Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 29 May 1783
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Newburgh, May 29. 1783

                  From the reports of the commanding officers of brigades, I am constrained to represent to your Excellency the general uneasiness and complaints of the army in the Cantonment in New Windsor on account of the late irregular issue and bad condition of the provisions with which the troops have been served—The complaints and uneasiness are growing to a height that calls for a speedy remedy.  The regiment for duty yesterday, mounted without provisions and remains so this morning.  The provisions which have been issued lately have been partly meat and partly fish, and a considerable part of them of a condition not fit for men to eat without endangering their health.
                  I am compelled to add, that the brave men who are unfortunately subjects of the hospital, are of late obliged to eat salt provisions, very unfit for persons in their condition, and which tend rather to establish than contribute to the removal of their maladies.  And further in general the troops are not properly supplied with that essential article, vinegar—so necessary to their health and comfort, especially when served with salted provisions.  I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath M. General

                     P.S.  Enclosed are several written reports of the officers—others from the Massachusetts and New York lines have been made verbally, and will be repeated this day in writing—I have thought it inexpedient, under present circumstances to wait for them.

                     W.H.

                Enclosure

                        Sir,
                        Massatts Hutts, May 28th 1783.

                     There has been no provisions received by my Brigade for this day, and I apprehend if some measures are not taken to remedy this evil it will be attended with dangerous consequences.  complaints have been made to me by every grade of officer of this deficiency in the Contractors, as well as of the extreme bad provisions which the troops have drawn for several weeks past.  Therefore it is my earnest request that you would take such steps to have the Contractors constrained to supply good and wholesome provision, as you may conceive most proper, and to make a representation thereof to the Commander in Chief.  I am Sir, with respect, your obedient servant

                        John Paterson B. Genl

                Enclosure

                        Sir,
                        Jersey Cantonment May 28th 1783

                     Complaint has been made to me by a number of the officers of the Jersey line, that the beef which has been issued to the soldiers for a week past was exceedingly bad in quality and in some instances so much spoiled as to be really unfit for use.
                     Upon making more particular enquiry into this matter, I find that the complaint is too well grounded and requires the immediate attention of the army.  I am sir with the highest respect your Hbl. servant

                        Elias Dayton
                        Brig. Genl

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        N.H. Cantonments May 28th 1783

                     At a Meeting of the Officers of the N. Hampshire Battallion this Day it apears that there is a genl complaint against the manner the Troops are Served in—the Rations Issued to the troops are by no means merchantable nor can the Officers be furnished for their Mony with the necessary Subsistance agreeable to the Contract.  We therefore request that you would please to represent this Matter in such a manner as you may judge suitable to Redress those grievances we are wth respect & esteem Yrs &c.

                        Wm Scott Majr Comdt

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Hampshire Cantonmt 28th May 1783

                     I have consulted the commanding & other Officers of the New Hampshire line, & find that of late provisions that have been issued to the troops, was by no means merchantable, nor regularly delivered.
                     The Inclosed, is the reports of the two commanding Officers of the Hampshire Regiment, & Battallion, to which I refer you for particulars.
                     Lt Colonel Cochran of the New York line informed me last evening, that the same complaint existed in that line.
                     I therefore request that a speedy inquery be made in a regular manner, of the conduct of the contractors, and if any iniquity should appear that the perpetrators be detected & punished according to their mal conduct.  I am sir with respect your Humble servant.

                Enclosure

                        Sir,
                        Cantonment May, 29. 1783

                     In Consequence of complaints of the irregular Issues of provissions, made by the Contractor to the two N. York Regiments under my command. I have ordered an Examination of the Quarter Master Books whereby it appears, that only One fourth part of the Beef, drawn for the month of may was Merchantable—two days allowance of that article remains due to the Troops there being new in Store. That there is a deficiency of Candles for the month of April to the amount of one Hundred Wt and none received for this present month.I therefore in behalf of the Troops of this line make the Above representation by way of Complaint that the Terms may be laid before the Commander in Chief. I am with all Esteem Dr Genl, your Obedient Humble Sert

                        P. Cortlandt, Colo.
                        Commanding
                        the N.Y. Brigd.

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                         c.29 May 1783

                     The Officers of the N. Hampshire Regt Complains that the Soldiers under their Immediate Command have been very much Injured by the late Issues of Provision that not only a Detention of provision for several Days has taken place but that which has been Issued was very much damaged and unwholsome—I wish your Honour wou’d represent those grivencess and endeavour to have the Troops supplied agreeable to Contract.  I have the Honour to be Your Obedt Hble Servt

                        Geo. Reid Lt Colo.
                        Comdg N. Hampr Regt


Title: To George Washington from Ruthey Jones, 29 May 1783
From: Jones, Ruthey
To: Washington, George

                     Worthy Sir,
                     Belfast Gorgia may the 29. 1783

                  Permit me once more—to trouble you with the peruseal of a few lines—from the hands of a Distitute Relation.  Who is more so Now then ever—it is now 15. Years Since I wrot you first, and many times Since—the first of which Perhaps—you never Got—but I do not wonder that I have not had the happiness to heare from you, Since this most Cruell and unnaturell War Commenced When I cosider the multiplicity of Cairs and anxieity of mind you must have had, Whilst the fate of America depended on You—as helpless Children do on an indulgent Father—but now that Peace is once more established, I hope my Dr Sir—you will be at leisure, to reflect on my humble Petition—and Grant the Boon I So much Crave, which is to Spend the remainder of my Days, under Your Protection I am at a Loss for words to Express, my anxieity of seing You, but God only knows, whether I Shall live to Se that happy Day—but Sortain it is—that I shall not Quit this Vail of tears in Peace if I do not—Should I be so happy as to merit Your attention—I flatter myself with the hopes of a few lines in answer to this, which will be handed you, by our Worthy Friend Genr. Wayne who was kind enough to Promis me his Friendship in this matter—in the mean time Permit me to offer You My Warmest Congratulations on so happy an event  of restoring Your Country to Freedom and Peace once more,  Very Long, may you Live to Se your Self Blesst, in a Greatfull People—and may the best of Blessings be in Stoor for you hereafter, is the Sincear Wish of Your Most Sincear and Affecttionate

                     Ruthey Jones


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Parker, 29 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Parker, Daniel,Duer, William

                     Sir
                      29 May 1783

                  The enclosed Complaints against your Department, are of so serious & alarming Complexion, that I cannot omit to transmit them to you—with my earnest request that the Causes may immediately be removed, & that complete Satisfaction may be given to the Army.
                  I am also informed from West point, that the Measles is very prevalent among the Troops in that Garrison, which absolutely requires their being supplied with a proportion of fresh Meats, for those who are sick. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Marinus Willett, 29 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Willett, Marinus

                     Dr Sir
                     Head Quarters May 29th 1783

                  I enclose you a representation respecting a Soldier of your Regt if there has been any unfairness in the inlistment I request he may be immediately discharged—or if the peculiarity of the circumstances are such as, in your opinion, will justify the measure—you will consider yourself authorized to carry the same into effect, by Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Servt.


Title: General Orders, 30 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Friday May 30th 1782
                     Parole Quibletown.
                     C. Signs Reading—Sussex.

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Putnam
                  B.Q.M. from the York brigde
                  The 4th Massa. regt gives the Guards & the 7th the fatigues tomorrow.


