorry that I cannot spare any Officers besides him. And as to a detachment of troops, I have to lament with you, that the circumstances of the army will not admit of any; and what is yet more painful, they would not, even if events of a more pressing nature than any that have arisen, were to take place, if the enemy should continue their present force at New York and its dependencies. We have now a very large detachment, compared with our whole strength, employed in the expedition under General Sullivan—and besides this the operations of the enemy in Georgia and South Carolina have prevented us from receiving any aid here from the Virginia Levies and recruits. It is my first wish—and it shall be my first care to render the States collectively and individually every service in my power; but unfortunately, the present means in our hands are far, very far from being proportioned to the exigency of the times. We are now almost arrived at the end of May—and as yet the army, although it has suffered a severe diminution in the course of the last fall winter & spring, by the expiration of the inlistments and time of service of many of the Troops and, drafts, has received no accession of force, except the Virginia levies and some from New York. The state of it before was not over respectable—and would justify but little more in general cases—than defensive measures; but at present the most we can hope for after the detachments already made is to preserve the remainder, by keeping it tolerably well united at one or two important points. To divide it more would be to expose it to eminent risk. I have the honor to be with sentiments of great respect & regard, Gentlemen, Yr Most Obet Servant
Go: Washington
P.s. It will conduce much to dispatch, in assembling the militia if proper signals could be placed throughout the State to convey an alarm with rapidity on any emergency.


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

Sir
Head Quarters Pecks Kill [N.Y.] 25th May 1779

I was this Day honored with your Excellencys favors of the 23d and 24th instant. All the New Hampshire Troops that marched, were ordered to be supplied with two pair of Over Halls. I shall however write the Deputy Cloathier to furnish a particular return of the several Articles furnished each, of those Corps, and transmit it. Orders were also given to send on to East Town the several Articles you were pleased to direct. I have Agreeable to your Commands, Dispatched orders to “draw in my out posts” which will bring the Troops on the Lines to join their Corps and with all possible dispatch. But this leave all the Country exposed to the Enemy. Parsons Brigade being held in readiness at Reading, thirty five miles from hence, gives no protection to the Coast on the sound, nor the Lines, and its farther from hence, than if it was at the plains. For these Reasons General Huntington advised General Putnam to march to Bedford, to give the Country an apparent Covering, ’till your pleasure shou’d be known. Nixon and pattersons will be collected, but it’s impossible they can be in a good possition, to defend West-point, and in the best to march to join the main Body If they are on the West Side of the River, as you are pleased to direct. For if they are at West point, they cannot march with celerity over the mountains to the southward, and if they are at Haverstraw the best and nearest position to you, they cannot readily reinforce West-point in time, as they will have to pass over high mountains, and if the Enemy attack that post, in the mode that is apprehended, it will be by Coup De main; so that its not practicable to have those Brigades, in a good possition to answer both objects. And to have them posted for neither, ’till the Enemy’s design shall be discovered, may be attended with bad consequences. Pattersons will therefore be collected at West-point, and Nixons on this side of Kings-Ferry. If the call is to the Southward the latter may cross immediately, and pattersons fall down by Water to the same place. If the opperations are against these posts, Pattersons is ready on the Spot, and Nixons can fall back to succour it, or defend the stores at the High-Lands as circumstances shall require. I wish to know whether those Brigades are to march with their Artillery, when they move to join the Grand-Army. As their Horsess are not brought in; owing to our having but few pastures in the Neighbourhood. I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant
Alexr McDougall


Title: To George Washington from Juan de Miralles, 25 May 1779
From: Miralles, Don Juan de
To: Washington, George

Honorable sir
Philadelphia May the 25th 1779

I had written the annexed Letter & was just about to send to Your Excellency, when on the 23d inst. Major Monroe delivered me your favor of the 18th together with duplicates & triplicates of that which you desire to be sent to the Governor of the Havanah by the 1st favorable opportunity. I beg leave to Express my grateful sense of the unequivocal marks of affection which Your Excellency is pleased to add to those with which you have already honored me.
I will certainly make use of the first favorable Opportunity to transmit your Letters to the Havannah. Please to accept, sir, of my sincere Thanks for the favours you have conferred upon me. And that God may prolong your precious Days for many Years to come, is the sincere wish of sir your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble servant
de Miralles


