Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 28 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 28th Augt 1778

          The unfortunate circumstance of the French Fleet having left Rhode Island at so
            critical a moment, I am apprehensive, if not very prudently managed, will have many
            injurious consequences, besides merely the loss of the advantages we should have reaped
            from succeeding in the Expedition. It will not only tend to discourage the people, and
            weaken their confidence in our new alliance, but may possibly produce prejudices and
            resentments, which may operate against giving the Fleet such Zealous and effectual
            assistance in its present distress, as the exigence of affairs and our true interest
            demand. It will certainly be sound policy to combat these effects, and whatever private
            opinions may be entertained, to give the most favorable construction, of what has
            happened, to the public, and at the same time to put the French Fleet, as soon as
            possible, in condition to defend itself and be useful to us.
          The departure of the Fleet from Rhode Island is not yet publicly announced here, but
            when it is, I intend to ascribe it to necessity, from the damage suffered in the late
            storm. This, it appears to me, is the Idea which ought to be generally propagated. As I
            doubt not the force of these Reasons will strike you equally with myself, I would
            recommend to you to use your utmost influence to palliate and soften matters, and induce
            those, whose business it is to provide succours of every kind for the fleet, to employ
            their utmost zeal and activity in doing it. It is our duty to make the best of our
            misfortune, and not to suffer passion to interfere with our interest and the public
              good.
          By several late accounts from New York there is reason to beleive the  enemy are on the point of some important movement. They have been some days past
            embarking Cannon and other matters—and yesterday an hundred and forty transports fell
            down to the Hook. These and other circumstances indicate something of moment being in
            contemplation. Whether they meditate any enterprise against this army, mean to transfer
            the War elsewhere, or intend to embrace the present opportunity of evacuating the
            Continent is as yet uncertain. If they have a superior fleet on the Coast, it is not
            impossib⟨le⟩ they may change the seat of the War to the Eastward, endeavouring by a land
            and Sea cooperation to destroy or possess themselves of the French Fleet. With an Eye to
            an event of this kind, I have desired General Sullivan, if he makes good his Retreat
            from the Island, to disband no more of his troops than he cannot help; and I would recommend to you to have an eye to it likewise, and
            by establishing Signals and using other proper precautions to put things in a train for
            calling out your Militia at the shortest notice. I am Dear Sir Your most obt &
            hum: Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant George Hurlbut, 28 August 1778
From: Hurlbut, George
To: Washington, George

            May it please your Excellency
            New Rochel [N.Y.] 28th August 78

          The fleet that were Anchor’d off Frogs point mov’d up Early this Morning, came to
            Anchor off City Island—72. Sail past this place to day, under Convoy of 4. Ships—Chief
            of them appeared to be very deeply Laden, But very few had Forage on deck—above half
            have Anchored off Heart Island, the Remainder joind the Fleet Below—they keep Constanly
            passing & Repassing from one fleet to the other—from your Obd. Servt

            Ge. Hurlbut

            N.B. the last of the fleet past at 2 P.M.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 28 August 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Philadelphia] 28 Augt [1778]

          Since my last of the 20th I have had the honor of receiving Your Excellency’s several
            favors of the 16th, 19th, 21st, 21st and 24th and of presenting them together with the
            several papers which accompanied them to Congress in due course.
          The proceedings of the General Court Martial for the trial of Major General Lee had
            been made an Order of the day for Wednesday the 26th, Congress then ordered the whole to
            be printed. The work is large, and I do not expect it
            from the Press before the 5th of September.
          At present I have only in charge to transmit to Your Excellency an Act of the 26th for
            settling Rations when needful, by commutation of Species. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 28 August 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            [Philadelphia] 28th Augt [1778]

          I am indebted for Your Excellency’s favors of the 20th and 25th, the former receiv’d
            three days since, and the latter while I was in Congress this Morning; this takes my
            immediate attention—I feel convinc’d that had Your Excellency named a sum in Gold and
            apply’d for it to Congress,  an order for the Amount would have
            pass’d without hesitation—but from circumstances which I have more than a few times
            observed to attend Motions made from private Letters by Gentlemen of Merit and influence
            transcending far, any that I presume to claim I feared on your Account Sir, to hazard a
            question in the present case—there is a jealousy in the Minds of Men as unaccountable
            and unreasonable, as it is unnecessary to add a word more upon the subject; to
            contribute, however, towards forwarding Your Excellency’s labours for public good, and
            from a melancholly conviction of the policy and necessity for constantly prosecuting the
            measures for which Gold in the present critical moment is wanted, I have pack’d up a few
            pieces, the particulars noted below, which had been lying by me altogether useless and
            which do not comprehend my whole stock; these may possibly be of immediate service and I
            may be reimburs’d when Congress shall order a supply, which I am persuaded will be in
            the instant of Your Excellency’s demand; be this as it may I intreat Your Excellency
            will permit me to insist upon the receipt and application of this mite. I do not presume
            to offer it to General Washington but as a loan to our Country who will repay me amply
            even by permitting my endeavours to serve her.
          I do not remember that ever an application was made by the Camp Committee of Congress.
            I am more inclined to believe those Gentlemen relied on each other and that neither of
            them attempted the business, but I may be mistaken. I shall without waiting for a
            dispatch from Your Excellency to Congress which I would wish to receive seperately from
            all other business, and with permission to deliver or return it as occasion may require,
            consult a few friends on the point, and if they approve the Measure prevail on one of
            them to move under a proper introduction for 2 or 300 Guineas to be remitted to Your
            Excellency for public service. If more hundreds are necessary Your Excellency will be
            pleas’d to signify it, and even thousands.
          I return Your Excellency my hearty thanks for the kind intimation respecting my Son, or
            as I now hold him, my worthy fellow Citizen, Lieut. Colonel Laurens, which came the more
            acceptably as full three weeks had elapsed since the date of his last Letter. I am With
            the most sincere Esteem & Regard Sir Your Excellency’s much Obliged Humble
            Servant.
          Two double & six single Joannes Two Doubloons Two Pistoles Eleven Guineas
            Contain’d in a Packet to be deliver’d by Messenger Jones.
          P.S. Baron Steuben was much surpris’d at the Act of Congress requesting him to repair
            to Rhode Island, and seems to be very apprehensive the measure will be displeasing at
            Head Quarters. I had been directed during the sitting of Congress to communicate the
            Intelligence receiv’d  from General Sullivan to Monsr Girard, and to
            confer with that Gentleman. I found at my return the
            Resolves on the Table.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 28 August 1778
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Elizth Town [N.J.] 28th Augt 1778

          I forwarded to your Excellency yesterday a Journal from Major Howel with an Acct of
            Lord Hows being saild to the East Ward, 6 or 7 of the Cork Fleet having arived in the
            Hook &Ca which is all confirmed; it is likewise confirmed that the 4 Regts
            returned that was going on board the Fleet. Genl Clinton is on long Islan, it is said
            with 8000 Men but one half is most likely as I have both informations, He was yesterday
            at Hamstead Plains, and was to proceed to great Neck,
            & that 40 flat bottom’d Boats went through Helgate the day before yesterday; his
            destination not known. A Contract for a 100 Transports to take place verry soon. Some
            Querys whether they do not intend to leave New york Statten Island and Long Islan,
            & take post on Rhode Island; where they will be more compact. I had 5 Deserters
            yesterday with their Arms & accoutrements from the 27th Regt on Statten Island
            they came over near Amboy. I expect the 3d N: Carrolina Regt inder Coll Hogan here to
              night. I am your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble
            Servant

            Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 28 August 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Westchester County, N.Y.] 28th Augt 1778 ½ past 5

          I sent You a Message By Capt. Anderson from Volentines hill informing Your Excellency
            of the Fleat in the sound I dispatched Colos. Butler
            & parker from That place for Intelligence, they are Just Returnd from the Waters
            edg opposit them and inform me that there are about  70 Sail Chiefly
            Transports the Bulk of which Lyes about the west end of City Island, A considerable part
            of those vessils came From Frogs point. the others came from The Easter’d. But all come
            too at the Same Place, they Assure me there are no troops on Board. I shall continue to
            watch them and give You every intillegence Possable. Persons are inguaged to Go on
            Board. I am Your Excely Obt Servt

            Chs Scott


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 28 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 28 Augt 1778 12 OClock Noon

          I am exceedingly anxious to hear the determination of yourself and the General Officers
            upon the great reverse of your prospects, since the French Fleet left you. I however
            think it incumbent upon me to inform you, that from a variety of intelligence, Lord Howe
            put to sea again on Tuesday, his design no doubt to
            attempt the relief of New port, which will be easily effected, either by throwing in a
            reinforcement or withdrawing the Garrison, as I take it for granted the French Fleet
            would not have returned, had your protest reached them. I also yesterday received
            information from Long Island, that looks like a great and general move among the British
            Army, the real intent I have not been able to learn, but I think part of it must be
            meant to cooperate with their fleet, especially as many transports are drawn into the
            sound. You will more than probable have come to a decisive resolution either to abandon
            the enterprise or to attack long before this reaches you, but lest you should not, I
            have given you all the information that I have been able to obtain, that you may judge
            more fully of the propriety of remaining upon the Island under such appearances. The
            Wind is now contrary and if it continues a short time, this will reach you before the
            transports can, should they be bound Eastward.
          supposing you should remove from the Island, I desire you will keep as many of your
            troops together as you possibly can. We do not know the views of the enemy, should they
            be Eastward, you may be able with a force already collected, and the assistance of the
            Militia, to keep them from making much progress, untill a reinforcement from this army
            would join you.
          I will just add a hint, which, made use of in time, may prove important, and answer a
            very salutary purpose. Should the expedition fail, thro’ the
            abandonment of the French Fleet, the Officers concerned will be apt to complain loudly. But prudence dictates that we should put
            the best face upon the matter and, to the World, attribute the removal to Boston, to
            necessity. The Reasons are too obvious to need explaining. The principal one is, that
            our British and internal enemies would be glad to improve the least matter of complaint
            and disgust against and between us and our new Allies into a serious rupture. I am
            &c.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 29 August 1778
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir.
            Poughkeepsie [N.Y.] Augt 29th 1778.