Title: To George Washington from John Rodgers, 30 May 1783
From: Rodgers, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Genl
                     Philada May 30th 1783

                  Permit one of your Most Sincere tho obscure Friends to congratulate You on the glorious Event of your generous Struggles, for the Liberties of your Country—to express the Sentiments of my Heart on this occasion however sincere might be liable to the Suspicion of Flattery, which my Soul abhors—There can indeed be no Place for it in this resistance—May You long enjoy the Heartfelt Pleasure arising from the Agency You have had, under Providence’s in Saving your Country, & May You reap the Rewards of a glorious Immortality at last.
                  There is another Subject I beg Leave to mention to your Excellency, & that is the Case of a worthy Citizen of these States, Mr Robert Aitkins, who has published an Edition of the Bible in our Language; and which was undertaken at a Time when that sacred Book was very scarce, & the Inhabitants of these States in great Want of it—but the peculiar Difficulty & Expence attending a Work of Such Magnitude, in this late State of our Country, delayed its Completion till the Approach of Peace; and British Bibles being imported much cheaper than He can afford to sell His, He is like to be ruined by this generous Effort in behalf of our divine Religion—Painful Thought, & not very
                        illegiblehonorable is this rising Empir, that the first Man who undertook to print the holy Scriptures in our Language, in America, should be beggared by it.  What I wou’d take the Liberty to Suggest to your Excellency, is the presenting each Soldier, & Non Commissioned Officer in the American Army, with a Copy of this Bible, by Congress, on their being disbanded.  This wou’d Serve not only to save a deserving Citizen from Ruin who highly Merits Attention; but would serve to furnish those brave Men to whom America is so greatly indebted for their Liberties, in the Hand of Heaven with a Sure Guide to eternal Life,if They will but take heed to it.
                  Such are the Obligations that your Country, & Congress as their grand Representation, are under to your Excellency, and such is the just Sense they have of these Obligations, that a Line from your Excellency to Congress on the Subject, and I wou’d wish it as a  Motion of your own, wou’d probably have the desired Effect—I take the Liberty to suggest the Thought, and your Excellency will make such Use of it as your Prudence shall dictate.
                  I hope the Time is not far off when We shall have the Pleasure of a Meeting in New-York, in a Situation far different from that in which We left it—In the mean Time I am, with the Most affectionate Esteem, Dear Genl, your Most Obedt, hble Servt

                     John Rodgers


Title: General Orders, 31 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters May 31st 1783 Saturday
                     Parole Tunbridge.
                     Countersigns Ulster—Williamsburgh.

                  For the day tomorrow Major Genl Heath
                  Brigade Qr Mr Hampshire B.
                  The 3d Massa. regt gives the Guards and the 6th the fatigues tomorrow.


Title: General Orders, 1 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Sunday June 1st 1783
                     Parole Andover.
                     Countersigns Bedford—Cambridge

                  For the day tomorrow Brigadier Genl Patterson
                  B. Qr Mr 1st Massa. B.
                  The Maryland Detachment gives the Guards & the 5th Massa. regt the fatigues tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Moses Hazen, 1 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Hazen, Moses

                     Sir,
                     Newburgh June 1st 1783

                  In the dispute which subsists between you & Majr Reed I have pursued the advice of a Board of General Officers—and have done every thing in my power to give satisfaction to you, & the complaining Officers of your Regimt and can only lament that the measures which have been adopted have failed of the wished for effect—especially as the Court have reported "they cannot find reason to justify the assertions alluded to in the said orders".
                  Your Letter, with the papers respectg Lieut. Stuart, I have transmitted to Govr Livingston, with a request to him, that he would consider the Case; and if any legal Remedy can be had, that he would be pleased to suggest the Mode to you, for Lieut. Stuarts Relief.  I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Sert

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 1 June 1783
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Newburgh , June 1. 1783.

                  Permit me to lay before your Excellency several votes of a board of officers consisting of the generals and officers commanding regiments and corps in the cantonment of New Windsor, passed yesterday, and also a copy of the report of a committee appointed to confer with the contractors respecting the agreement made between the contractors and the army in January last, and certain abuses in the issue of provisions, &ca and to request that your Excellency will be pleased to cause this army to be discharged from the said agreement for the reasons mentioned, and that they be put on the footing of the original contract with Mr Morris—and also order such measures to be adopted as to your Excellency may seem proper for investigating the infamous charge made by Mr Smith against some of the officers of the army, that if possible the individuals may be discovered, and the general scandal wiped from the army.  I have the honor to be, With great respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath
                     M. General

                Enclosure

                           16 January 1783

                     Articles of agreement made and entered into this Sixteenth day of January in the Year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and Eighty three Between Brigadier General John Greaton, Henry Jackson Esquire Colo. of the fourth Massachuetts Regiment, Nicholas Fish Esquire Major of the Second New York Regiment in behalf of the first, third, fourth, fifth, Sixth Seventh & Eighth Regiments of the Massachusetts Line, the first & Second Regiments of the New York Line, the first & Second Regiments of the New Jersey Line, the first & Second Regiments of the New Hampshire Line and the Detachment of the Maryland Line now cantoned in the vicinity of New Windsor on the first part, and Daniel Parker & Company Contractors with the Honble Robert Morris Esquire for the Supply of the Rations to the Army of the United States on the Second part Witnesseth
                     FirstThat the parties of the first part do by these presents agree for themselves & the Several parties abovementioned to receive of the parties of the Second part either of the following Articles at the prices affixed to them Respectively in lieu of Rum & Vinegar that may be due on the Contract made with the Financier.Secondly.All the Rum & Vinegar that is not issued by the parties of the Second part, Shall be Accounted for to the parties of the first part, at the prices stated in the Contract with the Financier.Thirdly.West India Rum at the prime cost in Boston, with two Shillings and one penny Lawful Money of New England per Gallon Allowance for risque, wastage, & transportation & twenty per Cent Advance both for the prime cost and transportation.Indian Meal at three & One half Ninetieths of a dollar per quart.Flour at three & one half Ninetieths of a dollar per pound Weight.Pease at two & One half Ninetieths of a dollar per pint.Soap at Eleven & One half Ninetieths of a dollar per pound Weight.Fourthly.The parties of the second part will furnish such quantities of some one or more of the above enumerated Articles at all times. when the Troops above recited shall draw provisions from the different Commissaries that are Appointed by them to issue provisions to the Troops. it is however understood that the parties of the second part do furnish all those Articles when the same can be procured, and the parties of the Second part will furnish the Several Articles in a Just & Equitable proportion thro’ the Year, but it shall be at their Election, at what time they shall issue either of them except the West India Rum which is fixed in the 7th Article.Fifthly.That no other than full & Compleat Rations agreable to the commutation before mentioned shall at any time be issued.Sixthly.It shall be at the Election of the parties of the first part to receive such quantity of Soap only as may be agreable to them, and they shall receive the remainder (provided they take but a part in Soap) in such one of the remaining Articles as the parties of the Second part may have in Store.Seventhly.The parties of the first part shall receive one Gill of West India Rum per Week at the Rate agreed upon, and if demanded the parties of the Second part shall issue two Gills of West India Rum per Week, provided the same can be purchased at any price within Two hundred and fifty Miles of the place where the same may be issued.Eighthly.The parties of the second part will demand no more on any of the West India Goods, Cloths Linen & other Articles that they may have in Store for Sale, which the parties of the Second part may want for their Own use and Consumption, than twenty per Cent neat profits on the Cost & Charges this advance the parties of the first part Accede to and are Satisfied with from these considerations the parties of the Second part expect to have a preference by the parties of the first part in all their purchases.Ninthly.The Books of the parties of the Second part shall at all times be open for the Inspection of the Officers, that may be Appointed by the parties of the first part, that no one of the above mentioned Articles may be Charged at a higher Rate than is herein agreed upon.Tenthly.The parties of the First part may for certain purposes when Necessary detain the Rum & Vinegar, giving the parties of the second part Notice when such detention shall Commence & End.Eleventhly.The parties of the Second Part shall issue the Vinegar due on the Contract with the Financier within Ten days after the Hudsons River shall be so free of Ice that Boats may pass.
                     The Parties to these presents pledge themselves to each other for the fulfilment of this agreement. In Witness whereof they have interchangeably set their hands

                        Danl Parker & Co.

