Title: To George Washington from Charles Mynn Thruston, 12 November 1796
From: Thruston, Charles Mynn
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Winchester 12th Novr 1796

                        In Obedience to the requests of our fellow Citizens of Frederick County,
                            contained in the enclosed resolutions, we beg leave to approach you with the sincerest
                            affection, and for them and ourselves to express the extreme regret we feel, at the prospect
                            of your retiring from that important Office which you have hitherto filled with so much
                            honour to yourself, and so much to the interest of our common Country.
                        Indeed, Sir, it is impossible to review, the great lenght of time which you
                            have devoted to the service of your Country, the very critical situations in which you have
                            so often been placed, the Wisdom and firmness which you have always displayed, the high and
                            important Offices you have filled and the still more important services, which in the
                            discharge of the duties of those offices, you have rendered to your fellow Citizens, without
                            being imprest with the most grateful and affectionate regard for your person, and without
                            experiencing the depest concern that your Country can no longer avail herself of those
                            talents and virtues which have been so often and so eminently serviceable to her.
                        Be pleased, Sir, to accept, of our most earnest and devout wishes for your
                            future peace and happiness. May you experience, in that retirement which
                            is your choice, every personal and domestic felicity which human nature is capable of
                            enjoying.

                        May you long live to see that Country, which we believe you ardently love,
                            happy in the complete fruition of Liberty and tranquillity. And May you finally be put into
                            possession of that reward, which is prepared by the great Author of all good, for those who
                            devote their lives to the happiness of thier fellow men. We have the honour to be, with
                            sentiments of the greatest Esteem and regard Sir, yr Hbe Svts

                            John Smith
                            Wm McGuire
                            C. Thruston
                            Robt White jr

                                Hh Holmes


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 12 November 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                            My dear Sir,
                            Philadelphia 12th Novr 1796

                        In due time, and in good order, I received your letters dated the 4th, 5th
                            & 10th instt; and shall be mindful of their contents.
                        What construction do you put upon the information received through the
                            assistant of D—r B—? and what notice, if any, should it meet with now, or hereafter, if
                            application should be made for leave, or the event take place without?
                        Having sometime since, called upon the different Secretaries for such matters
                            (within their respective departments) as required to be communicated to Congress at the
                            opening of the Session, the enclosed papers are from two of them; one has given a shape to the
                            ideas. From the Treasury department I have received nothing yet; and presume nothing will
                            come from the Secretary of it except such matters as are of the fiscal kind, founded upon
                            facts & statements.
                        The Secretary of War has closed his notes, or draught, with a communication,
                            a declaration, and an invocation, which I had no intention of introducing, if such sentiments
                            could be avoided with that decent respect wch is due to such members of both houses as have
                            been uniform & steady in their Support of those measures of government which I have
                            thought the interest & welfare of this country required, and accordingly
                            recommended.

                        The reasons which have operated a reluctance in my mind to touch on this
                            subject at the opening of the Session, are two—First, that it
                            might not be supposed it was introduced for the purpose of a complimentary notice of the
                            event, by those who might feel a disposition to offer it; and secondly, that it might not
                            embarrass others, who had rather be silent; much less put it in the power of a third set, to
                            oppose (if it should be attempted) sentiments of this sort, in the answer to the Speech.
                        These being my reasons—judge of their force. If they out weigh what may be
                            considered as indifference—slight—or disrespectful in me, towards the body to whom the
                            Address is made, let them prevail. If not, adopt in whole, or in part, or new model
                            altogether to your liking, the sentiments, or expressions of Mr McHenry.
                        Among the things noted in my Memorandums, & not to be found in the
                            enclosures is an intimation to this effect—viz. that from the best information I have been
                            able to obtain and from the best view I have of the general system of European Politics, and
                            of the state of matters in the Mediterranean in particular, our Commerce in that quarter
                            will always be upon a precarious establishment unless a protecting force is given to it. If
                            Congress in their investigation of the subject should coincide in this opinion, it will rest
                            with their wisdom to decide whether that trade, in particular, is of sufficient importance to
                            countervail the expence of its protection. How much beyond this to extend the view towards a
                            Navy, in the present uncertain State of our Fiscal concerns, merits consideration. My own
                            sentiments lead strongly to the means of Commencement.

                        This last article in addition to the several matters contained in the
                            enclosures, and what will naturally flow from the texts mentioned in your letter, together
                            with a general reference to the proper Officers for estimates—Papers—&ca—alluded to
                            in the Speech will comprehend every thing that has occurred to me, as necessary to be
                            mentioned at the opening of the Session; and I would thank you
                            much for letting me have the whole as early in next week as your convenience will permit—at
                            any rate on Saturday; with your opinion on the propriety of giving Congress a full statement
                            relatively to the Situation of our affairs with France, as suggested in my letter of the
                                 instant. With Affectionate regard
                            I am always Yours

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. I was in the very Act of closing this letter when yours of
                                yesterday’s date came to hand—due consideration shall be given to the Contents of
                            it.


Title: To George Washington from Rufus King, 12 November 1796
From: King, Rufus
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            London Nov. 12. 1796

                        I have had the honor to receive your Letter of the 25. of August and Doctr
                            Nicholl whose advice I have asked has been so obliging as to give me information respecting
                            the manner in which the order of the Court of Chancery should be published—in a day or two I
                            will procure its insertion in the proper news paper—some little attention will be requisite
                            to avoid as far as practicable the great Expence which commonly attends this kind of
                            publication—the News papers containing the notification shall be transmitted to you
                            agreeable to your directions—It is extremely difficult to form a satisfactory Opinion
                            respecting the probability of peace—I meet with few persons who appear to have much
                            confidence in the success of Lord Malmesbury—The Declaration of war by Spain, at a moment
                            when England appeared to be making serious Efforts to conclude a general Peace, strengthens
                            the belief of many, that France prefers still to continue the war: All
                            the internal movements of this Government, that are visible; indicate a
                            Determination to prosecute the war with vigour; The funding of the floating Debt earlier
                            than usual, and at the commencement of the negotation with France, when its influence upon
                            the Stocks is such as a measure so direct for the restoration of peace is calculated to
                            produce, the Augumentation of the Militia by the addition of 60,000 men, and the means
                            employed to recruit the regular Army, if Peace is near, would seem to be improvident &
                            unwise—but if the war continues, 12. millions will have been funded on advantageous Terms, the
                            Government will have removed an important obstacle to the further use of their Credit, and
                            by an increase of the internal Strenth of the Nation placed at their Disposal the regular
                            Forces to be employed abroad.
                        France will bend all her Energies against that Commerce in which England finds
                            such immense Resources to prosecute the war, not by attacking her Navy, nor by attempting
                            the threatened invasion, but by compelling the neighbouring Nations to Exclude the commerce
                            of England from the great and profitable market of Europe—England in Turn will endeavour to
                            balance the Account, by conquering, or emancipating, the Colonies of Spain & France,
                            thereby opening new, and extensive, Markets in another Quarter of the Globe—should the war
                            unfortunately still go on, the meditated Expedition against Canada by the Mississippi may
                            possibly be undertaken—I think it much less probable since the Evacuation of our frontier
                            Posts by the British forces—though I can not seriously believe that such an expedition will
                            be attempted, still it may be the part of prudence to consider it as possible, in order to
                            guard against its mischiefs.
                        Spain enumerates among the injuries received from Great Britain, the Treaty
                            concluded with us; and France was satisfied neither with that Treaty, nor with the
                            subsequent one, that was concluded at a fortunate moment between us & Spain—both may
                            have been dissatisfied, from motives connected with the Project of an Expedition through the
                            Mississippi. With perfect respect I have the honor to be Dear sir yr ob. & faithful
                            Servt

                            Rufus King


Title: From George Washington to James Ross, 12 November 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Ross, James