          I am this moment honored with the Receipt of your Excellency’s Letter of Yesterday; In
            consequence of which it shall be my first Business to order out a Detachment of the
            Militia to strengthen the Garrisons in the Highlands; tho’ I much doubt (considering the
            large proportion which are constantly kept out on the frontiers) whether I shall be able
            to march and keep out at those Posts for any considerable Time, a number larger than the
            least mentioned in your Excellency’s Letter; especially as the Service in Garrison is
            not so agreable to them as that of the field At the same Time I have not the least
            Doubt, if any Movements of the Enemy should render it necessary that I shall be able to
            draw out a considerable force to join the Army immediately under your Excellency’s
            command; and I will immediately make the necessary Disposition for that Purpose.
          The People having entertained high expectations from the Operations of the Fleet and
            Army at Rhode Island will without Doubt be disappointed on finding that Count D’Estaign
            has left that Place and is gone to Boston: however I hope they will suppose it for the
            best; and that the Injuries the Fleet must have sustained in the late Storm has
            occasioned  this sudden movement. I have the honor to be with the
            greatest Regard Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

            Geo: Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Peter Gansevoort, 29 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gansevoort, Peter

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 29 August 1778

          I have just received your favor of the 18th Instant.
          Inclosed is a copy of a letter sent you some time ago respecting the court martial you
              transmitted.
          The spirit of desertion which possessed your soldiers was certainly very alarming and
            required a serious check. I hope the intention of the example you have made will be
            fully answered; and altho’ the proceeding was not strictly in the prescribed form, yet
            the necessity of the case may justify the measure.
          I have spoken to Lieut. Colonel Willet on the application of the officers of the
            garrison. It is impossible to comply at present with their request, things are so
            circumstanced—but I shall take steps to releive it before winter. I am Sir your Obt hble servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant George Hurlbut, 29 August 1778
From: Hurlbut, George
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New Rochel [N.Y.] 29th Augst 78

          I am set don to inform your Excellency the Fleet, are now at Anchor Betwen Horse
            & Rye Neck—the Guard Ship of 16. Guns has been
            Stationed, Sixteen Months, Betwen Heart, & City, Island is now with the
            fleet—two Briggs and a small Tender, is left in her place—a few small Sloops, are now
            Sailing for Newyork. I am your Excellency’s most Obed. Servt

            Ge. Hurlbut


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Johnson, 29 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Johnson, Thomas

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 29th Augt 1778

          I am honored with yours of the 12th inst. I very
            highly approve of the determination of your Council to reinlist the nine months Men at
            this period; if it is left undone, untill the time of their service is near expiring, it
            will be almost impossible to re-engage them. I, some time ago, pointed out to Congress
            the expediency of adopting this measure but as yet have
            not received their Answer. The money supplied by the Board of treasury to the pay Master
            General is barely sufficient to pay the monthly abstracts of the Army, and to defray
            other contingent expences; I therefore have it not in my power to advance the state
            Bounty of 40 dollars, out of the military Chest: Indeed I should not be authorised to
            advance it, without the special order of Congress, did the state of the Chest allow it.
            I have the Honor &c.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 29 August 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Dear sir.
            Philadelphia 29th Augt 1778

          I did my self the honour of writing to Your Excellency yesterday by Jones to which I
            beg leave to refer.
          this Morning upon enquiry I was confirmed in my belief that the former Camp Committee
            had made no application to Congress for Gold or Silver to be deposited in Your
            Excellency’s hands for public uses, wherefore I suggested to two or three Members the
            necessity & utility of establishing such a fund & prevailed upon one of
            the Gentlemen to move the House for that purpose, the motion was accepted, &
            without a pause, the sum of five hundred Guineas voted, these I shall presently receive
            & if possible convey them to Your Excellency under the protection of Capt.
            Josiah Stoddard of the Light Dragoons.
          I have just received new addresses to Congress from the British Commissioners at New
            York—Govr Johnstone, in graceless & almost scurrilous terms without exonerating
            himself from the charges alleged against him submits to the Decree of Interdiction
            lately pronounced by Congress, Nor do the Gentlemen, late his Coadjutors so highly
            resent the proceedings on our part as to refuse to treat without the support of the
            Governor’s name.

          Your Excellency will judge best from their respective performances on the present
            occasion, Copies of which shall accompany this Letter.
          I take the liberty of inclosing with the present dispatches a Letter directed to Lieutt
            Colo. Laurens under a flying Seal & of requesting Your Excellency to peruse a
            paragraph contained in it which speaks of a Monsr Galvan.
          Monsr Girard is exceedingly affected by the late determinations on the Water near Rhode
            Island & has communicated his sentiments to me with great candor. Good accounts
            from General Sullivan will do more towards recovering him from a slight intermittent
            which really seized that Gentleman immediately after he had received Monsr Chouin’s
            Letter, than four Ounces of Bark—indeed I never saw
            people in general more anxious than my acquaintances are, under the present
            suspense—within the next two hours I make no doubt there will be fifty enquirers for
            news within this door. I remain with the utmost Regard Dear sir Your Excellency’s
            Obliged & hum. servt

            Henry Laurens private


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 29 August 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Westchester County, N.Y.] 29th August 1778.

          Inclosed is the intelligence I this moment received from Colls Butler &
              Parker. I am your Excellencys Obedient Servt

            Chs Scott


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Stark, 29 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Stark, John

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 29th Augt 1778.

          I have duly recd yours of the 13th 18th 19th and 21st instants to which I shall reply
            in course. I have desired the pay Master General to
            appoint a deputy at Albany and to supply him with the proper Sums to pay the troops to
            the Northward. I have it not in my power to make you any extra allowance for your
            expences, an application upon that head must be made to Congress. If Capt. McKeens
            Company of Rangers is raised for a limited time to answer any good purpose, I have no
            objection to their being taken into continental pay, but if they are intended to be a
            permanent Corps, and to act in one particular district, I have the same objection to
            them, that I have to all Corps raised for local purposes, and cannot give my sanction to
            them, if they are upon such terms—I will desire Genl Knox to order some 2. 3 and 4 pound
            shot to be sent to Albany—The application for Cloathing for Colo. Whitcombs Rangers
            should have been made to the Cloathier General. I have not seen Lt Mott, who you say is
            sent down for the Cloaths, but when he arrives I will direct him in what manner to make
            the application in a proper manner.
          The appointment of a deputy Commissary in the room of Mr Winship lays intirely with the
            Commy General. He has been informed of  Mr Winships intended
            resignation, and will no doubt take care to appoint another.
          I shall lay yours of the 21st respecting the Deputy Qr Mr at Albany before the Qr Mr
            Gen. and shall desire him to make enquiry into so extraordinary a conduct as you
              represent. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 29 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dear Sir,
            Head Quarters White Plains Aug. 29th 1778 9 oClock P.M.

          I wrote to you yesterday, informing you, that a number of transports were in the sound.
            Last night they got under way and proceeded Eastward as far as opposite to Oyster bay;
            where they seem to have been stopped by the wind being contrary. There were from sixty
            to seventy sail. From every intelligence it appears certain, that a considerable number
            of troops have crossed over to Long Island; and different reports say, that they have
            been embarked on board the transports in the Sound. One account mentions, that Sir Henry
            Clinton himself is with them, with five thousand men.
            But however these particulars may be, there can be no doubt, that every exertion is
            making to relieve Rhode Island. I am with great regard Dear Sir Your most Obedt Ser.

            Go: Washington

            P.S. About 50 of the above transports were topsail vessels.


