Title: To George Washington from Ephraim Blaine, 10 November 1780
From: Blaine, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

                            Please Your Excellency
                            Philada 10th Novr 1780

                        Sickness, disappointments in the Business of my Department and want of Money has been the Cause of my
                            delaying so long in this City—I have considerable prospects respecting Supplies & am convinced Congress are
                            disposed to have every thing done in their power.
                        I have been adopting every possible measure to lay up small Magazines of Flour and Beef to prevent the like
                            distresses the Army experienced last Winter—I have in part accomplished it and have now on hand about One thousand Head of
                            Cattle, and hope some more will be procured, principal part of which I mean to Salt at Pitts town, and if the State of New
                            York are able to Supply the Garrison at West Point with Flour, I hope to throw in six thousand Barrels at Trenton
                            & Easton before the Frost impedes the Navigation.
                        I gave Col. Hay directions last August to use his utmost Influence to procure a large Number of Cask on North
                            River & wrote my Agent at Boston to forward six or eight thousd Bushels of Salt to Clavarac, in Order to lay up a
                            Magazine of Salt Provisions at that Place & near West point, and have advice of a considerable quantity of the
                            Salt being on the road some considerable time ago.
                        Congress have called upon New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay & Connecticut to furnish One thousand Head
                            of Cattle weekly from the first of October last, for ten Weeks—the Surplus from the daily Supply of the Army to be Salted.
                        The State of Massachusetts Bay have sessed their different Towns twenty four hundred thousand Weight of Beef
                            to be delivered in the Course of this Month I have wrote pressingly to the Committee & my Assistant at Springfield
                            to forward a Supply of two hundred Hed Weekly for the Consumption of the Army, and the residue to send to the Order of
                            Colonel Hay for the purpose of Salting, to whom I have wrote on that Subject.
                        The moment I can dispatch Major Forsyth (my Agent in the Southern Departmt) after General Green, and obtain
                            a small sum of Money, I shall proceed to Camp and wait your Excellency’s Orders, and give Attention to the Magazines upon
                            the North River.
                        I presume Colonel Hamilton will deliver you the requisitions of Congress upon the States for the insuing
                            Years Supplies, they have demanded an Ample Supply of Meat, and largely of other Articles, it looks well upon paper and I
                            pray God it may be half executed—I have had a meeting with our Assembly and have great hope from their Exertions, they
                            shew a disposition of providing all they possibly can for the Army. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Your
                            Excellencys Most Obedient & most Hble Servant

                            Ephr. Blaine C.G.P.


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 10 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Prackness Novembr 10th 1780

                        From a collective view of the State of our Cloathing, I find we have not more, in the Public Magazines than
                            will be sufficient for one half of the Men inlisted for the War, or whose term of service will extend beyond the Winter—To
                            depend, any longer, upon the supply expected from Europe arriving in time to relieve the wants of the Troops, will be
                            leaving the matter upon too precarious a footing—I have therefore thought it a duty incumbent upon me, to give you this
                            information, that you may endeavour to procure and send forward the Articles most essential to the convenience and comfort
                            of the Men. I should have done it sooner, but I still flattered myself with an ample supply from abroad. The Articles most
                            wanted will be Blankets Waistcoats, Woolen Overhalls, and Stockings, The greater part of the men have Coats that may
                            enable them, with warm under Cloaths to rub thro’ the severity of Winter. I would recommend that the Cloth, with thread,
                            buttons &c., be sent to the Army in the piece; it may be made up there agreable to the wants of the Men and
                            quicker than at home, as there are Taylors sufficient in every Corps.
                        The Returns with which you have lately been furnished, very accurately points out the number of Men intitled
                            to Cloathing from the public. A supply equal to half that number will be absolutely necessary, and as there is no probable
                            chance, for the reasons I have before mentioned, of obtaining it from the Continental Agents, I must entreat the exertions
                            of each State in behalf of its own Troops, as the only means of preventing a number of them from experiencg extreme
                            distress the ensuing Winter. I have the honor to be With great respect Your most Obedt humle servt

                            Go: Washington

                                Sent also to Messrs Hancock, Trumbull, Clinton, Livingston, Reed and Weare.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 10 November 1780
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Camp November 10th 1780

                        In the arrangement lately made by Congress, and announced in general Orders, I observe that there is to be
                            but one Regiment of artificers; and it is directed that this regiment be furnished by the State of Pennsylvania.
                        I am in doubt whether this refers to Colonel Baldwins regiment only, or is intended to comprehend his
                            & Colonel Flower’s regiment of artillery artificers; by uniting them, & from both forming a Single
                            regiment. In either case a reform will be necessary, as in the other corps of the Army. Colonel Baldwins Regiment alone
                            consists of ten Companies; but the new regt is to be composed, of eight only. There is but one Company of Colo. Baldwin’s
                            Regiment belonging to Pennsylvania.
                        Colonel Flower has four Companies of artillery artificers belonging to and now serving in Pennsylvania. A
                            fifth Company raised by him was attached to the artillery in the field, where what is left of it still remains, but united
                            with a like company raised in Massachusetts or the eastern States, that served in 1777 with the northern army; but now
                            forming one Company. There are besides these, four Companies of artillery artificers at Springfield in Massachusetts,
                            which were raised in and belong to that State; but they have now very few men.
                        Colonel Baldwin’s regiment having been ever under the direction of the Quarter Master General; and both the
                            Colonel and his officers being desirous of knowing in what manner the new regiment of artificers is to be formed and
                            themselves arranged I request to be favoured with your Excellency’s orders and instructions concerning them. I have the
                            honour to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

                            Tim: Pickering


Title: To George Washington from Francisco Rendón, 10 November 1780
From: Rendón, Francisco
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia Novr 10th 1780

                        On the 7th Instt I received the Letter which your Excellency was so kind as to do me the distinguish’d honor
                            to write, under date of ⅌ mo.  Instt Confirming in it the Sailing from New York, on the 16th Ultimo of
                            the Transports and Troops of the Enemy, according the Intelligence acquainted me with by your Excy’s former Letter; for
                            which favor I give Your Excy my most Sincere thanks and also for Your Excy’s endeavours to facilitate those Advises; which
                            Object must Certainly be very agreable to the Chief Officers, who are Commissioned to undertake the Operations on the
                            Southern parts of this Continent.
                        I was anticipatedly acquainted with Said Circumstance on the 23rd Ultimo by Your Excellency’s Aids Colonel
                            Mead and Harrison’s own word of Mouth, who at that time were on their Transit tho’ this Town In Concequence of Said
                            Intelligence I Immediatedly Dispatched the Vessell I had ready to Send that Advise to the Governor of Havana, to enable
                            him to direct the needfull orders which may be conducent to the felicity of the Operations of the Spanish Fleets and
                            Troops against the Enemy.
                        It’s out of my power Sir to express the gratitude in which my acknowledgement is Leaded, to the great favors,
                            which Your Excy goodness are pleas’d to distinguish me with most humble beging the Continuation of it being the means of
                            making myself, Meritory to my Commission, which dont doubt will be the Case with Your Excellency’s Protection. I have
                            the honor to be with the utmost respect. Your Excellency’s most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

                             Francisco Rendon


Title: From George Washington to Elisha Sheldon, 10 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 10th Novemr 1780

                        The Covers of Most of the dispatches that have lately come from the Count de Rochambeau to me, by the Chain
                            of Expresses, have been so broken that it would have been an easy matter to have taken out the inclosures and discovered
                            the contents-- Had this been the case once or twice only-- I should have attributed it to accident, but from the frequency
                            of the thing, and no other packets being broken but those of the Counts’, I am led to suspect foul play at some of the
                            Stages. It may perhaps be impossible to discover it, if it is so; but to prevent its going on, the safest way is to
                            relieve all your present stationary Dragoons by a like number, and do the same every three or four Weeks. I would wish you
                            to endeavour to find out whether there is really any thing in what I suspect-- I am Sir yr most obt Servt

                            P.S. Major Tallmadge will have occasion for a detachment of your dismounted Dragoons to execute a piece
                                of Business intrusted to him.