                            Dear Sir,
                            Philadelphia 12th Novr 1796

                        A few months will put a period to my political existence—And a few days
                            afterwards to my Residence in this City; Which I never expect to see again.
                        May I ask the favor of you therefore (if this letter should reach Your hands in
                            time and Opportunities should present themselves) to Request and even to press, Colonels,
                            Shreve & Cannon and Mr Charles Morgan to Settle & pay to you, before your
                            departure, for Congress the balances respectively due from them to me, or if the money
                            cannot be obtained from all or any of them, that I may at least Know what is due to me &
                            What it is I have to expect from them, before I leave this City; After which their
                            Communications with me Would be circuitous, if not hazardous.
                        I have so often made apologies for the trouble I have given you in my Western
                            concerns, that I will not repeat them on this Occasion—but if the above named Gentlemen
                            Would do as they ought, I could do more that is—promise I will give you no further
                            trouble in this business unless occasions should arise which may call for professional aid,
                            And you would receive compensation for the services Rendered me. With very great Esteem
                            & Regard I am Dear Sir Your Obedt & Obliged Hble Sert

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John William Bronaugh, 13 November 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Bronaugh, John William

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia 13th Novr 1796

                        Your letter of the 24th Ulto did not get to my hands until after my arrival in
                            this City.
                        I request you to be persuaded that I harbour no suspicion of unfair dealing
                            from the repeated applications for your fathers Bond; but at the sametime that it is natural
                            for you to be solicitous to possess it, it is equally proper that I should be perfectly
                            satisfied that the Conditions of it have been complied with, before it is surrendered: and
                            you will permit me to observe that, his Deed to Colonel Powell is no evidence of this, for
                            the following reasons. 1. because it does not appear from hence, or anything else within my
                            knowledge, that he has been requested by Colo. Muse to make this conveyance. 2. because
                            after his sale of 2000 Acres to me, he still held 4000 in the said tract, to be disposed of
                            as he should think proper—and 3. because there is no recital in the Deed to show that either
                            Muse or myself had any interest, or Agency in the Land; but on the contrary, that it has
                            been sold for a valuable consideration, accruing to your father, and described as bounded by
                            land belonging to Colo. Muse.

                        Let me repeat, and I do it sincerely, that I have no suspicion of intentional
                            error in this business, but as no possible injury can result to you from the delay in surrendering the Bond, but a very serious evil might accrue to
                                me, by doing it, if Muse, with whom I exchanged the Land, has
                            not had it conveyed to himself or to his order conformably to the views of the parties, it
                            behooves me, on the score of prudence, to learn from the Representative of Colo. Muse (being
                            told he is dead) whether by the conveyances which have taken place, I stand exonerated; or
                            not. This may be known by an application to Mr Battaile Muse; from whom, if I recollect
                            right I received a letter a few years since On this very subject, although I am not able to
                            charge my memory with the precise contents of it at this moment.
                        So soon as this is done I will give up the Bond, for if the conditions are
                            complied with, it is no longer of any use to me, nor to any other person, that I can
                            perceive. I am—Sir Your Very Hble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Francis Deakins, 13 November 1796
From: Washington, George
To: Deakins, Francis

                            Dear Sir,
                            Philadelphia 13th Nov 1796

                        Your favor of the 12th Ulto did not get to my hands until I had been arrived in
                            this City, sometime, or it should have received an earlier acknowledgment.
                        It would have been pleasing to me, as much on acct of the esteem I feel for you,
                            as for the satisfaction of viewing my land with more accuracy, to have found you at home. As
                            the case happened, I took only a hasty & superficial view of parts of the Tract.
                        I am very much obliged to you, for the trouble you have taken to obtain a
                            settlement with Mr Jones for the Rents of the above Land, and as it is not in my way to do
                            it, and besides, as I am entirely unacquainted with the circumstances attending the Tenants,
                            in short as I know not what is due from either of them, or from Mr Jones himself, it would
                            render me a very acceptable Service if you would be so obliging as to bring past
                            transactions to a close; and advise me what had best be done in future, relatively to the
                            Rents, the Tenants; and even the Land. With very great esteem I am Dear Sir Your Obedt
                            & Obliged Public Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 13 November 1796
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

                                13-19 November 1796

                        A Meteorological Account of the Weather
                                Kept at Mt VernonNovr
                        13 In the Morng49S Cloudy54SW Clear52SW Clear14th48SW Cloudy53SW Clear51SW Clear15th48SW Clear52SW Clear51SW Cloudy16th47NW Clear51N Cloudy50N Cloudy17th47NE Cloudy51NE Cloudy49NE Cloudy18th48NE Clear55SE Clear53SW Clear1950SW Clear56SW Clear53SW Clear

                        November 19th 1796DsDr. Mansion House for the Work of 11 hands amt.  ⅌ Week to66Cr. By Waggon hauling Brick Wood 3 days hauling Barley & hay to Alexandria 3 days}6By Cart hauling Wood to the Boat 6 days6By Single horse Cart hauling Ditto 3 days hauling Wood to Mansion House Ferry &c
  2 ds At Mill 1 day}6By Working on the Cosway 7 days7By tending the Brick kiln 9 days9By Gathering Ceder berries 6 days6By Working on the New mill race 1 day1By Peter in Care of Stables &c 6 days6By Sickness Sam 6 ds Misna 6 ds Frank 6 ds P. Joe 1 Day19Total66

                        Recd from Mill 19 3/4 Bus of Meal Stock 1 Stud 3 Covering Jacks 3 young Jacks 9
                            Jinnies 2 ass colts 1 year old horse colt 9 Work mules 12 Mules, 3 Brood Mares 1 young Mare 1
                            work Mare 2 horses 15 Cows
                        DaysDr. Ditchers for the Work of 4 Men amts ⅌ Week to24Cr. By Boatswain Attending Brick kiln 3 days3By Working on the cosway 13 days13By Working on the New mill race4By Sickness Pascall 4 days 4Total24

                        Dr. Union Farm for the Work of 23 hands amts ⅌ Week to138Cr. By Gathering husking & Lofting Corn108By plowing 20 days20By hauling Brick Wood at River Farm 4 days4By Sickness Rachal 6 days  6Total138

                        Sent to Mill 20 Bus of Corn Recd 15 1/2 Bus of MealStock 14 horses 6 mules 69
                            Cattle 10 Calves 126 Sheep Increase 4 Cows from M. HouseSent to the Mill for the Fatening
                            hogs 5 Brs Corn Sent to the Ferry 2 Bar. Do Fed to Fattening hogs 6 Bar. of Ditto Lofted 166
                            Bar. of Corn.

                        Dr. River Farm for the Work of 27 hands amts ⅌ Week to162 dsCr. By plowing 20 days By haulg Corn to Mill 1 D.21By hauling turnips & Potatoes to town 2 days2By puling and Secureing turnips 26 days26By Gathering hauling husking & lofting Corn101By Attending to Stock 6 ds By Old Ben Sick  6 Ds 12Total 162

                        Sent to Mill 18 Bus of Corn Recd 13 P of Meal Stock 11 horses 12 Mules 86
                            Cattle 213 Sheep Sent to town 89 1/2 Bus of Barley 21 Bus of Flexseed 16 Bus of turnips
                            & 10 Bus of Potatoes Fed to Stock 10 Bar. of Corn.

                        DsDr. Muddy Hole for the Work of 14 hands amts ⅌ Week to      84Cr. By Cart at Mill 1 day1By Gathering husking and Lofting Corn 71 Ds71By Cuting Wood 6 ds — By Working on the New road 6 Ds12Total84

                        Sent to Mill 11 Bus of Corn Recd 8 1/2 Bus of Corn Stock 7 horses 4 Mules 31
                            Cattle 20 Calves 55 Sheep Fed to hogs 6 Bar of Corn — Sent to Ferry 1 1/2 Bus of Oats Lofted 60
                            Bar. of Long Corn 5 Do Short for Hogs.

                        DsDr. Dogue Run for the Work of 16 hands amts ⅌ Week to96Cr. By Plowing 17 days     17By Gathering husking hauling & Lofting Corn53By puling turnips & hauling them to M. House6By Joe Working With Mansion Hands 6 days6By hauling Brick wood at River Farm 4 days4By Sickness Dick 6 ds Judah 4 days10Total96

                        Sent to Mill 15 Bus of Corn Recd 11 Bus of MealStock 5 horses 8 Mules 1 Colt
                            57 Cattle 12 Calves 148 Sheep Fed to Stock 4 Bar. of Corn Lofted 76 Bar. of Corn.