                Enclosure

                        New Windsor Cantonment May the 30. 1783.

                     The committee appointed by the generals and commanding officers of regiments and corps in this cantonment, to enquire into the cause of the bad quality and irregular supplies of provision, and the great advance on goods sold by the contractors for cash and the expected pay for the present year.
                     Report,
                     That they have waited on Mr Flint and Mr Smith at Newburgh—Mr Smith informs that the supply of bad salt provision has been unavoidable, not being able to procure better, or fresh—that every inconvenience has arisen for want of an intendant or inspector, agreeable to the contract, whose duty is to receive or reject the provisions, and if not furnished good in regular and due time, that he should purchase at any price and the contractors were obliged to pay the expence.  That there was on hand of the same kind of salted provision sufficient for the 29. and 30. instant only; after which he expected a quantity of good salt beef, pork and cod-fish, with some small proportion of fresh beef, sufficient to supply the army until the middle of June, when it was expected any quantity of fresh beef may be procured.  That the army has been supplied with the full quantity of vinegar for the present month, and that there will be a regular supply in future.  That a quantity of candles had arrived and he was in hopes of continuing a supply of that article.
                     From the invoices of rum purchased at Boston and Philadelphia it appears that no considerable quantity has been commuted for, or sold at a higher price than agreed to by a former committee—That a quantity had just arrived from New York, which would come much lower.
                     Mr Smith assures us that no goods have been sold for cash, or orders for the month of January pay, at a greater advance than twenty per cent on the cost and charges; and that he will continue to supply the army for cash, agreeable to contract.  But that he considered the expected pay as matter of speculation only, and not confined to the agreement with the army.
                     On Mr Smith being asked respecting the report prevailing in the army of ten per cent, or other allowances made to some officers of the army, for them to induce their soldiers to lay out their expected pay; he assures us, the matter was first mentioned to him by several officers who said they had been offered it by other traders—at first he spurned the idea, but on consideration of having a large quantity of goods on hand and being told by the officers, that it was an easy matter to lay an advance on them, he accepted their proposals in supplying the goods.  Mr Smith was then asked if he had laid an advance on his goods in consequence of this allowance to officers, he assures us he did not—that the sacrifice was his own.
                     In consequence of a complaint made on the morning of the 30. instant of a number of cattle being sent to the issuing-commissary which were of a very bad quality, we have inspected them, and report, that they are exceeding poor and not fit to be issued.  (Signed)

                        J. Greaton B. Genl
                        H. Jackson Colo.
                        Thos Landsdale Major
                        Richd Cox Major

                        (Copy)

                Enclosure

                        New Windsor Cantonment May 31st 1783

                     At a meeting of the Generals and Officers commanding Regiments and Corps (by order of Major General Heath) to recieve the report of their Committee appointed at a former meeting, to enquire into certain abuses in the Issues of Provisions &c. &c.
                     Said Report being read and considered.
                     Voted.
                     As the opinion of the Board, that from said Report (connected with other Evidence) the agreement entered into by the Army with Mr Parker & Company Contracters in January last, is broken and violated on the part of the said Contracters, and of consequence rendered unobligatory on the part of the Army
                     Voted.
                     That the Honorable Major General Heath be desired to communicate this opinion and a Copy of the Report referred to; to the Commander in Chief, and in behalf of the Troops of this Cantonment request that he would be pleased to cause the Army (or this part of it) to be put on the footing of the original Contract with Mr Morris, and also to inform the General, that if the Contractors object to this being done without an Investigation of the matter, we are ready to make out the Particular charges when called for.
                     Voted
                     That the Commander in Chief be also requested, that he would please to direct an enquiry into the infamous charge made by Mr Smith, on some of the Officers of the Army, that if possible the Individuals may be discovered, and the General Scandal Wiped from the Army.

                        John Paterson, B. General, President


Title: To George Washington from Ebenezer Sproat, 1 June 1783
From: Sproat, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     New Windsor Cantonment June 1st 1783.

                  In consequence of the General Order of the 11th Instant, I marched with the 2d Massachusetts Regiment to releive the troops posted on the Lines near Croton River.  On the 13th I arrived and releived the Maryland Detachment.  And New Hampshire Battalion, and posted the necessary guards for the security of the troops.  & to protect the inhabitants.
                  On the 23d I received a Letter from the Honble Richard Morris Esqr. Inclosing Regulations from your Excellency, for the Government of the troops on the Lines: I met Mr Morris on the 24th, and after making the necessary arrangements marched to Mile Square, and formed a chain from Phillips’s house to East: Chester, taking proper measures to cover the troops, with orders to patrole as occasion should require; In this possition I remained till the 29th when I was releived by the 8th Massachusetts regiment.  during my Command (I am sorry to inform your Excellency) I have lost seven men by desertion.  several German & two British soldiers which came from New York, Obtained passes according to Orders.  I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s most Obedt humble servant

                     E. Sprout Lt Col. Comdt


Title: General Orders, 2 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Monday June 2d 1783
                     Parole Dartmouth—
                     Countersigns Eastchester. Falmouth.

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Stark
                  B.Qr Mr 3d Massa. Brigade
                  The Jersey Battalion gives the Guards & the Jersey regt the fatigues tomorrow.
                  The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve.
                  By the United States in Congress assembled On motion
                  Resolved
                  That the Commander in Chief be instructed to grant Furloughs to the Noncommissioned officers and soldiers in the service of the United States enlisted to serve during the war, who shall be discharged as soon as the definitive Treaty of Peace is concluded—together with a proportionable number of Commissioned officers of the different Grades.  And that the Secretary at War and Commander in Chief take the proper measures for conducting those Troops to their respective homes in such a manner as may be most convenient to themselves and to the States through which they may pass, and that the men thus furloughed be allowed to take their Arms with them.
                  In consequence of the preceding Resolution, Colonels & Commandants of regts and corps will immediately make Returns of the number of men who will be entitled to furloughs, to the Commanding officers of the several state Lines, who will make report at Head Quarters—at the same time returns are to be made of the Noncommisioned officers and privates who will not be indulged in the above discription—these Returns must be made to comport with the Muster Rolls, with which they will be compared at the Inspection office.
                  A sufficient number of officers of the several Grades to command the troops who will remain in the field must continue with them.  They are requested to make this a matter of agreement among themselves, The Commmanding officers of Lines will superintend and endeavour to accomodate this business to the satisfaction of all concerned.
                  The paymasters of regiments and such other officer in each, as may be appointed to act as a regimental Agent for the occasion will also remain with the Army to aid in the settlement of accts.
                  The Paymaster and Agent having attended the completion of the business, will distribute the result of the settlements agreeably to the instructions they may receive from the officers of the corps.
                  The Quarter Master Genl will have a sufficient number of printed Furloughs provided as soon as may be.
                  The Commander in Chief wishes to give every facility in his power towards carrying the proposed measure into effect, with as great convenience and satisfaction to the Troops as possible.  For this purpose the Contractors are directed to lay up adequate supplies of Provision at the several Posts and places in the rout where it will be necessary.
                  Generals and Commanding officers of Lines will be pleased to make the interior Arrangements for marching the Troops of their respective states to their homes, they will receive further instructions on the subject.
                  The Commander in Chief is pleased to grant a ful and free pardon to all Noncommissioned officers and privates now in confinement—and they are to be liberated accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to Guy Carleton, 2 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Carleton, Guy