Title: To George Washington from William Stephens Smith, 10 November 1780
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             Light Camp Novr 10th 1780

                        I do not know how I can answer your Excellency’s letter of the 9th better than by a detail of the facts to
                            which Colo. Ogden alludes.
                        There is one part I feel a delicacy to enter on, because the object of it might suppose, in giving me the
                            command, he confer’d an obligation. I would not wish to offend against ties of this nature even in a case like the
                            present. But I hope I shall stand acquitted of any charge of this kind.
                        On the 7th of June after the Enemy had disposed Colo. Dayton & my self of the pass at Connecticut
                            farms and oblig’d us to retire in the vicinity of Springfield, I met General Maxwell a little in front of the town
                            advancing with the brigade; I then rejoined my command which was with the brigade and consisted of the first and fourth
                            regiments—after descending the hill he desired me to detach three platoons to the right of the road at the distance of
                            about one hundred yards, and a few minutes after this order was executed, he desired me to send an equal number to the
                            left at the same distance, this with detachments previously made threw me insensibly upon the front of the second regiment
                            commanded by Colo. Shreve, in the rear of which he was. My command being equally divided to the right and left, had I gone
                            with either, one must have been neglected, I therefore remain’d in the centre that I might be the better able to judge
                            which stood in most need of support. at the commencement of the fire upon the right and left, General Maxwell ask’d me if I
                            did not think it best to detach a platoon to Mekers house which he said was sufficient to support the
                            road and prevent the enemy from pressing through and seperating the detachments mentioned. I told him my opinion was that
                            it would be sacrificing the platoon and that the regt itself was not equal to the task, at this period the enemy
                                hove in a tollerable fire directly down the road, upon which General Maxwell turn’d his horse and
                            told me to do what I thought proper and left me.
                        I then order’d the Regiment forward and lead them as fast as the men could run to the house, which I found
                            the enemy pressing for with equal speed, I however gain’d it when they were about 30 or 40 yards on the other side and a
                            smart skirmish commens’d, which proveing too heavy for us and the enemy pressing the platoons on the extremity of our
                            left, they by my order retreated as rapidly as they advanc’d, when to the best of my knowledge I found Colo. Shreve upon
                            the hill in front of the town not taking upon him after I return’d with his regiment the command of it or any other
                            troops, but mixing with a group of spectators who stood a tip-toe ready to move to the next commanding ground upon the
                            approach of danger. The enemy as I have previously mentioned continuing a rapid advance upon our left
                            thro’ the wood forced us from the hill and pressed us hard over the bridge.
                        I do not recollect any thing further happening in the course of that day which tends to ellucidate the subject
                            which your Excellency wishes to be made acquainted with. The Brigade tooke post that night upon mill
                            ridge, west of the town about 3/4 of a mile, on the morning of the 8th the enemy having retired to
                            Elizabeth we moved to Connecticut farms and lay there 3 or 4 days considering ourselves as an advanc’d picket and
                            consequently improper for any officer to leave his command. But notwithstanding the importance of the post and laying in
                            the neighbourhood of the enemy, I do not recollect a single night that Colo. Shreve remained with his
                            regiment, on the contrary, as soon as the evening approach’d he used to mount his horse and seek
                            Quarters in the rear sometimes at Chatham and at other upon the Vaux-hall road. I mean also to include
                            here his behaviour after we removed from Connecticut farms and took post at Thompsons tavern on the
                            rawaway road where he continued pretty steadily the same line of conduct. We occupied this post untill
                            the evening of the 22d when by order of General Greene the Brigade moved on the west side of spring
                            field run 2 miles and 1/2 on the right of the town. On the morning of the 23d the enemy advanc’d
                            rapidly from Elizabeth town towards Springfield, measures were immediately taken to put the several regiments in order to
                            give them a proper reception. As I was passing from the left to the right of the brigade I was called by Colo. Shreve. I
                            went to him and ask’d if he wanted me, he laid his hand upon my shoulder and said he wish’d me to take charge of his
                            regiment that day, that it would probably prove a warm one and as I had youth and activity upon my side I could continue
                            with the regiment let their situation be what it would as for himself he was a heavy man, and should the
                            regiment be press’d he should be obliged to leave it. I thank’d him for his politeness and told him I
                            would with pleasure take charge of the regiment provided it was agreable to his officers. he said they had been with me
                            once and he was sure it would be agreable and was confident if we came to action they would do me honour and desired me to
                            take good care of them. He immediately went to his regiment and in a few minutes I follow’d he told me he had mentioned it
                            to his officers that they were to take orders from me and that it was agreable to them. I turn’d to the regiment and bowed
                            respectfully as an acknowledgement of the favour confer’d. in a small space of time it was order’d to
                            march I order’d the platoons to wheel to the left and lead the regiment Colo. Shreve moved with me a small distance and
                            left me after which I do not recollect seeing him untill I had taken post at Springfield Bridge with
                            the artillery commanded by Lt Colo. Forest. After remaining there some time General Greene told me that he had received
                            intelligence that the enemy had possession of the bridge upon the right which renderd it necessary for the regiment to
                            move, which he wish’d me to do after the artillery had assended the hill by the church, when they had retired the distance
                            mentioned I march’d the regiment and form’d upon the left of the Brigade which then lay on the right of the mill in rear
                            of the town. I remain’d in that possition untill Brigade Major Ross came with orders to me to march to the town where I
                            would receive orders from General Greene. After I had gained the road on my way down I met Lt Colo.
                            Morris, he asked me if I commanded the regiment upon my answering in the affirmative he said it was General Green’s desire
                            that I should take post in rear of the second bridge and cover the retreat of Angell’s Regt and the artillery thro’ the
                            town, for he expected they would be hard pressed.
                        I tooke the possition order’d and made what I thought the necessary dispositions for the security of my
                            flank’s, he then told me after their retreat was secured the Genl wish’d me to take care of myself. I remain’d in this
                            position the best part of an hour before I saw Colo. Shreve, after he made his appearance, a party of Colo. Angell’s Regt
                            passed with several wounded and a few minutes after Colo. Angell crossed the morass on my right, he came and ask’d if he
                            could be of any service to me. I told him I occupied all the ground that could be possess’d with advantage and only wish’d
                            him to take possession of a small nole on my right in rear for the better security of that flank, which he did. The enemy
                            then made their appearance upon my right in front and I order’d the two platoons upon my right to begin the fray after two
                            or three discharges I thought the enemy appeared rather cautious in advancing and I orderd the platoons to desist fireing
                            and wait untill they should approach a little nearer, I then look’d round and saw Colo. Shreve’s horse’s head by the
                            corner of the Barn in rear of the orchard. They advanceing a little and their shot continuing to fly briskly over us, I
                            thought necessary to make some returns. I order’d the Battallion to fire by plattoons from right to
                            left, in this position they fired eight or ten rounds per man when Colo. Shreve called me I found him behind a large apple
                            tree on horse back, he told me my right was in danger, Colo. Angell haveing made good his retreat & the artillery
                            passed better than a half hour I orderd the regt to cease fireing and fall back, wheeled them to the left by platoons and
                            retired sloely up the road the enemy brought their artillery to bear upon the regiment and one of their shot tooke out two
                            men from the Centre platoon, I march’d to the short hills where I found Colo. Shreve and am inform’d he was with the
                            Brigade near an hour before the regiment a considerable part of which time they were exposed to the fire of the Enemy. I
                            have the honour to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most oblig’d & very humble Servt

                            Wm S. Smith Lt Colo.


