Title: To George Washington from Colonel Nicholas Haussegger, 16 January 1777
From: Haussegger, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir!
Philadelphia, January the 16th 177[7]

Last Night I arrived here from New York much indisposed with the Rheumatism and pains in my Limbs, occassioned by great Colds I caught, which deprives me of the Pleasure of waiting personally on your Excellency, and therefore take the Liberty, by the first Oppertunity vizt by Capn Keepots to inform your Excelly of my Safe Arrival here. Immediately after I come to Town I was credibly informed, that some malicious Persons have injured my Reputation, by misrepresenting Facts relating to the late Affair at Princetown.
I have taken the Liberty to inform your Excellency of the Manner

of my Proceedings and of what happened to me from the 3d of this Instant to the Time of my Arrival here.
On the 3d of this Instant—one of your Excellency’s Aid de Camps ordered me to advance and cut off the Enemeys Retreat to Brunswick, and in order to proceed the swifter ordered my Battalion to lay down their Bagage and put a Guard over it, this being done I proceeded and met Capn Craig who informed me, that it was your Excellency’s Orders for me to march towards Millstone and to cut off the Enemeys Retreat, which said Orders I complyed with, and not discovering any of the Enemey there returned towards Princetown and coming up to the Place where I had ordered the sd Bagage to be left I sent my Battn under Lieut. Colonel Streiker over the Fence to take up their Bagage with Directions to follow me immediately, so I proceeded, with Capn Craig, on the Road towards Princetown, and within half a Mile of Princetown I met one of my Soldiers, who informed me, that the Enemey was at Princetown, upon which I sent Captn Craig back to Lieut: Colonel Streiker with Orders to keep the Battallion together and to march with all the Haste he could up to me through a Swamp and immediately after that I seen my Battallion crossing the Swamp towards Princetown, then I pushed forwards along the Road in Order to Head the Battallion, And as I come to the Plains of Princetown I heard a Fireing, thinking that my Battallion was engaged with the Enemy whom I was persuing, thereupon I rode towards the Battallion into the Woods, and to my great Surprize was stoped by a Party of the Enemy’s, who took me Prisoner and brought me to their Commander, whose Name I do not recollect who sent me to Lord Cornwallis near Princetown where I met with Generals Grant and Lesle. General Grant, then let me go, on my Parole, about Princetown, here I stayed till about Evening when the Enemy’s Army marched through Princetown I was delivered to Colonel Dunop of the Hessians, who on the 4th of this Instant took me to Brunswick, where we stayed two Days, And on the 6th I was sent with General Heisters Son to New-York, where I arrived the 7th by whoes Interest and Colonel Donap’s Recommendation to General Heister’s I obtained Liberty to return home on my Parole, And on the 12th of January I left New-York in Company with several Officers who also returned on their Parole, And four Shallops with about 400 Prisoners who all returned to their respective Homes on their Parole.
Having stated Matters as they, in Fact, are I leave it to the Judgment of your Excellency whether or no I acted as a Gentleman Officer ought to do. I am your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Nichls Haussegger


Title: Orders to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 16 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

sir
[Morristown, 16 January 1777]

The honorable Continental Congress having resolv’d to establish Magazines, Laboratories, and Founderies for casting brass Cannon, in the State of Pennsylvania, and in New England, and having invested me with power to effect the same—I have directed Lieutenant Colonel Flower Commissary of Military Stores to repair to York Town and Philadelphia in the State of Pennsylvania and put the various matters in the Ordnance branch in such forwardness as will probably answer the purposes intended—You are to repair to Hartford in Connecticut and there provide and contract for such buildings materials Artificers

as you shall think necessary for the exigencies of the Grand Continental Army also having a reference to the supply of the Army to the Northward which perhaps must be drawn from the Magazines and Laboratories at Hartford—The Monies necessary for these purposes you are to draw on the Paymaster General or any of his deputies, or to borrow of public bodies or private persons as shall be most Convenient. You must keep a very particular account of all charges and expences incur’d in the establishment of The aforesaid affairs, and as soon as you have digested and form’d your plan you are to transmit it to me for my approbation, the very great demand which the Continent has for a well regulated and well provided Artillery will I hope influence you to the utmost exertion of your endeavors in order to perfect them with the greatest expedition. Given at head Quarters at Morris Town this 16th day of Jany 1777.

G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 16 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Joseph Reed, 16 Jan. 1777. On 19 Jan. GW wrote Reed: “Your Letters of the 16 & 17th Inst. are both before me.”


Title: General Orders, 17 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 17th 1777.
Windsor.Winchester.

A Court of inquiry to sit to morrow, at 9 o’Clock to examine into a Complaint lodged by Serjt Davis, William Davis, and one Gallakin, all of Capt. Leir’s Company, against Major Proctor, Capt. Lang, and Lieut:

Turnbull of the Artillery: All Evidences to attend, and facts as they appear, to be reported.
The Out-Guards are strictly forbid allowing any Soldiers to pass them, but such as have regular discharges from their commanding officer: This the officers of the different regiments will attend to.
Lieut: Isaac Budd Dunn is appointed Brigade Major to Genl St Clair, and is to be respected and obeyed as such.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel George Baylor, 17 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Baylor, George

Dear Baylor,
Morris Town Jan. 17th 1777

There is a Gentleman, a friend of mine whom I should be glad to provide for in your Regiment of Horse I therefore desire you will reserve a Troop for him.
The Lieutt & other Officers of the Company must raise the Men &ca—The Gentleman I have in my view, is now in the Service, and cannot conveniently leave this place, at this time; nor in deed have I said any thing to him on the subject as yet.
Let me hear from you by every Post. send me a List of the Officers

you have fixed on—and again let me urge to you, how much every thing depends upon dispatch. I am very sincerely your Affecte Friend & Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 17 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 17th Jany 1777

Capt. Bell of Philada a very intelligent and credible person, made his Escape from New York about ten days ago. He informs that there were no troops upon Long Island but Delanceys Brigade, and not more than 1000 Men upon York Island, all the rest having joined the Army now in Jersey. And that Transports were gone up the sound to bring back the Troops from Rhode Island, in order to make a Junction of their whole Army, to endeavour to give us a total defeat. This I think by no means improbable. Now if you could get any certain information of their Strength within the Island (which I think may be done by sending in persons who have taken protections) and should not find it to exceed what Capt. Bell reports, a Stroke might be struck, before they are reinforced from Rhode Island, that would ruin them.
This is a Matter of such Consequence, that I would have you spare neither pains nor Expence to gain Intelligence—We have heard that they were building Sleds in New York, which I suppose are for drawing Wood this Winter, but it would be well for your Spies to learn what use they are really intended for.

I have directed Genls Spencer and Arnold to follow the Enemy if they leave Rhode Island and fall down the Sound again. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lord Howe, 17 January 1777
From: Howe, Richard (Lord)
To: Washington, George

Sir
New York January the 17th 1777.

The Letter I received from You of the 13th Instant, is in Matter and Expression so different from the liberal turn of Sentiment I had been habituated to expect on every occasion of personal Intercourse or Correspondence with You, that I scarce know how to believe the Contents and the Name I read at the Bottom, are parts of the same Letter.
It surprizes me much that the idle and unnatural Report of Captain Gamble could meet with any Credit. That one, two, or three of the Prisoners have been seen laid out the same Morning by the Sides of the Churches in which they were necessarily confined, I believe may be true; as I have heard that many more of those unhappy people have died in a Night, when Sickness prevailed much amongst them. But can Common-Sense, Sir, suppose us insensible to the Dangers of Infection that would attend the Neglect of timely care to bury the Dead of every Description, in the Town we inhabit? Attention to preserve the Lives of those Men whom we esteem the misled Subjects of the King, is a Duty as binding on Us, where we are able from Circumstances to execute

it with Effect, as any you can plead from the Interest you profess in their Welfare.
With regard to the Treatment of the Prisoners in my particular Department, I think it necessary to say; that they were confined with the more general Liberty of the Prison-Ship, until a successful Attempt was made by some to make their Escape. The rest were then restrained within such narrower Limits as left the more commanding parts of the Ship in possession of the Guard.
The Provisions given to them are exactly the same in Nature and Quality, and are furnished from among those served to the Seamen of the Ship in which I am embarked. The Proportion of each Species is exactly the same as that oftentimes deemed sufficient for the Support of the Seamen under the Fatigues of his profession, and which is at no time exceeded to the Soldier when embarked in the Fleet.
It may be necessary to observe that no payment is demanded for the Subsistence of the Prisoners in the Fleet. And, as to the want of Cleanliness among them (the only part of Mr Gamble’s Account that I can find has any Foundation in Truth) the State of the Weather not admitting of the usual Expedient for preserving Cleanliness by washing the Ship, it has been owing to the Indolence of the Prisoners that the other customary Methods have been neglected. They must however be compelled to the practice of them for their own Benefit.
Of Medical Assistance, the Prisoners have had the constant Attendance of an American Surgeon, confined with them, who has been supplied, on his Application, with Medicines from the King’s Stores; And the Physician of the Fleet has visited and recommended the proper Treatment of the Sick amongst them. Seven, I find, is the number that have died of about five hundred that have been suffering, according to Mr Gamble, in the Manner he asserts.
No Representation has been ever made to me by the Prisoners of such pretended ill-treatment; Thô they have sent many Letters soliciting their Enlargement, which was at that time deemed unseasonable: Nor were any Complaints of the kind made to the Captain of my Ship, when onboard the Prison-Ship to communicate my Intentions to set at Liberty, in Separate Corps, the Natives of different Provinces; In Compassion to their unavoidable Sufferings in the confined Situation of this Fleet and Army.
The principal Persons in Authority in Connecticut had lately denied their assent to my proposition by an appointed Officer for an Exchange of so many Natives against such British Prisoners as were confined in that Province; But no Distinction was therefore made to their prejudice, in the Favor I meant to shew to those of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantation, where the proposition had been accepted.