                        Dr. Mill for SundrysCornContra    Cr.S. F FlourMealBy M. House19 2/4To Union Farm20"  Union Farm15 1/2" River Farm18"  River Farm13" Dogue Run15"  Dogue Run11" Muddy Hole11"  Muddy Hole8 1/2"  Gos Cash1"  Wm Stuart1"  John Neile1"  John Vilett1"  Wm Pearce25"  Cooper Miller & Boy1 1/4Corn Ground Farms64"  Meal Delivered78

                        Dr. Cooper & Miller for the Work 2 men amt. ⅌ Week to12By filling up the Shop floor 1 Day Dressing  Stuff in the Shop 5 Ds6By Workg With house gang6

                         November the 19th day 1796 Dr. Carpenters And Brick layers for the work of Ten Men ⅌ Week Amounts to Sixty daysCr. By Covering of the quarter from the Ground to  the Top inside and Out and finishing of the Same44By the Sawers Sawing of Scantling for The  Barn Sheads &c 448Tom Davy and Mucless killing and Burning of the bricks &c Ten.10Mucless plastoring of the Overseers house  Union Farm2Total60John Neale

                        Novembr the 19th 1796
                        daysDr.Spinners Sewers & Knitters for the Work of 15 Women Amounting ⅌ Week 90Cr. By Betty Davis Spinning 6 pd of yarn6 daysBy Delia do             6 pd of do6By Matilda do           6 pd of do6By Dalsey do            6 pd of do6By Alsce do             6 pd of do6By Anne do              6 pd of do6By Judit do             6 pd of do6By Kitty do             2 pd of Sewing thread6By Delphie do           3 pd of yarn6By Caroline Sewing 6 suit of Clothes6By Lucy Knitting 1 pear of Stocking6By Sall Mind yarn6By Sieckness Charlotte 6 days Dall 6 days Alley 6 days18Total90 days
By Sam Peter Knitting 2 pear of Stocking 6 days

                        Novembr the 19th 1796

                    daysDr. Gardens for the Work of 3 Men Amounting ⅌ Week18Cr. By Digging in the Vinne yart9 daysBy Grabing up trees in the yard3By Moses Work by the Hous gangs
                            6Total 18 days


Title: To George Washington from William Pearce, 13 November 1796
From: Pearce, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Mountvernon Novr the 13th 1796

                        I have Receved your Letter of the 6th Instant Together with the Memorandom and
                            three heads of the Egyption wheat you Mention; This I have planted as you directed—and as to
                            the directions contained In the memorandom I will pay all the attention to them In my power,
                            during my Stay on your Estate, and will Likewise point out to Mr Anderson your Ideas of the
                            different things which you Spoke to me about when you ware here and In Every other part of
                            your Business I will Give him all the Information In my power.
                        With Respect to the free stone quarrey I have had Enough of the Stone made Bare
                            for the person to Exammine It But as I Mentioned In my Last Letter I fear the Body of Earth
                            that Covers It is too Great to work It to Advantage.
                        What Ever part of the New Road I do have done shall be done well, but It will
                            be a very heavy Job.

                        at the Time I mentioned Mr Neals Being Ill he was very bad for a few days but
                            got better, and got to work again, but his Complaind has now returned and he is very weak
                            and can scarcly go about—we have got the Quarter at River Farm In its place and it will be
                            nearly covered In this week. I have Inquired the price of oznabrigs In
                            Alexandria But there is Scarcly any In town, and they asked me from
                            2/2d. to 2/5d. ⅌ yd for what was good for any thing by the Peice and to pay the cash Down
                            for It and taking a considerable quantity I have Likewise Inquired the price of Linseed oil
                            & paint which Is very scarce here oil is 9/ ⅌ Gallon white Lead 24/ ⅌ Cegg Spanish
                            Brown 14/ dito yellow Ocor 1/ ⅌ pound and none of any account is to be got here.
                        The quantity of Barley made at Union farm 166 Bushels It Grew on 13 acres of
                            land which you Measured by the fish house—but there was about 3 acres of Land which Lay on
                            the west side that had very Little on it so that I may say It Grew partly on 10 Acres. I
                            have sold It for a dollar ⅌ bushel—with the Rest abt 300 bushels In all. I have had the Line
                            of stakes on the Line of the new road Continued quite down to the River as you directed and
                            It strikes the River by Cupits old house which stood In the Lot By my house.
                        I have sent the higth of the Rooms upstaires & garett The Size of the
                            Cellar windows & of the Gates.
                        The weather Still keeps dry—we have had no rain since you Left this place the
                            drought has I think Injured the wheat prety much.
                        It was my Intention to have went to the Estern shore of Maryland before now but
                            I have had the Rheumatism, so bad I was not able to Travel—I am now some thing better
                            & hope to set off the Last of the week—and If nothing happens To prevent It I Shall
                            be back in 5 or 6 days from the Time I Leave this place. I am with the Greatest Respect Sir
                            Your Humble Servt

                            William Pearce


Title: From George Washington to James Bowdoin, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Bowdoin, James

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters near the liberty Pole August 28th 1780

                        I have been duly honored with your letter of the 16th.
                        I am much obliged to the Council for the loan of the arms and am persuaded they have spared all that were in
                            their power. I believe they have been misinformed about the number of arms at Springfield—By the last return there were
                            two thousand muskets capable of repair, and about sixteen thousand Gun barrels, which being mounted would be fit for
                            service—But that fundamental defect in our affairs the want of money prevents our availing ourselves of the resources
                            otherwise in our power and obstructs the activity of every department—A representation is gone to the Board of War
                            entreating them to take every method in their power for having the above arms put in a condition for service as speedily
                            as possible.
                        The late advices from Europe have materially altered the immediate prospects of the Campaign, and placed the
                            probability of any capital operation at a much greater distance than was expected. I have therefore written to General
                            Heath to dismiss all the Militia at Rhode Island as soon as they shall be judged no longer necessary to our allies. The
                            extreme distress we are in on the score of supplies would have compelled us to this, even had not circumstances enabled us
                            to dispense for the present with their services—Such part of the Militia of your State as had come on to the Army have
                            been stationed at West Point, where their continuance is still necessary; for even with their aid, our force is only equal
                            to the defensive.
                        I beg leave to observe that I do not think in the present posture of our affairs we ought to discontinue our
                            efforts to fill the Continental Battalions. We ought to be prepared for events, which without this we shall not be- and as
                            to the supplies required they are necessary in all cases to the subsistence of the army. The letter accompanying this will
                            show how deplorable our situation is in this respect. With every sentiment of respect and esteem: I have the honor to be
                            Sir Your Most Obedient & hum. Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Bowdoin, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Bowdoin, James

                            Liberty pole in Bergen County Augt 28th 1780

                        I am much obliged to you my dear Sir for your letter of the 17th and for the interesting intelligence you do
                            me the favor to communicate.
                        The Blockade of the Port of Brest by delaying the Sailing of the second division makes a material change in
                            our prospects. I fear it will put it out of our power to operate against New York, but if we are not unfortunate in Europe
                            and if vigorous measures are taken to give us Magazines, we may still hope for some important operation; but it will
                            probably be in a different quarter. I think however as I have mentioned in my official letter to you that we ought not to
                            discontinue raising men for the Continental Battalions, as there is a possibility that we may still operate here, from the
                            movements of the Cadiz fleet, or by a reinforcement from the Islands—or if an operation here should not be practicable the
                            increasing our force will enable us the better to detach to the Southward.
                        I should be happy to comply with the wishes of the Council respecting the Arms; but our present deficiencies
                            and the casualties that daily arise will make us stand in need of all that has arrived in the Alliance—We expect a further
                            supply shortly and the State may depend that as soon as possible its loan shall be replaced—I entreat your influence to
                            have all the Arms powder cannon & cloathing ready made forwarded without delay to Springfield; for the Officers in
                            the Service of the Continent have not the necessary means of transportation.
                        I am informed of a set of resolutions lately entered into by a convention of delegates from the four Eastern
                            States, which if rightly represented to me, & carried into execution will be the most likely means that could be
                            adopted to rescue our affairs from the complicated & dreadful embarrassments under which they labour, &
                            will do infinite honor to those with whom they originate—I sincerely wish they may meet with no opposition or delay in
                            their progress. Our Situation is truly delicate, and demds all our wisdom, all our virtue, all our energy. Great Britain
                            no doubt encounters many serious perplexities and dangers; But there will be no miracle in her surmouting them.
                        In Europe by the last advices there was a critical moment where the chances were too equally ballanced—On
                            this Continent the affairs of the enemy are rather too prosperous—In the West Indies at this Season, the Elements may
                            fight against our Allies; but here is our best hope.
                        As to domestic dissentions though they will no doubt embarrass, I confess I have no great confidence in
                            them—We have every motive to be in earnest and to exert ourselves to the utmost to take care of ourselves. With the truest
                            esteem I have the honor to be Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Head Quarters Liberty Pole Aug. 28th 1780