Title: General Orders, 11 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Totowa Saturday November 11th 1780
                            Parole Bennington
                            Countersigns Bath Boon

                        Watchword Be ready
                        For the Day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Glover
                        Colonel Greaton
                        Lieutenant Colonel Basset
                        Major Wallbridge
                        Brigade Major Ashley
                        Captain Converse is to do the duty of Brigade Major and Inspector to the 2nd Connecticut brigade in the
                            absence of Major Woodbridge.
                        Lieutenant Henry Cunningham is appointed the Quarter-Master to the 2nd Regiment of Artillery from the 21st of
                            June last.
                        Regimental Returns to be made immediately of the Invalids in Camp; These Returns to comprehend the weak and
                            sickly men and such as are unfit for the duties of the Field for want of clothing; the Sergeants and Drums and Fifes are
                            to be included but placed in seperate columns and the old Soldiers and Soldiers for the war are to be in columns distinct
                            from the Levies but the whole to make one agregate in the column of Total. The commanding officers of regiments will be
                            responsible that there are no impositions and that the returns are accurate - The same Returns from the Light
                            Infantry—These to be digested into brigade Returns and the whole transmitted to the Orderly Office.
                        At the General Court martial whereof Colonel Bailey is president Captain Barnard of the 3d Connecticut
                            regiment was tried for "Having knowingly made a false muster of Grove Barnard a soldier of his Company."
                        The Court are of opinion that the charge against Captain Barnard is not supported.
                        The Commander in Chief is under the necessity of disapproving the Sentence, as it appears to him
                            incontestibly proved (if any credit is to be given to Muster-Rolls invariably attested for near three years and other
                            evidence) that Grove Barnard was inlisted for the War; Had he been inlisted by another officer it is possible that Captain
                            Barnard might have been deceived by a false return but when it is considered that the soldier in question was his son and
                            inlisted or entered by himself the General cannot conceive it possible that he could have made a mistake and continued in
                            his error so long. If Grove Barnard is not dismissed from the Service he is to be detained untill further enquiry can be
                            made.
                        At a Brigade General court martial the 18th ultimo Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Butler president—Anthony
                            Spinhouse Soldier in the 7th Pennsylvania regiment taken in the Act of Desertion to the Enemy was tried found Guilty and
                            Sentenced agreeable to the 6th Section Article 1st of the Articles of war (more than two thirds of the Court agreeing
                            thereto) to Suffer Death.
                        The Commander in Chief confirms the Sentence.
                        A Fatigue Party to parade tomorrow at Guard mounting with their Arms Packs and three days Provisions to
                            repair the roads.


Title: To George Washington from John Mauritius Goetschius, 11 November 1780
From: Goetschius, John Mauritius
To: Washington, George

                            May it Pleas your Excellency
                            Hakensack Bergen County Nov. 11. 1780

                        Being on an seperate Out Post and Exposed to many Difficulties not unknown to your Excellency, the Contractor
                            of this County having for some time Past supplied My Corps with flower and Beef till it was put out of his Power (as he
                            says) by the Great Quantity of Beef and other Articles taking out of the County by the Armey to supply me any longer I sent
                            to the super Intendant of this State for a supply with two single Teams. Eight Barrels of Flower was accordingly sent out
                            and a Direction from the Superintendant to Commisarry Gamble for Beeves. on account of one of the
                            wagens gives out only four of the Barrels Came on and instead of sending on the Provisions the Flower
                            was Ordered to be unloaded by Mr Gamble and an Order was given for two head of Cattle and the four Barrels which were left
                            behind at Morristown in Consequence of such usage two head of small cattle Came in and no flower. The Corps unprovided and
                                 to raise against me. I Humble lay the Case before your Excellency. If my
                            Grevance shall be Noticed I rely on your Excellencies Redress.
                        If any thing further is required, the Bearer Captn J. Out Water Can Inform your Excellency
                            the Particulars. I am and remain in all respects your Excellencies Most Obedient servant with submission.

                            Jo. Mauritius Goetschius
                            Major


Title: From George Washington to John Mauritius Goetschius, 11 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Goetschius, John Mauritius

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 11th Novemr 1780.

                        I have recd yours of this date. The detachment under your command not being considered in the Continental
                            pay, or under my direction, you cannot with propriety apply to me for provision. The State will, no doubt, upon your
                            application to them, give proper orders in the Matter.
                        I should not refer you to the State, had I any authority to supply you. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

                            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 11 November 1780
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Light Camp November 11th 1780

                        From Doctor Burnet I have Receiv’d intelligence that there has been a very hott press in
                            Newyork, and that Admiral Rodney is going to sail—If we Believe the Report, the Mayor himself was with the press gang and
                            the Cartmen were taken in the streets which shows that they are in hurry to set out—I am taking the Best Measures I Can to
                            hear from the islands, But nothing may be so certain as the accounts of the unknown gentleman who, I hope, will be
                            prevail’d upon to Return to the City. I am surpris’d we don’t hear from Europe. I have the honor to be most Respectfully
                            and affectionately dear general Yours

                            Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Arthur Lee, 11 November 1780
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia Novr 11th 1780

                        The Manifest necessity of an immediate supply of money for the public service, & the difficulty I am
                            sure there will be in obtaining it from the Court at Versailles, induce me to suggest to your Excellency that, in my
                            judgment, nothing will promote the attainment of it more than your opinion made known to that Court, of its being
                            indispensible to the continuance of the War. The very high respect they entertain for your character, & their
                            confidence in your judgment, woud, I am persuaded, make a representation from you, give decisive weight to the application
                            of Congress.
                        The measure is now under their consideration, & if they urge it with firmness, & commit the
                            Negociation to an Envoy extraordinary, who has not been involved in these unworthy & pernicious disputes, it
                            appears to me probable, that with your Excellency’s recommendation of him & his object, he may succeed. This
                            success dwells upon my mind as so essential, not only to the protection of our Country from devastation, but to its
                            existence as independent, that it will be an apology I hope with you, for my having troubled you with my opinion upon the
                            subject.
                        Col. Hamilton will give your Excellency the news circulating here, the only authenticated part of which seems
                            to be the retreat of Ld Cornwallis from Charlotte to Camden. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect &
                            esteem, Yr Excellency’s most obedt & most Humble Servt

                            Arthur Lee


Title: To George Washington from Richard Bennett Lloyd, 11 November 1780
From: Lloyd, Richard Bennett,Lloyd, Amelia Leigh
To: Washington, George

                            Elizth Town 11th Novr 1780

                        Mr and Mrs Lloyd present their respectful compliments to His Excellency General Washington They fully
                            intended themselves the honour of waiting on His Excellency on their way throught this State—but the very rapid aproach of
                            Winter, and the Childredn being somewhat indisposed to day, obliges Mr Ll: to settle his Family at Philadelphia, or in
                            Maryland before he can have the honour of being at Head Quarters.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Holden Parsons, 11 November 1780
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Reading 11th Novr 1780

                        I have this Day received Notice of my promotion; and am also favor’d with the present Establishment of the
                            Army.
                        When I left Camp I had no Intention of joining the Army again unless the restoration of my Health should
                            enable me to reassume a Command for the present Campaign; I had therefore turnd my Attention to resuming some Station in
                            civil Life, and joining my pursuits With those of my fellow Citizens—but Congress having remov’d those Objections which
                            would necessarily exclude me from Service, and having examined the present Establishment I feel myself greatly inclind to
                            join the Army again—but the present Establishment being not only sufficiently honorable but afording prospects adequate to
                            the reasonable Wishes of the Officers, I cannot consider it just or honorable to accept of my present Appointment unless I
                            can so provide for my numerous dependant Family as not to be under that Necessity of paying a personal Attention to their
                            Education & Support which has hitherto so distracted my Mind from the immediate Duties of my military Command.
                        I shall endeavor as soon as possible to place my Family in Circumstances that I can leave them with
                            Satisfaction, and for that purpose I must go to Hartford & Middletown next Monday, if I succeed
                            I shall join the Army as soon as possible, if not I shall forward my Resignation to Congress and wait on your Excellency
                            to take my Leave of your Excellency, my Brethren in the Army and all military Ideas—In the mean Time I will write to
                            General Huntington and endeavor to arrange Matters with him in a Manner most convenient to him & to me, and so
                            that the Connecticut Line shall not be without the General Officers present during the Winter. I have inclosed the Act of
                            this State for filling the Army which, if executed with Spirit, I hope will have the design’d Success. I am Dr General
                            with Sentiments of Respect & Esteem Yr Obedt Servt

                            Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Ramsey, 11 November 1780
From: Ramsey, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia Novemr 11th 1780