Fifty four Prisoners of different Classes, not taken in Arms, were landed in consequence in Connecticut from one Vessel last Month; and Fifty from another.
Thirty eight had been a few Days before landed in Pensylvania; And about thirty more set at Liberty in this Province, toward the End of the same Month.
Amongst the number of the last, I find the Name of William Gamble, the Author (as I conclude) of the Narrative which has been made the Subject of your present Letter. I must confess I expected other proofs of Mr Gamble’s Veracity, if I am thought to have no Claim to a just Relation of all the Circumstances he was acquainted with, from his Gratitude, for the earliest Attention that could be shewn to him in his late Situation, by an unconditional Release from his Captivity.
As I abhor every Imputation of wanton Cruelty in multiplying the Miseries of the Wretched, or of treating them with needless Severity, I have taken the Trouble to state these several Facts. But in respect to the Language you seem pleased to suppose me accustomed to hold, and certain Retaliations you have willed (a Sentiment, which, if it had a precedent for Imitation, I should not believe had been adopted by you, Sir, on less credible Authority than your own Assurance); It is incumbent on me to say, I am well content that you should act therein as you think fit. The Innocent at my Disposal will not have any Severities to apprehend from me on that account.
The King’s Officers who have been lately released in the different Provinces where they were Prisoners, are almost general in their Report of the close Confinement and other Indignities they have suffered. I have not addressed any Remonstrance to You, Sir, thereon, as I did not suppose it was done with your Concurrence; but was solely to be ascribed to the Disorder of the times, and the unhappy Enmity that such destructive Contests never fail to create. On this Foundation, I think differently of the Treatment of the British prisoners in many of the Provinces, from the Report made to You. But I dwell not upon it, as I should find no Justification in those Examples for the Acts of Inhumanity pretended to have been experienced by Mr Gamble.
The two Captains of Merchant Ships, Bell and Getshius, for whose Release you interest yourself having been included in the thirty Prisoners set at Liberty with Mr Gamble, I have no Return to demand on their accounts.
Mr Josiah, in whose behalf you wrote to me some Months since, was lately released, at your particular desire, as I was told, in place of Mr Bell, according to the Tenor of the papers enclosed.
Of the Crew of the Armed Boat taken in Savannah River, Messrs Brown, Kirk, Watson and Lee are now only remaining in the Prison-Ship.

It happens that all the four are under the same Circumstance of Illness. As soon as they are re-established, I shall very readily concur in the Exchange of them. And any Exceeding of that Number which it may be thought proper to release to me at the same time from Georgia, shall be returned, if acceptable, from amongst the Natives of the other Provinces. I am Sir Your most obedient Servant

Howe


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 17 January 1777
From: Massachusetts Council
To: Washington, George

State of Massachusetts BayCouncil Chamber [Boston] January 17th 1777
Sir

As We could not but feel the deepest concern for the difficulties Your Excellency has had to encounter, it is with the highest pleasure we now Congratulate you upon the happy turn of Affairs, and the signal Success which by the Blessing of Heaven has of late attended Your Arms; Which we think must greatly disconcert the Enemy, and give them an idea of American Bravery very different from what they have affected to entertain. We flatter Ourselves, that by the new powers vested by Congress in your Excellency you will be freed from the embarrasments which have so much impeded your Operations, and enabled to persue the Advantages you have gained, and to make still more important Conquests. We have entire confidence, that You will apply these ample powers to the important purposes for which they were granted—the expelling a Cruel invader from this once happy Land, restoring the peace, and securing the freedom and independence of America. It is our ardent prayer, that Your great exertions in this Noble Cause may, under the smiles of Providence, be crowned with success, and Nothing on our part shall be wanting to insure it. I am Sir with great Respect In the name & behalf of Council Your most obedt & humble Servt

James Bowdoin Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 17 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

 Letter not found: from Joseph Reed, 17 Jan. 1777. On 19 Jan. GW wrote Reed that “your Letters of the 16 & 17th Inst. are both before me.”


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Artemas Ward, 17 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Ward, Artemas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Artemas Ward, 17 Jan. 1777. GW wrote to Ward on 20 Feb. to “acknowledge the receipt of yr two favours of the 23d Decr & 17th January.”


Title: General Orders, 18 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Morristown, Jany 18th 1777.
New-York.Harlem.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 18 January 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Baltimore Jany 18th 1777.

The enclosed Copy of a Letter from the Convention of New York, I am directed by Congress to transmit to you, and to request your Attention to i⟨t.⟩ The very great Distress of the Troops in that State for Want of Cloathing and Blankets, calls for the most speedy Relief; and the Congress in Order to afford them every Assistance in their Power, have ordered the Co⟨nti⟩nental Agents to furnish the Commissary of Cloath⟨ing⟩ with an Account of such Cloathes, or Materials for making them, as may be in their Possession. These, it is the Desire of Congress, you will distribute among the Troops, in the different Departments, in the Proportion you may think proper; paying, however, a particular Regard to the State of New York, which, from its present unfortunate Situation, is precluded from all Possibility of procuring those Necessaries for the Troops raised there.
The miserable Condition of our Prisoners at New-York and elsewhere in the Hands of the Enemy, will naturally suggest the Propriety of making the Proposal to Genl Howe, as soon as convenient, of a Commissary residing among them on Behalf of the United States, agreeably to the enclosed Resolve. I have the Honour to be, with every Sentiment of Respect & Esteem, Sir, your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt

The enclosed Copy of a Letter from Genl Gates, relative to Monsieur Da Lieue, I am directed by Congress to transmit to you, with a Request that you will employ him if you think proper, I have paid him 40 Dolls. to defray his Expences to you.
(The Copy since inclos’d in a Letter sent by Monsr De Luce.)


Title: To George Washington from Lt. Col. Robert Hanson Harrison, 18 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Harrison, Robert Hanson
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lt. Col. Robert Hanson Harrison, 18 Jan. 1777. On 20 Jan. GW wrote Harrison that George Johnston “deliverd me your Letter of the 18th last night.”


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Thomas Hartley, 18 January 1777
From: Hartley, Thomas
To: Washington, George

PhiladaJanuary the 18th 1777
May it please your Excellency

For the more expeditiously raising my Regiment and having a proper Corps of Gentlemen for officers—I have fixed on the Officers of four Companies in Pennsylvania; three Captains in Maryland, and one William Kelley for a Captain in Virginia—I have seen the most of

the Captains and wrote to the others inclosing Recruiting Orders and Instructions—I expect next week all my Captains will be beating up in the most likely Places to meet with Success—I have appointed a Paymaster and Quarter Master—for the present I have sent them to Wioming on the Recruiting Service.
I have spoke to Mr Mease concerning Cloathing—and agreed on the uniform I wish we may procure it—I have a Prospect of geting the Arms of the Regiment made by the Time my Men are inlisted—I have sent Major Bush to Mr Chambers—I presume he will accept of his Appointment.
The Colonels to the Southward, in the additional Regiments intend to have ten Companies in a Regiment, I hope your Excellency will grant me the same Privelege.
Two Gentlemen of Character have lately offered themselves for Captains they can raise their Companies soon—If it is not disapproved of by you: I could raise the ten Companies—I would not pick the Regiment to form the Light Infantry and Granadiers but chuse the two best Companies.
I will leave nothing undone that is in my Power to raise form and discipline the Regiment as soon as possible. I flatter myself that my Regiment will be among the first raised.
In arranging the Rank and Seniority of Regiments I hope you will be pleased to pay some Regard to the Rank of the Gentlemen appointed Colonels.
I hold the Rank of Liet. Coll of Minute Men among the first in this Province.
I was appointed a Liut. Coll in the Continental Service the 10th of January 1776—and was second Senior Lieut. Coll in the Troops of this State.
One Jacob Holtzinger a Lieut. in the Flying-Camp and my Brother in Law, was taken Prisoner at Fort Washington I would wish to have him a Liut. in my Regiment—I must beg that he may be among the first Officers exchanged—as he could be very useful in Recruiting.
To Morrow I set of to York Town—where I shall remain some Days—Should you have any further Commands before I return to this Place—please to direct to me at York Town. I am with the greatest Respect your Excellency’s most obedient & very humble Servant

Thos Hartley


Title: General Orders, 19 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 19th 1777.
Newark.Millstone.


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. John Armstrong, 19 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Armstrong, John

Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. John Armstrong, 19 Jan. 1777. Armstrong wrote to GW on 22 Feb. that “I am favoured with your Excellencys Letter of the 19th Ulto.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 19 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir,
Morris County 19th Jan. 1777.