                        Tomorrow morning Col. Malcolm will march with the levies under his command towards Kings ferry, and will
                            proceed himself to your Excellency to take your orders. I have sent this corps in consequence of what General Schuyler
                            mentioned to me in behalf of your Excellency, and have requested him to write to you particularly on the subject. The
                            immediate prospects of the campaign having changed, it cannot be more usefully employed, than in giving security to the
                            frontier, and assisting to save the grain for the mutual benefit of the public and the inhabitants.
                        The discontents prevailing in the garrison of Fort Schuyler are so alarming, that it seems indispensable it
                            should be without delay relieved by other troops. At this moment, it would be inconvenient to detach a regiment from the
                            army. I leave it to Your Excellency, if you think proper to relieve the garrison by a sufficient number of the levies.
                            They ought to consist of those, who will have at least two or three months after their arrival to serve; otherwise the
                            post must be endangered, by the expiration of their times, before we can conveniently replace them from the army. A good
                            officer acquainted with service to command the garrison will be essential. I request you to inform me how long the service
                            of the new garrison may be depended upon.
                        The inclosed letter to Col. Van Schaik which I beg you to forward, directs him to put his regiment under
                            marching orders; and receive your further instructions. As soon as relieved he is to march to join the army. I have the
                            honor to be With the greatest respect and regard, Your Excellency’s Obedient servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 28 August 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp at Teneck August 28th 1780

                        If your Excellency thinks that the intelligence which you have lately receivd from Europe is of such a nature
                            as to warrant any alteration in the preparations for the great plan of operations for the campaign; it would be a great
                            saving to the public and a great relief to the Army, to give order immediately to discontinue the purchasing of horses and
                            stop the teams from coming to Camp orderd from the different States to serve with the Army. Nothing tends to distress the
                            service more than to have at Camp a greater number of Cattle than is absolutely requisite. If the whole comes forward that
                            have been requird of the different States, the number will greatly exceed the demands of the service; especially if the
                            first plan of operations is relinquished.
                        Your Excellency will please to give such direction in the matter as you may think necessary to promote the
                            common good. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Ser.

                            N. Greene M.G.


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Liberty Pole Bergen County 28th August 1780

                        The intelligence brought by the Alliance Frigate renders it so very uncertain whether we shall be in
                            condition to commence our expected operation before the expiration of the whole or the greater part of the time for which
                            the Militia were engaged, that I think it will be prudent to dismiss them as soon as possible, not only on the general
                            scale of Oeconomy, but more particularly to avoid the unnecessary consumption of provision, for which we are extremely
                            distressed, as my circular letter of this date fully describes. You will therefore be pleased to discharge all those
                            required by the Committee of Cooperation as soon as General Heath shall be of opinion that the forwardness of the works at
                            present on hand will admit of it.
                        I would however recommend the compleating your Continental Battalions upon this consideration, that in case
                            we should be unexpectedly called to operate—the fuller those Battalions are—the less will be the demand for Militia. I
                            have the honor to be with great Respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most obt and hble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters near the liberty Pole August 28th 1780

                        I have received your letter of the 22d—The late European intelligence has so altered the immediate prospects
                            of the Campaign, that I think it adviseable to dismiss the militia now in service and prevent any other coming out for the
                            present. You will therefore let those now with you return home as soon as their services are no longer thought necessary
                            by the Count de Rochambeau, for as the probability of operating in this quarter is greatly diminished, and that of an
                            operation elsewhere remote, it becomes our duty to reduce our expences and oeconomise our supplies as much as possible.
                        With respect to what you mention concerning the works erecting on Butts hill, if our allies expect we are to
                            contribute to the expence of it, we shall be obliged, in delicacy to do it; but if it could have been avoided, it would
                            have better suited the present state of our affairs—I do not consider the works raising on the Island as of any great
                            utility to us further than as they contribute to the safety of our Allies; and the expence which may be incurred will in
                            my opinion have little other equivalent than this—You will therefore easily conceive that I should be glad every thing of
                            this kind might be avoided, so far as it can be done without impeaching the generosity of the States; for while our allies
                            are sending Fleets and Armies to our assistance and maintaining them at their own expence in our Country, it might not be
                            decent to refuse bearing such little expences as they seem to expect us to bear; but we ought not to volunteer any thing
                            of this kind; and I am persuaded you will not—You will act agreeable to these ideas.
                        With respect to the culprits you mention, you have my consent to pardon such of them as you think proper.
                        I omitted acknowledging your two favors of the 19th. You will accept Lieut. Cooks resignation in the usual
                            forms. I am with great regard Dear Sir Your Mo. Obet & hum. Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 28 August 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Newport August 28th 1780.

                        Yesterday morning I was informed by a Credible Coaster from Martha’s Vineyard that the British Fleet were the
                            day before in the Vineyard and Sound and to the Westward of the Island, to the number of twenty Sail & upwards.
                            Their object probably is to plunder the Stock &c. I think it is not unlikely that the small embarkation of Troops
                            lately mentioned to be taking place at New York are on this expedition. I sometime since gave a hint to the Inhabitants of
                            Bedford to be in readiness to secure their Stock if a Fleet appear’d off that Harbour, and desired them to communicate it
                            to the Inhabitants of the Vineyard—but the latter I apprehend will be stripped
                            and very probably the Elizabeth Islands.
                        The day before yesterday Colo. Silas Talbot in the privateer Ship Washington of 20 Carriage Guns owned by Mr
                            John Brown of Providence ran out of this harbor bound on a Cruize—it is Supposed the Washington was chased by the British
                            frigates, and a considerable firing was heard—but whether She was taken or escaped is not yet known. I have the honor to
                            be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient Servant

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. We are suffering here exceedingly for the want of Forage and Fuel for the few Troops at this post
                                notwithstanding there is plenty in the Country. The public officers have neither money or Credit to procure them—this
                                has been the Case ever since I came here, and I do not see any prospect of a remedy. Our Horses are scarcely fit for
                                service.

                            W.H.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Liberty Pole 28th Augt 1780

                        The day before yesterday we compleated the Forage of which I had the honor to advise Congress the 24th
                            instant, the product of which has been, as was apprehended, very inconsiderable. The Army is now reassembled at this place
                            and will remain here a day or two to consume the forage remaining in the neighbourhood, after which we shall probably
                            return to our former position.
                        The intelligence brought by the Alliance of the second Division being blocked up in Brest by thirty two
                            British ships of the line has made a material change in the prospects of the Campaign. This, and the extreme distress of
                            our Magazines have determined me to dismiss all the Militia in service except such part as was wanted for immediate
                            purposes. The probability of our being able to act in this quarter is become too precarious and remote to justify our
                            keeping a large body of Militia in the feild, as it would be attended with much expence, and an additional consumption of
                            provision and Stores—neither of which are we in any condition to afford. This would have been the less eligible, as in all
                            probability the periods for which they were called out would have expired before they could be made use of, if at all.
                            Indeed I have little hope of any thing decisive in this quarter this Campaign. The inclosed Copy of a circular letter to
                            the States respectively will inform Congress of the extremity of our present necessities, and the shocking consequences
                            that are resulting from them.
                        The Army being in motion at the time Mr Matthews left Head Quarters in order to return to Philada I could not
                            then do myself the honor to testify to Congress the grateful sense I have of the chearful and vigorous exertions of the
                            Committee during their residence with the Army. This I now beg leave to do, and to assure Congress that I feel myself
                            under the greatest obligations to them for having done all in their power to accomplish the objects of their appointment
                            and forward the measures which the good of the service and the exigency of the conjuncture demanded. I have the honor to be
                            with perfect Respect and Esteem Sir Your Excellency’s Most obt and hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Malcom, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters, Liberty Pole Bergen County Aug. 28 1780