                        I am extremely happy in having it in my power to report, that in consequence of your Excellencies directions
                            to the Commissary of Prisoners, I am now compleatly exchanged. The distance to head Quarters, and the inconveniency of
                            travling, have induced me to hope, that your Excellency will excuse my not waiting on you in person to make the report, and
                            receive your orders.
                        The small remains of the Regiment which I have the honor to command, is now in Carolina, where, I learn the
                            whole of the Maryland Troops are thrown into one Regement, and those Officers of that line, not appointed to command in
                            the new arrangement, are returned to the State. In this situation of affairs, I wish to receive your Excellencies
                            commands, whither to proceed to the southward, or to remain in Maryld—to assist in raising, and
                            equipting the recruits to be raised. I have no wish or request to make for a furlough, but on the Contrary will esteem
                            myself obliged and honored in being ordered to any duty in any place which will give me an opportunity of being active in
                            the service of my Country.
                        As General Green passed on to take command of the southern division of the Army, I took the liberty of
                            waiting on him, and mentioning the probability of my being soon exchanged, and my wish to join the Army, if my service
                            could be of any immediate use, he was so obliging as to promise to write to me as soon as he arrived and examined into,
                            and made the necessary Arrangements of troops under his Command. I have the honor to be with the utmost respect Your
                            Excellencies Most obedient and Most Humble Servant

                            Nat: Ramsey


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls Novr 11th 1780

                        I have received your Letter of the 7th Instant, with the enclosures.
                        The destruction of the Forage collected for the use of the British Army at Coram, is of so much consequence
                            that I should advise the attempt to be made. I have written to Colo. Sheldon to furnish a Detachment of dismounted
                            Dragoons, and will commit the execution to you. If the party of Refugees at Smith’s house can be attempted without
                            frustrating the other design, or running too great a hazard, I have no objection. But you must remember this is only a
                            secondary object, and in all cases, you will take the most prudent means to secure a retreat.
                        Confiding entirely in your discretion, as well as enterprize, and wishing you success. I am Sir Your Most
                            Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. The detachment under Lt Brewster may also be employed on this service.


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 12 November 1780
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Freehold 12fth Novr 1780

                        Yesterday my Intelligencer from The Highlands of Neversink Informed me of The Approach of a Considerable
                            Fleet from the Southward to Sandy Hook—& allso of a Considerable fleet Coming down from New York But Could not be
                            particular in either as The Rear of Neither of the fleets was Come Too—The Fleet from New York I am Assured from good
                            Authority has Troops on Board for Carolina and I belive to be Convoyed by Adml Rodneys whole
                            Squadron—Rodney to proced to The West Indias.
                        Thinking it Highly probable that your Excellency had been previously Informed of the distination &c.
                            of The Fleet from New York I determined to wait a more particular Acct of The Fleet Coming in—The Enclosure is An Acct of
                            boath fleets Taken from The Highlands and may I belive be depended on.
                        in my letter to Mr Stillvell of yesterday I Requested him to give me his opinion Wheather The fleet Coming in
                            were not the same that went for Virginia on The 17th of last month—You Excly will Observe on The back of Mr Stillvills
                            letter his Opinion is they are the same. I have The Honr to be your Excellencyes Most Obdt Humble Servt

                            David Forman

                     Enclosure

                                    5-11 November 1780

                            Sunday November the 5 Weather Cloudy Wind W—Nothing Appearing off—the 2 frigates that Came Down Last
                                Lies to Anchor.
                            Monday November the 6 the Weather Hasey and Wind Light at W. A Sail in the Offing,
                                Afternoon Weather Dark there hath No Ships Went out or Come in Since our Last.
                            Tuesday November the 7th Weather Cloudy Wind W—Nothing appearing off—Afternoon Wind Blowing hard at W. one
                                of the frigates goes to Sea Stands to the Eastward.
                            This Day I am Secretly Informd there is A fleet Preparing for Sea and Admiral Rodney is Going to Convoy
                                them—November the 7.
                            Wendsday November the 8th Weather Clear Wind W—Nothing Off—Afternoon Wind Blowing Hard A Sail Standing
                                for the Land in the Evening She Comes in and Anchors She is a Ship of War She is of the Red
                                Squadron.
                            Thursday Novembr the 9th Weather Smoakey and Calm 1 Ship of War Came in Last Night Nothing more to be
                                Seen till Afternoon and then Perseived 2 Ships Standing for the Land far to the Eastward Heard Several Guns off but
                                the Weather Growing Dark—I Could See Nothing More.
                            fryday morning November the 10 Weather Clear Wind N. fresh there Lies to Anchor 23 Vessels there is 3
                                Large Men of War With these there is 4 Smaller the Others are all Top Sailvessels these took the Cover of the Night to
                                Come in and Anchor.
                            Saterday morning Novembr the 11 There is Some More of the fleet falling Down the
                                Come to Anchor Rather to the West of the fleet that is Come in this fleet are Small in General A number of Brigs
                                Sloops and Schooners there is 3 Large Ships of War one 34 of the Red Sqadron—2 Smaller and Some Others there is
                                Upwards of 40 as Near as I Can Gather in this fleet there is in the Whole Now at Anchor between 80 and 90 Sail there
                                is 15 Gone up and 2 frigates to Sea Yesterday Morning they Stood to the Eastward there is 16 Ships of War Encluding
                                them Back of the Hook—they Lye 5 Miles in Length in A Lane.
                            Saterday November the 11th Weather Clear Wind N. fresh the fleet that Came in from Sea Last are Not all
                                Within the Hook there is no Beating in this Morning and four Large Ships Lyeing at anchor Without the
                                Hook theres Some of Sd fleet, Beating up for the Narrows befor Day Light in this fleet there is betwen 52 and 58 Sail
                                in all the Small ones and Ships of War Encluded there is 6 Ships Appear upwards of 40 Guns but
                                None Exceeding 60.
                            Afternoon Late, the Wind Light, there is 6 More of Sd fleet Beating up 2 Ships and 4 Brigs  thenin the Evening the Ships Back of lye are under Sail Beating in.
                            Towards Evening there is Upward of 20 Sail More Appearing the Convoy of these Ships are of the Red
                                Sqadron—they are to the Southard of the Highlands.
                            There is this Afternoon Upwrd of 30 Sail Without the Narrows and A number Within the Narrows I think
                                Admiral Rodneys Ships Coming Down the Convoy of those are of the White.
                            Evening the fleet that is falling Down this time are Coming to Anchor they Lie highly
                                in the Bay there Seems a Number of Small Vesels With these Such as Sloops and Schooners they Seem
                                to Come Near the Shore.
                            I Cannot give You Sir A Particular Disscription of this fleet they are Not the one Half got Down yet but
                                to Morrow Morning if I am Spared Shall have A fair Veiw of them there is three Line of Battle Ships and one is the
                                Sand Wick of 90 Guns.

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                Sunday Morning 6 OClock November 12th 1780

                            I have Been as Particular in Getting the Best Acconts Relating the fleet that Came in Last but Can No
                                Sertain Intiligince Some Say they are from Ireland With Provisions and Soldiers on Board there is upwards of 60 Sail,
                                Come in Some have Beat in the Narrowes there is A number of Small one Such as Brigs Sloops and Schooners the Ships of
                                Stores or transports are Not Large they have Not A transports flag Amongst them there is 4 Large Ships of War With
                                them I Could Not get So fair a View of them Yesterday morning as I Expected by Reason of the Wind Blowing fresh at N.
                                the Ships Lay Stern to Free and Large Swell going I Could not Count their Ports there is 8 Large Ship upwards of 40
                                guns and 8 or 9 Smaller in Both fleets ther is bitwen 80 and 90 Sail in the Whole I was Mistaken in Adml Rodneys When
                                She Came Down She is of the Red With A Peaked flag at Mainmast Head a union Jack on her Bows sprit She is a Commodore
                                I Shall Endeavour With all Posible Speed to Inform You of their Earliest Movement from Yours on Comd

                                John Stilwell

                                Sir My Candid opinion is they are the fleet that Sailed from Sandy Hook the 17 of Octobr Last for
                                    Virginia—the Reason I have not Sent my Son I am Scant of Horses and Expect hourly the fleet Will Make Some
                                    movement and Shall Endeavour to give You Earliest Entiligence.