Let me beseech you to nominate, & set four Gentlemen, such as you conceive will make good Captains to Raising Companies upon the Continental pay & establishment; and to be annexed hereafter to one of the Sixteen additional Regiments. I shall also leave the nomination of the Subaltern Officers for these Companies to yourself and the Captains—all I ask is, that they may be Gentlemen—and that they be not taken out of any other Continental Corps, because by so doing you will give a check to the recruiting of that Corps.
You may give Major Pauling assurances that he shall become Major of the Regiment to which these Companies shall be annexed, and that I hope he will exert himself in the raising of them speedily. I will give a Warrant to your order or in consequence of a Letter from you, for recruiting—If you could fix up on four other Captns in the same manner and upon the same terms as above, & would let me know it soon, I dare say there will be vacancies for them. the selection of Officers for these Companies may, possibly, be made from the Militia you are Impowered by your State to call in, & the Men recruited from them. the Colonel & Lieutt Colo. I shall appoint hereafter. Most sincerely I remain Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 19 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris town 19th Jany 1777

Altho’ I have not the least doubt of your Zeal and Activity, I cannot help reminding you of the Necessity there is, for your raising and bringing into Service, as expeditiously as possible, the Body of Men, of which your State have given you the command.
I am clearly of opinion that the Enemy are collecting their force, with an intent to make a Stroke at this Army, which they will never

suffer to keep them pent up at Brunwsic and Amboy, distressed for necessaries, if they can help it. Neither will they venture to move forward towards Philadelphia and leave their Rear exposed. Upon every military principle therefore, we ought to expect and be prepared for an Attack. The time for which the Pennsylvania Militia, who first came into Service, engaged, is nearly expired, after which you know they cannot be depended upon; and tho’ I hear of great Numbers to be expected to replace them, they do not come up as fast I could wish. The Number of Eastern Continental Troops, who are engaged to the latter End of this Month and middle of next, are not above Eight hundred, and the southern Regiments are reduced to a handfull.
The Enemy I hope are deceived as to our Numbers, and we must endeavour to keep them so, till we can draw in the new Levies. I have set every Engine to work, to forward the recruiting Service, which I am informed goes on successfully in most places as to raising the Men, but the arming and cloathing will take up some time.
You will not wonder, after this State of our Affairs, that I should be anxious to hear of your Brigade’s being compleated and ready for Service. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 19 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 19th Jany 1777

The fluctuating State of an Army composed chiefly of Militia, bids fair to reduce us to the Situation in which we were some little time ago, that is, of scarce having any Army at all, except Reinforcements speedily arrive. One of the Battalions from the City of Philadelphia goes home to day, and the other two only remain a few days longer upon Courtesy. The time for which, a country Brigade under Genl Mifflin, came out, is expired, and they stay from day to day by dint of Sollicitation. Their Numbers much reduced by desertions. We have about Eight hundred of the Eastern Continental Troops remaining, of twelve or fourteen hundred who at first agreed to stay, part engaged to the last of this Month and part to the middle of next. The five Virginia Regiments are reduced to a handful of Men, as are Colo. Hands, Smallwoods and the German Battn. A few days ago Genl Warner arrived with about seven hundred Massachusets Militia engaged to the 15th March.

Thus you have a Sketch of our present Army, with which we are obliged to keep up Appearances, before an Enemy already double to us in Numbers, and who from every account are withdrawing their Troops from Rhode Island to form a junction of their whole Army, and make another Attempt either to break up ours, or penetrate towards Philada a thing by no means difficult now, as the Ice affords an easy Passage over the Delaware. I dont yet know what effect, Genl Heaths moving down towards New York, will have. Yesterday Morning a considerable firing was heard, which seemed to be about Kings-Bridge. I am in hopes that his Appearance on that Quarter with a pretty large force will oblige them to withdraw part of theirs from Jersey, to secure the City of New York, which by late Accounts is weakly garrisoned.
Genl Heath has all the Eastern and York Militia with him, except the small Brigade under Genl Warner that I mentioned before, one Regiment of Connecticut stopped at providence in Rhode Island, and a Number (how many I dont know) requested by Genl Schuyler to be sent to Ticonderoga.
If it should appear that they are regardless of the diversion made by Genl Heath, and persist in their plan of drawing their whole Army together in Jersey, I must order him over with all his Troops, except as many as are necessary to garrison the Forts and guard the Passes in the Highlands.
I have ordered away every Officer that could be spared, some to recruit, and some to collect the scattered Men of the different Regiments, who are dispersed almost over the Continent. For of the vast Numbers sent to the Hospitals at different times, few ever returned after they got well.
As Militia must be our dependance, till we can get the new Army raised and properly arranged, I must intreat you to continue your endeavours with the States of Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia to turn out every man they possibly can, and for some longer time than they generally have stipulated for. If they agree for a Month or any limited time, it should commence from the time they actually join the Army, and not from the time they leave their homes, otherwise the marching backwards and forwards consumes the term of engagement.
I think these demands of Aid should be made as quietly as the nature of the Case will admit of, especially at this time when we are deceiving our Enemies with false Opinions of our Numbers. For to boast of our superiority in that respect on one hand, and to call publicly on the people for Assistance on the other, is an impropriety too glaring. Indeed it has been already noticed in some publications that I have seen from New York. I have the Honor to be Sir most respectfully Yours

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 19 January 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General,
William’s Tavern [N.Y.] Jany 19th 1777

I have just received the honor of yours of the 14th & 17th Inst.
Yesterday morning about Sunrise our Troops in Three Divisions arrived in the Neighbourhood of Fort Independence—the Right Division by the Albany Road, the Centre by Stephen Ward’s, & the left by

East Chester—Upon our Approach the Enemy fled to Fort Independence; leaving 15 Muskets at one place & Ten at another, besides Blankets &c.
I summoned the Fort to surrender—I have taken the Liberty to enclose a Copy—The Answer to the Summons was verbal, and in Substance, that as the Americans were excepted, that they altho’ Britons had no Answer to return—they afterwards fired a number of Cannon at us from the Fort which we returned.
We are just informed by Two Deserters from the Fort, that the Garrison—consists of about 350 Men—that the last night they had a Twelve pounder sent to the Fort—And that General Agnaw moved up yesterday with his Brigade & took post, at the Northermost woody Hill between Fort Washington & Kingsbridge and about 1200 Hessians near the Fort—between Two & Three Hundred Hessians are in the Houses just over the Bridge.
We took one Light Horse-man with Horse &c. compleat, & one Soldier, & have had one man killed by a Cannon Ball this day—Tomorrow we intend to make an Attack upon the Hessians at the Bridge, if they should not be reinforced—they have Two Pieces of Cannon well posted—Our Troops are all Militia, and altho’ perhaps as good as any Militia, yet they are not disciplined—Our Numbers are about 3000, but they begin to go home already—the want of Covering, the Weather Cold &c. causes many Complaints—much will depend on the Success of our Attack tomorrow.
I have approved of the Sentence of the Court Martial on Strang, & have ordered him to be executed on Wednesday next at Eleven O’Clock before noon.
A Hessian Major Son of One of their Generals commands Fort Independence. I have the honor to be Very respectfully your Excellency’s Most Humble Servant

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Reed, 19 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

Dear Sir,
Morris Town Jany 19th 1777.

Your Letters of the 16 & 17th Inst. are both before me. I have come to a Resolution to recall the Protections given by Genl Howe, & am now preparing something by way of Proclamation for that purpose in order that the Country may stand upon the same Footing or friends distinguished from Foes. I have also Issued something in general Orders explaining the former Orders relative to the appropriation of Plunder &ca & have sent copies to the different Posts.
The Morris County light horse have disbanded themselves I believe, for I have seen none of them for sometime—A strict scrutiny Will, I hope, be made into the conduct of Colo. Chambers and his Officers, & proper examples made. Genl Putnam was directed long ago by Me to have the Arms collected from the Country—I hope he has done it, I have no objection to his allowing some compensation for the trouble of collecting, & bringing them In. Genl Grants Waggon was really taken with his Steward who is now here a Prisoner.
Would it not be best to Order P. Vanhorne to Brunswick—these People in my opinion can do us less injury there than any where else—I presume he will plead the difficulty of obtaining Quarters—maintaining himself &ca—but is this sufficient?
I have wrote a line of thanks myself to Captn Ransom, & when you see Colo. White please to express the sense I entertain of his conduct & those of the other two Gentlemen who were with him on the occasion. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affe.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Captain Edward Snickers, 19 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Snickers, Edward

Dr Sir,
Morris Town in New Jersey Jan. 19th 1777.

We are in want of a Waggon Master Genl to the Army. If you Incline to accept of that Office I will appoint you to it. in this case, do not delay a moments time in repairing to the Army, or to Genl Mifflin, the Quarter Master Genl from whom you will receive your Orders. at any rate, send word by return of the bearer (who comes express to you) whether you will, or will not accept, as the exigency of the Service will not admit either of doubt, or delay.
You will have the pay of Colonel allowed you. that is, Twenty two pounds ten shillings pr Kalender Month; Dollars at Six Shillings, I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obed. Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. You will be allowed a Clerk for keeping your Accts and doing the necessary Writing.


Title: General Orders, 20 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 20th 1777.

Each Brigadier is to appoint a Brigade Parade, as central to his Brigade, as circumstances of Ground will permit; and each Colonel, or commanding Officer of a regiment is to fix under the same circumstances, a regimental parade, as convenient to the regiment, and the Brigade parade, as possible.
An Alarm will be communicated by the discharge of three Field Pieces (which the commanding officer of the Artillery is to keep always in readiness) Upon the fire of these guns, the Drums of different regiments are immediately to beat To Arms, and the regiments formed, and marched to the Brigade Parade, as speedily as possible, after which, if circumstances will admit of it, the Brigadiers (those at Morristown) are to repair to the Commander in Chief, for Orders, otherwise to send for orders.
Upon the Alarm Guns being fired at Morristown, the troops at Chatham, and other posts, are immediately to assemble at their respective General parades; and if the Alarm is first received at any of those posts, it is to be communicated by Alarm Guns, and Expresses as fast as possible to Head Quarters.
George Johnston Esqr: is appointed Aide-De-Camp to The Commander in Chief, and is to be regarded and obeyed as such.


Title: To George Washington from Gunning Bedford, 20 January 1777
From: Bedford, Gunning
To: Washington, George

Hond Sir,
Philada January [c.20]th 1777.