Title: General Orders, 30 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters W. Plains August 30th 1778.
            Parole Industry—C. Signs Ireton. Ixworth—

          The General Court Martial of the Line whereof Coll Hazen is President is dissolved and
            another is ordered to sit tomorrow nine oClock at the usual place to try all such
            Persons as shall be brought before them.
          Colonel Humpton is appointed President, Lieutt Coll Miller, Major Thompson and a
            Captain from each Brigade except Nixon’s Late Larned’s & Waynes are to attend as
              Members.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Epaphras Bull, 30 August 1778
From: Bull, Epaphras
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Sunday Morning 9 OClock [30 August 1778]

          I have to Inform your Excellency that between 7 and 8 OClock the Fleet made Sail and
            Stood on to the Etward, the Transport, which I mentioned as having Troops on board Last
            Night, appeard to have them to day, they are now almost out of Sight. I have the Honour to be your Excellencys Mot Obt Sert

            Epaps Bull


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 30 August 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Philadelphia] 30th Augt [1778]

          I had the honor of addressing Your Excellency twice on the 28th Instant by Jones, in that which was written last, I ought more explicitly
            to have acknowledged the reciept and presentment to Congress of Your Excellencys favor
            of the 25th and of Copies of the several Papers from General Sullivan’s Camp.
          Congress Yesterday ordered the public Treasurer to pay into my hands five hundred
            Guineas to be transmitted to Your Excellency to be expended at your discretion Sir, for
            public service. These I have put under a firm cover and
            committed the safe conveyance and delivery of the package to the bearer of this Captain
            Josiah Stoddard of the 2nd Regt of Light Dragoons.
          Captain Stoddard has been long soliciting Congress on behalf of himself and twelve
            other Memorialists of the same Regiment for a compensation equivalent to their extra
            expence in equipping themselves for the service in which they are engaged. The Memorial
            was committed and a Report made which together with divers concomitant Papers are
            referred to the present Committee of Arrangement at Camp who are desired by an Act of
            Yesterdays’ date, to make necessary enquiries of Your Excellency respecting the
            application of Captain Stoddard, I shall therefore for Your Excellencys’ information
            inclose with this a Copy of the abovemention’d Act. I
            have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 30 August 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Westchester County, N.Y.] 9 oClock 30th Augt 1778

          I have inteligence from York by good Authority that Seven of the Cork fleet is
            arived—Which Braught 600 Marins, that they war imbarking Heavy Cannon Yesterday and
            other Stors, 4 or 5 Brigads imbarked two days ago part of which Was from long Island,
            those from York Saild Out at the Hook the others eastward, all the remainder Of the
            fleat was taking in Stors, it is the Genl oppinion of the Inhabitance that the enemy Are
            about to leave New York with all possable Dispatch. But they themselves give out that
            they are upon Som expedition to the eastward, it is Currantly reported in York two Days
            ago that Genl Sullaven had withdrawn his troops from Rhod Island. I shall have farther
            Accts tomorrow by the very best Authority, be assurd That every possable Care shall be
            taken to get the Eearliest intillegence. I am Your Excellencys Obt Servt

            Chs Scott


Title: From George Washington to Joseph de Valnais, 30 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Valnais, Joseph de

            Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 30th Augt 1778

          I recd yours of the 18th and was not a little surprised to find it contain a request
            for a certificate of your services in the American Army. You must be sensible that Colo. la Balme, to whom you were appointed Aid, never
            entered upon the duties of his Office of Inspector of Cavalry,  and
            that consequently you could never have given any proof of your Abilities. I shall ever
            be ready to give testimonials of the Merit of Officers, where there services have come
            under my own observation; but it is not to be imagined
            that I should sit down & write certificates for gentlemen who have afforded me
            no opportunities of approving their conduct. I am Sir &c. &.


Title: To George Washington from John Augustine Washington, 30 August 1778
From: Washington, John Augustine
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from John Augustine Washington, 30 Aug. 1778.
            On 23 Sept., GW wrote John Augustine Washington: “Your Letter of the 30th Ulto came to
            my hand a few days ago.”


Title: General Orders, 31 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters W. Plains Monday Augt 31st 1778.
            Parole Leonidas—C. Signs Liberty. Law.

          A board of Field-Officers to sit this afternoon in General Poor’s Brigade to settle the
            relative Rank of the Majors and Captains in said Brigade; Colonels Hazen, Scammell
            & Cilley will compose the Court; One Officer at least from each Regiment to
            attend the board.
          General Poor will appoint a Captain from each Regiment and a Field Officer as President
            to settle the relative rank of the subalterns.
          At a Brigade General Court Martial Augt 22nd 1778—Coll Greaton President—Lieutt Welch
            of Coll Putnam’s Regiment was tried for challenging Captain Barns to fight a Duel and
            for insulting and abusive language offered to him (Captain Barns) found guilty of the
            Charge exhibited against him & sentenced to be cashiered.
          The Commander in Chief is not fully satisfied that Lieutt Welch’s behaviour to Captain
            Barns amounted to a challenge in the sense intended by the Articles of War, nevertheless
            his conduct was highly culpable & merited a sentence similar to that passed by
            the Court.
          The indecent heat and fury with which he acted and the Insult and Abuse given to
            Captain Barns which appeared to have been unprovoked are certainly a high Impeachment of
            his Discretion—Nevertheless the good Character, the General has heard of him as an
            Officer induces Him to restore Lieutt Welch to his command.

          At another Brigade General Court-Martial August 20th—Major Lee President, Captn Ewell
            of the 1st Virginia State Regiment was tried—1st “For embezzling money the property of
            several soldiers” and 2ndly “For Embezzling Cloathing belonging to the Public”—acquitted
            of the 1st charge but found guilty of the 2nd—and sentenced to be reprimanded in General
            orders. The General disapproves the sentence; For if Captain Ewell was guilty of the
            Charge of embezling public Cloathing, the sentence is entirely inadequate to the
            offence; if he was not guilty he ought to have been acquitted—He is to be released from
            his Arrest.
          The Regimental Surgeons are to be supplied with Paper by the Brigade Qr Masters.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Theodorick Bland, 31 August 1778
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

            Sr
            Petersbgh [Va.] Augt 31st 1778

          When yr order dated White Plains Augt 3d reached me, I was in Williamsburgh, whither I
            had gone to make application, to the Governor & Council for such horses Arms
            & accoutrements as had been furnished for Genl Nelsons Corps, which had now
            become useless to them by their being disbanded; An order for which I obtaind.
            Immediately on the receipt of yrs I repaird to this place to put every thing in a
            condition, to comply with your commands as speedily as possible, I (with some of  the officers) have however been so unfortunate as to be attacked with
            the fever and Ague, which will necessarily retard our march; but altho I did not receive
            yr Favor untill the 24th of August I am in hopes I shall be able to set off the whole
            party tomorrow or next day at furthest, and shall march them with all possible
            expedition to Camp. I need not Recount to you Sr the Innumerable, matters that I have to
            adjust here in the Course of the great and various transactions that have been for some
            time past under my direction nor the Embarrasment under which I labour, on account of my
            being streighten’d for money, and the necessity of either continuing to purchase on
            credit or remaining Idle on expences with the whole party for some time past. My
            departure on that acct occasions no small uneasiness to those of whom I have purchased
            many Articles, & not less to me, who have pawnd my Credit. I have however left
            Capt. Lewis, to see to the finishing of The Accoutrements, and to discharge the Various
            debts for Horses &c. which I must leave unpaid. And as yr Excellency some time
            ago recommended to me to have respect to recruitg a troop for that Gentn I have left
            Cornet White who will probably belong to that troop, & a serjeant with a few men
            as well to assist him in that business. as, to bring up such men & horses as may
            not be fit to march. Capt. Lewis is at present
            unfortunately ill at home I have expected him here two days past, but have been
            disappointed. this will I fear prevent my setting off with the party, but shall not
            prevent my overtaking them on their march if my own health will suffer me, I hope soon
            again to Join the Army & am in the mean time with the greatest respect Yr Excy’s
            Most obedt & very H. Sert

            Theok Bland


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel William Butler, 31 August 1778
From: Butler, William
To: Washington, George