                        I have to request that you will put the Brigade of New York Levies in immediate readiness for a march, which
                            will commence tomorrow Morning towards Kings Ferry—where I am in hopes you will meet with Vessels to Transport the Corps
                            & Baggage to Albany.
                        As soon as you have put the Brigade in Motion, you will be pleased to proceed yourself to His Excellency Govr
                            Clinton, in order to make the necessary arrangements & receive his directions. I am Sir with great esteem Your
                            Most Obedient Hble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Malcom, 28 August 1780
From: Malcom, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Dobbs Ferry. Aug. 28 1780

                        I am Honord with your Excellencys Dispatches and orders of this Date—They shall be Strictly obeyed—I shall
                            take Lawrence’s Company on with his Regiment unless otherwise orderd before we march—it will be of use to us. I have the
                            Honor to be with due Respect—Your Excellencys Most obed. & very Hble Servt

                            W. Malcom

                            I hope to meet with provisions at King’s ferry—at this moment I have partys out Collecting it so that it
                                will be some time in the day or tomorrow ere they join.


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 28 August 1780
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Newport 28th August 1780.

                        I arrived from Providence last night, where I had gone to see our Hospital. It is owing to Your Excellency’s
                            orders and goodness, and to the case of those employed in it, that it is one of the finest ever I saw. I then Learned that
                            the Mountain had brought forth a Mouse! Yesterday and to Day The British fleet has been seen, 26, in number, several of
                            them Transports, they were riding between Elizabeth Island and the Vineyard Nine Days ago. Major General sent word to the
                            inhabitants to be on the watch and to secure their cattle in the Continent. I am wholly ignorant of what they have done,
                            it is thought here they are disaffected to the Common cause. I am with respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient
                            humble servant

                            le cte de Rochambeau


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Stoddert, 28 August 1780
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            War Office August 28th 1780

                        From the want of regularity in issuing the commissions for the Army, previous to the resolve of Congress
                            vesting that business in the board—there is no register, nor any thing else sufficiently authentic to refer to, without
                            reading over all the Journals of Congress—to find out the Officers whose names are to be reported agreeable to the
                            inclosed resolution.
                        The board therefore take the liberty to request your Excellency will be pleased to furnish them with such
                            information as you can readily do on the Subject. It is presumed that the Officers of the Addl & Independent Corps
                            & Corps of Artillery & Cavalry belonging to any of the thirteen United States, are to be considered as
                            belonging to the quota’s of the states of which they are Citizens, under the resolution of March 15. 1779.
                        The Officers from Canada of Col. Hazens & Col. Livingstons Regts—of such Independent Corps as are
                            composed of Foreigners—& the Foreign Officers attached to the Army at large, are those whose names are now wanted.
                            Perhaps too the Aides de Camp who do not hold commissions in the line, should be considered on this occasion. I have the
                            honor to be with the highest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obed. Most Hble Servt

                            by ord. Ben. Stoddert
                            Secy

                            The board are possessed of returns of Col. Hazens & Livingstons Regts—but there may have been
                                alterations since the returns were made.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 28 August 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Bedford Augt 28th 1780

                        I have the Honor to enclose a Letter from C—— Senr & one from Lt B——r which have just come to
                            hand. I have also recd a letter from C—— Junr of which the following is an Extract.
                        N.Y. Augt 23d 80
                        "C---- Senr was in Town & wrote You by the last Conveyance—The present offers nothing
                            material—Clinton seems now preparing to act on the defensive—He is fortifying on L.I. opposite Frogs Point, the Heights of
                            Haerlem, & the Island eastward of Hillgate. However some of our most knowing Politicians say that R. Island is
                            still the Object, & that he is only waiting the arrival of three Regts that are expected from Carolina, &
                            some Hanoverian Troops that are expected some time in Septr, & that Arbuthnot is to keep off N. Port ’till that
                            time. Others think that this Garrison will be put in the best State of Defence, & that Arbuthnot will go to the W.
                            Indies.
                        A Fleet of Transports, Victuallers, & some Private Vessels under Convoy of the Renown will sail for England in a few days—The 22d 76th Robinson’s, & two Hessian Regts do Duty in
                            Town—Forty two pieces of Cannon are mounted on the Battery.
                        C—— Senr will furnish You with the Situation of the Troops on L. Island" &c.
                        I was obliged to decypher C—— Junr letter, as I was convinced it refered to the picture made of our
                            Correspondence—After his next arrives, I hope to have no further Occasion to decypher his letters, as I hope by that time
                            our Plan will be finished. After Sending several times across the Sound to open a new Communication with C. Junr with
                            Success, I have finally refered the whole matter to him who I expect will appoint such Plan, & pitch on such
                            Persons for his Confidential friends as will best answer our Purpose, & inform me thereof.
                        Lt B——r informs of several Boats, with Contl Crews being along the Sound, which were appointed by Genl
                            Officers—Possibly Major Humphreys knows more about this matter—If they are not wanted on their Present duty, one of them
                            would be of very great Service to Lt B——r. I have the Honor to be, with great Regard Your Excellency’s most Obedt Hble
                            Servt

                            Benja. Tallmadge

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                Fairfield Augt 27th 1780

                            I Returned this Morning from the Iseland & Crosst on 22d Instnt and Was Detaind by Culper till
                                Last Night I Did Not See C. he is Sick he Did Not Appoint any Time for Me that I know of it Was With great Difficulty
                                that I got the Dispaches the Troops are Wery thick their at Millers place and Coram Setolket and the branch and are
                                Like to Say Some time and the Ruffigeas boates are With them Glover and Hoy’t has bin to Drownmedo and Disarmd them
                                all on friday Last and I Was Ablided Li Still for the Want of Another boates Crew ther is Afine boate at Stanford that
                                roase With Eight oars that belongs to the publick under Capt. John Suttin With A Crew of
                                Continental Soldiers that Was ordered by Genl How and I belive that Jabus fich has one or two boates at honese Nesak
                                but I am Not Sertain that publick property and Continental Soldiers their is Afine Time to Take some of the offisers
                                their out With their hounds Every Day & Lay up back of Esqr. Strongs yesterday and their Came A Lieut. of 17th
                                Regt With in gun Shot of us Looking for Esqr. Strongs hounds Afoot but he beged Sow hard I thought it Not best to Take
                                him as it Was Sore Night his house they are Riding Continually from one Stashon to the other the Troops are all Come
                                from the East ward as far as Millers place Sir Henry Clinton gone to New york and the Brittish fleat has saild from
                                Gunners bay I Remain your Most obediant Humbil Servt

                                C. Brewster

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                 Augt 27h 1780

                            I have now to acknowledge the recept of yours of the 22d Instant—And one of an
                                earlier date As also 10 Guineas. The day I wrote my
                                last before had time to deliver it Was taken very ill with the
                                    camp disorder but am now better Though very low. My
                                    disorder hath put it out of my power to make any enquiry about the
                                    enemy in these parts. Genl Clinton hath returnd to
                                    New York Some days ago. The 17th Regt
                                    Dragoons is in Setauket
                                14 Companies of Lt Infantry are at Smiths Town. Qeens Rangers &
                                Fannings Regts are yet East of here. Where know not. The whole number is about 1500—It appears Probable they will
                                continue in these parts Sometime. Their Wanton waste of the necessaries of life (Which will occasion People to Perish
                                for Want of Subsistance unless can be procured elsewhere) hath given rise to a prevailing oppinion that this is the
                                last visit we Shall ever have from them. And that they will leave New York Soon. I was Told so
                                when at New York—but could see nothing that looked like it—I hear the Same accounts in
                                    New York from England as mentioned in your letter
                                hope the flame begun may increase; And fill with horror all those curs—destroyers of Mankind—The
                                Refugees keeps up a constant communication with your Courts. And carries large Sums of
                                counterfeit paper currency of every emetion. and puts it into the hands of the Torys, for to Pay their Taxes with.
                                This I do assure you from undoubted authority is their practice. I Shall at a more convenient time write you farther
                                on the Subject of treacheary; and Some discoverys that I hope soon to make—Inclosed you have a blank from C. Jur Just
                                Come to hand and yours inclosed to him Shall be delivered into his hands on Wednesday next—On the 2.
                                Septemr let Brewster Cross again. in the interim am yours Sincerely

                                Saml Culper

                                    Words in square brackets are translations of code.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.