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 2d June 1783

                  I have the Honor to inclose to your Excellency the Copy of a Resolution of Congress which has been lately transmitted to me Act of Congress of 26th May respecting Property & Negroes belongg to the Citizens of U. States from that Hono. Body.
                  Your Excellency will be pleased to notice the Purports of this Act—and I am persuaded you will consider it with that Attention which you shall judge the Nature of Its Object requires.  I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Egbert Benson, 2 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Benson, Egbert

                     Gentlemen
                     Head Quarters 2d June 1783

                  I transmit to you a Copy of a Resolution of Congress which passed the 26th ulto Claimg Property of the United States &ca & remonstratg against sendg off Negroes.
                  The purport of this Act you will collect from its perusal—I have only to request that you will be pleased to pay strict Attention to the Injunctions of Congress contained therein.  I am &ca.


Title: General Orders, 3 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Newburgh Tuesday June 3d, 1783
                     Parole Ghent.
                     Countersigns Holland—Ireland

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Greaton
                  B. Qr Mr 2d Massa. Brigade
                  The 2d York regt gives the Guards and the first the fatigues tomorrow.
                  The Maryland Battalion is to march on thursday next—Provision is to be drawn to last the corps to Pompton—and Major Lansdale will receive Instructions at Head Quarters for his further Government.


Title: From Benjamin Walker to Daniel Parker, 3 June 1783
From: Walker, Benjamin
To: Parker, Daniel,Duer, William

                     Gentlemen,
                     H. Qrs June 3 1783

                  Inclosed is the proceedings of a board of Generals and Officers commanding Corps. on an Enquiry into the execution of Contract.
                  In consequence thereof the Commander in Chief desires to know your objections (if any you have) to the annulling the Agreement therein Mentioned and putting the Army on the footing of the Original Contract.
                  I am directed also to call on Mr Smith for the circumstances of the Charge said in the proceedings to have been made by him against sundry Officers of taking an allowance to induce their Soldiers to lay out their expected Pay in Goods at his Store—and for the names of the Officers particularly concerned therein. I am &c.

                     B.W.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 3 June 1783
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Newburgh June 3. 1783.

                  Enclosed I have the honor to report to your excellency the returns of the regiments of infantry in the Massachusetts line of the army, which have been made conformably to the general order of yesterday.  The 8. regiment is doing duty on the lines—notice has been given to the regiment, but return is not yet received.  The regiments of the line are so nearly equal, that it is almost certain the 8. regiment is not ten men more or less than the other regiments of the line, which cannot occasion any uncertainty of consequence in determining what number of regiments can be formed by the men who are not entitled to furloughs.  The number of men who will remain, are sufficient to form four complete regiments—at first, they may probably rather exceed the establishment, but as there are in each regiment a number of men totally unfit for service, the four regiments will be immediately reduced to the establishment, or below it.
                  If it be your excellency’s pleasure that four regiments be formed—and will do me the honor to signify such your approbation—I will tomorrow call upon the officers of the line to form four corps of officers by agreement; or, in case they cannot agree, by lot or seniority, as your excellency may think most eligible.  I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant.

                     W. Heath M. Genl

                     P.S.  A state of the 8. regiment, as it stood at the last inspection is applied for—if obtained shall be sent in the morning.

                     W.H.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 3 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Newburgh June 3d 1783

                  Your favor of the 29th Ulto has been duly received.
                  We are now preparing to carry into execution the Resolution of Congress of the 26th of May, and I am making out the furloughs accordingly—but I am extremely apprehensive that insuperable difficulties & the worst of consequences may be expected, unless the Notes you mention shall be paid to the Officers & Men before their departure from this Cantonment—it is for the sole purpose of bringing them forward to the Pay Mastr with the greatest expedition, that I send the Messenger who is the bearer of this—pray do not delay him a single instant, but if all the Notes should not be ready, forward the remainder by the earliest possible opportunity & be so good as to inform me when they may be expected.
                  I write in haste & with earnestness because some circumstances which have just come to my knowledge make it necessary not a moment’s time should be lost.
                  Tho it is much to be lamented that at least a Month’s Pay could not have been given to the Troops in money before they left this place; yet I am in hopes your Notes will in some measure remedy the Evils which might have been expected from their disappointment—Nothing else can now avert the most alarming consequences or distresses of the most cruel nature, particularly to the Officers.
                  Before I retire from public life, I shall with the greatest freedom give my sentiments to the States on several political subjects, amongst those will be comprehended the particular object you recommend to my attention. with great regard I have the honor to be &.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Varick, 3 June 1783
From: Varick, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Pougkeepsie June 3rd 1783.

                  I esteem it my duty to inform Your Excellency, That Yesterday the XVth Volume of Military Letters was filled & contains the Letters to Novr 1782 included, which remains to be indexed & to receive its Marginal References to the Copies; So that some Time next Week I shall be ready to deliver the following Volumes.  Vizt
                  The Congress Letters A. to Decr 1782. 6  VolumesMilitaryB.to Novr 1782.15.CivilC.to Decr 1782.4.ForeignD. to Decr 1781.1Enemy’s (incomplete)E.to Decr 1782.CouncilsF.to Decr 1782. 2  28
                  Mr Sickels is unwilling to stipulate to remain as long as I may want his Services; but wishes to be at Liberty to go to New York, whenever it is convenient to him & to make his Duty here a secondary Object of Attention, I have therefore thought it improper to let him take up any new Business:  Besides all the detached pieces of Writing which now remain to be done & now in my Hands, over & above Your Excellency’s private Letters, will not take more than three Weeks, if so much, to close the Correspondence to the 1st June 1783.  And Mr Taylor having compleated all the Volumes next preceeding the Bulk of the Business which remains to be done, I should be loth to checquer his Volumes with Mr Sickels’s writing, possibly for a few days only & then to be completed by Mr Tay. who has stipulated with me to write 10 Hours pr day till the Close of the Business (provided he can bear so much fatigue) I have therefore thought proper to direct him to commence the XVIth Volume, of Military Letters from the 1st Decr 1782 & he’ll finish that Month by tomorrow night, when he will commence the IInd Volume of foreign Letters & finish them to December last included by next Sunday or Monday Night; Immediately after which he will take up Your Excellencys private Letters &, I hope, if his Health continues, that in a very short Time he will complete that & the other Letters from January to June 1783.
                  I wish however for Your Excellency’s Directions whether this Arrangement will comport with Your Wishes in the Subject As whether Mr Sickels is to be employed, if he can make it convenient And, I believe You will think it hardly worth my while to employ Mr Glenn (supposing him willing) for four Weeks as I before suggested for the same work which Mr Taylor can dispatch in three.
                  I have but five blank Volumes left; Two of which will be made Use of for the private Letters, a third for the remaining Military Letters from Decr last to the Close & a fourth for the foreign Letters, So that I should have but one left for the Remaining (1st) Congress Letters (2nd) Civil & (3d) Councils from Jany 1781 to this day, which Your Excellency first proposed to be entered together; but as this plan is since deemed ineligible, would it not be best to provide 9 Volumes of half the Thickness for these?  Genl Hand has deprived me of one of my blank Volumes for the remaining General Orders.  I am with the most perfect Respect & Attachment Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

                     Richd Varick.