            May it please your Excellency
            Schohara [N.Y.] Augt 31st 1778

          Your letter of the 13th Instant I received Yesterday, my most Grateful Acknowledgment
            is due your Excellency for the good Opinion you are pleased to mention of me &
            it shall ever be my Study to Merit the Honor your Excellency has done me.
          Matters is Quiet here at present—Since my last I have
            had three Scouts out consisting of about 150 Men they continued out six days &
               have been on the Heads of Susquehannah & Delaware—They met
            with none of the Enemy during their excursions except a few Tories two of whom they took
            & Captn Posey left them in the Care of three of the Militia while he pursued
            further, upon their Attempting to escape, the Guard Fired on them & Shot one,
            the other escaped.
          In my last I Acquainted your Excellency of my parties having drove off the Cattle that
            were within limits of the Frequent excursions of the Enemy, which I at the same time
            Acquainted General Stark with, who directed them to be sold for the use of the
              Captors—I shou’d not However have Sold them ’till
            your Excellencys pleasure had been known, But the Scarcity of Pasture Obliges it to be
            done—I have permitted none to be Sold But those Belonging to persons who are or have
            been in Arms against us, the rest I have ordered to be given up, & some part
            even to the Wives of those now with the Enemy such as Milk Cattle.
          My Reason for troubling your Excellency on thi⟨s⟩ Occasion is that it is my Opinion
            that Genl Stark & so⟨me⟩ persons in Power in this State is not at a good
            Understanding—I shall therefore have regular Accounts of the Sales Kept, & the
            Money Accruing detain’d until your Excellencys pleasure shall be known.
          Inclosed I send your Excellency some intelligence I received a few days ago by a
              Spy.
          In my last I mentioned to your Excellency of my having proposed to Genl Stark a plan
            for Acting Offensively against the Enemy, But his Sentiments & mine in some
            particulars do not agree, I shall however in a few days go to Albany & Consult
            the Genl personally on that Subject & will inform your Excellency of the
            result.
          The Officer sent to Camp for Cloathing is returned But had the Misfortune (having part
            of the Articles mentioned in his Order to receive at Fish Kilns) Not to meet with the
            Clothier at that place who on his Arrival there was gone to Camp—Shoes the most Material
            Article he has brought none, The Rifle Choir [Corps] on joining me were almost Barefoot
            & are now scarce able to do duty for want of Shoes, the Case is very little
            better with my own Regement, As my sole dependance are in these two Choirs I take the
            liberty to Beg your Excellency woud Order a supply. I remain with respect Yr Excellency
            Hble Servt

            Wm Butler


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 31 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

            sir
            Head Qrs White plains August 31: 1778. 3 OClock P.M.

          I would take the liberty to inform Congress, that Colo. Armand is come to camp with his
            Corps and has applied to me for Commissions for his Officers. By the Resolution for
            establishing the Corps it was to be officered out of the Foreigners then commissioned in
            our service, who were not, nor could be provided for in any of the Regiments. Instead of this, there are only three Officers in his Corps,
            who before held any Commissions in our service, Viz. Lieut. Colo. Vrigney &
            Captains Mercley & Shafner. The Two last were only Lieutenants and are  now appointed to Captaincies, contrary it seems to me, to the spirit
            and intention of the Resolution. As Colo. Armand has departed from his instructions
            which must govern me, I am not authorised to grant the Commissions he requires—and am
            therefore under the necessity of troubling Congress, with the arrangement of the Corps,
            No. 1, as it now actually stands for their consideration & decision. The Colo. founds his deviation from the Resolve upon some
            verbal intimation given him, that the part in question would not be insisted on.
          I would also take the liberty to mention, that General Duportail lately delivered me a
            Memorial, in which among other things he represents, that he had made an agreement with
            Congress at his first appointment, that neither himself nor the other Gentlemen with
            him, should ever be commanded by any of the Engineers who had preceded them in our
              Army. I could not but answer, that the Commissions of
            Officers were the only rule of precedency and command I had to judge by; and while
            others held superior appointments, I must consider them accordingly in the course of
            service. He gave me the inclosed Letter to you upon the subject—and is extremely anxious
            to have the matter placed upon a certain footing; and no doubt it will be for the good
            and tranquility of the service that the claim be determined as speedily as possible one
            way or the other. At the same time I think it right to
            observe, that it can not be expected that Colo. Cosciusko, who has been a good while in
            this line and conducted himself with reputation and satisfaction will consent to act in
            a subordinate capacity to any of the French Gentlemen, except General Portail.
          The frequent condemnations to Capital punishment, for want of some intermediate one
            between that and a Hundred lashes (the next highest under our present military
            articles)—and the necessity of frequent pardons in consequence, induced me a few days
            ago, to lay the matter before a Board of Officers for them to consider, whether some
            mode might not be devised of equal or greater efficacy for preventing crimes and
            punishing Delinquents when they had happened, less shocking to humanity and more
            advantageous to the States, than that of Capital execution. The inclosed paper No. 3
            contains the opinion of the Board upon the subject, which with all deference I submit to
            the consideration of Congress—and doubt not but they
            will adopt the expedient suggested, if it shall appear in any wise calculated to promote
            the service. I will only observe before I conclude upon this occasion, that when I
            called the Board to consult upon the point, there were Eleven prisoners under sentence
            of death and probably many more for trial, in the different guards on charges, that
            would affect their lives.
          Since I had the honor of writing you on the 25 Instant, I have not received a single
            line from General Sullivan. The only intelligence I have  from the
            Eastward is from Monsr Pontjebeau. This Gentleman left
            Rhode-Island the 27th and arrived about Two Hours ago in Camp. From him I learn that our
            people were still on the Island. That it was generally thought they had made effectual
            provision for a retreat in case of exigency. That in the evening of that day he met
            Monsr preville, an Officer belonging to the Languedoc, at providence going with
            dispatches to Genl Sullivan, who informed him that the French fleet had got into Boston.
            He further adds, that Monsr Colonne, who was in company with him at providence and who
            had more conversation with Mr preville than he himself had, told him, that Mr preville
            said Count D’Estaing had sailed or was on the point of sailing again for Rhode Island
            with 10 Ships of the line & his Frigates. I
            have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem sir Yr Most Obedt servt

            Go: Washington

            P.S. Your favor of the 20th only came to hand just now.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 31 August 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Philadelphia] 31st Augt [1778]

          Yesterday I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency by Captain Josiah Stoddard who
            was so obliging as to take upon him the safe conduct of 500 Guineas to be lodged in Your
            Excellencys’ hands for public service.
          Be pleas’d Sir to receive here inclosed an Act of Congress of the present date for
            engaging in Confederal Service for three Years or during the War such of the drafts of
            the Militia as are at present incorporated in the Battalions of the respective
              States.
          If twenty dollars bounty shall be found insufficient to accomplish the purpose intended
            by the Act Your Excellency will be pleas’d to signify to Congress what sum will in Your
            Excellencys’ opinion be necessary. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Malcom, 31 August 1778
From: Malcom, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            West point [N.Y.] Augt 31. 1778

          Ten days ago, I called for returns from the Regiments whose lines were near
            expired—they made them but Acknowledge few Stores, Such as they please they deliver—I
            have wrote to the Q: M. General for his charges against them—and the enclosed to Colonel
            Stevens I expect will procure an account of the arms & ammunition they drew
            & which was delivered to them by him or his conductor.
          Your Excellencys orders on this head shall be punctually attended to—If a Sufficeint
            Number are not returned for Poor’s Regt I shall send to Fish Kill to the armourers Shop
            for more.
          Some of Burgoynes men behave very ill—I put them, & some other fellows under
            the care of one of my Officers, but I believe I shall be oblidged to Send them to the
            Guard House at Fish Kill.
          Is Rum part of a Ration? the Militia insist for ticketts from the Commissary when they
            do not get their Gill. I have consider’d the matters, as discretional in the Commanding
            officer—and have occassionally ordered Rum to be Issued—perhaps every third or fourth
            day—The men on fatigue draw regularly.
          Is it your Excellencys pleasure that Capt. Lewis of the Galley engage Seaman—Several
            have offer’d—at present I have put a few Batteaux men on board.
          I am getting as many old arms repaird as there are Artifficers, Waggoners &c.
            in Garrison—but do not mean to Issue them unless a prospect of Service.
          No accounts of the Gun boats—I most respectfully am Your Excellencys most obedient
            Servant

            W. Malcom


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 31 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

            D. Sir
            Head Qrs [White Plains] 31 Augt 1778

          It is at this present crisis extremely interesting to our conduct to learn with
            exactness and certainty the force that is reported to have sailed for New Port by way of
            the Sound, & that from the Hook, and whose command they are under. It will be
            necessary to discover what particular corps have been embarked—what baggage—what heavy
               cannon and artillery and how the transports (those especially that
            sailed from the hook[)] were provided with provisions, whither for a long or short
            voyage.
          You will without loosing a moment imploy the best means in your power to answer these
            several purposes—and in case you are possessed of intelligence on any of those subjects
            you will send me it as soon as possible. I have only to recommend great diligence and
            dispatch in this matter. I am &c.
          You will send the inclosed to Col. Ogden.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 31 August 1778
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Elizth Town [N.J.] 31st Augt 1778

          Coll D’Hart having some bussiness to transact at Camp, he has obtained my leave for
            that purpose. I have had intiligen[c]e from New York though not d[i]rectly or by so good
            authority as I could wish, yet it is believed & I believe it, that a part of
            Birons Fleet has arived about 3 days ago Viz. five large Ships, that the Officers has
            been seen and spoke with in New York. I have attempted
            to send some people for intiligence this two nights pass’d but they have deceived me
            both times. If the English Vessels is comin as believed I am surprised I have not had
            intiligence of it from Major Howel. We are in great
            suspence here about Rhode Island & Genl Sullivan as we have heard that the
            French Fleet is gone to Boston & that General Clinton is gone up the sound I am.
            Your Excellency Most Obedt Humble Servt

            Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Joshua Mersereau, 31 August 1778
From: Mersereau, Joshua
To: Washington, George