                                J.S.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Forrest, 12 November 1780
From: Forrest, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia Novr 12th 1780

                        I feel a degree of regrett at making an application to your Excellency, which nothing but necessity would
                            induce me to request. The length of my services are well known I presume to one of Your Observation. And did not the
                            interesting Cares of a family whom I dearly love, call on me for my immediate Assistance & Support, I should with
                            the highest degree of pleasure still persue Your Excellency’s military fortunes.
                        But as I find it impracticable without doing injustice to my family & Offspring, I am reduc’d to the
                            disagreable & painfull necessity of praying Your permission to retire upon half pay, and be considered as a
                            supernumerary Officer of the Line to which I belong. To one Sir who can feel the delicacy attending my situation it is
                            unnecessary to describe my feelings. But as there are now five Lt Colls of Artillery in the Continental Service and as
                            some of them must Shortly be reduc’d, I have to rely upon Your Excellency’s goodness in placing me among the list of the
                            Supernumerary Officers; I have taken the Liberty of writing upon the Subject to the Honorable General Knox, &
                            trust that his good sense will point out to your Excellency the propriety of this my request.
                        Nothing but the most urgent necessity would lead me to a measure of this kind; but as I am driven to it
                            through distress occasion’d by long service, I trust that Your Excellency will indulge me in this my request: Assuring
                            Your Excellency that when ever the exigencies of my Country require the Calling forth of its inhabitants, there’s no man
                            will fly to the feild with more disinterested Chearfulness than Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Devoted Humble
                            Servant
                        \

                            Thomas Forrest
                            Lt Coll of Artillery


Title: To George Washington from Udny Hay, 12 November 1780
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Fish Kill 12th Novr 1780

                        The State of our provisions to the northward during our late alarms there detaind me much longer in that
                            Quarter than I expected, I now however think I may venture to offer on to your
                            Excellency, except in the article of beef, for which we must depend on other States, there is every probability they will
                            during the course of the winter, be tolerably supplyd; these alarms having in many instances prevented the farmer from
                            threshing, added to the total want of Money and partial want of water at the Mills, has been the means from which arise
                            the great scarcity of flour at West Point and its dependency’s, of which I am informd your Excellency has been acquainted,
                            I flatter myself however we shall be able to grant a better supply in future, and throw in a considerable quantity before
                            the Navigation shutts up, at least every possible exertion shall be made for that purpose.
                        I am extremely sorry at being oblidged to request your Excellency’s attention even for a moment to a business
                            that has in it the appearance of private, but the situation of Major Hale the bearer of this is so extremely distressing,
                            and peculiar in its circumstances that I hope for forgiveness for the trouble I now give you, especially as his
                            misfortunes arose from perhaps a too rigid impartiality in the execution of a public though not official duty enjoind on
                            me at a very critical moment—In the month of June last I was desired by General Howe then commanding this Department to
                            procure either by seizure or otherwise a quantity of rum for the use of the Garison at West Point, which he at that time
                            every moment expected to be attained amongst others, I seized from Major Hale six
                            hundred and fifty four Gallons of West India, and one thousand and forty nine Gallons of New England rum, and agreeable to
                            orders promised him payment on or before the first day of October, at that time not doubting but I should be able to
                            comply with my promise, in doing which I have been altogether disappointed, and he is thereby drove to the utmost
                            distress, and must in all human probability meet with a certain temporary ruin unless by the kind and generous
                            intervention of your Excellency the Treasury board should be prevailed upon to give him relief by ordering payment
                            agreeable to the tenour of the Certificate.
                        Major Hale having been formerly my Assistant in the Quarter Masters Department, in which station he gave
                            universal satisfaction, young in trade and all his future prospects depending on the strict maintenance of his Credit at
                            present, it gives me much pain to reflect that through an act of mine though disinterested and done from the meer motive
                            of serving the public cause, all his views and future Schemes of life should at once be totally disappointed.
                        General Howe can and will if necessary take a pleasure in acquainting your Excellency with any circumstances
                            relative to this matter you might wish to be made acquainted with. I have the Honour to be with every sentiment of respect
                            Your Excellencies most obedient & very humble Sevt

                            Udny Hay


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 12 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Passaic Falls 12th Nov. 1780

                        Upon a full view of what (from the Returns) must be the state of our Army when the Levies leave it the first
                            of January—and of the little prospect there is of getting the places of many, if any of them supplied by that time—and
                            when the importance of West point and the Southern communication with it is taken into consideration I can think of no
                            better disposition of the Army for Winter Quarters than the following
                         Pensylvania line—somewhere in the neighbourhood of Morris Town.
                         Jersey line—About Pompton—in the clove of the Mountain—with a detachment from it at the
                            other clove near Suffrans.
                         York line—(The Troops of that State being chiefly there already and
                            the Northern and Western frontier much harrassed) to continue at Albany.
                         Connecticut & Massachusetts lines—(being about adequate to the number required) to
                            be at West point—the former on the East and the latter on the West side of the River.
                         New Hampshire & Rhode Island—at the gorge of the Mountain near the Continental
                            village—and to furnish a detachment more to the left—say—about Robinsons Mills
                         Sheldons horse—On Connecticut River at Colchester or Middletown
                         Moylans horse—In Pensylvania perhaps Reading
                         The Marischause—(If it is not reduced) to be somewhere in the rear of New Windsor—and
                         The Park of Artillery—at or near New Windsor.
                        This disposition is not yet announced to the Army, nor is it known to the Genl Officers of it (otherwise than
                            by conjecture)—for which reason, and because it may undergo a change I would not, as yet, have any thing said of it.
                        If it takes place my own quarters will, more than probably, be at or near New Windsor as the central point.
                        Building Barracks, Hutts &c. near the Works for the Troops destined for the defence of the Post
                            should undergo the interruption on acct of the change this distribution may occasion. How far the Hutts at Soldiers
                            fortune, or Genl Glovers Incampment may be necessary I cannot undertake to determine, because I do not know precisely, the
                            relative situation of these places to the works.
                        Your favor of the 10th is receiv’d—I approve much of your intended forage in which include Cattle
                            &ca—but for particular reasons I wish the execution of it to be delayed a little if there is no inconvenience resulting from it—In the meanwhile make every necessary
                            arrangement for it in your own mind that the business may be suddenly entered upon when you hear from me again on the
                            subject. I am—Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 12 November 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            sir,
                            Philadelphia November 12. 1780

                        Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed, Copies of several Acts of Congress, of the 4th, 7th, 9th
                            & 10th Instant.
                        By that of the 4th, the several States therein mentioned, are called upon to levy a Tax equal to six Millions
                            of silver Dollars, to be paid partly in specific Articles of Provision, & partly in Money, at the Times &
                            in the Manner expressed.
                        By the Act of the 7th, (a Copy of which will be forwarded to Genl Greene,) your Excellency is authorized to
                            effect an Exchange of all Continental Prisoners of War & now in Possession of the Enemy, and of the Hostages
                            given in Canada; all Officers on Parole & Officers Violators of Parole, & Militia actually taken in Arms & remaining Prisoners of War, for an equal Number of Prisoners on our Hands,
                            including the Convention Troops if an Exchange can be effected upon the Terms mentioned in the Act.
                        It is needless to remark to your Excellency how exceedingly the Individuals of our Troops in Captivity feel
                            themselves injured, if they are not exchanged in the Order of their Captivity; as I take it to be a Rule you have ever
                            adhered to, when not inadmissible from peculiar Circumstances, which have caused a Deviation therefrom in some particular
                            Cases.
                        The Act of the 9th will inform your Excellency that the Hospital Chaplains are discontinued, &
                            Brigade Chaplains from Time to Time are to attend the established Hospitals.
                        The annexed Orders enjoining the Officers of the Cavalry to purchase no more Horses on public Account without
                            the Order of Congress was passed several Days before your Letter of the 7th Instant came to Hand which mentions the
                            Propriety of such Practice in the Commanding Officers of Corps in the Cavalry. Orders in future may be given for that
                            purpose if Congress should think proper.
                        By the Act of the 10th, Congress propose (if practicable) to make a Saving of Forage in Camp, by removing all
                            Horses that in your Opinion are not absolutely necessary to be retained with the Army for public Use; to be disposed of or
                            fed at a Distance from Camp. I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

                            Sam. Huntington President

                            P.S. Your several Dispatches of the 1st, 4th 5th & 7th have been received. The latter came to
                                hand this moment.