                     P.S.  The papers requested by Mr Billings are forwarded by Judge Smith.


Title: General Orders, 4 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Wednesday June 4th 1783
                     Parole Kenderhook
                     Countersigns Lyons—Maldon

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Dayton
                  B. Qr Mr Jersey Brigade
                  The Hampshire regt gives the Guards tomorrow and the Hampshire Battalion the Fatigues.
                  The agreement entered into on the 16th Jany last between the Troops of the Cantonment of New Windsor and the Contractors, is at the desire of those Troops and with the consent of the Contractors declared Null and void; & both parties are hereafter to stand on the footing of the Original Contract with Mr Morris.


Title: To George Washington from Guy Carleton, 4 June 1783
From: Carleton, Guy
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     New York June 4th 1783

                  The Officer who will have the honor of placing this letter in your hands has my orders to proceed to Canada, with letters from me to Genl Haldimand, and I am to desire your Excellency will be pleased to grant him a passport for that purpose.  I am Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant

                     Guy Carleton


Title: From Simeon DeWitt to Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 4 June 1783
From: DeWitt, Simeon
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia June 4: 1783

                  I have mentioned the business on which I came to this place to some of the members of Congress They see no impropriety in the permission I intend ask for publishing a map of the seat of War, but think it necessary before I make my request to have the Commander in Chiefs approbation or sentiments on the subject, And altho it is an affair that in all probability will take place after the dissolution of the present Military establishment Yet till that time it would be stepping over the discipline to which all who belong to an Army ought to remain subject as long as it has an existence for anyone to receive orders without the concurrence of the person under whose immediate direction he is placed.  I was fully aware of this before I left Head Quarters but thought I could make a more urgent application to His Excellency after having recieved it in my power to mention the necessity of it as the opinion of Members of Congress—My request therefore is that you will be so good as to mention those things to the General and beg of him to communicate his mind on the subject—I shall esteem it a great favor if you will write to me by the very first opportunity As I must of necessity remain here till I recieve your answer—I shall find any Letters directed to me at the sign of the Bear, between Race and Vine in second street. or at the Post office if sent by the post—I delivered Your Letter to Mr Burrall And likewise the Generals to the persons to whom they were respectively directed—I must repeat my request that You will not forget to write to me as soon as you can I wish to make my continuance i.e. my Expences here as short as possible.  I am Sir Your Most Obedient & Very humble servant

                     S: DeWitt


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to William Heath, 4 June 1783
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Heath, William

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 4th June 1783

                  The General being engaged, directs me to reply to your favor of Yesterday; & to inform you that he approves of your Idea of formg four Regiments of Massachusetts from the Men remaing after the Discharge of those for the War—and requests that you will proceed, agreeable to the General Orders, to form four Corps of Officers by Agreement—If that Mode should fail, then Measures will be directed when found necessary. Most respectfully I am sir Your most Obedt Sert

                     J. Trumbull Jr Secty


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Olney, 4 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Olney, Jeremiah

                     Dr Sir
                     Head Quarters June 4th 1783

                  You will receive by this conveyance blanck Discharges for the Non Commissd Officers & Privates of the Rhode Island Regt enlisted for the War, which, under the Restriction of the Endorsment are only to be considered as furloughs until farther Orders—you will be pleased to have them filled up & the men permitted, under the direction of a proportionable number of Officers, to retire to the State immediately—Orders will soon be transmitted to the remainder of the Corps for the regulation of their conduct.
                  The furloughed Men of the Rhode Island Regt will draw Provisions at Litchfild, & Hartford in their way to the State The Genl Orders on this subject were sent by the Post.
                  Should there be more furloughs than you have occasion for, you will be cautious to have such care taken of the residue as will absolutely prevent their being made use of for improper purposes. I am Dr Sir


Title: General Orders, 5 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Thursday June 5th 1783
                     Parole Norfolk.
                     Countersigns Oswego—Plymouth.

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Putnam
                  B.. Qr Mr York brigade
                  The 7th Massa. regiment gives the Guards and the 1st the Fatigues tomorrow.
                  The Pay Masters or Agents of regts as soon as they have finished the accounts of their own corps, are requested to attach themselves to the pay master General if they can make it convenient; and to assist in completing the Genl settlement as soon as possible.
                  The Commander in chief repeats his wish that the greatest dispatch may be used in effecting this business.
                  The Surgeons of the different corps who are furloughed, before they march will return their Medicine Chests and what Instruments thay have belonging to the United States into the Apothecary Store at New-Windsor.
                  All Noncommissioned officers and soldiers who have Money due them for Services in the Qr Master Generals Department will lodge the Certificates thereof with orders for payment thereon in the hands of their paymasters, who will settle for the same.  The paymasters are requested to receive them.


Title: To George Washington from Theodore Gebhard, 5 June 1783
From: Gebhard, Theodore
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Rutland June 5th 1783

                  I embrace this conveyance to acquaint your Excellency of the Situation I am now in at Rutland, I concluded that the article of Peace opened a door for myself and the Troops under my care to go to Newyork, Major Hopkins, informs me that he waits the orders of Your Excellency for this purpose, and as I am anxious to depart as soon as possible, I could wish your Exellency would be pleased to forward your directions and orders in my favor as soon as your conveniency will permit.  I have the honor to be. Your Excellency’s most humble Servant

                     Theodore Gebhard Lieut.
                     of the Brunswick Troops.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 5 June 1783
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                      June 5. 1783.

                  It is difficult for us to express the regret we feel at being obliged again to solicit your excellency’s attention and patronage.  Next to the anguish which the prospect of our own wretchedness excites in our breasts, is the pain which arises from a knowledge of your anxiety on account of those men who have been the sharers of your fortunes, and have had the honor of being your companions through the various vicissitudes of the war.  Nothing, therefore, but necessity could induce us to a representation which we know must give you concerns.
                  Your excellency has so intimate a knowledge of the condition of the army as to render a particular delineation unnecessary.  As you have been a witness of our sufferings during a war uncommon in its nature, and unparalleled in many circumstances attending it, so you are now, Sir, no less a witness of the unequal burthen which has fallen upon us, from the want of that provision, to which, from our assiduous and unremitting services, we conceive, we are entitled.  Having recently expressed our sense of what was due to our distress—having repeated from your excellency, the confidence we had, that our accounts would be liquidated, the balances ascertained, and adequate funds provided for payment previous to our being dispersed or disbanded—having seen, with pleasure, the approbation which Congress gave of our reliance, it is with a mixture of astonishment and chagrin that we view the late resolve of Congress, by which the soldiers for the war, and a proportionate number of officers, are to be furloughed without any one of those important objects being accomplished—and to complete the scene of woe, are to be compelled to leave the army without the means of defraying the debts we have necessarily incurred in the course of service, or even of gratifying those menials, in the pittance which is their due; much less, to carry with us that support and comfort to our families, of which from our long military services, they have been deprived.  No loss exposed, then, to the insults of the meanest followers of the army, than to the arrests of the sheriff; deprived of the ability to assist our families; and without an evidence that any thing is due to us for our services; and, consequently, without the least prospect of obtaining credit for even a temporary subsistence until we can get into business—to what quarter can we look?  We take the liberty to say, Sir, only to your excellency.  And, from the sincerity of our hearts, we do it, no less from a persuasion of the efficiency of your further efforts in our favor, than from the kind assurances you have been pleased to give us of your support.
                  To your excellency then we make our appeal, and in the most solemn manner, from that abhorrence of oppression and injustice which first unsheathed our swords—from the remembrance of the common dangers through which we have passed—and from the recollection of those astonishing events which have been effected by our united efforts, permit us to solicit your further aid; and to entreat, that the order of the 2. instant, founded on an act of Congress of the 26th of May last, may be suspended or varied in its operations so far, as, that no officer or soldier be obliged to receive a furlough until that honorable body can be apprised of the wretched situation into which the army must be plunged, by a conformity to it—That your excellency will endeavour to prevail on Congress—nay, that, on the principles of common justice, you will insist that neither officer nor soldier be compelled to leave the field, until a liquidation of accounts can be effected—till the balances are ascertained—certificates for the sums due given, including the commutation of half pay to the officers and the gratuity of eighty dollars to the soldiers—and till a supply of money can be furnished sufficient to carry us from the field of glory, with honor to ourselves and credit to our country.  We still wish to believe that, that country to which we have been so long devoted, will never look with indifference on the distresses of those of her sons who have so essentially contributed to the establishment of freedom, to security of property, and the rearing of an empire.
                  In the name and behalf of the generals and officers commanding regiments and corps in the cantonment on Hudson’s river. I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                     W. Heath
                     M. General President