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 25th 1779

I have received your favour of the 12th informing me of the enemy’s incursion into Virginia and the measures you were about to take in consequence at the request of the Governor, which I entirely approve—Before this, you will have been informed that your destination with the new levies and reinlisted men is to reinforce the Southern army—This appears to me a point so essential that I would not wish you to be diverted from it but in a case of very urgent necessity. Any temporary aid that you can afford to the State not materially to interfere with your progress to the Southward will give me pleasure—But while affairs are in so delicate a situation there I cannot think it adviseable to delay the succour intended for that quarter to give protection against the precarious and desultory attacks of the enemy in Chesepeak Bay: I should hope the State will be able in a little time to make such dispositions of its militia as will render your detention unnecessary. Unable to foresee what may take place and confiding in your judgment & impartial zeal for the true interests of the service, I must leave it to your discretion to act according to the exigency of circumstances; at the same time that I recommend the necessity of proceeding to the Southward to your serious attention—The injury we can suffer in Virginia appears inconsiderable compared to that which may befall us in Georgia and Carolina—One principal motive of the enemys present movements in Virginia may be to create a diversion in favour of their operations in those states.
If aided by the Militia you find a good opportunity to attempt a stroke upon the enemy, you have my consent for doing it. From the best accounts I have collected of the force of the detachment it does not amount to more than 2000 men. But in order to make an attempt of this kind, the situation of the enemy and your comparative st[r]ength ought to be such as to give a high probability of success, and to permit its executi⟨on,⟩ without much preparation and delay. Perhaps you may be able to effect something before you are ready to move out of the State. I cannot forbear repeating that I would not wish you ⟨to⟩ undertake any thing that will materially retard your march to the Southward. I am with great esteem Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Ser.


Title: From George Washington to Peter Scull, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Scull, Peter

Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 25th May 1779.

I have duly received your favors of the 10th and 19th—with their several transmissions.
Inclosed is a report of a board of officers on the relative rank of Capns Finney and McClelan with their commissions. You will be pleased to alter their respective dates agreeable to the report.
A number of resignations accompany this; you will return commissions for the officers that rise in succession. I am Sir &
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Scull, 25 May 1779
From: Scull, Peter
To: Washington, George

Sir.
War-Office [Philadelphia] 25th May 1779

The Board herewith transmit your Excellency a copy of an estimate of cloathing, & proposed plan of an uniform for the army. They beg your sentiments on the propriety of adopting it, and that you would point out any additions or alteration that you think necessary to render it more complete. An Estimate of the quantity of cloth, trimmings &c. for the regimentals of officers shall be made out and submitted to your Excellency’s inspection as soon as possible. The Board would be glad to have your opinion on the inclosed, that they may lose no time in forwarding the orders requisite to carry it into effect. I have the honour to be with the highest sentiments of respect Your Excellency’s most obed. Servant
P. Scull Secry


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Israel Shreve, 25 May 1779
From: Shreve, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Elizabethtown [N.J.] 25th May 1779

I Acknowledge your favour of Yesterday. While I have the Honour to command at this post, Shall pay the Strictest Attention to prevent Surprise. will Desire the Malitia Officers to fire the B[e]acons &c., Should the Enemy Attempt to Land in force.
Our tents are Marking & Numbering accord⟨ing⟩ to Instructions, Shall Git them out of town this Evening for Head Quarters.
from a person that was in the British Camp Last friday, they were then Encamped on York Island nearly Opposate Helgate, the flat Boats Giting Ready by the Granadiers and Light Infantry At Helgate, fixing the tholes with Spun Yarn to prevent Noise in Rowing, (As I mentioned to your Excy before) Saterday they were moveing very heavy Cannon over to the Batterys at the Narrows, Staton Island. I have Got a person to Go in this Evening by way of Newark, Shall Send on his, and Every Other Intillegence I Can Possably Git, the Regt is in perfect Readiness to March at all times, wanting no more time than to Call in the Guards &c. When the Summons Arives Shall Chearfully Obey—Col. Nelson with the Malitia are moved to Woodbridge Spank town &c., None here. It will be Necessary to Call to this place Enough to keep the Guards at the points before we Leave, as flaggs are Daily passing.
I have no Later papers than what I Last Sent. Last thirsday the flagg Sloop plenty Capt. Twigly went to New york, with Mr Pentard, Mr Burton &c., has not yet Returned. I am with all possable Respict your Excys Most Obedt Hume Servt
I. Shreve Col: Comdt


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord,
Head Qrs Middlebrook May 25th 1779