Title: From George Washington to John Laurens, 12 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, John

                            My dear Laurens
                            Hd Qrs Passaic falls 12th Nov. 1780.

                        A Letter of yours dated Octobr (but which I believe ought to have been Novr)—the 6th came to my hands last
                            Evening—Every fresh assurance of your personal regard & attachment to me, gives me pleasure.
                        The motives which led you to the Southward are too laudable and too important not to meet my approbation. In
                            that, or any other quarter in which you may act, my best wishes for your health preservation & glory will
                            accompany you—being with sincere regard and Affect. Yr friend & Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Malcom, 12 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 12th Novemr 1780

                        Your favor of the 12th 14th and 29th ulto all came to hand by yesterdays post. How the two first were so long
                            on the way I cannot tell. The disagreeable intelligence contained in them had reached me from other quarters. The blow
                            upon the Western Frontier will be severely felt by us in the course of the Winter. Indeed I know not how we are to make up
                            the disappointment in the Bread of that Country.
                        I am convinced of your exertions in forwarding supplies to Fort Schuyler, and you have my thanks for your
                            activity upon that occasion. I am sir Your most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Cosens Ogden, 12 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Ogden, John Cosens

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 12th Novr 1780

                        I have recd your favr of yesterday. If you can get certain intelligence of the time the enemy mean to
                            come out, and can give me sufficient previous notice, I will send down a detachment from the Army to prevent the execution
                            of their plan. You must, if possible, ascertain the force that they mean to bring over.
                        The person who delivered your letter said he had no Newspapers given to him, as mentioned in yours. I am
                            Sir Yr most ot Servt


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 12 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Novr 12th 1780

                        In answer to your Letter of the 10th I can only observe: that it is not in my power to give any particular
                            explanation to the views of Congress in the establishment of the Regiment of Artificers, beyond what is expressed in their
                            Act. Nor do I know, with precision, what proportion of Artillery or Quarter Master Artificers
                            may be necessary with the Army.
                        I would therefore wish you to have a meeting with General Knox on the Subject. And report your opinions to
                            me, respecting the reduction & incorporation of the Corps of Artificers now in service—that the necessary Measures
                            may be pursued.
                        You will be pleased to forward the Letters herewith transmitted by Express. I am, Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 12 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 12th Novemr 1780

                        I have not been honored with any of your Excellency’s favors since mine of the 4th instant—neither have I
                            received any intelligences from New York contradicting what I communicated in that letter, on the contrary, the accounts
                            seem confirmed.
                        I have lately made an exchange of a considerable number of prisoners with Sir Henry Clinton—part of the
                            British are at Rutland in Massachusetts Bay, and it is stipulated that they shall be allowed to embark on board a Flag
                            Vessel that will be sent from New York for that purpose, I have thought it proper to give Your Excellency this previous
                            notice. I have the honor to be with the highest Esteem Your Excellency’s most obt and humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 12 November 1780
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Saratoga Novr 12th 1780

                        Your Excellencys favor of the 6th Instant I had the honor to recieve last night.
                        I have had several emissaries on the Grants since my last letter, they have all returned but with out that
                            full Information which I expected, some of these have obtained the Inclosed copies of letters, the first of which is an
                            answer to one Carried into Canada by the suspected person, at least so the reports generally go on the grants; tho perhaps
                            It would be not easy to prove It; On the day the British flag arrived he was heard to say "the time is at length come that
                            we shall be freed from the domination of New Yorkers" this can be ascertained. my agents say—that It is generally believed
                            large offers have been made the people of the Grants, but that nothing will Induce the bulk of the people to defect from
                            the Common cause—That the flag returned on thursday accompanied by a deputation of three members from the vermont
                            Assembly—That the people there are in great ferment—that Capital Charges were exhibited against Allen—that he was cited to
                            appear before the Assembly—that when the Charges were read he behaved with the utmost Impropriety drawing his Sword
                            & threatening to cut of some of their heads If they did not immediately desist. That the Command of the Militia
                            was taken from him
                        General Clinton left this before your Excellency’s letter came to hand, hence I had not an opportunity to
                            advise with him on the Contents; that a certain person is engaged In the Enemys Interest, I make little doubt of but I do
                            not think It either prudent or politic that he should be siezed at present. a little time will probably furnish us with
                            sufficient testimony for a Conviction. It certainly will If a person who has been imployed in a public Character in the
                            grants Adheres to his promise which is to give every Information relative to the business of the flag assoon as he Can go
                            to Albany without Suspicion; from the nature of this persons Office, he must be Intimately Informed of
                            every particular.
                        The Enemy were preparing to move on Monday last, only waiting the arrival of their flag which could not reach
                            Crown point before Friday, or Saturday the 11th Instant. The Militia returned from here yesterday morning and I believe we
                            shall have no visit from Canada until the lakes are passable on the Ice, but yet If the troops in their way to Albany can
                            possibly be Spared I think it would be best they should come up, as a few days ago Information was given me that a
                            Conspiracy was formed to burn Albany, this I communicated to General Ten Broeck and at daybreak this morning I received a
                            letter from the Commissioners for detecting Conspiracies advising me "that a dangerous plot had been discovered and
                            requesting my aid" wether It be that I have alluded to, or some other, I cannot determine.
                        The distractions which have prevailed In this part of the Country have prevented me from attending the
                            Convention at Hartford my Colleagues Benson & Hubbard are fully Impressed with the necessity of Immediately
                            compleating the Army with permanent troops, and they are clearly In Sentiment with me on some other matters, which I do
                            not detail for reasons which I believe do not need to be mentioned.
                        Two Indians whom I sent Into Canada the day after my arrival at Albany from Poughkepsie returned a few days
                            ago, they inform that all the troops in Canada proper were out. In the Parties which have desolated the frontiers In the
                            last month, except the Garrison of Quebec, that the Enemy are arduously employed in strengthening Quebec
                            and the fortifications in the environs—that they have erected a strong work below the Isle of Orleans. I suppose at  De  that no troops have this often arrived in Canada.
                            that the Canadiens have had a good harvest that the Indians of Canada have been Generally out with the
                            british parties but that very few Candiens had Joined them—that one of the persons to whom they were to have
                            delivered a paper from me was in Goal and had been for some time on suspicion of a
                            Correspondance to this quarter, the other was at Quebec. That they left Mr De Rocheambeaus Speech to
                            the Canada Indians; and my letters with a trusty Caghnawaga, who has heretofore served us.
                        Can it be possible that Arnold is a Brigadier in the British line, as we are Informed here. If he is, they
                            must be lost to every sense of delicacy & honor. I rejoice with you my dear Sir at the happy discovery of that
                            Abandoned mans Infamous designs.
                        Be pleased to make my best wishes to the Gentlemen of Your family. I am Dear Sir, with the most Sincere
                            sentiments of respect esteem and affection Your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant

                            Ph: Schuyler

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Quebec Octr 22 1780

                            I have received your Letter of the 27th Ultimo, The Motive of Humanity at Large and my particular
                                Inclination to Alleviate as much as falls to my share the Miseries inseparable from the unnatural War his Majesties
                                Subjects in this Country Oblige him to prosecute, would induce me to accede to your proposal of an Exchange of
                                Prisoners (Considering yours as a Separate State which incercourse Breaches of Faith on the part of the other States
                                has hitherto Obliged me to forbid ) were I well Assured of a Strict Observance of the Conditions to be fullfilled on
                                your part. The Cartel of the Cedars & afterwards the Convention Justify a Jealousy I am sorry to feel or be
                                Obliged to Mention.
                            If you will send a proper person with full power to Major Carleton at Crown Point or St Johns to confer
                                upon this Business, I shall Authorize the Major to recieve him, I am Sir Your Most Obedt humble Sert
                            (Copy)