As I promised your Excelly some fiew days ago; so I now take the liberty of transmitting to you, my sentiments on the subject of some

Regulations to take place in my Department. The confusion that has attended the Office hitherto, & the difficulty of executing the duty of it, has given me much uneasiness; but those difficulties & that confusion, I hope your Excelly will see has been owing to the want of those fiew regulations, which I have pointed out.
I have been much more perticular in the nature of the Office &c., then there would have been occasion for, for your Execelly’s perusal; but as I did not know wither you might not think proper to lay the matter before Congress, I thought it necessary on that account. The Congress, from their little attention to the department, I am convinced, must in a great measure be ignorant of the nature & importance of it. However I am in hopes, if your Excelly will be so good as to take notice of the matter; that the Departmt will be put on such a footing, as may reflect credit on the Officers in the execution of it, & answer every good purpose, that the publick can wish or expect.
I must beg leave to remind your Excelly, again of Mr Chases letter. Col. Moylan has told me, you were so good, as to tel[l] him you would get him the pay & rank of Colonel, if he continued in the Office. If your Excelly could think proper to make that the line with respect to me, I should think myself under many additional Obligations.
I hope to have the pleasure of seeing your Excelly in a fiew days. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, your Excelly’s much Oblidged most obedt very Hbble Servt

Gunn’g Bedford


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Cooke, 20 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Cooke, Nicholas

sir
Morris Town January the 20th 1777

I am exceeding sorry to hear your State has ordered several Battalions to be raised for the defence of the State only, and this before proper measures are taken to fill the Continental Regiments; You cannot be insensible how unequal any one State is unconnected with the others to defend itself, if the Enemy shou’d make a descent against it with any considerable force; neither have you the least reason to think you would derive less protection from the Troops if they were rais’d upon the Continents account, than that of the State; if each State, was to prepare for its own defence independent of the others, they, wou’d all be conquered in a short time one by one: Our success must depend on a firm union and a strict adherence to the general plan, other measures may produce a partial relief but never can remove the principal evil.
You must be sensible the Season is fast approaching when a new Campaign will open, nay the former is not yet closed; neither do I intend it shall unless the Enemy quit the Jerseys. It is of the last importance to the interest of America that the new Regiments be speedily levied, it will give me an Opportunity in the fore part of the Campaign, before the Enemy can collect their force, or receive any reinforcement from home; to give them a fatal stab: such a blow in the beginning of the Season might terminate the Campaign to great advantage. I am sure the necessity of having the Continental Regiments immediately completed, are too obvious to need any further arguments; I hope the

powers of Government are such as to complete the new Levies by draught, if they cannot be fill’d seasonably by voluntary inlistments: Necessity obliges me to call on you (as I shall on every other State) in the most pressing terms to complete without delay your proportion of the eighty eight Battalions; I am confident the raising of two Regiments at the expence of the State before the Continental Regiments are compleat, can answer no valuable purpose: If the Enemy shou’d make a descent upon Rhode Island with any considerable force, the opposition of two Regiments will be inconsiderable: If they only infest the Coast with their Ships, the Militia, will answer a better purpose, and at a far less expence; I must confess I am ignorant of the reasons that induced the Assembly to adopt the measure, neither can I conceive of the use and policy of the scheme; I wish it may not be productive of more injury than benefit, by introducing innovations, and changes, that must retard the filling the Continental Regiments; and consequently prejudice the general interest, which every State must have an eye to: The Obligation on your State, is, greater than on any other, being the most exposed and the least capable of making a seperate defence.
Our Affairs here are in a very prosperous train, within a Month past in several Engagements with the Enemy, we have killed, wounded, and taken Prisoners between two, and three thousand; I am very confident the Enemies loss here will oblige them to recall their force from your State; If I am properly supported, I hope to close the Campaign gloriously for America. I am with the greatest regard and esteem Sir Yr most Obedt Hble Sert

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Col. Elias Dayton, 20 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

Letter not found: to Col. Elias Dayton, 20 Jan. 1777. Dayton’s letter to GW of 13 Jan. is docketed in part “Ansd 20th.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 20 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Quarters Morris town 20th Jany 1777

I am favoured with yours of the 15th instant with the sundry Resolves inclosed in it. If that respecting the Continental Currency is carried strictly into execution, it cannot fail of fully re-establishing its Credit.
I have no objection to the three Gentlemen who are recommended for Feild Officers in the New Hampshire Regiment, they seem fully

intitled to it, as they have raised the Regiment. I will furnish them with Commissions, from the date of their appointment, when applied to for that purpose.
There is something particular in the Application of Colo. Dubois and his Officers for the Sum of 513⅔ dollars. They were to have been commissioned provided they could raise the Men, but from their own pay Abstract it appears that 14 Officers only brought 25 Men into the Feild. As they certainly did not comply with their agreement, I would, after stating the Matter as it really was, submit it to Congress, who have the disposal of the public Money.
I have perused the Petition of Monsr Fanuiel and other French Gentlemen. If they could raise such a Regiment, as they propose, it would certainly be usefull, but I have no conception that there are Canadians enough to be found even for a Regiment of the common Number, much less of 2347 which is the number proposed. I know, neither Colo. Livingston nor Colo. Hazen could ever compleat their Canadian Regiments when they had the Country open to them.
As I would give Encouragement to Foreigners of real Merit, I would put the thing upon this footing. If Monsr Fanuiel can procure a sufficient Number of Officers to fill a Regiment of the common Size, and they can give any Assurances of being able to raise the Men, I would grant them Commissions.
I would beg leave to remark here, that except we can throw the many Foreigners, who have Commissions in our Army, into a Corps together, they will be intirely useless, as they can neither converse with Officers or Men in any other kind of Regiment.
I am so well assured, that you would not recommend Docr Potts to succeed Docr Stringer in the northern Department, except you had sufficient proof of his Abilities in the medical line, that I readily concur with you in the Appointment.
I have recd a peice of Information which I am afraid is true, and that is, that the British Cruizers have taken a French Vessel with a large parcel of Cannon & Mortars on board. I know such a one was expected, and therefore more readily credit the Account. I am Sir with Respect and Esteem Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Robert Hanson Harrison, 20 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Harrison, Robert Hanson

My dear Sir,
Morris Town Jany 20th 1777.

Mr Johnston (who is now become a member of my Family) deliverd me your Letter of the 18th last night.
I beg of you to consult, and in my name advise and direct, such measures as shall appear most effectual to stop the progress of the Small pox. when I recall to mind the unhappy situation of our Northern Army last year I shudder at the consequences of this disorder if some vigorous steps are not taken to stop the spreading of it. Vigorous measures must be adopted (however disagreeable & inconvenient to Individuals) to remove the Infected & Infection before we feel too sensibly the effects.
I wish to Heaven the expected reinforcements were joind—(under the rose I say it)—My situation with respect to numbers, is more distressing than it has ever been yet; & at a time when the Enemy are Assembling their Force from all Quarters no doubt with a view either to Rout this Army or to move towards Philadelphia as I cannot suppose them so much uninformed of our strength as to believe they are acting upon a Defensive Plan at this hour.
I am exceeding glad to hear you are getting better of your complaints,

I would not wish you to come out too soon—that may only occasion a relapse which may add length of time to your confinement.
Be so good as to forward the Inclosed to Captn Hamilton, & thank Cap. Gibbs for the Gloves sent me. Apropos—was those Gloves intended to remind me of him. Pray find out if you can, and let me know what his expectations are; Most Affectionately I am Yrs

Go: Washington

P.S. Doctr Cockran will set out tomorrow for New Town & will assist you in the Matters before mentioned relative to the Small pox people.


Title: From George Washington to General William Howe, 20 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir,
Head quarters Morris Town 20th Jan. 1777

I take the liberty to propose the Establishmt of an Officer to reside in New York, under parole to transmit no Intelligence but what belongs to his Office; whose business it shall be to provide Necessaries for such Prisoners as fall into yr Hands. Perhaps the Establishmt of such an Officer with proper Credits may put a Stop to the many Complaints which I am daily under the necessity of hearing; some probably without foundation, & others arising from the want of many things which You are not obliged to furnish the Prisoners.
The Gentleman I would beg leave to recommend as a proper Agent is Mr Lewis Pintard the bearer, a person well known in New York, and of long established Reputation as a considerable Mercht. The Council of Safety of Pennsylvania have desired Liberty, when the Weather permits, of sending a Vessel under a Flag, with a Supply of Meet & Flour for our prisoners in New York—I shall be glad to be favoured with your Answer and am with due Respect Sir Yr most Obdt Ser.


Title: From George Washington to Joshua Loring, 20 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Loring, Joshua

Sir
Head Quarters Morris town 20th Jany 1777

I have just recd Advice from Govr Trumbull of Connecticut that he has sent in, all the British prisoners from that State, to Rhode Island. He has not yet furnished me with a Return, but I imagine he has sent one to you by the eldest Officer. I am informed that Capt. Amos Fellows of Colo. Chapmans Regt who was taken prisoner the 15th Sept. last, has been confined upon Suspicion of being concerned in the Fire which happened at New York a few days after. As I have every Reason to beleive that Capt. Fellows is intirely innocent of the Crime laid to his charge, I hope you will procure his liberty, and to make him some Compensation for his sufferings I desire he may be released among the first that are exchanged. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 20 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Pennsylvania Council of Safety

Gentlemen
Head Quarter Morris Town Janry 20th 1777

I Am favour’d with yours of the 16h and am to thank you for the promise you make of assisting the Commissary in procuring flour for the use of the Army.
I Am glad to find the Indians are coming in to court our Friendship, and I dare say the proper steps will be taken to secure their Interest. It will be dangerous for them to come near the Army, as it is much infected with the small Pox.
I wrote you a particular letter yesterday, on the subject of the necessity of obliging your Militia to turn out, I refer you to it, and hope you will fall upon proper measures to effect it.
You will find, that Congress by a late resolve have made it penal in any person to ask a higher price for any Article in paper Money, than they would for Gold or Silver. If the resolve is properly executed and examples made of the first persons found guilty of a breach of it, it will effectually put a stop to the pernicious practice wh. has long prevail’d, of exacting an exorbitant price for Commodities when paid in paper which is now become our only currency. I Am Gentlemen Your most Obedt Servant

Geo. Washington


Title: General Orders, 21 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 21st 1777.