            Sr
            Boston August 31—1778

          I have Just recpd a letter from Col. Boudinot, informing me that great offence has been
            given, for my sending so many of the Convention officers on Parole to the enemy—and
            taking considerable sums of money from them for that favour.
          The latter I do deny—the former I had Authority for, or at least, Such as would Justify
            my Conduct, hoping To release our officers.
          so soon as the Prisnors Taken by The Count De Estang, are secur’d and Provided for—and
            the Officers Prisnors of war, With The remaind⟨er⟩ of the 71 Rt in this State are Sent
            away—I propose Wating on your Excelency to remov⟨e⟩ any Doubts, or Charge tha[t]s been
            brought against me—if I have Err’d it’s for Want of Judgment, I have not let one man go
            in Without Genl Heaths approbation. I always made it a rule to consult him first—as to
            the mony beg the favour, of knowing the names of the Complainants, as I am confident
            that there is not an officer of the Convention, can say that they have given me one
            Single Farthing—Capt. Vigars Made me a presant of 2 pare of Pistols, tho I never Got but
            3 of them one being lost.
          four weeks ago part of the 71 Rt 129 men & 84 Women and Children I sent to
            Providence, on their Way to new Port, agreeable to Col. Boudinots orders—they were
            order’d back by Genl Sulivan, and not permitted to go—I apply’d to Genl Heath for
            permittion to Send them by New London, New Haven or some other Rout to New York—Who
            refer’d me to Your Excelency for Directions, Which I shall Chearfully execute.
          I am hiring a Prisson Ship here, for the reception of the Count De Estangs Prisnors and
            about 40 taken by Capt. Skimer Who Was kill’d in the engagement—5 prises ariv’d this Day—a fleet is Said to be off here some
            say it’s an English fleet others that it’s a French Fleet, others that they are
              prises—the German officers beg the favour of staying
            here till the privates go in also—if they are not Exchang’d Soon; there must be Chimneys
            built in the barn, Where the Germains and 53 Rt are kept; as it Will be too Cold Without
            fire in Winter, and bad building Chimneys then beg the favour of your Excelency’s or
            Col. Baty’ Direction in this case, as there is no room in the Barracks for those men, I
            hav⟨e⟩ been oblidg’d to make many Shifts, for Want of instrutions, it having been So  Difficult to get them; in this, out of the Way place—many letters have
            miscarrie’d others 6 & 8 wee⟨ks⟩ before I recpd them. I have the Honor To be
            your Excelency’s most Obedt Hum: Servt

            Joshua Mersereau

            P.s. please to Direct to the Care of Genl Heath.


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 31 August 1778
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

            Dear General.
            Congress [Philadelphia] 31st August 1778.

          I wrote you a Letter long since which went backwards & whether it hath ever Yet
            got so far forwards as to reach you I am utterly incapacitated even to guess trusting
            however that you have got or will get it I shall not from Memory repeat what if there at
            all is at best but faintly traced.
          At present I trouble you on the Subject of recruiting your Army which is at this Moment
            in Debate before the House. It hath been proposed to give ten Dollars in Specie and ten
            Square Dollars to Recruits which I have offered and it is determined in the
              Negative. I will not fatigue you with the Reasons
            opperating on my Mind they derived not inconsiderably from the probable Consequences of
            the Measure even upon the Army. Among others I fear to inflame the Rapacity of Soldiers
            with the Love by the Possession of a Metal of which we have such a
            plentiful Lack. However let me have your Sentiments for I can promise you a Mind open to
            Conviction if you differ in Opinion desirous of Information in all Cases and willing to
            urge your good Reasons should the Matter be again opened.
          I can send you no News and therefore I shall only repeat what you knew before that I am
            most sincerely yours

            Gouvr Morris

            My Compliments to Bannister to Genl Reed to all Friends.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Thomas Posey, 31 August 1778
From: Posey, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            May it Please your Excellency
            Schoharry [N.Y.] 31st Augt 1778

          I acnoledge the Rect of your Favr, bearing Date 5th Inst., incloseing a Warrent for
            2500 Dollors, with a Letter for Jonathan Burrel Esqr. Assistant Paymaster Albaney.
          as my time has been much taken up with Duty, have not had the opportunity to apply for
            the money, however the men has not sufferd, as Got money upon my Cr. &
            Distributed amongst them, for which I shall acct with the Paymaster of the Rifle Regt,
            he Arivd here 26th Inst. with 2 months Pay, If
            necessity Oblidges me to make use of the Warrent I Shall, If not I will Return it. I am
            with Respect Your Obedt Humle sert

            Thomas Posey.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 31 August 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            [Westchester County, N.Y.] 31st Augt 1778 ½ past 5 oClock

          I recd Your Favour through Colo. Tilghman, Particular attention shall be paid to
              it, Capt. Leavensworth is now on long Island for that
              purpose But fearing he may Fail I will Dispatch a
            nother Person, about 8 oClock this morning Colo. Gist Fell in with a partie of the enemy
               about two mile Below Philaps’s hous and after exchanging a fiew
            Shot they gave way leaving one killed Dead & Making three prisoners the Colo.
            Returnd to his Usial post without any loss—But I am sorry To inform Your Excellency that
            they retalliated on us in a Very fiew hours, Majr Steward with a partie of about forty,
            and Capt. Nimham with about the Same number parted at Volentines hill and appointed to
            meet at the forks of a road near the Enemys Picquet, but before or Rather about their
            meeting they saw a partie of horse In front after exchanging a fiew Shot the Horse Gave
            way the indians persued when they war led Into an ambucade Serounded by a large body of
            Horse and foot, as was also the Majrs partie there are not more than fourteen Indians
            Yet com in among the missing is Capt. Nimham his father and the whole of the officers of
            that Corps, Majr Steward tells me that he misses a Capt. Sub. & About twenty men
            from his partie, I am in Hopes it is not so bad as it at Preasant appears But I cant
            promise my self that it will be much Short of it—I have
            Detached Colo. parker with Three Hundred men to reinforce and Stay with Majr Steward
            this night and endeavour to ⟨brek⟩ Up their Ambuscade in the morning. I am Your Excys
            Obt Servt

            Chs Scott


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Stark, 31 August 1778
From: Stark, John
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Albany 31st August 1778

          I Embrace this opportunity to Inform you of our Situation, the Inhabitants are daily
            bringing in petitions for the Losses they have Received by the Army, one Petition I send
            you for your Approbation, would be glad of your opinion on the Matter, I believe the
            House was Moved & is Still Occupyed by the Troops.
          Lt Colo. Butler and some of his party, has been into the Enemies Country, and Brougth
            in, a number of Cattle, Horses, &c., which he Thinks (& I agree with him
            in opinion) that they are Lawfull Prises to the Captors, but the Committee of this
            place, Claims them, as belonging to this State, altho in the Possession of the Enemy,
            before Butler took them, your opinion on this Subject, may prevent a good deal of
            Uneasiness, between the Troops, and the Committee.
          I send you the Judgment of a Court Martial sent to me from Colo. Butler for your
            Approbation, according to the mans Behaviour I think that he ought to die, for after he
            had shot the Searjeant he said he would be willing to be Hanged if he could have an
            opportunity to kill one of the Officers.
          I Likewise send you one of Burgoynes men which were Included in the Convention which
            was Taken with the Enemy as will appear by his Crime & four Sailors taken at
            Crownpoint that Belonged to the Enemies Ships on the Lakes. I am sir yours with Great
            Respect

            John Stark


Title: Council of War, 1 September 1778
From: Council of War
To:

            [White Plains, 1 September 1778]

          At a Council of War held at Head Quarters in Camp at White plains Septr 1st 1778
          Present The Commander in Chief

              Major Genls
              Brigadr Generls

              Putnam
              Nixon

              Gates
              Parsons

              Stirling
              Jas Clinton

              Lincoln
              Smallwood

              D’Kalb
              Knox

              McDougal
              Poor

              Paterson

              Wayne

              Woodford

              Muhlenburg

              Scott

              Huntington

              DuPortail

          The Commander in Chief states to the Council, that by a Letter of the 23d Ulto from
            General Sullivan, it appears that the French fleet under the command of His Excellency
            Vice Admiral Count D’Estaing, in consequence of damage sustained in a violent storm off
            the coast and from other weighty considerations, had left Rhode Island on the 21st in
            their way to Boston, there to refit. That by another Letter of the 29th he is informed,
            General Sullivan and the Troops under his command had the preceding evening retreated
            from the position they before occupied, to the North East end of the Island, where an
            Action  had ensued, in which the American Troops were finally
            successful, though not without considerable loss.
          He further informs them, that by various accounts from New York and other places, the
            Enemy some time since, had detached a body of about 1200 hundred men under General
            Tryon, on a foraging party on Long Island, which was last heard of at Setocket. That
            besides this, other Troops had from time to time passed over to Long Island; amounting
            in the whole, according to intelligence, to a considerable number. That some days since,
            a Fleet of about Sixty sail of Transports, great & small, had proceeded Eastward
            through the sound; in which it ⟨is⟩ supposed, the Troops or part of them on Long Island
            had embarked, and some repor⟨ts⟩ say under the command of General Clint⟨on⟩ for the
            relief of Rhode Island. That if the Detachments said to have been sent to Rhode Island
            are really gone, the number of t⟨he⟩ Enemy’s troops there, will amount to  the
            number of those remaining at New Yor⟨k⟩ and its dependencies about 9,000. That our force at this post is 12,772 rank a⟨nd⟩ file fit for
            duty, exclusive of men retu⟨rned⟩ on command.
          His Excellency finally inform⟨s⟩ the Council, that a Gentleman who cam⟨e⟩ express from
            Rhode Island assures him, that he met an Officer, belonging to the Languedoc, One of the
            French fleet, the 27th of August in the Evening at providence, going with dispatches to
            General Sullivan, who informed him of the arrival of the french fleet at Boston; which
            had been joined by the Cæsar a 74 Gun ship, separated in the storm, and who, he also
            understood, mentioned that the fleet, consisting of ten sail of the line & three
            frigates, was on the point of leaving Boston or had sailed for Rhode Island—and would be
            there by the time of his (the Gentleman’s) return.
          The Commander in chief having stated these facts for the consideration of the Council,
            requests their opinion,