                                Frederick Halldiman

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Crown Point Octr 26th 1780

                            By the Bearer Capt. Sherwood I received Genl Halldimands Letter to Govr Chittenden on the Subject of an
                                Exchange of Prisoners, I have Authorized Capt. Sherwood to treat with the Governor and you on the Subject, tho’ could
                                I meet with you or him or, both perhaps the Business would be sooner concluded, as should any difficulties arise
                                between Capt. Sherwood and you, my instructions are so Ample that I flatter myself I could remove them.
                            During the continuation of this Negociation no Attacks or insults shall be Offered to any Post or Scout
                                belonging to your State or in your Boundaries. I Expect you will Observe the same and recall as far as lies in your
                                Power your Scouts to prevent this inadvertancy on Either part the appearance even of not adhering to the above. I am
                                Sir Your most Obedt Sert
                            (Copy)

                                Chr Carleton

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Head Quarters Castleton 27th Octr 1780

                            I received your Letter to me with Genl Haldimands to Govr Chittenden last Eveng by Capt. Sherwood.
                            Every respect will be shewn your Flag, and no Hostillities will be permitted on my part, and it is
                                Expected you will Extend your Cessation of Hostillities agains any of the Northern parts of the Frontiers of the State
                                of Newyork during the negociation.
                            Special Orders are given to prevent all Hostillities untill I receive your answer to this—Major Clarke is
                                appointed to deliver this to you by a Flag and wait your answer. Your most Obed. Servt

                                Ethan Allen

                                P.S. Your letter with Genl Halldimands I have forwarded by Express to Govr Chittenden and make no
                                    doubt some proper person will be appointed to settle a Cartel as soon as possible.
                                (Copy)

                                E. A.


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 12 November 1780
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Philadelphia Novemr 12th 1780.

                        You will (I doubt not) forgive my neglect in not writing you when I assure you that I have had nothing to
                            communicate which Could give you pleasure or avoid giving you pain—& that I was unwilling to add to the pressure
                            which your mind has been so Long accustomed to—to Enumerate the Evils which have flown from party Spirit from inattention
                            and from other Sources would fill a volume in Folio. we are now strugling to Extricate ourselves from those Difficulties
                            into which our Folly or our prejudices have thrown us perhaps we may succeed—some advances have been made toward a
                            reformation, many more will shortly be attempted—the Army is arranged I hope agreable to your Excellencys wish, the
                            officers have half pay for Life; The states are Called upon for men & Specific supplies Loans are Demanded the
                            Several Departments are Aranging; the expensive naval & other Boards will be Demolished oeconomy introduced and I
                            trust Specie will relieve paper Bills from the Task of Deceiving mankind & yield to every person his Just (Demands).
                            Party Spirit Though not annihilated is Compelled to hide its head and Jealosy of the Army which has Long obstructed
                            Salutary measures dare not appear in publick I know it is Late for a reformation to Commence but I hope not too Late—I
                            Lament Exceedingly the Distresses of our Army and will Chearfully Contribute Every thing in my power to relieve them or to
                            Lighten that Burthen which I know Your Excy must feel provided I could have the honor of a Line from you pointing out the
                            Evils and the mode you would have adopted for redress.
                        I feel very sensibly for the Southern States and fear Either a Conquest by force or a Defection which will
                            bring about a base Submission. we are Informed that Clinton is about to Embark with great part of his Army for virginia
                            should this Event take place I fear the Loss of the the four Southern States will be its Consequence.
                        To prevent this I beg Leave to Submit to your Excellenceys considerations whether it would not be prudent to
                            order the French Fleet to Boston where they may Lay in Safety & call the French Army to Head Quarters? Will not
                            this cause Sir Henry to Tremble for new york & Diminish the force if not Totally prevent the Blow meditated
                            against the Southern States? These are only hints which arise from my Zeal to Save the Southern states & which
                            however unmilitary & Injudicious they may appear I flatter myself your Excellencey will readily pardon. I have the
                            Honor to be with the most unfeigned Esteem Dear General your Excellenceys most obedient Servant

                            Jno. Sullivan


Title: To George Washington from Richard Varick, 12 November 1780
From: Varick, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            West Point Novr 12th 1780

                        I hope the Proceedings of the Court of Enquiry on my Conduct have e’er this reached your Excellency’s Hands.
                            A Consciousness of the Rectitude of my Intentions & Conduct, while in the Service of my Country, induces me to
                            expect an honorary Report from them.
                        I now remain solicitous, only about properly publishing to my Countrymen & fellow Citizens &
                            especially to my late Brother Officers, in every Part of the American Army, both here & to the Southward, in which
                            I have Friends whose good Opinion I wish to retain; how much I have been injured by my unfortunate Connexion with a Vile
                            Wretch & how little my Conduct both to him & the public have merited it.
                        As the very Complexion of the Court (being composed of Gentlemen of Sense & Military Reputation) will
                            in no small Degree, contribute to my Credit, I shall be very happy if your Excellency will grant me the Indulgence: That
                            the Names of the Members may be inserted in the Genl Orders, announcing the Report to the Army; That the Transcript
                            thereof may be Transmitted to Genl Heath, as well as Genl Greene   and published in their General Orders; And that I may
                            be furnished with a Copy, to be published in the Gazettes of this & the neighbouring States. These are probably
                            the last Indulgencies I shall ever have it in my Power to request from Your Excellency, & Nothing but an anxious
                            Regard for my injured Reputation, would now induce me to ask them.
                        About the 25th August last, when Genl Schuyler & Mr Duane, were at Arnolds Quarters, on their Way to
                            Orange Town, I mentioned to them the Injustice of my Dismission by Congress & my Inclination to continue in the
                            Army, at least till the Reduction of the Capital of our State, if not to the Close of the War; provided I could have my
                            former Rank restored to me. They gave me Reason to hope, That if I would apply to Congress & state the Facts to
                            them, by Memorial (which they promised to support) I would succeed in my Wishes: The Memorial (Copy of which is I believe
                            in the Hands of Colo. Hamilton) was forwarded by Genl Schuyler about the 2nd or 3rd of September; But the base Conduct of
                            Arnold, which soon succeeded, prevented any Determination thereon by Congress.
                        The Desolation of a very valuable Part of the State of New York; the Misfortune I have so lately experienced
                            & the Probability of the Continuance of a vigorous War, render it now both prudent & eligible; that I
                            should remain in the Army provided I can do it with Honor to myself.
                        I shall therefore esteem it a great Favor, If Your Excellency will be pleased to inform Congress of the
                            Report of the Court of Enquiry & Your Excellency’s Opinion of the Tenor of my past Conducts, from the face of the
                            Proceedings; After which I will solicit Genl McDougall & Mr Duane to renew my Application on the Memorial. I am,
                            with sincere Gratitude & Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & Very Hble Servt

                            Richd Varick


Title: From George Washington to Seth Warner, 12 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Warner, Seth

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 12 Novemr 1780.

                        I have recd your favr of the 30th October by Capn Moulton. I am sorry for the unfortunate stroke
                            upon your Regt at Fort George, but I cannot but think it extraordinary that you should furlough the remainder at a
                            time when their services were so essentially necessary—By the new establishment of the Army, your Regiment with all the other Corps upon the same foundation
                            (Colo. Hazens excepted) is to be reduced on the 1st January—The Officers to go out on half pay for life and the non
                            Commd and private Men to join the Regiments of those States to which they properly belong—The time of reduction
                            being so near, you may as well send the remainder of your Men immediately down to West point, under the care of an Officer
                            where they will be incorporated and receive Cloathing.
                        The Military Chest here and to the Northward are both empty, and I cannot therefore make the advance of pay
                            which you require. As Mr Sherman your late pay Master has gone off in so scandalous a Manner, you must appoint one of your
                            Officers, who is best qualified, to make up the Regimental accounts in the best manner that circumstances will admit, and
                            send them down to the Auditors that they may be finally adjusted. You must at the same time prepare your accounts for the
                            Money which you have received at different times for recruiting. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Williamson, Jr., 12 November 1780
From: Williamson, Matthias, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Elizabeth Town Novemr 12. 1780