The General is very sorry to find, that the late General Orders, allowing the Plunder taken from the enemy to be divided for the benefit of the party that took it, has been so mistaken by some, and abused by others; This indulgence was granted to scouting parties only, as a reward for the extraordinary fatigues, hardship, and danger they were exposed to upon those parties—The General never meant, nor had any Idea, that any of our own, or Enemy’s Stores, found at any evacuated post; were to be considered as the property of those that first marched in, neither did he mean that any of the public stores, discovered by any of the scouting parties, should be appropriated to their use, unless they found the enemy in actual possession, and dispossest them: Plunder taken under such circumstances, either by Militia or Continental Troops, to be reported by the commanding Officer of the party to some of the Continental, or Provincial Generals, who are directed to have all the provisions, and military stores so taken, appraised by the Commissary & Quarter Master Generals, or their Deputies, and the party paid the value thereof: Such Articles as are taken, not necessary for the use of the Army, to be sold at public Vendue, under the direction of the Quarter Master General or some of his Deputies, for the benefit of the party also—The General prohibits both in Militia and Continental Troops, in the most positive terms, the infamous practice of plundering the Inhabitants, under the specious pretence of their being Tories—Let the persons who are known to be enemies to their Country, be seized and confin’d, and their Property disposed of, as the Law of the State directs—It is our business to give protection, and support, to the poor, distressed Inhabitants; not to multiply and increase their calamities. After the publication of this order, any officer, either Militia or Continental, found attempting to conceal the public Stores; plundering the Inhabitants under the notion of their being Tories, or venduing of Plunder taken from the Enemy, in any other manner than these Orders direct, may expect to be punished in the severest manner; and be obliged to account for every thing taken, or sold.
The Complaint lodged by Serjt Davis, William Davis and others, against Major Proctor, Capt. Lang and Lieut: Trumbull is found by a Court of inquiry to be frivilous and without foundation; on the other hand it appears that those Gentlemen were only doing the duty of good officers, for which they are to be commended.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General George Clinton, 21 January 1777
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
New Windsor [N.Y.] 21st January 1777

I am this Moment honored with your Excellency’s Commands of the 19th Instant and shall not fail in exerting myself to the utmost of my Power in raising and marching the New Levies ordered by this State which I hope soon to effect—I have already nominated the Officers for Ulster & Orange Counties & fixed the Proportion of Men that the different Militia Regiments therein are to furnish with positive Orders to the Commanding Officers to have them raised & ready for marching by the Beginning of next Week in the mean Time I keep out at Hackinsack, Cloister & the Post near Sydman’s 500 of the Militia of those two Counties (being the Number they are to raise) who are not to be relieved untill the New Levies take the Field—The Dutchess & West Chester Militia out of which I am to raise the remaining 500 Men have long since marched towards King’s Bridge in which Quarter they now are and untill they Return Home I fear I shant be able to do any Thing to effect, in raising that Part; I will however nominate the Officers & put Matters in a proper Train that nothing may be wanting in me.
Agreable to your Excellency’s Desire I Will endeavour to nominate four Gentlemen for Captains in one of the New Regiments but as I have not yet been favoured with the Arangement of Officers for the New Army made by our Convention I shall be oblidged to delay this a day or two till I can procure a Copy from them least I should run into the Error of naming those already appointed which I am sensible woud have the bad Effect your Excellency is Apprehensive of—If I can discover four other Gentlemen fit & willing to enter into the Service in the Character of Captains I will make it my Business immediatly to mention them to your Excellency. I will communicate to Major Pawling your Excellencys Pleasure respecting him & I dare engage he will exert himself in forwarding the recruiting Service.
From every Account the recruiting Service in this State goes on

beyond our most Sanguine Expectation. I doubt not therefore but we shall soon be able to send to the Field our Proportion of a Respectable Army indeed. I am with the utmost Respect & Esteem your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

Geo. Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Philemon Dickinson, 21 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

Head quarters [Morristown] Jany 21st 1777.

Genl Putnam communicated to me last Night the disagreeable Account that Lt. Colo. Preston’s party of Militia from Cumberland County in this State has deserted him; This practise in the Militia so generally prevails, that unless some effectual Check can be speedily applied I apprehend the most fatal Consequences. The Mischief is not confined to the Desertion alone, They stay ’till they are properly equipped to render essential Service, and by that Means plunder the Public of the Necessaries that were at first otherwise intended & would be better applied.
Now I recommend to you That you call immediately into service (by such Ways as you think best) at least one third of all the Militia of this State, making it generally known amongst them that they must come prepared to stay ’till the first of April, unless sooner discharged by Authority—It will occur to them That nothing but their most vigorous Exertion at this Time will enable me to oppose any design of the Enemy, & that therefore they ought to continue with me ’till relieved by the Regular Troops now raising—I mean however that every possible Indulgence should be shewn to those Men who have been in actual Service & were regularly discharged; and that no Excuse shall be admitted for those who have shamefully remained at Home when their every thing was at Stake. I am Yr mo. Ob. Hb. Sert.


Title: To George Washington from James Mease, 21 January 1777
From: Mease, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia Jany 21 1777

since I had the pleasure of writing your Excellency I have been confined with a bad fever & Cold, wh. prevents my being able to set out for Camp for a few days In the mean time have thought proper to send the bearer Mr Young to take care of such business for me as may Occur in that department I have engaged him as assistant to me in the execution of the business not doubting but some will be necessary If your Excellency should have any commands Mr Young will be glad to receive them for me & I hope to have the pleasure seeing your Excellency a few days hence. I Am with the greatest Esteem & respect your Excellency’s most obdt & most Hbl. servt

James Mease


Title: General Orders, 22 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 22nd 1777.
New-York.Kingsbridge

Genl Cadwallader’s Brigade are to hold themselves in readiness to march at 9 o’Clock; as Capt. Morris’s Troop of Light Horse also are.


Title: From George Washington to John Parke Custis, 22 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, John Parke

Dear Sir,
Morris Town Jany 22d 1777

Your Letter of the 7th came to my hands a few days ago, and brot with it the pleasing reflection of your still holding me in remembrance.
The misfortune of short Inlistments, and an unhappy dependance upon Militia, have shewn their baneful Influence at every period, and almost upon every occasion, throughout the whole course of this War. at no time, nor upon no occasion were they ever more exemplified than since Christmas; for if we could but have got in the Militia in time, or prevaild upon those Troops whose times expired (as they generally did) on the first of this Instt to have continued (not more than a thousand or 1200 agreeing to stay) we might, I am perswaded, have cleard the Jerseys entirely of the Enemy. Instead of this, all our movements have been made with inferior numbers, & with a mix’d, motley crew; who were here today, gone tomorrow, without assigning a reason, or even apprising you of it. In a word, I believe I may with truth add, that I do not think that any Officer since the Creation ever had such a variety of difficulties & perplexities to encounter as I have—How we shall be able to rub along till the New Army is raised I know not. Providence has heretofore saved us in a remarkable manner, and on this we must principally rely. Every person, in every State, should exert himself to facilitate the raising and Marching the New Regiments to the Army with all possible expedition.
I have never seen (but heard of) the Resolve you mention, nor do I get a Paper of Purdies once a Month—those who want faith to believe the Acct of the shocking wastes committed by Howes Army—of their Ravaging—Plundering—& abuse of Women, may be convinced to their Sorrow perhaps, if a check cannot be put to their progress.
It is painful to me to hear of such illiberal reflections upon the Eastern Troops as you say prevails in Virginia—I always have, and always shall say, that I do not believe that any of the States produce better men, or Persons capable of making better Soldiers; but it is to be acknowledged that they are (generally speaking) most ⟨wretchedly officered—⟩to this, and this only, ⟨their demerits⟩ is to be attributed. the Policy of those States has been, to level men as much as possible to one standard. the distinction therefore ⟨between officers⟩ & Soldiers, is lost—⟨determination mutilated⟩ is destroyed—and that hunger, & thirst after glory which spurs on the ⟨mutilated⟩ to distinguishd Acts, has ⟨mutilated⟩ Officers; which, for the most part, ⟨mutilated⟩ are men of low Character, Friends persons, & such as have had Influence (perhaps undue Influence) to raise Men—entering the Service probably, ⟨mutilated⟩

of pay which they gain by, for Gentlemen cannot live upon it.
This is the true secret, and we have found, that wherever a Regiment is well Officered, the Men have behaved well—when otherwise, ill—the ⟨misconduct⟩ or cowardly behaviour always originating with the Officers, who have set the example. Equal Injustice is done them, in depriving them of Merit in other respects; for no People fly to Arms readier than they do, or come better equip’d, or with more regularity into the Field than they.
With respect to your enqu⟨iries about the payment⟩s made Mr Matzai ⟨I cannot⟩ answer them with precission, b⟨ut I am ex⟩ceedingly mistaken if I have not made him two, for both you and myself. indeed I am as sure of it as I can be of any thing from the badness of my Memory—I think I made him one payment myself, and the Treasurer, or Hill made him the other. The Book however in which I keep your Accts will shew it (the parchment covered Quarto one) as you will, I suppose, find your self charged by me, with the payments made Matzai.
In my Letter to Lund Washington I have given the late occurrances—& to avoid repetition I refer you to him. My love to Nelly—& Compliments to Mr Calvts Family & all other enquiring friends leaves me nothing else to add than that I am Yr Affecte

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 22 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 22d Jany 1777

My last to you was on the 20th instant. Since that, I have the pleasure to inform you, that General Dickinson, with about 400 Militia, has defeated a foraging Party of the Enemy of an equal number, and has taken forty Waggons and upwards of an hundred Horses, most of them of the English draft Breed, and a number of Sheep and Cattle which they had collected.
The Enemy retreated with so much precipitation, that General Dickinson had only an opportunity of making nine prisoners, they were observed to carry off a good many dead and wounded in light Waggons.
This Action happened near Somerset Court House on Millstone