            1st Whether any operations can be undertaken at the present juncture by this
              Army—and of what kind—Whether a movement of the whole or a princip⟨a⟩l part of it to
              the Eastward, will be adv⟨isa⟩ble, and afford a prospect of advantage?
            2. In case a movement to the Eastward should be thought proper, what measures and
              precautions should be taken for the security of the Highland passes?
            3. Or whether an attempt with such a probability of success as will justify it,
              can be made upon New York in it’s present circumstances? In determining the foregoing points—the General requests the
              Council will take into view the practicability of supplying the Army with provisions,
              if it should be judged expedient to move to the Eastward.


Title: Memorandum of Campaign Plans, 1 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            [c.1 Sept. 1778]

          Scotts light Infantry 1000—A Detachment of the same Number under Wayne & the
            whole Commanded by Genl McDougal to Imbark at  and land opposite to Morriss
            House at Hærlem—A Detachment of  Men from this body to Land in the Cove under
            Fort Washington & endeavour to surprize it—some Germans to be with this party to
            answer if hailed in that language & signify that it is a party from Spiting
            devil by Water. Another Detachment to land at the Hollow between Fort Washington and the
            Hill at the Mouth of Spiting devil and to proceed immediately to the redoubt on the last
            mentioned Hill & possess themselves of it—If possible this is to be done without
            medling with or going near the Guards—If these detachments succeed they must turn the
            Cannon immediately upon the Enemy & must maintain the Works at all adventures.
            each party must have Artillerists with them. General McDougal is in the first place to
            possess himself of the chain of redoubts below Morriss & then Act from
            Circumstances, keeping these as places of security & retreat. This Imbarkation
            must be made with great secresy—the Boats must be brought from above Tarry town under
            cover of Night, or if brought down before the hour they are wanted appearances of
            getting them over to the Sound, must be throw⟨n⟩ out to create an Idea that long Island
            is the object—some Boats must actually be taken across to Marineck to confirm this. At
            the place of Imbarkation Guards are to be Stationed & Centries established to
            prevent any persons from prying—Guard Boats, before the Boats for Transporting Troops or
            the Troops themselves are put in motion are to be down a little above the Enemys
            advanced posts on the No. River & stop every thing moving on the Water. All the
            Cavalry are to be sent down before the March of the Troops are known and are to  form a compleat Chain around the Enemy & suffer nothing to go
            in and secure all that come out & send them to me by the Road leading to
            Valentines. The Army to March in three Columns—the Right Wing under the Command of Genl
             by Philips—the left Wing by Judge Wards & Drakes—and the Second line
            by Valentines. The right Wing is to afford a Detachment
            which is to endeavour to surprize the Redout No. 1—A Detacht from the 2d line is to
            attempt Fort Independance—& the left Wing is to furnish one for redoubt No.
            .


Title: To George Washington from a Board of General Officers, 1 September 1778
From: Board of General Officers
To: Washington, George

            Camp White Plains September 1st 1778

          Whereas the Captains of Colonel John Lamb’s Battalion of Artillery, did present a
            Memorial to Brigadier General Knox, commanding the Artillery of the United States,
            bearing date the 26th day of August last, requesting, that He, and Major General
            McDougall together with Brigadier General Parsons, (then a Board of General Officers,
            appointed by the Commander in Chief, to settle the Rank of the Maryland Line,) would
            hear the Pretensions of the said Captains to rank relative to each other, and settle the
            same: And also requesting, that the said Brigadier General Knox, would apply to his
            Excellency, for the necessary order therefor. In
            pursuance of the said Memorial, the Commander in Chief, was pleased to direct, that the
            said Board of General Officers, would settle the relative Rank of the Captains of that
            Battalion. The Board have had several Meetings on the Business, and received the Claims
            of Rank of such Captains as were present, and communicated the Pretensions of each to
            all of them. The Board also received Information of the Claims of those, who were absent
            from General Knox.
          It appears that the Captains of this Corps, claim Rank on two Principles; one as being
            experienced Artillery Officers, the other as Senior Officers to them in the Infantry
            Line of the Army. The First alledge, that as a knowledge of the Science and Practice of
            Gunnery, is necessary to qualify them for the Artillery; and they have been at much
            Pains to acquire both those qualifications, and as they were not entituled to promotion,
            in the Infantry, it is hard and unjust, that Infantry Officers,
            unqualified for Artillery Corps, when compared with them, should come into their Corps,
            and claim Rank of them in it, by virtue of their old Infantry Commissions. On the other
            hand the Infantry Officers say, that as the Congress give no Preference of Rank to the
            Artillery Officers over those of the Infantry, it is departing from the Articles of war
            and degrading them, to place them Juniors in the Battali⟨on,⟩ to the Artillery Captains;
            and therefore that they are entituled to the rank in the Battalion, which their Senior
            Commissions give them.
          The Board having duly considered the arguments on both Sides, and the known usage of
            Armies, as well as the American Articles of war, do unanimously determine, that the
            Officers of Artillery, before the 1st day of January 1777, ought to
              take Rank in the Artillery, of any Officer before serving in the Infantry,
            because their long Service in the Artillery, ought to give them prior Rank, when serving
            in the same Artillery Corps: But that the Captains of Artillery, who served as Officers
            in the Infantry, retain the Rank in the Line of the Army, which their Commissions
            entitule them to: This the Board conceive to be conformable to our articles of war; and
            to the usage of old Armies—It being a notorious Fact, that many Field Officers, in the
            Line of the British Army, are younger Captains in their respective Corps, and do duty in
            them as such, and yet command agreable to their highest Commissions, on detachment with
            other Corps.
          Captain Mott and the other Officers of Infantry now in Colonel Lamb’s Battalion, being
            still entituled to this Rank in the Line, will suffer no Injustice or Disgrace, by the
            former Artillery Officers ranking before them in their own Battalion.
          2dly That the Officers who served as such in the Infantry before this Battalion was
            formed, and now serving in it, ought to succeed next in Rank, to the former Captains of
            Artillery: But as the Board are not advised of the date of Captain Bliss’s Infantry
            Commission; they determine, that Captain Mott and he, take Rank of each other, in their
            Corps, according to the date of their Infantry Commissions. Upon these Principles the
            Board beg leave to make the following Arrangement of Colonel Lamb’s Captains, Vizt

              1st Beauman
              4th Doughty
              7th Bliss
              10th Porter

              2d Lee
              5th Moodie
              8th Walker
              11th Mansfield

              3d Wool
              6th Mott
              9th Lockwood
              12th Brown

          All which is submitted to His Excellency the Commander in Chief, by his humble
            Servants

            Alexr McDougall H. Knox

            General Parsons agreed to this arangement, but was absent when the fair Copy
              was made.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 1 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

            Dr sir
            Head Qurs White plains Sept. 1st 1778

          I am extremely sorry that it is in my power to inform you, that a Captain Colson of the
            5th Virginia Regiment a few days ago, violently wounded a Mr Vantassel of this State, of
            which he died in a little time after—The moment I was
            apprised of it, I directed a Letter to be written & sent to Genl Muhlenburg, to
            whose Brigade he belonged, to have him secured, in order that he might be delivered to
            the Civil Magistrate, in case the wound should prove mortal, as you will perceive by the
            inclosed copy. I have reason to believe that every
            exertion was used on the part of the General, to have him apprehended; but he was not
            able to effect it, as he kept himself out of the way, according to report,  from the time he gave the wound and went off, most probably, the
            instant he got intelligence that Mr Vantassel was dead. Mr Colson is a native of
            Virginia, but whether he is gone there—or to some Seaport, to procure a passage to the
            West Indies, where it is said he has a Brother, seems to be a matter of doubt. I do not
            know the causes, which led to this unhappy accident; but I wish he could have been
            taken, that he might receive a regular and proper trial, in the ordinary course of
            Justice. If you shall think it requisite, I will chearfully join you in any expedient—or
            pursue any you may point out, to recover and put him into the hands of the civil
            authority.
          My last advices from Rhode Island were of the 29th Ulto. General Sullivan informs me,
            by Letter of that date, that he had retreated the preceding night to the North end of
            the Island. That the Enemy pursued him—and the next day a warm action ensued, which
            lasted an Hour, in which our people obliged them to quit the Field in disorder—and with
            precipitation. When he wrote, he could not ascertain the loss on either side, but says
            it was considerable. It was a very interesting event, and I sincerely hope the next
            accounts I have, will announce that he & his Troops are again on the Continent.
            The Count D’Estaing’s fleet has got to Boston. I am Dr sir with the greatest respect
            & regard Your Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 1 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 1st Sepr 1778