                            Dear Sir
                             Head Quarters near the Liberty Pole Bergen County 28th Augt 1780.

                        I was a few days ago honored with yours of the 9th since the receipt of it, I have seen Commissary Cheever,
                            and have had an opportunity of making particular enquiry into the state of the Arms at Springfield. He tells me, that the
                            repair; of such of the old Muskets as are worth the trouble and expence, is going on as fast as the circumstances of want
                            of hands and want of money will admit. The greater part of the Gun Barrels, he says, are absolutely unfit for use, having
                            been taken out of old stocks at different times, and not imported in their present state from Europe. I will direct Genl
                            Knox to make enquiry after the 100 Barrels of Powder at Farmington, and if they belong to the Continent, to have them
                            removed to one of the public Magazines.
                        From the accounts brought by the Alliance Frigate, I think the prospects of operating, at least during the
                            time for which the Militia were drawn out, are so very precarious, that circumstanced as we are in regard to provision (as
                            my Circular letter of this date particularly points out) it will be more advisable to discharge them immediately than to
                            keep them up. You will therefore be pleased to give order for the dismission of all those who were raised in consequence
                            of the requisition of the Committee of Cooperation. I should hope that if such a reinforcement should unexpectedly arrive
                            to our Allies, as would enable us to carry on operations against the enemy, that the Militia might be shortly reassembled:
                            But I wish that this suspension of a part of our preparations may not have any influence upon procuring the number of Men
                            necessary to compleat the Continental Battalions. For want of them, I am still obliged, much against my inclination, to
                            keep the Militia of some of the states in the feild; and this consideration should ever be kept in view, that should we
                            operate—the fuller the Continental Battalions—the smaller will be the demand for Militia. I have the honor to be with very
                            great Respect & Esteem Dear Sir Yr most obt and humble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Goose Van Schaick, 28 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Van Schaick, Goose

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Augt 28th 1780

                        I yesterday received your letter of the 21st. The ravages committed on the frontier are lamentable in every
                            point of view; but until the states will adopt the policy of having an army instead of the semblance of one, we must
                            expect to submit to similar depredations, and evils still worse.
                        Some change having happened in the general prospects of the campaign, I am induced to order Col. Malcolm with
                            the levies under his command to proceed to the frontier—One of the objects for sending him will be to relieve the garrison
                            of Fort Schuyler. You will therefore put your regiment under marching orders and when the relief arrives will march it to
                            join the army. I have left the final arrangements in this matter to Governor Clinton to whose instructions you will be
                            pleased to conform. I am Sir Your most Obedt & humble servant


Title: General Orders, 29 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Tean Neck Tuesday August 29th 1780
                            Parole Kingston
                            Countersigns Kent; Keep.
                            Watchword, Always ready.
                            For the Day Tomorrow
                            Brigadier General Clinton
                            Lieutenant Colonels Peters and Hull
                            Brigade Major Ashley
                            For Guard
                            Major Grier

                        From the Deficiency of Field officers in the Jersey brigade and more particularly in the regiment to which
                            Lieutenant Colonel Barber belongs; He is permitted for the present to decline the duties of Inspector and confine himself
                            to those of his regiment. Major Fish will in the mean time perform the duties of Division Inspector.
                        As black and red feathers have been furnished the Division of Light Infantry to distinguish it from the rest
                            of the Army they are not to be worn by any officers or soldiers but those who belong to it.
                        At a General Court martial of Line held 27th of July last whereof Colonel Richard Butler was President,
                            Philip Lankfitt and Richard Peters of the 4th regiment of Light dragoons were tried for "Robbing Joseph Wessells of sundry
                            Articles in presence of the said Wessell’s Wife" found Guilty of the charge exhibited against them being a breach of
                            article 21st Section 13th of the Articles of war and sentenced each of them to receive one hundred lashes—The Commander in
                            Chief approves the sentence.
                        At a General court martial of the line whereof Colonel Greaton is President Captain Hopkins of the 4th
                            regiment of light dragoons was tried for "Having repeatedly sold public horses and applied the money to his own use."
                        The Court are of opinion that Captain Hopkins is not Guilty of the charge and do acquit him. The General
                            approves the Acquittal—Captain Hopkins is released from his Arrest.
                        At the same court Lieutenant Trent of the same regiment was tried for "disobedience of orders the 23d of July
                            last."
                        The Court are of opinion Lieutenant Trent is Guilty of the Charge against him and do sentence that he be
                            reprimanded by the commanding officer of the regiment to which he belongs.
                        The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders it to be carried into execution tomorrow and that
                            then he be releas’d from his Arrest.
                        At the same court Asa Snow soldier in the 12th Massachusett’s regiment was tried for "Disobedience of orders
                            and attempting the life of the Captain Allen in the execution of his duty by stabbing him with a fixed Bayonet on the
                            evening of the 7th Instant" found Guilty of disobedience of orders, and attempting the life of Captain Allen by stabbing
                            him with a fixed bayonet in breach of Article 5 Section 18th of the Articles of war and sentenced to receive one hundred
                            lashes on his bare back.
                        The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders it to be executed tomorrow morning at the Head of the
                            regiment to which he belongs.
                        Mr Israel Weed Assistant Commissary of Issues was likewise tried for "selling Flour Meat spirits and salt out
                            of the public Stores without proper authority—Secondly for not delivering Coffee and Butter drawn for the brigade" The
                            Court are of opinion that Mr Weed is not Guilty of either of the Charges and do acquit him with Honor.
                        The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion of the Court—Mr Weed is released from Arrest.


Title: From Robert Hanson Harrison to Board of War, 29 August 1780
From: Harrison, Robert Hanson
To: Board of War

                            Gentn
                            Camp at the Liberty Pole. Aug. 29. 1780

                        I have the honor to transmit you the inclosed Certificates at the desire of the Officers mentioned in them,
                            who request—that the Board will be pleased to make out & forward their Commissions by the earliest Opportunity.
                        I am also desired by His Excellency to inform the Board, that the Officers of Moylans—Webbs&Jackson’s
                            Regiments are very importunate about their Commissions, which he requests may be sent as soon as circumstances will admit.
                            I have the honor to be with great respect & esteem Gent. Yr Most Obt St

                            R. H. Harrison. Secy


Title: From Robert Hanson Harrison to Board of War, 29 August 1780
From: Harrison, Robert Hanson
To: Board of War

                            Gentn
                            Camp 29 Augt 1780

                        I inclose You a memorial by Mr Hunter, late pay master of the 4 Pennsylva & a Letter from Colo.
                            Willm Butler to His Excellency the Commander in Chief. The General says Mr Hunter is to be allowed pay to the last of
                            August 1779 in settling his Accounts. He desires the inclosed papers to be filed with the Courts. I am Gentn Yr Most Obedt
                            St

                            Rob: H: Harrison Secy

                     Enclosure

                                    c.29 August 1780

                            To his Excellency Genl Washington Commander in Chief &c.
                            The Memorial of James Hunter late Pay Master to the 4th Regiment Pennsylvania Humbly Sheweth
                            That your Memorialist is now near the Close of his Accounts with the Auditors of the main Army, in the
                                Year 1778. the Regiment was Ordered to the Northward at which time your Memorialist had Reason to believe he was not
                                Intended for the New Arangement, when he applied to the Col: for Leave to settle his Accounts and Return Home, but the
                                Col. insisted on his going with the Regiment with which he Complied—that again in June 1779 at Cannjoharry your
                                Memorialist made the same Request but the Col. insisted on his going the Expedition, as will appear by a written order
                                from the Col: with which he also Complied, when sometime in the Winter a Paymaster was appointed out of the Line; your
                                Memorialist has Recd no Pay since the 1st April 1779. That in Justice to your Memorialist Pay to
                                the End of the Year 1779. together with the supernumerarry Pay (as he has Recd no Benefits of Cloathing from the State
                                or the Public in General Except one pair of overalls and three pair of Shoes) will be a Small Compensation for his
                                Past services—farther more your Memorialist Sayeth not.