River. Genl Dickinsons behaviour reflects the highest honour upon him, for tho’ his Troops were all raw, he lead them thro’ the River, middle deep, and gave the Enemy so severe a charge, that, altho’ supported by three feild peices, they gave way and left their Convoy.
I have not heard from Genl Heath, since the firing near Kingsbridge last Saturday, which I cannot account for, unless the North River should have been rendered impassable by the Ice. But the account of his having surprized and taken Fort Independance on Friday Night last, comes so well authenticated by different ways, that I cannot doubt it. It is said that he took 400 prisoners in that Fort, and that he invested Fort Washington on Saturday, which occasioned the firing. This is brought out by three of our Officers who made their Escape from New York on Sunday, and is confirmed by a Spy who went into Amboy, who says, an Express had arrived at Amboy from New York, with an Account of the Loss of Fort Independance, and calling for a Reinforcement to protect the City, in consequence of which a number of Troops had gone over.
I have sent in Spies to Brunswic and Amboy to know the Truth of this, and if it appears that they have weakened themselves to reinforce New York, I shall probably make some attempt upon them, if we have men enough left to do it.
I shall be glad to know what Stock of small Arms you at present have, and what are your Expectations shortly. The Necessity that we have been, and are now under, of calling in and arming the Militia, scatters our Armoury all over the World in a Manner, their Officers are so irregular, that they generally suffer their men to carry home every thing that is put into their Hands, which are forever lost to the public. The new raised Regiments will call for a great Number of Arms, and I do not at present see how they are to be supplied.
I would again beg leave to recall the Attention of Congress to the appointment of General Officers. I will not suppose the nomination of them is postponed upon a saving principle, because, the advantage in having proper Officers to examine the pay Rolls of their several Regiments, & compare them with the Returns of their Brigades—to see that the Regiments are provided with what is proper, and that no more than a sufficiency is allowed—to keep Officers to their duty, and not, while the spirited Officer is encountering all the fatigues and hardships of a rigorous Campaign, suffer a number of others, under various frivolous pretences and imaginary sicknesses, to enjoy themselves at the public Expence at their own fire sides. I say, if the Appointments are withheld upon parsimonious principles, the Congress are mistaken, for I am convinced, that by the correction of many Abuses, which it is impossible for me to attend to, the public will be benifitted

in a great degree, in the article of Expence. But this is not all, we have a very little time, to do a very great work in. The arranging, providing for, and disciplining an hundred and odd Battalions, is not to be accomplished in a day, nor is it to be done at all with any degree of propriety, when we have once entered upon the active part of a Campaign. These duties must be branched out, or they will be neglected and the public injured—Besides, were the Brigadiers appointed, they might be facilitating the recruiting Service, they would have time to get a little acquainted with their Brigades, the Wants of them, and ease me of the great Weight and Burthen which I at present feel.
On whom the Choice will, or ought to light, I cannot undertake to say: In a former Letter, I took the liberty of submitting to the consideration of Congress, the propriety of appointing, out of each State, Brigadiers to command the Troops of that State, thinking, as a distinction is now fixed, a spirit of Emulation might arise by this means. At any Rate I shall take the liberty of recommending General Cadwallader as one of the first for the new Appointments. I have found him a Man of Ability, a good disciplinarian, firm in his principles, and of intrepid Bravery. I shall also beg leave to recommend Colonel Reed to the Command of the Horse, as a person, in my opinion, every way qualified; for he is extremely active and enterprizing, many signal proofs of which has he given this Campaign. For the rest, the Members of Congress can judge better than I can, I can only say, that as the Army will probably be divided, in the Course of the next Campaign, there ought in my opinion to be three Lieutenant Generals, Nine Major Generals and Twenty Seven Brigadiers. In other words, there ought at least to be a Brigadier to every four Regiments, and a Major General to every three Brigades.
The Lieutenant Generals will, I presume, be appointed out of the oldest Major Generals, and the Major Generals from the oldest Brigadiers. New Brigadiers will then be to nominate.
I forgot, before this, to inform Congress, that including the Regiment of light Dragoons from Virginia, and Colo. Sheldons to be raised in Connecticut, I have only commissioned Officers for four Regiments. I was willing to try how those could be equipped, before I put more Officers into Commission. It is apprehended we shall find difficulty in providing Necessaries or even Horses for these four Regiments. If we should not, I shall immediately set about the residue. Colo. Baylor, Colo. Moylan (who as [a] Volunteer has remained constantly with the Army since his discontinuance in the Quarter Masters department) and Colo. Sheldon, command[s] the three new Regiments of light Dragoons.
The Treasury has been for sometime empty, and the Army has laboured

under the greatest inconvenience for want of Money. The recruiting Service is particularly injured by this, as many Officers are now waiting only for Bounty Money. I have also complaints from the Eastward of the want of Money to carry on their recruiting Service. If we are not supplied with that necessary Article, all Matters must be at a stand. I must therefore beg, that if Mr Palfrey has not been already supplied with a large Sum, that it may be done with the utmost expedition, and that you will endeavour to keep up the Supply by constantly sending on smaller parcels. I have the Honor to be with Regard Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I did not recollect Major Genl Lincoln in the provincial Service of Massachusets, he is an excellent Officer and worthy of your Notice in the Continental Line.

G. W.—n


Title: General Orders, 23 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 23rd 1777.
Colchester.Dumfries.

Major Proctor is directed to inspect and arrange the Artillery, in such manner as he shall think best, for the defence of this place, taking care to have such repairs immediately made, as may be wanting, with horses allotted to each piece, and all necessary harness ready.

The Brigadiers, and Colonels commanding Brigades, to make Returns of their men, to morrow morning.


Title: Circular to the New England States, 23–24 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: New England States

Head quartrs Morris Town Jany 23d[-24] 1777

The situation to which I am reduced for want of a Regular body of Troops on whom I can depend for a length of time, makes it indispensably necessary for me to call upon You and intreat you to exert Yourselves in levying and equipping the number of Battalions allotted to your State by the Resolution of Congress in September last.
You must be fully sensible of the Hardship imposed upon Individuals, and how detrimental it must be to the Public, to have her Farmers and Tradesmen frequently called into the Field as Militia-men, whereby a total Stop is put to Arts & Agriculture, without which We can not possibly long subsist—But great as this Inconvenience is, We must put up with it, or submit to a greater, the total Loss of our Liberties, untill our regular Continental Army can be brought into the Field.
The above Reasons alone I hope will be sufficient to induce you to exert Yourselves; for if our new Army are not ready to take the Field early in the Spring, We shall loose all the Advantages which I may say We have providentially gained this Winter. While our dependance is upon Militia, We have a full Army one day & scarce any the next; And I am much afraid, that the Enemy one day or other, taking Advantage of one of these temporary Weaknesses, will make themselves Masters of our Magazines of Stores, Arms & Artillery. Nothing but their Ignorance of our Numbers protects Us at this very time. When on the contrary, had We six or eight Thousand regular Troops, or could the Militia, who were with me a few days ago, have been prevailed upon to stay, We could have struck such a Stroke, as would have inevitably ruined the Army of the Enemy in their divided State.
I am not without hopes, that by creating a powerfull Diversion on the side of New York, We may still keep their force divided between that Province & this; If so, and a good body of Regular troops could be thrown in to me before the Roads will be in a Condition for the

Enemy with their reduced Waggon and Artillery horses, to move out, it perhaps may not be out of my power to strike a decisive Blow before Spring—This is another and a forcible Reason to induce You to send your new Levies forward with all Expedition—While the Men are raising, I beg you will spare no pains to make Collections of all things necessary for their Equipment; not only of such as they carry with them into the Field, but for their Use and Convenience while they are there; such as spare Shoes, Stockings & Shirts; the want of which has been the Ruin of the old Army.
If these Articles are provided & put into the hands of the Regimentl Quarter-Masters, they can always be delivered out when wanted, and Stopages made by the Paymasters—I expect the Cloathier General will be with the Army in a few days, when I shall give him directions to allot a proportion of the Cloathing, lately taken and purchased for the Public, to each State. I am Yr most Obedient Humble Ser.

Go: Washington


Title: Orders to Colonel John Cadwalader, 23 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Cadwalader, John

Sir,
[Morristown, 23 January 1777]

March your Brigade from hence to Chatham or the Posts below that—Consult with Genls Sullivan and Stephen upon the Propriety of an attempt upon any of the Enemys Posts. or giving them a formidable Alarm—and, if you shd find a willingness in your Officers & Men to the undertaking of any practicable Scheme, do not omit, in conjuction with the Troops at the Posts of Chatham &ca to prosecute it. Genl Sullivan is already wrote to on this head.
From thence you are at liberty to March your Brigade to Philadelphia, and when they are dismissed, communicate to them my Sense (contain’d in an address to yourself) of the Important Services they

have renderd their Country at this severe, & inclemant Season. Given at head Quarters Morris Town this 23d day of Jany 1777.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from General William Howe, 23 January 1777
From: Howe, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York 23rd January 1777.

Your several Letters of the 1st 6th 12th 17th and 29th December have been received: I have not troubled you with Answers to them as the Exchanges to which they relate so far as the military Line is concerned, have been regularly made.
The Conditions respecting the Exchange of Prisoners not being complied with on your Part in the Manner I had a Right to expect from the Agreement subsisting between us, and from your repeated Declarations in Answer to my Letters on that Subject, I propose to send an Officer of Rank to you to confer upon the future Mode of Exchange, Subsistance &ca, if it meets with your Approbation; this Expedient appearing to me effectual for settling all Differences, will, I hope, be the Means of preventing a Repetition of the improper Terms in which your Letter of the 13th Instant is expressed, & founded upon the grossest Misrepresentations: I shall not make any further Comment upon it than to assure you, that your Threats of retaliating upon the innocent such Punishment, as may be de[c]reed in the Circumstances of Mr Lee by the Laws of his Country, will not divert me from my Duty in any Respect, at the same Time you may rest satisfied that the Proceedings against him will not be precipitated; and I trust that in this, or in any other Event during the Course of my Command, you will not have just Cause to accuse me of Inhumanity, Prejudice, or Passion.
Altho’ I cannot contradict the Account you have been pleased to transmit of the cruel Treatment of Lieutenant Yeates I can aver my Abhorrence of the Barbarity therein set forth, and am satisfied that the Officers under my Command are equally inclined to discourage

such Behaviour, and to prevent it in every possible Degree; but the Heat of Action will sometimes produce Instances that are only to be lamented.
Lieutenant Colonel Walcot is the Officer I have appointed to negotiate respecting the Prisoners; he will accordingly wait your Answer to this at Brunswick, which you will be pleased to address to Lord Cornwallis commanding at that Place. I am with due Respect Sir, Your most obedient Servant

W. Howe


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Nourse, 23 January 1777
From: Nourse, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War Officer Baltimore Janry 23d 1777.