Your letter of yesterday inclosing a plan of operations for the ensuing campaign came to my hands this Morning—Communications of this kind are always pleasing to me, because it is my earnest wish to avail myself of every useful hint, and to have my own opinions strengthned by the concurrance of others—but where circumstances are either not well known, or not duly ballanced, a plan may appear very well in theory which would fail in practice.
The plan your Lordship has sketched out contains many valuable thoughts—not new to me—but subject to a variety of embarrassing considerations, among which the relative strength of the two Armies—the call upon me for men (or rather impossibility of concentering what we have)—& difficulty in drawing out Militia, are not the smallest. Besides these, the combining a naval force dispersed—we [know] not wh[i]ther—subject to no one head—and to be obtained (if to be had at all) by application to a variety of powers, with a weak land force whose success must depend upon secrecy & dispatch, does not promise much—however, as you very justly observe, circumstances will at one time warrant an enterprize which prudence would reprobate most severely at another; every project therefore not fundamentally wrong, is worthy attention—For your thoughts upon this occasion you have my sincere thanks & I wish you to offer them with the same freedom & candour upon every other.
From corrispondant accts I am left without a doubt of the enemy’s having concentered their force (that at Rhode Island excepted) at New York, & its vicinity—that they have collected their Boats—and that every thing indicates a capitol movement very shortly. With very great esteem & regard I am Yr Lordships Most Obed. & Affecte Hble Servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Virginia Delegates, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentlemen
Head Quarters Middle Brook May the 25th 1779

I was last night honoured with your favor of the 21st Instant. From the present condition and arrangement of the Cavalry, I can not think that Major Lee’s Corps can be sent to Virginia, consistently with the general service; nor would I willingly indulge the idea, that their aid can be materially wanted, from any number of Horse the Enemy carried with them. It is but small, and I should hope that there would be more than a sufficiency of Militia or Volunteer Corps of this kind, to restrain their excursions. Major Lee’s corps of Horse, from the broken and shattered condition of Moylan’s and Sheldon’s and the march of Bland’s and Baylor’s to the Southward, is what I have principally to depend on in this line—and without it, we might experience at least, great inconveniences.

With respect to the Virginia Recruits and Levies, I find by a Letter from General Scott of the 12th, at which time it appears he had not received the Orders for marching them to the Southward, that not being able to march them this way for want of Cloathing, he had determined in consequence of the invasion—and a request by the assembly, to move such of them as were collected, towards Williamsburg. Before this he will have received Orders as to their Southern destination, which seems to me a point so very essential—that the Levies should not be stopt but in a case of very urgent necessity. I have written to Genl Scott upon this subject. Any temporary aid he can afford to the state, which will not materially interfere with his progress would give me pleasure, but while affairs are in so delicate a situation in Georgia and South Carolina, I cannot think it would be adviseable to delay their succour, to give protection against the precarious and desultory attacks of the Enemy who have entered Chesepeak Bay. And I should hope that the State will be able in a little time to make such dispositions of the Militia as will render the detention of the Levies entirely unnnecessary. Unable however to foresee what may take place—and confiding in General Scott’s judgement and impartial zeal for the true interests of the service, I have left it to him to act according to the exigency of circumstances, at the same time that I have recommended the necessity of proceeding to the Southward to his serious attention. The injury we may suffer in Virginia tho distressing, most probably would be inconsiderable to that which may befall us in Georgia and Carolina. One principal motive of the Enemy’s present movements may be to create a diversion in favour of their operations in those States. From the best accounts I have been able to collect the detachment amounts to about 2000 Men. The want of Arms is a melancholy circumstance—and it is the more distressing after so long a War—and after the most conclusive proofs—that nothing would be left untried on the part of the Enemy to carry their points against us. It would conduce much to dispatch, in assembling the Militia if proper Signals could be placed throughout the State—or at least in the Counties lying on Navigable Waters and those next adjoining and if places for their rendezvous were assigned. By this means an Alarm would be conveyed with great rapidity—and the Militia would be sooner collected into a compact body. I have found great benefits from the measure—and I could wish it were generally adopted. I have the Honor &c.
G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 25 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook 25th May 1779

It is very probable the enemy may have it in view to hover along the southern coast and endeavour by sudden incursions to destroy our stores dispersed about in that quarter. I am therefore to request as they may otherwise have it in their power to do us a great deal of mischief, that your attention may be fully turned to this matter and that all the stores in your department at places accessible to the enemy may be immediately removed to other places of greater security. The Head of Elk appears to me to be an unsafe deposit for any considerable quantity and should be attended to without delay. The injury we have just sustained should be a caution to us carefully to avoid accumulating stores on the Sea coast and on the borders of navigable rivers, where the enemy’s shipping & troops can easily penetrate—There are strong reasons to believe the plan of this campaign will be to distress the country and destroy our supplies by desultory operations along our coast. I am Sir Your Most Obet Servant
Go: Washington


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

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Wednesday May 26th 1779.
        Parole Dominica—C. Signs Dunbar. Dee.