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 5 June 1783
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Newburgh June 5th 1783

                  The enclosed returns were received the last evening and this morning. I have the honor to be most respectfully your Excellencys most Obedt Servt

                     W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 5 June 1783
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Office of Finance June 5 1783

                  I have just received your Letter of the third Instant.  Nothing would please me better than to comply instantly with your Wishes.  The Paper on which the Notes are to be Printed came from the Paper Mill on Saturday Evening, on Monday Morning the Printer was employed, and to Morrow Morning he is to send the first Parcel of Notes.  I am then to sign them and fast as that can be done they shall be sent forward to the Paymaster General in Parcels; I am determined to devote my whole Time to the expeditious Accomplishment of this Business, and you will be the best Judge whether to detain the Troops a little while longer or not.I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble Servant

                     Robt Morris


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to Richard Varick, 5 June 1783
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Varick, Richard

                     D. Sir Head Quarters 5th June 1783

                  His Excellency directs me to reply to your favor of the 3d—and to mention that his principal Wish is, to have the Business compleated as soon as may be—to effect which he will not be averse to having the Books a little checquerd if you find it necessary—however, he leaves to your Judgement & Discretion, the choice of the Expedients mentioned in your Letter—The Definitive Treaty is tho’t to be near at Hand—the Arrival of which, will probably take the Genl from this place.
                  His Excellency thinks it best, as you propose, to procure the three Half Volumes—If you will send their particular Size & Thickness, it is tho’t that the best Mode of obtaing them will be by means of the Contractors, from N. York—which will be attempted as soon as you furnish us with the necessary Directions.I am &c.

                     J. Tll


Title: General Orders, 6 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Friday June 6th 1783
                     Parole Justice
                     C. Signs Union—Happiness

                  For the day tomorrow Major Genl Heath
                  B.Qr Mr from the Hampshire
                  The 6th Massachusetts regt gives the Guards & the 4th the fatigues tomorrow.
                  The Commanding officers of State Lines will be pleased to see that all Detachments of men going on furlough in consequence of the orders of the 2d instant are properly officered—it will then be at the option of the remainder (except those who may be attached to the corps composed of the three Years men) to remain with the Army, or not as may be most convenient.
                  All Noncommissioned officers and privates inlisted for the war who may not wish to avail themselves of the furloughs directed to be granted by the Resolution of Congress of the 26th of May will report themselves to the Commanding officers of their corps by 12 o’clock tomorrow—that an equal number of men engaged for three Years may have the indulgence in their room.
                  The men inlisted for the war who remain with the Army under this Order are to continue to do the duty of soldiers untill the ratification of the definitive Treaty of Peace.
                  One Sub three Serjeants, three corporals two Drums & fifes & thirty privates to releive the Commander in Chiefs Guards to parade at the New building at 12 o’clock tomorrow.  they will be taken from the three years men in the Massachusetts Line in the following proportions.
                    S. S. C. D.& f.P.1stBrigade111—102d do111 d.103ddo1 1  1 f.  10133230


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to William Heath, 6 June 1783
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Heath, William

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 6th June 1783

                  His Excellency desires me to inform you, that he has lost the Hour you mentioned last Evening for the assembling the Officers—But that he is preparing a Reply to their Address, which will be delivered at the Public Building this Day at Levee Hour—at which Time the Officers, if they please, will be present.
                  The General is sorry that a very bad Cold, with which he is much indisposed—and the Close Application he is obliged to give to signg & preparing the Discharges, will prevent his having the pleasure of Meeting the Officers this Day.  Most respectfully I am Sir Your most Obedt Servant

                     J. Trumbull Jnr Secy


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 6 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters June 6. 1783

                  Before I make a reply to the Subject of the Address of the Generals and Officers Commanding the Regiments and Corps of this Army presented by yourself yesterday I intreat that those Gentlemen will accept my warmest acknowledgements for the confidence they have been pleased to repose in me, they may be assured it shall never be abused—and I beg they will be persuaded that as no man can possibly be better acquainted than I am with the past merits and services of the Army, so no one can possibly be more strongly impressed with their present ineligible situation, feel a keener sensibility at their distresses, or more ardently desire to alleviate or remove them—but it would be unnecessary perhaps to enter into a detail of what I have done, & what I am still attempting to do in order to assist in the accomplishment of this interesting purpose—let it be sufficient to observe, I do not yet despair of success; for I am perfectly convinced that the States cannot without involving themselves in National bank ruptcy & ruin refuse to comply with the Requisitions of Congress: who, it must be acknowledged, have done every thing in their power to obtain ample and compleat Justice for the Army, and whose great object in the present measure undoubtedly was, by a Reduction of expence to enable the Financier to make the three months Payment to the Army, which on all hands has been agreed to be absolutely & indispensibly necessary—to explain this Matter. I beg leave to insert an extract of a Letter from the Superintendant of Finance dated the 29 Ulto.
                  "It is now above a Month since the Committee conferred with me on that Subject, and I then told them no Payment could be made to the Army but by means of a Paper Anticipation and unless our Expenditures were immediately and considerably reduced even that could not be done—Our Expenditures have nevertheless been continued and our Revenues lessen the States growing daily more and more remiss in their Collections, the Consequence is that I cannot make Payment in the manner first intended the Notes issued for this purpose would have been payable at two four and Six Months from the date, but at present they will be all at Six Months and even that will soon become impracticable unless our Expences be immediately curtailed.
                  I shall cause such Notes to be issued for the three Months Pay to the Army and I must intreat, Sir, that every influence be used with the States to absorb them together with my other engagements by Taxation."
                  Three days ago a messenger was dispatched by me to urge the necessity of forwarding these Notes with the greatest possible expedition.
                  Under this State of circumstances I need scarcely add, that the expence of every day in feeding the whole Army will add very considerably to the inability of the public to discharge the debts already incurred, at least for a considerable time to come.
                  Altho’ the Officers of the Army very well know my official situation, that I am only a servant of the Public and that it is not for me to dispense with Orders which it is my duty to carry into execution, Yet as furloughs in all Services are considered as a Matter of indulgence & not of compulsion, as Congress I am persuaded entertain the best disposition towards the Army, and as I apprehend in a very short time the two principal Articles of complaint will be removed—until the further pleasure of Congress can be known I shall not hesitate to comply with the wishes of the Army under these reservations only, that Officers sufficient to conduct the Men who choose to receive furloughs will attend them either on furlough or by detachment, the propriety & necessity of this measure must be obvious to all, it need not therefore be enforced—And with regard to the Non Commisd Officers & Privates such as from a peculiarity of circumstances wish not to receive furloughs at this time will give in their names by 12 o’Clock tomorrow to the Commanding Officers of their Regiments that on a Report to the Adjutant General an equal number of Men engaged for three Years may be furloughed which will make the saving of expence exactly the same to the public.
                  I cannot but hope the Notes will soon arrive & that the settlement of accounts may be completed by the assistance of the Pay Masters in a very few days, in the mean time I shall have the honor of laying the sentiments of the Generals & Officers Commanding Regiments and Corps before Congress—they are expressed in such a decent candid & effecting manner that I am certain every mark of attention will be paid to them.  I have the honor to be with the highest esteem & regard Sir Your very Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 6 June 1783
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Belknap’s house June 6. 1783.