                                James Hunter
                                late Pay Masr 4th Penna Rt


Title: To George Washington from William Butler, 29 August 1780
From: Butler, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            August 29th 1780

                        I receiv’d your Letter, and the inclos’d Papers respecting Mr James Hunter, late Pay Master of my Regt you
                            desire to know, to what Period, in my Opinion, Mr Hunter ought to be paid to, Mr Hunter was Muster’d in the Regimt up to
                            the first of June 1779, which was the last time we was Muster’d on the Western Expedition. I think Mr Hunter is entitled
                            to Pay up to the First of Septr 1779, at, or about that time, he left Tyoga, contrary to my Orders. Immediately after, we
                            march’d for the Genese country—Mr Hunter has been the chief of this Summer, settling his Accounts, with the Auditors.
                        His Excellency, will be the Judge, of what Mr Hunter is entitled to, for this service. I am Sir With great
                            esteem Your most obedt Humble Servt

                            Wm Butler Lt Colo. Comdr
                            4th Penna Regt


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 29 August 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Dear sir
                            Colo. Sprouts Tent Thursday morning 29 August 1780

                        Since mine of this morning I have seen a Deserter who confirms very nearly the intelligence I sent your
                            Excellency in my other letter, as to the Enemy’s crossing to york Island, and by a man who come from East chester I learn
                            also that they have cross’d and then Sir Henry Clinton left Long Island the 25th Instant & went to New York these
                            circumstances tho trifling in themselves yet as they seem to Corroborate what went before I trouble you with them. I am Dear
                            sir most Respectfully yr Excellency’s most ob Ser.

                            R. Howe


Title: General Orders, 30 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Tean Neck Wednesday August 30th 1780
                            Parole Vandalia
                            Countersigns H:W.
                            Watchword All’s well
                            For the Day Tomorrow
                            Brigadier General Patterson
                            Colonel Putnam
                            Lieutenant Colonel Barber
                            Brigade Major Darby.
                            For Guard
                            Major Ball.

                        Colonel Biddle requests the favor of the gentlemen of the Army who have Accounts for horsekeeping unsettled
                            to make them out to the 4th instant and send them to his office in Camp for settlement that he may certify the balances
                            due and make Application to the honorable the Treasury board for money to discharge them. He now Quarters at Mr Voorhees’s
                            between the Newbridge and Hackinsack.
                        At the General Court Martial whereof Colonel Greaton is President—Captain Peter Manifold of the 4th regiment
                            of light dragoons was tried for "Disposing of a horse belonging to the said regiment."
                        The Court are of opinion that though Captain Manifold sold a horse belonging to the public he did not sell it
                            with an intent of defrauding the regiment or the public: Yet as the selling a horse or any other Property belonging to the
                            public without proper Authority is in their opinion censurable and the precedent may be of ill consequence, they do
                            sentence that Captain Manifold do replace the horse by another of equal value and that Captain Manifold be reprimanded in
                            General orders.
                        The General confirms the sentence and agrees in opinion with the Court that Captain Manifold had no
                            fraudulent intention yet the sale of a public horse was certainly extremely improper as the practice if admitted, would be
                            a cover for the greatest abuses; it is besides not enough that an officer should be guilty of nothing dishonorable the
                            delicacy of his Character requires that he should avoid even the appearance of it. Captain Manifold is released from his
                            Arrest.
                        Thomas Reiley soldier in the 7th Pennsylvania regiment was tried at the division General court martial
                            whereof Major Hamilton is president for "Attempting to Desert to the Enemy."
                        The Court having deliberately considered every circumstance both for and against the prisoner are of opinion
                            he is guilty of the charge exhibited against him being a breach of Article 1st Section 6th of the Articles of War and do
                            sentence him to suffer Death more than two thirds of the Court agreeing thereto.
                        The Commander in Chief approves the sentence but from the former good Character of the prisoner and
                            intercession of some of his Officers he is pleased to pardon him and order him released from Confinement.
                        It was omitted in the order of the 28th Instant regulating the Issues of rum "That the regimental Surgeons
                            are to draw the same quantity as a Captain and the Mates as a Subaltern."


Title: From George Washington to Ethan Allen, 30 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Allen, Ethan

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Bergen County 30th Augt 1780

                        I have been favd with yours of the 16th Inst. I cannot, without deviating from the rule of conduct which I
                            have constantly observed, exchange the Officers of Colo. Warners Regiment at this time, because there are a great number
                            who have been much longer in captivity, and have therefore a just right to a preference: But to endeavour to afford them
                            the best relief that the nature of the case will admit, I have written to Genl Haldiman and proposed to him to send them
                            and the other prisoners of War in his possession to New York, where we can furnish them with supplies of several kinds,
                            which we cannot from the great distance forward to Quebec, and where they will be exchanged in due course. I have also
                            represented to Genl Haldiman what you report of the treatment of our prisoners in Canada, and I hope my remonstrance will
                            have the desired effect, should the cause of complaint be well grounded. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Moses Bloomfield, 30 August 1780
From: Bloomfield, Moses
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excely
                            Woodbridge the 30th Augt 1780.

                        Mrs Bloomfield by a fall had three of her Ribs fractur’d on the 3d Instant. I was sent for by express from
                            Pluckenmin, where I was at the Hospital. On the Night of the 5th was taken off by a party of Refuges, caried to Staten
                            Island, from there to New York, where I was confin’d in the Sugar House for ten Days, when I obtain’d a Parole to Long
                            Island, on the 28th was permitted to come out in order to bring about an Exchange for a Surgeon Bausch of General
                            Knyphausens Regt. Mr Loring told me that the Exchange would be against them, as it was not customary to give a hospital
                            Surgeon for a Regimental one; but as the Genl had asked it as a favour, they had consented. My Parole Sr is for ten Days
                            only. Should have waited upon your Excelly my Self; but as I am in a bad State of health hope you will excuse my personal
                            attendence. My Son brings this. I beg your Excelys acquiescence to the proposal of the british Commy, and that you will be
                            pleas’d to give the necessary Orders, either to Major Skinner, or Adams in order to have the affair expedited and finished
                            as soon as possible, my time being short, and nothing more disagreeable than the bare thought of returning within the
                            Enemys Lines a Prisoner. Relying upon your Excelys goodness of Heart to grant my Request permit me to  my Self with all due defference Sr Your most Obedt Humbl. Servt

                            Moses Bloomfield P.S.


Title: To George Washington from Horatio Gates, 30 August 1780
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Hillsborough 30th August 1780