As the Secretary is out of Town, I am directed by the Board of War, to transmit to your Excellency two Extracts of the Letter to them referr’d by Congress, from General Schyler dated Albany the 7th Inst., your Excellency being the best judge what measures shou’d be taken, and Orders issued on the occasion; which they leave entirely to you. I am, with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most obt hum: Servt
Joseph Nourse1st Clerk Board of War


Title: To George Washington from the Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 23 January 1777
From: Pennsylvania Council of Safety
To: Washington, George

Sir,
In Council of Safety Philadelphia January 23rd 1777

Your Excellency’s favours of the 19th and 20th Instant are come to hand. It no doubt is Matter of great Concern that the Militia are returning home, more especially when your Excellency has been so very successfull with them, and has in a great Measure taught them their duty to fight and to Conquer.
The Council have succeeded beyond their expectation in bringing out the Militia, and would gladly send them off to your Excellency as fast as they come to this City, were it not for the great difficulty of procuring Arms, Blankets and other Necessaries for a Winters Campaign. They have not only been Obliged to procure those Articles for the Pennsylvania Militia but likewise for many of Maryland and New Castle, which has much exhausted the Stores and housekeepers in this State. However it is Still the will and intention of the Council to go on with Collecting and furnishing as many as is in their power and with all possible expedition send them to your Excellency.
If any mode could be adopted to oblige those returning from Camp to leave their Arms, Blankets &ca in this City or Trenton it would be of infinite service and greatly dispatch those ready for Marching. The Council most earnestly desire with your Excellency that the Militia of this State be put on a proper footing, to Promote which they have laid before the House of Assembly your Excellencys Letter, and are informed they are preparing a Militia Law which we hope will greatly add to the Military force of this State. On the part of the Council nothing shall be wanting to carry your Excellencys orders into execution.
The unhappy situation of the Field Officers of this State, who are now Prisoners excite our Commiseration and wish that some expedient may be devised for their deliverance—if this Council can contribute in any Measure to this most salutary Step, they will with the utmost

chearfullness render every Assistance in their power. We therefore beg that your Excellency may be perswaded that our Solicitation does not proceed from a desire of intermedleing with Matters out of the line of our Duty, but the unhappy situation of our Countrymen, and a hearty wish to have them released, is the sole motive for troubleing your Excellency on the subject—the other Officers and privates we suppose are in a fair way of being released which affords us the utmost pleasure. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

Tho. Wharton jr Prest


Title: General Orders, 24 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 24th 1777.


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Benedict Arnold, 24 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Benedict Arnold, 24 Jan. 1777. On 7 Feb. Arnold wrote GW that “Your favour of the 24th Ulto I had not the pleasure of receiveing untill the 3d Inst.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 24 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Sir,
Morris Town Jay 24th 1777

I was favd with yrs of the 21st Inst. on Yesterday. Much depends on our taking the Field early with a powerfull force, by which means Victory

over the Enemy in the distressed Situation they must be from the severity of this Campain will be certain, & our Affairs will be on so good a footing before any considerable Reinforcement can come to them, that We shall have but little to dread—I am pleased with the Prospect you have of sending out the Proportion of yr State; indeed I want them—So soon as you find out the four Capts. you will be pleased to let me know it. I am Yr most Obedient Ser.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 24 January 1777
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia January 24th 1777.

I was this morning prepared to Set Out to wait upon Your Excellency; but Mr Morris, Lord Stirling, & General Mifflin, have desired I would remain here to Expedite the March of the Militia daily arriving in this City. As These Gentlemen think I can render the best Service in doing this Duty, I shall continue to execute it until I receive Your Excellencys further Commands.
Inclosed is a Letter for Genl Schuyler, and some Resolves of Congress, which the president Deliver’d to me Open to forward to Your Excellency. I am Sir Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

Horatio Gates


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 24 January 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
William’s Tavern [N.Y.] Jany 24th 1777

I have received the honor of your’s of the 19th Instant.
In my last I informed your Excellency of our Arrival in the Neighbourhood of Fort Independence, and of our taking a number of Arms—In stead of 15 at one place, we took upwards of 40, & about as many Blankets.
I also mention’d in my last our Intention of Attacking the Hessians at the Bridge, the next day—Every praparation was made & the Troops ready for the Attack, but a sudden Change of the Weather had so soften’d the Ice which was very weak before, as prevented our Crossing the Creek.
Yesterday afternoon we had a Skirmish with a Party which Sallied from the Fort—We had one Ensign & one Private killed, & five

wounded—It is supposed that we killed a number of the Enemy; but as it was close to the Fort, we cannot tell how many—The Enemy cannonaded briskly, but fortunately did us no harm—We have from the first morning of our Arrival kept possession, of the Two Works between the Fort & Valentine’s, which are almost within Point-Blank Shot of the Fort.
We are carrying off the Forage of which there are large Quantities, in this Vicinity—At the expence of 100 Dollars I sent a trusty Intelligent man into the City, Three days ago—he returned on yesterday with the following intelligence vizt 100 men are posted at Harlem—they are of the 23d 44th & 64th Regts—that Genl Agnaw’s Brigade lie between Fort Washington & the City, about 1000 Strong—every third day send 130 men to Kingsbridge—That there are about Two Regiments of Troops in the City—that a few Recruits (short of 100) have lately arrived from Europe—that the Tories are very uneasy, & wish their Goods out of the City—that they apprehend we shall attempt to pass over Harlem River—Genl Kniphausen commands at Fort Washington & has five Battalions with him—that a fire broke out a Night or Two ago in the City, which consumed several Houses—that the Inhabitants and Soldiers are much dejected—that upon the appearance of our Troops at Morrissania, the Enemy’s Guard on Montezure’s Island were struck with a Panic, set fire to the House & Barn, & fled to New York, where Three of them were put under Guard—that Generals How & Agnaw rode to Kingsbridge the day before he left the City—that Lord Piercy was to land on our backs—that provisions were scarce & dear—Firewood more so, five pounds pr Cord, & scarcely obtainable—that they were pulling down the wooden Houses to Burn—that hay was 14/ pr Hundred, their Horses very poor & many of them dead.
This day we have had a severe Storm which has so raised Brunks’s River that it is impassable by Williams’s the water running over the Top of the Bridge—We shall pay strict attention to your Excellency’s Directions in your last Letter—but the River is so full of Ice that it is difficult for Boats to move at present, and it has been impossible as yet to get them down from Kings Ferry—I rather think that it may be done soon—I am yet in hopes of giving the Enemy a blow here if an Oppertunity should offer.
If the Troops should be removed from this side the River except what may be thought necessary for the Security of the Forts & passes in the Highlands, I beg your Excellency’s Permission, to Ride to New-England, for a Short time, if it can be granted consistent with the good of the Service, as my own Interest will be extremely injured if I do not,

between this & Spring, having been constantly in the Army ever since the morning of the 19th of April 1775—however I submit the matter to your Excellency’s Determination.
I omitted to mention that a man was hang’d in York for being a Spy, the day before my Informant came out—& Two others were to be try’d the next day—One Patten is here with a pass signed John Fitzgerald Aid de Camp to the Commander in Chief, to go into the City, with one or more horses—as I had just received the within Intelligence & cannot tell who the man is, & no mention is made in the pass of your Excellency having given Order, in the matter, or that there is such an Aid d. C. I have delayed him until I can hear from your Excellency. I have the honor to be very respectfully Your Excellency’s most humbe Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 24 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Sir
Head Quarters Morris town 24th Jany 1777

The irregular and disjointed State of the Militia of this province, makes it necessary for me to inform you, that unless a Law is passed by your Legislature to reduce them to some order, and oblige them to

turn out in a different Manner from what they have hitherto done, we shall bring very few into the Feild, and even those few, will render little or no Service.
Their Officers are generally of the lowest Class of people, and instead of setting a good Example to their Men, are leading them into every kind of Mischeif, one Species of which is, plundering the Inhabitants under pretence of their being Tories. A Law should in my Opinion be passed, to put a stop to this kind of lawless Rapine, for unless there is something done to prevent it, the people will throw themselves of choice into the hands of the British Troops.
But your first object should be a well regulated Militia Law. The people, put under good Officers, would behave in quite another manner, and not only render real Service as Soldiers, but would protect, instead of distressing the Inhabitants.
What I would wish to have particularly insisted upon, in the new Law, should be, that every Man capable of bearing Arms, should be obliged to turn out, and not buy off their Service by a trifling Sum. We want Men and not Money. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Augustine Washington, 24 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, John Augustine
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Augustine Washington, 24 Jan. 1777. In a letter to John Augustine Washington of 24 Feb. 1777, GW informed his brother that “your Letter of the 24th Ulto from Mount Vernon came duly to hand.”


Title: General Orders, 25 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Morristown, Jany 25th 1777.


Title: Proclamation concerning Persons Swearing British Allegiance, 25 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

[Morristown, 25 January 1777]

By his Excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON, Esq; General and Commander in Chief of all the forces of the United States of America.
PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS several persons, inhabitants of the United States of America, influenced by inimical motives, intimidated by the threats of the enemy, or deluded by a Proclamation issued the 30th of November last, by Lord and General Howe, stiled the King’s Commissioners for granting pardons, &c. (now at open war and invading these states) have been so lost to the interest and welfare of their country, as to repair to the enemy, sign a declaration of fidelity, and, in some instances, have been compelled to take oaths of allegiance, and to engage not to take up arms, or encourage others so to do, against the King of Great-Britain. And whereas it has become necessary to distinguish between the friends of America and those of Great-Britain, inhabitants of these States, and that every man who receives a protection from and is a subject of any State (not being conscientiously scrupulous against bearing arms) should stand ready to defend the same against every hostile invasion, I do therefore, in behalf of the United States, by virtue

of the powers committed to me by Congress, hereby strictly command and require every person, having subscribed such declaration, taken such oaths, and accepted protection and certificates from Lord or General Howe, or any person acting under their authority, forthwith to repair to Head-Quarters, or to the quarters of the nearest general officer of the Continental Army or Militia (until farther provision can be made by the civil authority) and there deliver up such protections, certificates, and passports, and take the oath of allegiance to the United States of America. Nevertheless, hereby granting full liberty to all such as prefer the interest and protection of Great-Britain to the freedom and happiness of their country, forthwith to withdraw themselves and families within the enemy’s lines. And I do hereby declare that all and every person, who may neglect or refuse to comply with this order, within thirty days from the date hereof, will be deemed adherents to the King of Great-Britain, and treated as common enemies of the American States.