                  I have been honored with your excellency’s answer to the address of the generals and officers commanding regiments and corps presented yesterday, which was communicated at levee to those present.  All appeared to be deeply impressed, and fully satisfied with your answer; and were it possible for confidence in your excellency’s paternal goodness to be enlarged, your answer of this day must I think have produced it.
                  I want words to express the pleasure and satisfaction which I this day enjoyed in the good Temper and disposition of the officers of the Massachusetts line when assembled to agree who should remain to officer the four regiments of three-years men—Their conduct will reflect lasting honor on them.
                  It is agreed, that colonel Henry Jackson, Colonel Vose, lieutenant-colonel-commandant Sprout, & lieutenant-colonel-commandant Brooks should command the four regiments—the latter, on condition that colonel M. Jackson, who is on the lines, consents to retire—if not, he (colonel M. Jackson) will command one of the four regiments.  It seems necessary that colonel M. Jackson should be called up immediately, and that the men belonging to the 8. regiment, entitled to furloughs, should also be ordered up without loss of time, that they may march with the others to their respective counties.  I therefore request that your excellency would be pleased to give the necessary orders for the purpose.
                  I think if the eight regiments of the Massachusetts line were to be formed as follows—viz. the 5. into the 1, the 6. into the 2, the 7. into the 3, and the 8. into the 4, it would be a regular mode, and greatly facilitate the completion of the corps.  If this should meet your excellency’s approbation, I will desire the four gentlemen, who are to command the four regiments, to complete the corps as soon as possible from the officers of the different grades who have given their names to tarry—and while this business is carrying into effect, the furloughed men may be sent off under the charge of such of the retiring officers as may be assigned to that duty.  I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                     W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Gibbs, 6 June 1783
From: Gibbs, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                     June 6th 1783

                  To His Excellency George Washington Commander in Chief of the Armies of the United States of America; The Memorial of sundry Officers of the Invalid Regiment, Humbly sheweth,
                  That, your Memorialists, the Subscribers, beg Leave to represent, as well for their Military Brethren of all Denomination in the Regiment, as for themselves, to Your Excellency, That from sundry Resolves of the Honorable Congress, they have always entertained an Idea, that on Account of their extraordinary Sufferings, some further Provision was intended them than for their more fortunate fellow Soldiers, but by the late Arrangement find themselves disappointed, though several of them are incapacitated from obtaining a Livelihood, Therefore, are reduced to the Necessity of looking up to You as their Military Father and request Your ordering or procuring a general Inspection, that each may be considered as his Case shall be thought deserving.
                  Impressed, by Hearts full of Gratitude, We hope Your Excellency will not think it presumptuous in Us to return You our unfeigned Thanks for your uninterrupted Attention to relieve Us from those Difficulties and Distresses which the untoward Circumstances of the Times laid Us under, & for that unwearied Conduct in which the nice Honour of the Soldier and Feelings of the Man were so amply displayed.
                  The Premisses are respectfully submitted for Your Excellency’s Consideration by,

                     G. Carlton Lt
                     Jonathan Pugh Lt
                     Robt Barnet Lt
                     Talm. Hall Lieut.

                  Samuel Gibbs Lieut.John McGowan Capt.
                     Jno. Reily Captn
                     Mos. McFarland Capt.
                     Wm Mchatton Cptn Lt


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 6 June 1783
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters June 6th 1783

                  Colonel Trumbull, your Excellencys secretary put into my hands, this morning a letter in which he represents that the gentleman who, before him, filled the office he now holds, was, soon after his appointment thereto, honored with a Lieutenant Colonels Commission and that this took place soon after the resolve of Congress which gave all your Excellencys Aid de Camp the rank of Lieutenant Colonels Mr Trumbull supposes that he is entitled to the same rank which was granted to Lt Colonel Harrison and requested I would lay the matter before Congress, Though I am my self convinced of the propriety of the request yet I think some doubts may arise in the mind of Congress respecting this promotion Unless your Excellency can by a line say that in your opinion his request is just and that you wish he may be gratified in it.  I have the honor to be My Dr General Your Excellencys obedient servt

                     B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 6 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                     Dear Sir.
                     Head Quarters June 6th 1783

                  In answer to your favor of this date respecting the claim of Mr Trumbull to the Commission of a Lt Col. in the Army, I can without hesitation give it as my opinion he is clearly entitled to such an appointment—for upon the resignation of Lt Colonel Harrison my former Secry I made the proposal to Mr Trumbull to accept that Office, assuring him at the same time, (as I supposed I had a right to do) that he would be entitled to all the Emoluments which had been granted to his predecessor.
                  Under the sanction of this Engagement on my part, & considering the important services & great merits of Mr Trumbull, I hold it a duty not only to give my opinion in the Manner I have done, but even to interest myself strongly in favor of the promotion. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 6 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters 6th June 1783

                  Having attentively perused the Letter from Major Genl Knox to you, respectg extra Allowances to him, which you committed to my Consideration; I can with great Truth & Justice say, that the Requests made by Genl Knox, appear to me to be perfectly reasonable and well founded.
                  In the first Instance, the Duties of his Command, from the Time of his entering the Service, have been arduous & important; and if it was necessary to make the Observation to you, I could add, they have been executed with the greatest Attention, Ability & Satisfaction; as well as with great prudence & Oeconomy for the public.  If therefore Congress should be pleased to give him the Allowance for the Time mentioned, for his Extra Services as Master of the Ordnance, I think it would be no more than What Justice Demands for his particular merits; and will involve no disagreeable Consequences.
                  On the other Head: altho Extra Allowances have been discontinued to officers commandg in seperate Departments, yet General Knox’s situation has been very peculiar for the Time he has commanded at West Point; particularly last Year, while the french Army was in the Neighbourhood, Curiosity led many of their most respectable Officers to visit that post, which Circumstance alone, led him, for the Honor of our Country, as well as his own, into many unavoidable Expences, beyond what any other situation would have subjected him to. Independent of this particular reason, West point being a Post of great Importance, and much famed for the peculiarity of its Situation & Strength, is at all Time subject to much Company, many of whom are so respectable as to claim the Attention of the Commandant—In this View, exclusive of his particular Merits at that post, I think the Request of Genl Knox is extremely reasonable & just; and if Congress should be pleased to grant him some extra Allowance therefor, it would be exceedingly gratefull to me, & perfectly conformable to my Wishes.  With great Regard I am Dear Sir Your most obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 7 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Newburgh Saturday June 7th 1783

                  Morning Orders
                  The Commander in Chiefs Guard will be furnished daily from the regt which gives the other Guards, and not as directed in the orders of Yesterday.
                  Parole Taunton—Countersigns Virginia—Williamsburgh
                  For the day tomorrowMajor Genl HoweBr Qr Mastr 1st Massa. B.