          I have had the pleasure of receiving your several letters, the last of which was of the
            22d Augt. I have not now time to take notice of the
            several arguments that were made use of, for and against the Counts quitting the Harbour
            of Newport and sailing for Boston. Right or  wrong, it will probably
            disappoint our sanguine expectations of success, and what I esteem a still worse
            consequence, I fear it will sow the seeds of dissention and distrust between us and our
            new allies, except the most prudent measures are taken to suppress the feuds and
            jealousies that have already arisen. I depend much upon your temper and influence to
            conciliate that animosity which I plainly perceive, by a letter from the Marquis,
            subsists between the American Officers and the French in our service. This you may depend will extend itself to the Count and the
            officers and men of his whole Fleet, should they return to Rhode Island, except upon
            their arrival there, they find a reconciliation has taken place. The Marquis speaks
            kindly of a letter from you to him upon this subject.
            He will therefore take any advice coming from you, in a friendly light, and if he can be
            pacified, the other French Gentlemen will of course be satisfied as they look up to him
            as their Head. The Marquis grounds his complaint upon a general order of the 24 Augt the
            latter part of which is certainly very impolitic and
            upon the universal clamor that prevailed against the french Nation. I beg you will take
            every measure to keep the protest entered into by the General Officers, from being made
            public. The Congress, sensible of the ill consequences that will flow from the World’s
            knowing of our differences, have passed a resolve to that purpose—Upon the whole, my dear Sir, you can conceive my meaning better
            than I can express it, and I therefore fully depend upon your exerting yourself to heal
            all private animosities between our principal Officers and the french, and to prevent
            all illiberal expressions and reflections that may fall from the Army at large— I have this moment recd a letter from Genl Sullivan of
            the 29th Augt in which he barely informs me of an Action upon that day in which he says
            we had the better but does not mention particulars. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 1 September 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Head Quarters Boston Sept. 1st 1778

          The Last Evening I received the Honor of yours of the 28th ulto.
          your Excellency may be Assured of my utmost attention & Exertions as far as in
            my power to paliate and vindicate the Conduct of the Count DEstaing in leaving Rhode
            Island His Ships are now Formed in Line of Battle in Nantasket Road, at the Entrance of
            which on Hull and Long Island Batteries are Erecting which will afford a Cross Fire and
            I think Effectually prevent even a Superior Fleet Entering.
          I shall procure the Colours for Genl Pattersons Brigade If Possible wish to be in
            formed as the Letter does not, what device is to be put on the Colours or whether they
            are to be plain.
          It will be needless for me to mention any Intelligence from Rhode Island—as you will
            have it more direct from Major Genl Sullivan. I have the Honor to be with the greatest
            respect your Excellencys most Obt Servt

            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 1 September 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Head Quarters Boston Sept. 1st 1778 3 oClock P.M.

          a Large Fleet of men of war are now almost up to our Light House and are beyond a doubt an Enemy the alarm is Given, and the
            militia assembling, There are no Continental Troops here except about 40 Invalids—our
            Militia are as good as any but your Excy is sensible they are not like Regular Troops
            about Twenty Ships are in Sight & Some of them very large. I am Dear Genl in
            haste your obt Servt

            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 1 September 1778
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

            My dear General
            tyver town [R.I.] 1st September 1778

          that there has been an action fought where I could have been and where I was not, is a
            thing which will seem as extraordinary to you as it seems so to myself—after a long
            journey and a longer stay from home (I mean from head quarters) the only satisfactory
            day I might have finds me in the middle of a town—there I had been sent, push’d, hurri’d
               by the board of general officers, and principally by generals
            Sullivan and greene, who thaught I would be of a great use to the Common Cause, and to
            whom I foretold the disagreable event which would happen to me—I felt in that occasion
            the impression of that bad star, which some days ago has influenced the french
            undertakings and which I hope will be soon Remov’d—people say to me that I do’nt want an
            action more or less, but if it is not Necessary to my Reputation of a tolerable private
            soldier, so at least it is to my Satisfaction, and pleasure—however I was happy enough
            as to arrive before the second Retreat, but it was not attended with such a trouble and
            danger as it ought to be, had not the ennemy been So Sleepy, and then I was once more
            depriv’d of my fighting expectations.
          by what I have heard from Sensible, and Candid french gentlemen,
            the action does great honor to general sullivan—he Retreated in good order, he oppos’d
            very properly every effort of the ennemy, he never Sent troops but well supported, and
            display’d a great Coolness during the whole day—the evacuation I have Seen extremely
            well perform’d, and my private opinion is that if both events are
            satisfactory to us, they are very schamefull for the british generals and troops—they
            had indeed so fine chances as to cut us to pieces, but they are very good people.
          Now, my dear general, I must give you an account of that journey I have pay’d so
            dear—the Count d’estaing arriv’d the day before in boston—I found him much displeas’d at
            a protest you have heard off, and many other circumstances which I have Reported to
              you—I did what I could in the occasion—but I must
            give the justice to the admiral that it has not disminish’d at all his warm desire of
            Serving America—we waited together on the Council, general heath, general hancok and
            were very satisfied of them—the last one did much distinguish himself by his zeal on the
            occasion—some people in boston were Rather disatisfied—but when they see the behaviour
            of the Council, generals heath and hancok, they I hope will do the Same—I therefore fear
            nothing but delays—the Mâsts are very far off, provisions difficult to be provided—the
            count d’estaing was Ready to Come with his land forces and put himself under general
            Sullivan’s orders tho’ disatisfied with the latter—but our new circumstances will alter
            that design.
          I beg you pardon, once more, my, dear general, for having troubl’d and afflicted you
            with the account of what I had seen after the departure of the french fleet—my
            Confidence in you is such, that I could not feel so warmly upon any point, without
            Communicating it to your excellency—I have now the pleasure to inform you that the
            discontent do’nt appear so much—the french hospital is arriv’d to boston, tho’ under
            difficulties which however I think I have disminish’d good deal  by
            sending a part of my family with them, with orders to some persons, and supplications to
            others to give them all assistance in theyr power—now every thing will be Right,
            provided the count d’estaing is Soon enabl’d to Sail—every exertion I think ought to be
            employ’d for that purpose in all the Several parts of the Continent—Mâsts, bisket,
            water, and provisions are his wants—I long to have again the Command, or at least an
            equal force upon the American Seas.
          by your letters to general Sullivan I aprehend that there is some general Move in the
            british army and that your excellency is going to send us reinforcements—god grant you
            may send so many as with the militia will make a larger army that you might Command them
            yourself—I long my dear general, to be again with you, and the pleasure of Cooperating
            with the french fleet under your immediate orders will be the greatest I may feel—then I
            am sure every thing will be Right—the Count d’estaing (if Rhode island is again to be
            taken what I warmly wish) would be extremely happy to take it in conjunction with
            General Washington, and it would Remove the other inconveniences. I am now intrusted by
            general Sullivan with the care of warren, bristoll, and the eastern schore—it is that I
            am to defend a country with so few troops as are not able to defend more than a single
            point—I ca’nt answer that the ennemy wo’nt go where and do what they please, for I am
            not able to prevent any thing but a part of theyr army, and this yet must not land far
            from me—but I answer that if they come with equal or not much superior forces to these I
            may Collect, I schall flogg them pretty well—so at least I hope—my situation seems to be
            temporary for we expect much to hear soon from your excellency—you know mister touzard a
            gentleman of my family—he met with a terrible accident in the last action—for Running
            before all the others to take a piece of Cannon in the middle of the ennemys with the
            gratest excés of bravery, he was immediately covered with theyr schots, had his horse
            killed, and his Right arm put in pieces—he was happy enough as not to fall in theyr
            hands, and his life is not despaired of. Congress was going to send him a Commission of
            Major.
          give me joy, my dear general, I schall have your picture, and Mister hancok has
            promis’d me a Copy of that he has in boston—he gave one to the Count d’estaing, and I
            never Saw a man so glad of possessing his sweet heart’s picture, as the admiral was to
            Receive yours.
          in expecting with the greatest impatience to hear from Your excellency which will be
            the general plans, and your private motions I have the honor to be with the highest
            Respect, the warmest, and most endless affection dear general Your excellency’s the most
            obedient humble servant

            the Marquis de lafayette


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 1 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

            sir
            Head Qrs White plains Sept. 1st 1778 11 OClock A.M.