Given at Heard-Quarters, Morris-Town, January 25, 1777.
 GEORGE WASHINGTON.
By his Excellency’s command,
Robert H. Harrison, Secretary.


Title: To George Washington from the New York Committee of Safety, 25 January 1777
From: New York Committee of Safety
To: Washington, George

In Committee of Safety for the State of New-YorkFish Kill January 25th 1777.
Sir

The Convention received great Pleasure from the Receipt of your Excellency’s Favor of the 5th of Jany Instt. In just Admiration of your Excellency’s wise and spirited Opperations they beg leave again to congratulate you on the Successes of the American Arms and to return you their Thanks for the Attention which you have uniformly exhibited to the Care and Defence of this State.
The Convention have lately received a very extraordinary Epistle from a certain Mr Loring Commissary of Prisoners in the British Army of which and of our Answer Copies are herewith enclosed. We also send you an Account of some Prisoners of War who have lately made their Escape from this State regardless of those Obligations which among Gentm. are sacred.
We apprehend no Doubts can exist whether the Affair of Sir John Johnson is within your immediate Cognizance. He held a Commission as Brigadier General of Militia and it is said another Commission as Major Genl. That he hath shamelesly broken his Parole is evident, but whether it would be more proper to have him returned or exchanged is entirely in your Excellency’s Prudence.
We shall be happy to receive by the return of our Express such Particulars as will be of use to communicate to the Public, Your Excellency must be sensible that every thing which rouses and animates the People gives Vigor to a Cause which depends upon their Zeal.
The party under the Command of Genl Heath is now in the Southern part of Westchester. whether they will make an Attempt upon New-York & Long-Island or confine themselves to glean such Forage as the Enemy have left behind them we cannot ascertain but hope for the former. But in either Case we wish and expect that their Movements will facilitate your Excellency’s Operations. I have the Honor to be with great Esteem And respect Your Excellencys most Obedt Humbe Servant

James Livingston Chairman


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 25 January 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Albany January 25th 1777.

Permit me to refer your Excellency to the inclosed Letter to Congress and the papers it contains, for Information from this Quarter.
Colonel Wayne is very anxious to go down the Country—I wish him to be relieved by a General Officer; but as I have none to send there, your Excellency will be so good as to order one or more to this place.
I percieve by the Resolution of Congress that three thousand Horsemen are to be raised—Some Horses may possibly be procured here—perhaps you may think it expedient to order them to be purchased.
Major Edmenston has importuned me so much to go on his parole to General Howe to try to get exchanged, that I have consented to his going down to you—He will set out in a few Days under Charge of an Officer, whom I shall direct not to approach your Quarters nearer than ten Miles until he receives your Commands.
A Report prevails here that you have had a third capital Advantage over the Enemy and that General Heath has possessed himself of Fort Washington—I sincerely wish a Confirmation of these Accounts, that I may have the pleasure to congratulate you thereon.
I can easily concieve that your whole Time must be so engrossed with the variety of Affairs that claim your Attention that I can seldom expect to be honored with a Line—I wish however when any thing of Importance occurs that Mr Harrison would favor me with a Line—If it is sent by Way of Fish Kill it will do, unless a Conveyance should offer immediately to this place. I am dear Sir With every wish for your

Health & Happiness and with great Respect Your most obedt humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from William Shippen, Jr., 25 January 1777
From: Shippen, William Jr.
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, c.25 January 1777]

That the sick of your army should be well taken care of is a point of the greatest consequence—The present establishment will not allow it, therefore I wrote to Congress on this subject some time agoe proposing an Arrangement which I flatter’d myself would answer all purposes—I am since inform’d your Excellency has full power to adopt any plan and appoint any officers you think proper, I therefore beg leave to trouble you with my opinion on this matter being fully persuaded this Department will put on the same Face of spirit that the others have since your excellencys new appointments. I would propose the continent to be divided into three Districts—A Middle extending from Hudsons river to Potowmac—A Southern from Potowmac to Charlestown & a Northern from Hudsons river to Quebec or Crown point. In each of these should be the following officers with the following pay.
An Inspector general (who may be Director general of the middle department) & have a right to see that all the other Directors do their duty & receive returns from them & he send them to your excellency, see that each department has his share of medicine & cloathing &c. wth such a salary as you may think proper.
A Director general to each @ 40/⅌ diem & 12 Rations.
Three sub directors @ 30/ & 6 Rations.
each of these to visit the Hospitals under their direction always once a week—all the above officers to be appointed by your excellency—& if I am so happy as to be thought proper for the place of Inspector & Director of the middle district I beg leave to desire you will indulge

me with Dr Cochran, Dr Potts & Dr T. Bond jr in as my sub directors, gentlemen I know to be possessd with great humanity industry, & knowledge of what is necessary for the sick soldiery.
Three senior Physicians & surgeons to the Hospital @ 30/ ⅌ Diem & 6 R.
Ten second Physicians & Surgeons @ 15/ & 4 R.
Twenty mates to each district @ 10/ & 3 R.
1 Apothecary Genl to Do @ 15/ & 3 R.
Three mates @ 7/6 & 2 R.
The physicians & Surgeons to be chosen by the several Directors general not before they have undergone a strict examination before at least three Directors. The mates to be chosen by the Physicians & surgeons, 7 attending their examination, & a majority approving.
Besides these; One quarter Master & Commissary to every 100 sick @ 10/ & 4 Rations
One Ward master to Do @ 7/6 & 3 R.
One Steward to Do @ 7/6 & 3 R.
One Matron to ditto @ 5/ & 2 R.
One Nurse to every 15 men @ 15/ a Week
One Store keeper to every 500 sick @ 10/ & 3 R.
One Clerk to Do @ 7/6 & 2 R.
One secretary to every District @ 15/ & 3 R.
One Physician or surgeon extrordinary to every army to see that the regimental Surgeons do their duty & to attend to general Officers & extraordinary events that may happen from time to time @ 30/ & 6. This officer to be appointed by the commander in chief; & may I take the Liberty to mention Dr McClurg for this place in the middle district—You know Sir he is a gentleman of eminent medical parts great Zeal for the american cause & great attention to business. What do you think of Dr Jones of New York for the post in the northern, and Dr Walter Jones of Virginia in the southern department, entirely independent of the Directors, & only controulable by & amenable to the commander in chief.
Each regiment to have a Surgeon to be appointed by the Directors of the hospital after an examination @ 12/6 & 4 R.
Two mates to be examined too @ 7/6 & 2 R.
One Quarter Mr Serjeant to see that the sick are carried to the most contiguous Hospital in proper time @ 5/ & 2 R.
Let there be also a flying Hospital to every army with a Surgeon @ 15/ 6
& 4 Mates @ 7/6 2
Let 2 or 3 or more Waggons loaded with Beds Medicines Instruments

& bandages &c. attend these to relieve those whose cases wont admit being moved to any general Hospital immediately after an Action &c.
As Drs Morgan & Stringer are dismissd the service by the Congress I am at a loss who to recommend—You know Sir the merits of Drs Foster, Warren Eustace, M. Knight & Adams who are the first on the list in that quarter as well as any body. I have thus unreservedly ventured to write to your Excellency on a matter of the highest moment & am sure whatever you do in it will have such sure marks of wisdom & judgment as will give entire satisfaction to all & whatever share you allot me I will be content with, & exert my utmost abilities to execute to your & the poor sick Soldierys satisfaction. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys very affecte & humbe Servt

W. Shippen Jr

I found a great number of your troops here in a miserable situation, which I have the pleasure to inform you are now in a comfortable situation. The smallpox rases & it is the opinion of the committee of Congress & the generals that inoculation should take place immediately in such a manner as that those who pass & repass hereafter, may not be liable to recieve the infection unless circumstances may make it proper. It is 3 to 1 that all in town have taken the infection & will carry it to the Army unless inoculated.

W. Sn


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Samuel Blachley Webb, 25 January 1777
From: Webb, Samuel Blachley
To: Washington, George

Wethersfield in Connecticut January 25th 1777.

I wrote your Excellency the 22d Instant from Fairfield in which I mentioned the additional Bounty of 33⅓d Dollars given by this State to the Soldiers for the Eight Battallions they are to raise, I arrived here last Eveng and find ’tis not in the Governors power to grant Me the same, but by consent of the Assembly which unluckily was adjourned two days before my arrival, I wish your Excellency to write Governor Trumbull on the subject, otherways ’twill be impossible for me to fill my Regiment, Men will not enlist for 20 Dollars with Me when others will give them 53. many of my Officers are ready to go immediately on the recruiting service, & with equal encouragement others have Recd I doubt not I should be able to take the field very early. I have the Honor to be Your Excellencies Most Obedt Hume servt

Samel B. Webb


Title: General Orders, 26 January 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, Jany 26th 1777.


Title: To George Washington from Col. William Grayson, 26 January 1777 [letter not found]
From: Grayson, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Col. William Grayson, 26 Jan. 1777. On 1 April 1777 Grayson wrote to GW: “I also put a letter in the Post office here, dated the 26th of January, acquainting you among things, that I had clos’d with Major Ross and had not spoke to Majr Frazer on the subject.”