                  The 2d Massa regt gives the Guards and the 3d the fatigues tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 7 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 7th June 1783

                  I have the Honor to enclose to your Excellency the Copy of an Address to me, from the Generals and Officers commanding Regiments & Corps, together with my Answer to them.  These Enclosures will explain the Distresses which resulted from the measures now carrying into Execution, in Consequence of the Resolution of Congress of the 26th of May—but sensibility occasioned by a parting Scene, under such peculiar Circumstances, will not admit of description.
                  The two subjects of Complaint with the Army appear to be, the Delay of the three Months pay which had been expected, and the want of a settlement of Accounts—I have thought myself authorized to assure them, Congress had and would attend to their grievances; and have made some little variation respecting furloughs from what was at first proposed—The Secretary at War will be able to explain the reason and propriety of this Alteration.
                  While I consider it a Tribute of Justice on this occasion, to mention the temperate and orderly behaviour of the whole Army, and particularly the accomodating spirit of the Officers in arranging themselves to the Command of the Battalions which will be composed of the Three Years Men; permit me to recall to Mind all their former sufferings & Merits, and to recommend their reasonable requests to the early & favorable Notice of Congress.  With the Highest Respect I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and most humble Sert

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Channing, 7 June 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Channing, William

                     Sir,
                     Newburgh 7th June 83

                  My Nephew, who will have the honor of presenting this Letter to you, has been in bad health more than twelve months and is advised to try the Climate & Sea Air of Rhode Island by his Physicians—Any Civilities which you may be kind enough to shew him will be thankfully acknowledged by Sir Yr most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington

                        Sent also to Caleb Gardner, Jabez Bowen, Isaac Collins and William Greene.


Title: To George Washington from Moses Hazen, 7 June 1783
From: Hazen, Moses
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Pompton 7th June 1783

                  I have the Honr to Inclose your Excellency a Return of the Noncommissioned officers and privates; agreable to the orders of the 2d Instant.  The men that do not belong to any Particular State: in appearance are not Included in the Spirit of the Resolution of Congress, as they have not any friends or Connections in this Country: or State to return to: It is their wish in General to remain in Service untill their accounts can be settled; and some provisions made for them.  In particular the Refugees from Canada: who have a promise of Reward from Congress. the others generally wish to partake of the Indulgance of being furlough’d.
                  The unfortunate Situation, at this period of the War; into which Major Reid has thrown the Corps of officers under my Command is Truly Distressing.  We think his conduct is not only extraordinary but very cruel and unpardonable, as an officer.  He has However found means to Evade every attempt to bring him to Justice.  It is Impossible for us to Suppose he has your Excellencys leave of absence in the manner which he has notified it: to the Adjutant of the Regt: not before he was arrested and had made his Escape from the Cantonment.
                  I beg your Excellency will please to Direct the manner in which Major Reed is to be mustered and Returned.  I have the Honr to be your Excellencys most obedt and very Humle Servant

                     Moses Hazen


Title: To George Washington from Henry Jackson, 7 June 1783
From: Jackson, Henry
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     West-Point, 7th June 1783

                  We have been informed, that the General Officers are of Opinion, the Drummers, and Fifers (instead of having Arms) should be allowed to retain their Drums, and Fifes.  As the Arms, are (by Congress) bestowed on the Soldiers, as a Gratuity for their services, and the Drums, and Fifes, bear but a small proportion to them, in value; We are constrained (tho’ reluctantly) to Address your Excellency, on the subject; and to request that, you will be pleased to Order, Arms to be furnished them.
                  It is extremely painful to us, to be under the disagreable necessity, of troubling your Excellency, on so trivial a matter; but, a regard to Justice and an Attention to the feelings of those, we have long had the Honor to Command, will we hope apologize to you, for our Conduct.  We have the Honor, to be with the most perfect Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servants
                   Henry Jackson Colo. Heman Swift Colo.J. Brooks Lt Colo. ComdtSamel Webb Colo.James Miller Lt Col. ComtJohn Lamb Colo.Joseph Vose Colo.Jno. Crane Colo.Ben. Tupper Colo.Zebn Butler Col.El. Sprout Lt Col. ComdtM: Knap MajrComd. 5th Masstts Regt


Title: From David Humphreys to Michael Jackson, Sr., 7 June 1783
From: Humphreys, David
To: Jackson, Michael, Sr.

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters June 7th 1783

                  In order to carry the Arrangements resulting from the Resolution of Congress of the 26th of May into execution, it is His Excellency the Commander in Chief’s pleasure that you should return to the Army immediately with the Men of the Regt who were, inlisted for the War, and such proportionable number of Officers as are to be furloughed under the Act—it will also be necessary for your Adjt to be in Camp to register the furloughs.
                  Before you leave the remainder of the Regt on the Lines it will likewise be expedient for you to ascertain which of the Officers of the Regt will choose to remain in service with the Corps which will be formed from the three Years Men—without this information it will be difficult if not impossible to make the Arrangements complete.  I am Sir &c.

                     D. Humphrys


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 7 June 1783
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Head Quarters 7th June 1783

                  I find by the returns that there are but a few of Sheldons Dragoons who are not engaged to serve during the War; and as all the Horses are sold, I am fully in opinion that the little service which the remainder of the Corps would render in the circumstances they now are, will not compensate the expences which must arise from keeping them together.  I therefore think that if at the time your Excellency shall discharge the men in that Regiment engaged for the War, you should furlough those who are engaged for three years, that the public Interest will be promoted thereby.
                  In General Hazens Regiment, there are a number of men, brought out of Canada, who, should they now be furloughed, might be much distressed, as they have no Homes to which they can retire.  There are also, as I am informed, a number of men belonging to this state, who wish at present to continue in service, as the Enemy yet hold possession of New York—I think Sir in these and similar cases, the Views of Congress would be fully answered, and our Expences not be augmented thereby should such men be permitted to take the places of the three Years men.  By this line of conduct, the happiness and Interests of both parties will be promoted, which I am sure will be a circumstance peculiarly agreeable to Congress.
                  As I know it to be the wishes of Congress that, as much as possible, our Expences should be reduced, consistant with our own safety, I cannot avoid suggesting to your Excellency that, as soon as the men engaged to serve during shall have left Camp, that there be the most critical Examination of the three Years men—that none be retained who are not fit for immediate Duty.  I have the honor to be, Dear General, with the Higest esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt servant.

                     B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 7 June 1783
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     West Point June 7th 1783

                  The commanding officers are applying for arms for the Musick—The donation of Arms to the Troops was in consequence of your Excellency’s recommendation should you be of opinion, all circumstances considered, they have a right to arms, I think no difficulty will arrise in Congress from the measure.
                  I have requested General Knox to commence as soon as possible the building a Magazine on Constitution Island & one on West Point. sufficient to contain fifteen hundred barrels of powder each—& have desird him to build an arsenal of brick sufficient to contain fifteen thousand Arms:  It is to be executed upon arches so that under the arsenal a safe deposit may be had for the cariages & for the Ammunition Waggons.
                  I have requested General Knox to apply to your Excellency for a suitable number of fatigue men to carry on the building—He will undertake the matter seriously; as also the business of arranging the ordnance & ordnance stores—his services will be important to us, while he continues in command here.  I am with the highest esteem Your Excellency’s Obt Servant

                     B. Lincoln