          I do myself the honor of transmitting you a Copy of a Letter I this minute received
            from General Sullivan. I congratulate Congress on the
            repulse of the Enemy—and only wish our Troops may be able to effect a retreat, which
            seems the most eligible measure they can pursue, in the present situation of things. I
            have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem sir Yr Most Obedt
            servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major Alexander Clough, 2 September 1778
From: Clough, Alexander
To: Washington, George

            Sr
            [Hackensack, N.J.] Sept. 2d—78

          I had the honour to recive your Exellencys favour yesterday, and shall use the utmost
            of my endavours to get the most satisfactry intelligance. I think we have got it at this post, in such a chanell that we cannot faill, of
            getting certain information of every thing of moment, that Occurs in New york, if my
            conduct meets with your approbation, I shall esteem it as more then a sufficient reward
            for my best services—Two persons who left New york on munday night, informs me that thay
            are repairing thayr waggons with the greatest delligance. thay are makeing some aditions
            to the works on Bunkers Hill—he says four of Adml Byrons fleet is come in, he cannot
            tell of what force thay are, it is reported that the adml is lost—six of the cork fleet
            is come in, four with provisions, and two with recruits, there are not more then sixty
            english, the others are Hesiens, the number he cannot exactly tell, but when thay where
              d⟨mutilated⟩d there was not more then three men to a regt, Mr
            Eliot, the superintendent says, if this expedition to rode island should fail New york
            could hold out but a short time for want of provisions if it falls in our hands he is
            resolve’d to stay let the event be what it may, Byard delance & Mathews says the
              same the worst sour flour is sold for five pounds a
            hundred—I am your Exellencys most Obt Hbl. servt

            A. Clough


Title: From George Washington to Silas Deane, 2 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Deane, Silas

            Dear sir.
            Head Quartrs White plains Sept. 2d 1778

          I received your favor of the 22d Ulto by Mr Webb.
          The regard I have for Colo. Webb—and my wish to oblige you, would urge me most strongly
            to effect his release, if it were practicable; but our circumstances will not admit of
            it. The only rule of exchange, now existing between the two armies, is equality of rank;
            and unhappily, we have not a Colonel, a prisoner, in our hands. Indeed, if we had, the
            Enemy have other Colonels of ours, who have been much longer in captivity, and who must
            have a preference. As from this state, his exchange cannot now be accomplished, his
            enlargement must depend entirely upon the indulgence of Sr Henry Clinton, and for which
            I cannot sollicit, with any degree of propriety; having been obliged to refuse him
            requests of the same nature—and as it would lead to many inconveniences. At the same
            time I shall be happy, if he can obtain his parole, and from what I told Mr Jos: Webb,
            his Brother, I am in hopes he will interest himself through the medium of some of his
            British acquaintances—and that it may be granted.
          With respect to news, my Letter of Yesterday to Congress, which I presume you will be
            informed of, contains the last from the Eastward. By General Sullivan’s account the
            Enemy attacked him in his retreat on the 29th Ulto and after a warm action, were obliged
            to retire from the Field, with precipitation, and in disorder. He had not time then, to
            ascertain either our—or their loss. This was a very interesting event, considering his
            situation, and it will give me great pleasure to hear, that he and his Troops are on the
            main again.
          I thank you much for your promised visit, and I will thank you still more for the visit
            itself. I shall consider it, not only as an honorable—but as a very friendly mark of
            your attention. I have the Honor to be with the most perfect regard & respect D.
            Sir Your Most Obedt servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Duportail, 2 September 1778
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

            General Du Portail’s opinion
            [2 September 1778]

          The English fleet finding itself by the arrival of six vessels greatly superior to the
            French fleet, it seems to me that the English may now project a decisive operation. This
            is to block up the port of Boston with their fleet—to embark all the troops at
            NewYork—conduct them to Rhode Island—debark them there and march directly towards
            Boston. To prevent them—this is briefly what I should think proper for us to do.

            1st To give orders to General Sullivan to take all the necessary measures to
              hinder their debarkation.
            2 To reconnoitre a succession of positions to be occupied on the route to Boston;
              to have cut up, or hold himself ready to cut up, all the parallel and detour roads
              leading there—If any place can be found favourable for fighting the English army to
              have it fortified beforehand.
            3—His Excellency to send towards Connecticut river three or four thousand men
              ready to pass when there shall be occasion and reinforce General Sullivan. That the
              rest of the army hold itself on such a position, that these three or four thousand men
              may be able to join it, in case the enemy, instead of going towards Boston should
              march against us; and that it may be at the same time as far advanced towards a
              junct⟨ion⟩ with General Sullivan, as the security of the North River will permit. I
              suppose that the Militia of the State of Boston are ready to assemble.

          I would also propose to His Excellency with regard to myself—
          That I should go immediately to General Sullivan’s army to assist in choosing and
            fortifying a good position on the route to Boston.
          When that should be done—That I should go myself to Boston to see what may be done for
            the defence of the town itself—I would even precede myself by Mr De la Radiere to whom I
            will write (if His Excellency judges it proper) to repair there immediately.

            Du Portail


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 2 September 1778
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

            [White Plains] 2d Sept. 1778

          Question the First.
          Whether any, or what Operations can now be undertaken?
          Answer.
          Want of certain intelligence of The Enemys motions, & designs; of their present
            Strength, and Numbers, at the posts, Stations, & Territorys, they possess; want
            of exact information of the State of the Army under Gen: Sullivan; want of Knowledge of
            what Magazine of Flour, is, or can be provided in the Eastern States; Obliges me to
            Confess myself, intirely at a Loss what to Determine upon the above Question; for
            without Sufficient light in These particulars, there is no Deciding upon so important a
            point.
          Question the Second.
          Shall the Army, or any part Thereof, move Eastward?
          I apprehend this intirely depends upon the movements, & Detachments, The Enemy
            have made, or are about to make; These being known, and most of the Intelligence in My
            answer to the first Question Obtain’d, a possitive, & Determinate reply, might
            be given to the Second Question.
          Third Question.
          In case the Main Body of the Army moves Eastward, what Force is to be left for the
            Defence of this Country, & The passes in the Highlands?
          Answer.
          Here again I am at a Loss for intelligence; and can only in General Answer; That an
            Equal Number of Continental Troops, to Those the Enemy leave in Garrison at Their posts
            upon, & near York Island; Staaten Island; & the West End of Long Island;
            should be left, for the purposes recited in the Third Question.
          Fourth Question.
          Can any Attempt be made upon New York?
          It was Unanimously Decided by a very Full Council of War, held at Wrights Mills in
            July; that an Attempt upon New York, with the whole  of Our Force was
              improper. Circumstances may be so altered, Since the holding that Council; as to make the Attempt immediately
            necessary; a Desperate Disease, must have a Desperate Remedy; The State of Our Currency;
            The State of Our Army; The Difficulty to recruit it next Campaign, & Furnish
            properly, every Sort of Magazine; may Oblige us to risque Our Fortunes upon the Events
            of This Summer; all which must be Submitted to The Wisdom of Congress, & Your
            Excellency.

            Horatio Gates Major General


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 2 September 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Head Quarters Boston 2d September 1778.

          8 O’Clock A.M.
          By the observations made at Hull (Nantasket) the last evening at 6 o’Clock, the Enemy’s
            Fleet, in sight, consisted of Twenty Ships, one Sloop & one Schooner within
            about Two leagues, veering E.S.E., from Light house Island, 8 or 10 of them Ships of the
            Line (one wearing a blue Flag at her fore Top mast head) 8 Frigates the others small. Between 1, & 3, O’Clock this morning 6 or 7
            Cannon were fired in the Bay, and at this time, the wind being fresh at North they are
            not to be seen; perhaps will stand in again when the wind will permit. Whether their
            intention is only to block up the Count D’Estaing’s Squadron until a Reinforcement
            arrives, or whether a landing is to be made by the Enemy at Providence or to the
            Southward of this place time must discover. Nine of the neighbouring Regiments of
            Militia are coming in for the defence of the most important Posts around the Harbour.
            The whole of the State Regiment of Artillery are with General Sullivan; I have wrote him
            to forward them here with all possible dispatch.
          On Yesterday a Mr Shirley, who was some time since taken by a Connecticutt Armed
            Vessel, a Gentlemen of Family & fortune, of whom perhaps your Excellency has
            heard mention made, observed to some Gentlemen in
            conversation, on the appearance of the Fleet, that it was a matter that would not soon
            be over, that General Clinton would Land at Tiverton or there abouts and push his march
            this way; whether this  is an idle conjecture or worthy of notice you
            will best judge from circumstances better known to you than me.
          The master of a Vessel just arrived informs that he saw yesterday about 100 Sail of
            Transport standing eastward. I have the honor to be With great respect Your Excellency’s
            Most Obedt Servant

            W. Heath

            P.S. Eleven O’Clock—The Signals are again out.
            Would request that your Excellency will forward the enclosed Letter to Congress by
              the first Express your Excellency sends there.