                        My public Letter to Congress, has surely been transmitted to Your Excellency. Since then, I have been able to
                            collect authentic Returns of the Kill’d Wounded and Missing of the Officers of the Maryland Line, Delawar Regt
                            Artillerists, and those of the Legion under Colo. Armand, they are inclosed—The Militia broke so early in the Day, and
                            scattered in so many Directions, upon their Retreat; that very few have fallen into the Hands of the Enemy—By the Firmness
                            and Bravery of the Continental Troops, the Victory is far from bloodless on the part of the Foe; they having upwards of
                            Five Hundred Men, with Officers in Proportion, killed and wounded. I do not think Lord Cornwallis will be able to reap any
                            Advantage of Consequence, from his Victory; as this State seems annimated to reinstate and support the Army—Virginia I am
                            confident will not be less patriotic. By the joint Exertions of the two States, there is good Reason to hope, that should
                            the Events of the Campaign be prosperous to Your Excellency; all South Carolina might be again recovered—Lord Cornwallis
                            remained with his Army At Camden, when I received the last Accounts from thence. I am cantoning ours at Salisbury, Guildford,
                            Hillsborough, and Cross Creek. The Marylanders and Artillerists, with the General Hospital will be here—The Cavalry near
                            Cross Creek, and the Militia to the Westward—This is absolutely necessary as we have no Magazine of Provisions; and are
                            only supplied from hand to Mouth—Two Days after the Action of the 16th Fortune seem’d determined to continue to distress
                            us, for Colonel Sumpter, having marched near Forty Miles up the River Wateree; halted with the Waggons and Prisoners he
                            had taken the 15th, by some Indiscretion the Men were surprized, cutt off from their Arms, the whole routed; and the
                            Waggons and prisoners retaken—What Encouragement the numerous disaffected in this State, may give Lord Cornwallis, to
                            advance further into the Country; I cannot yet say—Colonel Sumpter, since his surprize, and Defeat upon the West side of
                            the Wateree; has reinstated and encreased his Corps to upwards of 1000 Men. I have directed him, to continue to harrass
                            the Enemy upon that Side—Lord Cornwallis will therefore be cautious how he makes any considerable Movement to the
                            Eastward; while this Corps remains in Force upon his Left Flank—and the Main Army, is in a Manner canton’d in his
                            Front—Anxious for the public Good, I shall continue my unwearied Endeavors, to stop the Progress of the Enemy; to
                            reinstate our Affairs, to recommence an Offensive War, and recover all our Losses in the Southern States. But if being
                            unfortunate, is solely Reason sufficient for removing me from Command, I shall most chearfully submit to the Orders of
                            Congress, and resign an Office few Generals would be anxious to possess; and where the Utmost Skill and Fortitude, is
                            subject to be baffled by the Difficulties, which must for a Time; surround the Chief in Command here—That your Excellency
                            may meet with no such Difficulties—That your Road to Fame, and Fortune may be smooth and easy, is the sincere Wish of Sir
                            Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

                            Horatio Gates

                            P.S. Your Commands in respect the Virginia Line, shall be exactly, and faithfully obeyed.

                     Enclosure

                                Hillsboro’ 29th Augt 1780

                            List of Continental Officers Kill’d, Captivated, Wounded and Missing in the Actions of the 16th
                                & 18th Augt 1780

                                Kill’d

                                    The Honorable Major Genl The Baron De Kalb

                                    Captain Williams

                                    6th

                                    Maryland Regt

                                    Captain Dewall

                                    2nd

                                    Do

                                    Lieutenant Donovan

                                    6th

                                    Do

                                    Lnt Adjt Coleman

                                    Artillery

                                Prisoners

                                    Lieutent Colonel

                                    Woolford

                                    5th

                                    Maryland

                                    Wounded.

                                    Lieutt Colonel

                                    Vaughan

                                    Delaware

                                    Lieut. Coll

                                    Porterfield

                                    Va State Regt

                                    Wounded.

                                    Lt Colonel

                                    De Buson

                                    A.D. Camp Gl DeKalb

                                    Do.

                                    Major

                                    Winder

                                    1st

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Major

                                    Patton

                                    Delaware Regt

                                    Major

                                    Pinckney

                                    A.D. Camp Genl Gates

                                    Wounded.

                                    Captains

                                    Brice

                                    3d

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Hoops

                                    4th

                                    Do

                                    Lynch

                                    5th

                                    Hamilton

                                    5th

                                    Hardman

                                    2d

                                    Wounded

                                    Smith

                                    3d

                                    Do

                                    Dorsey

                                    Artillery

                                    Do

                                    La Brune

                                    Legion

                                    Do

                                    Rhoads

                                    Delaware Regt

                                        Larmouth

                                    Do

                                    Capt. Lieut

                                    Waters

                                    Artillery

                                    Lieutenants

                                    Shoemaker

                                    4th

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Wounded

                                    Hanson

                                    4th

                                    Do

                                    Do

                                    Read

                                    5th

                                    Do

                                    Do

                                    Harris

                                    6th

                                    Do

                                    Wallace

                                    Artillery

                                    Root

                                    Legion

                                    Mosley

                                    Artillery

                                    Duff

                                    Delaware Regt

                                    Skillington

                                    Do

                                    Lt adjt

                                    Purvis

                                    Do

                                    Ensigns

                                    Burgess

                                    4th

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Roach

                                    Delaware Regt

                                    Volunteers

                                        Nellson

                                    6th

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Wounded.

                                    Rutlidge

                                    4th

                                    Do

                                        Wounded

                                    Captain

                                    Somerville

                                    6th

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Gibson

                                    5th

                                    Do

                                        Roan

                                    Va state Artillery

                                    Lieutt

                                    Dewall

                                    3d

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Sears

                                    2nd

                                    Do

                                    Ensign

                                        Fickle

                                    7th

                                    Do

                                        Missing

                                    Captain

                                    Morris

                                    7th

                                    Maryd Regt

                                    Wounded

                                    Gassaway

                                    2nd

                                    Do

                                    Lieut.

                                    Gassaway

                                    2nd

                                    Do

                                    Harris

                                    5th

                                    Do

                                    Ensign

                                    Mason

                                    2nd

                                    Do

                                    Captain

                                    Meredith

                                    Artillery

                                    Capt. Lt

                                    Blair

                                    Do

                            Sir
                            The above is the most accurate Return I can obtain at present—Those who have recd slight Contusions which
                                do not hinder their doing duty are not included. Yr most Obedt Hble Servant

                                O.H. Williams

                                N.B. 700 Non Cmd Officers, & Soldiers, of the Maryland Division, have rejoind the Army.
                                    & mostly with their Arms. an Exact Return thereof shall be sent by the next conveyance.

                                Horatio Gates


Title: To George Washington from Elisha Sheldon, 30 August 1780
From: Sheldon, Elisha
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Bedford August 30. 1780

                        I had the honor this day to receive your Excellency’s favour of the 27th Inst. in Answer to which would
                            observe that one of my Dragoons was taken a few Days ago near pines Bridge on his Return from Stonny Point, but
                            fortunately he had no dispatches; which was the occation of my not writing before: Since this happen’d I have altered the
                            course of the Expresses, but on Receipt of your Excellency’s instructions, I have sent an officer to post the Dragoons
                            which were at Greens Farms, at Wilton, and those which were at stamford are to be removed to salem.
                        I would at the same time observe that the Officer who first posted the Express could not quarter them untill
                            he promised to pay the Inhabitants on whom they were billeted to see them rewarded for their Trouble &c. They are
                            so farr from any Public Magazines of Provisions that it was impossible for them to draw their Rations; I must therefore
                            beg your Excellency’s directions in this Matter, as some of the People are already dissatisfied least they should receive
                            no Compensation for their Trouble. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Regard your Excellencys most obt Humbl. Sert

                            Elisha Sheldon Colo. L.D.


Title: From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 30 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Skinner, Abraham

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Bergen County 30th Augt 1780

                        Doctor Bloomfeild has represented to me that Mr Loring when he admitted him to parole made an offer to
                            exchange him finally for Doctor Pausch Surgeon Major of Knyphausens Regt—If there is no Gentleman of Doctor Bloomfeilds
                            Rank who has a prior right, you will be pleased to carry the exchange into execution. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt


Title: From George Washington to William Lord Stirling Alexander, 30 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Alexander, William Lord Stirling

                            My Lord
                            Hd Qrs 30th Aug. 1780

                        As it appears by some recent intelligence, that the Enemy are removing from Long Island to York Island—And as
                            their movement from the latter (by way of Spiten Devil can be masked & rapid) I request your Lordship to give a
                            standing order while we remain in this position to the Regiment on the left of Poors Brigade, in case of a landing and
                            firing at the Picket on their left, to march immediately to its support—taking care not to let the Enemy gain their left
                            flank—This Regt may be followed by others from the same Brigade if necessary, the succeeding Regts to form on their right.
                        The same order may be given in behalf of Closter landing to the left Regt in the 4th Massachusetts Brigade
                            &c. I am with much esteem Your Lordships Most Obedient Servt

                            Go. Washington.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Lord Stirling Alexander, 30 August 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Alexander, William Lord Stirling

                            My Lord
                            Hd Qrs Aug. 30. 1780

                        The General approves your proposed order and requests you to forward a copy to the respective guard—Tomorrow
                            in general orders, they and the militia will be directed to take their orders from you. Bedkins corps is instructed to
                            join you for the purpose of vedets. I have the honor to be Yr Lordships hum. s.

                            Alx. Hamilton
                            Aide De Camp