Accurate brigade returns regimentally digested of the deficiencies of clothing and necessaries to be forthwith made to the Adjutant General.
Lieutenant Colonel Regnier is appointed a Sub-Inspector and to be respected and obeyed accordingly.
Lieutenant Mitchel of the 1st Maryland regiment is appointed Adjutant of the same from the 1st instant.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Adams, 26 May 1779
From: Adams, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Marine Committee Philadelphia May 26th 1779

Your Excellencys Letter of the 25th instant to this Committee together with an extract from another of the 17th instant to the President of Congress has been duely considered by the Committee. Unfortunately the situation of our Frigates is such, as to afford no reason to expect that they can possibly be collected in Season to execute the plan proposed. The Providence of 32 Guns & the Ranger of 18 are already ordered on a Cruize and it is supposed must be at Sea before different orders can reach them at Boston. The Warren of 36 Guns & the Queen of France of 20 Guns have lately returned from A Cruize and are unmanned. Although the Naval force of the enemy at New York is at present trifling, yet as their situation in this respect is very fluctuating, they may probably be so reinforced as to render it too hazardous to risk only the two Frigates in this River viz. the Confederacy of 36 Guns & the Deane of 28 G[un]s the lat[t]er of which wants a great number of Hands to make up her Complement. Add to this that though the force of the enemy on the Water would be inferior to ours, yet might they not retire under cover of the Batteries on Shore, and receive effectual protection from any Annoyance that could be attempted from the Guns of our Small Ships?
I am desired by the Committee to Assure you Sir, that they shall always be ready with the greatest alacrity to employ our little fleet in the execution of such Plans as may be suggested to them by your Excellency whenever circumstances shall be such as to render it practicable. I am Your Excellencys most obedt and very humble servant
Saml Adams


Title: From George Washington to James Duane, 26 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Duane, James

Dr Sr
Head Quarters Middle Brook 26th May 177[9]

Hurry of business has prevented my having the pleasure of acknowledging sooner the receipt of your two favors of the 15th & 17th instant.
Application was made to me for dissolving the corps you mention and incorporating that part which belonged to Col. Malcoms Regt with the troops of the State of New York. But I did not concur with it for several reasons—The principal one was that a spirit of mutiny had appeared among the men which I thought it absolutely necessary to suppress rather than encourage. Another was, that it must have produced the dismission of all the officers of the corps, as the remainder of the men on the same principle must have been delivered over to the Jersey regiments; and the Officers could not be introduced into the line of either State without renewing the confusion from which we have been endeavouring to extricate ourselves—I did not like the dismission because the Officers are rather dissatisfied with what we have already been obliged to do in this way, and think their rights are placed upon too precarious a footing. It is a delicate subject and requires caution—I could indeed only have recommended the measure if I had thought it elegible as I do not conceive it to have been within the spirit of my powers to have determined it myself—But as I thought it unadviseable I took no step in the affair.
These reasons still incline me, at least for the present, to wish the continuance of the corps. With the truest regard & esteem I have the honor to be Dr Sir your most Obet Servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Ford, 26 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Ford, Benjamin

Sir
Hd Q. [Middlebrook] 26 May 1779

I am to acknowlege the receipt of your favor of the 24th instant which came to hand this morning.

Should the goods which have been seized, be condemned as legal prize, by the laws of the State, in my opinion it will be most equitable to have the proceeds equally divided among the whole of the detachment. I am much obliged to you for your offer—but I do not want any of the articles.
As you will have recd orders by this time from the Adjutant Genl to return, it is unnecessary for me to give any instructions on the subject of spies. I am &c.
G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 26 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 26th 177[9]

I inclose you a letter to Major General Heath directing him to repair to Head Quarters which I request you will forward to him.
Another letter accompanies this from Brigadier General Du Portail to Mr De Castaing of Colonel Jacksons regiment, which you will also be pleased to have forwarded—The subject of it is, to offer Mr De Castaing an appointment in his family for which he has my consent—If Mr De Castaing accepts, you will permit him to join this Army. I am Sir Your Most Obet Servt
Go: Washington