                        Mr Lenox an Assistant to Mr Sproat Comy of Naval Prisoners mentioned to me yesterday that Genl Philips was to
                            embark in a few days with a force sufficient to take possession of some Heighth on the Delaware which was to be fortified
                            in such a Manner as to put an effectual Stop to the Navigation of that River; I think he mentioned Wilmington Heighth. He
                            also acquainted me that a hundred Naval Officers & a few Privates had been put on board the Yarmouth which sailed
                            for Great Britain on Thursday last, that in a few days three frigates are to sail with a considerable Number of other Prisoners,
                            this Method, Lord Rodden supposed would put a total Conclusion to the Trade and Privateering of this Continent.
                        Mr Lenox was very inquisitive where the Light Infantry of our Army lay, adding, that they were expected on
                            Staten Island. & that on friday Night the Troops lay on their Arms there—Whether the above News may be relied on
                            or not, I cant say as Mr Lenox is sometimes extravagant—If you think the above Information of any Consequence, you can
                            make what Use of it you please as I am now exchanged. I am Sir Your very humble Servt

                            Matts Williamson Jur


Title: General Orders, 13 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Totowa Monday, Novemr 13th 1780
                            Parole Maryland
                            Countersigns I.Q.
                            Watchword March

                        For the day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Wayne
                        Colonel Chambers
                        Lieutenant Colonel Sumner
                        Major Talbot
                        Brigade Major Pettengill
                        The invalids and men wanting clothing in the light infantry, excepting in the article of shoes are to join
                            their respective regiments in the line of the army; they are not to be replaced by others.
                        Where the want of clothing in yesterday’s report is confined to shoes only the men under that description are
                            to be struck out of the returns because they may be supplied at the issuing Store, all the rest with the invalids and an
                            addition of ten men from each regiment the whole under proper officers of their respective regiments or Lines are to march
                            with their Arms baggage &ca, as soon as the Quarter Master General can furnish Waggons; They are to be provided
                            with Tents and Campkettles from their respective lines and to be under the command of a Colonel from each who will receive
                            his orders at Head Quarters.
                        The General recommends it very strongly to the officers remaining to send under this Escort every species of
                            Baggage they can do without, to their Winter quarters, that the Army may be as light and the horses in the field lessened
                            as much as possible.


Title: From George Washington to Mordecai Gist, 13 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Gist, Mordecai

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 13th Novembr 1780

                        I have recd your favor of the 26th ulto with a Return of the Maryland additional Regiment, and a Copy of  General Gate’s instructions to you.  You will, I
                            presume before this reaches you, have seen Major General Greene, on his way to take the command of the southern Army, and
                            will have received from him such further directions as he may have thought necessary.
                        I shall be glad of a line from you, from time to time, informing me of the progress of raising and forwarding
                            the Recruits. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 13 November 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Mount Vernon Nov. 13th 1780

                        I arrivd here yesterday about noon; and met with a kind and hospitable reception by Mrs Washington and all
                            the family. Mrs Washington, Mr and Mrs Custis, (who are here) and Mr Lund Washington and his Lady are all well.
                        We set out this morning for Richmond, and it is now so early I am oblige to write by candle light. Nothing
                            but the absolute necessity of my being with my command as soon as possible should induce me to make my stay so short at
                            your Excellencys seat; where there is every thing that nature and art can afford to render my stay happy and agreeable.
                            Mount Vernon is one of the most pleasant places I ever saw; and I dont wonder that you languish so often to return to the
                            pleasures of domestic life. Nothing but the glory of being commander in Cheif and the happiness of being universally
                            admird could compensate opinion for such a sacrafice as you make. Baron Stuben is delighted with the plan, and charmed
                            with the reception we met with. Mrs Washington sets out for camp about the middle of this week.
                        I have had no official accounts either of the enemy at Portsmouth or of the Southern Army. Mrs Washington
                            recieved a letter last Night from her brother near Williamsburg who writes that the enemy are fortifying at Portsmouth;
                            and that they have collected a great quantity of provision and distressed many of the Inhabitants.
                        I am told the Militia of this State have turned out in greater numbers than have been wanted; and Mr Custes
                            and Colo. Fitzgerald think the Inhabitants were never more willing to make sacrafices for the support of the cause than at
                            this hour. But the great difficulty is, the things necessary to equip an Army, are not to be had.
                        We have various reports respecting Lord Cornwallises retreat and critical situation but I beleive little
                            dependance are to be placed upon them. I am in hopes to get good information at Richmond both with respect to the enemy in
                            this State and those to the Southard; and will write your Excellency a more full and particular account.
                        I had a conference with the Governor and two houses of Assembly at Annapolis. They promise me all the
                            assistance in their power; but are candid enough to tell me, that I must place but little dependance upon them, as they
                            have neither money or credit; and from the temper of the people are afraid to push matters to extremities.
                        I left General Gist in the State with proper instruction for receiving and forwarding to the Southern Army,
                            recruits and supplies of every kind; both from Maryland and Delaware. Cloaths and Arms, will be the most difficult
                            articles to be got; nor do I see how either Virginia or Maryland can furnish many, (if any) of them. But I shall be more
                            fully informed of this, on my arrival at Richmond.
                        If your Excellency has any particular instructions to give respecting the Maryland line, should be glad to
                            receive them as soon as possible; as an arrangment of the officers upon the new establishment will be made without loss of
                            time. I also wish to be informed and to receive your directions respecting the other lines in the Southern department.
                        Colonel Harrison left this, day before yesterday. I am sorry I had not an opportunity to see him, as he has
                            been in the State some days, and could give me more full and particular information of the veiws and
                            wishes of the people, than I have had time or opportunity to collect. I am with the greatest respect
                            and regard Your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Serv.

                            Nath. Greene


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 13 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 13th Novemr 1780

                        The inclosed from the Marquis de la Fayette announces the expected arrival of several French officers of
                            distinction upon a visit to the Army. Should they pass the posts under your command I am convinced you will pay them every
                            attention and honor due to their Rank. As I should wish to have notice of their approach to this Camp,
                        you will oblige me by dispatching an Express as soon as they arrive with you, with an account of the Route
                            which they mean to take—I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 13 November 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            West point Novemr 13th 1780

                        I was this day honored with yours of the 12th. Your proposed disposition of the Army to winter Quarters,
                            under the circumstances in which it will probably be, at the time the levies leave it and the other objects in view, is I
                            think, as eligible as any that can be adopted.
                        The Old Hutts built by General Glovers Brigade, and those at Soldiers Fortune, are perhaps not
                            disadvantageously situated for the Troops destined to the defence of the works on the east side of the River, but none of
                            these are at present emproved, or repairing. Colo. Hazens Regt is hutting not far from the North redoubt; and the New
                            Hampshire Line dislikening the hutts at Soldiers fortune; and the distance they must be obliged to fetch their wood, are
                            hutting a little more to the eastward, on the road that leads down to Colonel Drakes; they are erecting exceeding good
                            hutts, but are not so far to the left as the place mentioned by your Excellency near Robinsons Mill.
                        We are not yet ready for the proposed grand Forage, and it will be some days before we shall be the principal
                            difficulty is, the Obtaining a sufficient number of Teams, the cattle will be included, nothing shall be put in execution
                            untill your pleasure is further signified. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellency’s Most
                            Obedient Servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 13 November 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            West point Novr 13th 1780

                        Enclosed is a return of Cloathing absolutely wanted for the recruits of the New Jersey line, many of whom are
                            almost naked. I should have given an order on the Clothier for the delivery of the Cloathing without troubling your
                            Excellency again on the subject, but find the Coats in the Store at Newborough are not of the uniform established for the
                            Jersey-line, and not knowing but there may be some of their uniform in the store at Head quarters if there is not the
                            necessities of the Troops are such as lead to Request your consent to take the quantity specified on the Return from that
                            at Newbourgh.
                        The chain having began to sink and part of it got upwards of twenty feet under water—a number of men
                            & Boats Required to be constantly with it to prevent the whole from sinking, I am determined to take it up
                            to morrow.
                        I have just Received a letter from Governor Clinton dated the 9th instant in which is the following
                            paragraph—"My last intelligence from Albany would Rather induce me to believe that the Enemy who appeared in the
                            neighborhood of the Lakes will not venture at present to penetrate the Country in force but my information is not official
                            or so authenticated as to justify halting the Troops on their march to that quarter. Colo. Hay can inform you of some very
                            extraordinary conduct of Ethan Allen & others of the Grants." I have the honor to be, With the greatest respect
                            Your Excellencys Most obedient Servant

                            W. Heath