Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 22 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada August 22d 1777. 7 O’Clock A.M.

Your several Favours—by Colonel Hamilton—by Lieutenant Ewing—and also of the 21st Inst. I have had the Honour of receiving in the Order of their respective Dates.
The Congress having had your Letter and the Proceedings of a Council of War under Consideration, highly approve the same, and have come to the enclosed Resolution to the Subject, to which I beg Leave to refer you.
Since my last, we have received no farther Information respecting the Fleet. Every Intelligence on the Subject shall be instantly forwarded, that you may be fully acquainted with the Movements of the Enemy, and the better enabled to form a Judgment of their Views and Intentions.
I congratulate you on the Success of General Stark. Lest you should not have received so perfect an Account of the Matter, I do myself the Pleasure to inclose you a printed Copy of Genl Lincoln’s Letter to Genl Schuyler and by him transmitted to Congress. I have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect, Sir your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 22 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Congress Chamber [Philadelphia] 22d Augst 1777½ past 1 oClock P.M.
Sir

This moment an Express is Arriv’d from Maryland with an Accott of near Two hundred Sail of Mr Howe’s Fleet being at Anchor in Chesapeak Bay, a Copy of the Letter brought by the Express I inclose you, & to which I Refer you—In consequence of this Advice Congress have order’d the immediate Removal of all the Stores & Prisoners from Lancaster & York in this State to places of greater Safety.
Congress have this moment come to the Inclos’d Resolution to which I beg leave to Refer you, & indeed I need not Add, as the whole matter is submitted to you—I will not Detain the express only to Say that I am with every Sentiment of Esteem & Respect, Sir Your very hume Servt

John Hancock, Presidt


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

Head Quarters Camp at Cross roads [Bucks County, Pa.]August 22. 1777
Sir.

I am honord with your favor, containing the intelligence of the Enemy’s arrival in Chesapeak Bay and the resolution of Congress thereupon.
I have, in consequence of this account, sent orders to General Nash immediately to embark his Brigade and Colo. Proctor’s Corps of Artillery, if Vessels can be procured for the purpose, and to proceed to Chester; or if Vessels cannot be provided, to hasten towards that place by land with all the dispatch he can. I have also directed General Sullivan to join this Army with his division, as speedily as possible; and I have issued orders for all the Troops here to be in motion to morrow morning very early, with intention to march them towards Philadelphia—and onwards.
I am happy to find Congress have ordered the removal of the stores from Lancaster, and York, to places of greater safety, which is, without doubt, a very proper and necessary measure. With much respect & esteem I have the honor to be Sir Your most obet Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Francis Nash, 22 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Nash, Francis

Sir.
[Bucks County, Pa.] Augt 22d 1777 sunsett

You will immediately proceed with your Brigade & Colo. Proctor’s Corps of Artillery to Chester. If you can readily procure Craft to transport the Troops by Water you will: If you cannot, you will March by Land & send your Baggage by water if there shall be Vessels sufficient to carry it. Shou’d you be disappointed in this also, it must go by land in such Waggons as you can get for the purpose. I have this minute recieved advice by express that Genl Howes Fleet is high up in the North East part of Chesepeak Bay. I am Sr Your hum. Sert

G. W——n

P.S. Should you be oblig’d to March by land, I wish you to order your March so, as not to go thro’ Philadelphia & to pass by it without halting your Troops near it.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Thomas Nelson, Jr., 22 August 1777
From: Nelson, Thomas Jr.
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Head Quarters, York [Va.] August 22d 1777

The Arrival of the British Fleet upon this Coast having made it necessary to call together a considerable Body of the Militia, in Number

four thousand, the Governor & Council have honoured me with the Command of them with the Rank of Brigadier General; an Appointment that was unsolicited, unexpected, &, I wish I could say, it was not unmerited. I confess my Want of military Knowledge; but by Assiduity & Attention, I hope to make myself a Soldier.
I am directed by the Governor to pay particular Attention to the Fortifications in this State; and as Portsmouth is of the first Consequence, it being the only Dock where Ships of any Size can be built, & there being at this Time two Frigates upon the Stocks, I shall garrison that Post with 1200 Men, who upon Danger of an Attack, are to be reinforced by the Militia of the adjacent Counties. The other Posts are Hampton, York & Williamsburg, where I shall endeavour to make the best Disposition of the Remainder of the Troops.
The last Accounts we have received of the British Fleet are that they were higher up the Bay than the Mouth of Potowmack on the 18th Instant. Should they give us a Call as they return, I shall endeavour to be prepared for them; but, my Dear sir, what can be done in a Country so divided by Water-courses as this is, with only 4000 Militia, badly trained & worse armed; & the Difficulty of commanding Militia you are well acquainted with. Nothing but the immediate Danger into which it was apprehended we were likely to fall & a Desire to extricate my Country from it, should have induced me to undertake the arduous Task. I feel exceedingly for our Friends on the Eastern Shore—How they are to be protected I know not. Having had my Appointment only two Days, it has not been in my Power to obtain Returns of the Troops in this State: As soon as they can be received they shall be transmitted to you.
I shall cheerfully execute any Orders that your Excellency shall please to commit to me. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

Thos Nelson jr


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 22 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters Bucks County [Pa.] 22d Augt 1777.

I am favd with yours of the 21st: Colo. Bland who is now here informs me that the Cannon that were in the Rariton were weighed by his directions and that they are upon one of the Wharfs at Brunswic. One of them is 8 Inches and the other seven in the Bore, they are very long. The Colo. thinks they are good. There are likewise two dble fortifyed fours. They had better be sent for from Philadelphia for we have not more Horses & Carriages than are wanting for the Army. I have in a letter to Congress a very little time [since] expressed my opinion of the impolicy of trusting any number of Cannon upon the Jersey shore as they cannot possibly be supported and I understood that Mr Du Coudray acquiesced in the same opinion.
Having nothing to do with the naval Department, I will not undertake to determine whether the twelve pounders would be more safely and usefully employed on the Jersey shore or in the Frigates or some kind of floating Battery, but I think in one of the latter.
Be pleased to send a further supply of Blank Commissions, those recd Yesterday are nearly expended.
Since beginning to write yours of the 19th respecting the Carolina Horse was put into my hands. If the Officers did not interfere there would be no difficulty in disposing of the Men in Colo. Baylors Regiment. It would be hard upon Baylors officers who have put themselves to considerable Expence, altho’ they have not met with success in recruiting, to be reduced to make room for the Carolinians and it would be as hard upon the Carolinians to have their men taken from them for the remainder of their times to fill Baylors Regiment. All that I can do at present will be to make a proposal to Colo. Baylor to take both Men and Officers and endeavour to settle the Command between them and his Officers, by doing duty in rotation. Be pleased to inform me of the number and the Ranks of the Carolina Officers with the dates of their Commissions that I may explain the matter more fully to Colo. Baylor who I am informed recruits with more success since his Officers went to the Western parts of Virginia. You may communicate

this to the Carolina Officers and see how they would be content with an arrangement of the above kind. I am &c.

G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 22 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Bucks County [Pa.] 22d Augt 1777

By the inclosed which is this Moment come to hand you will perceive that the Enemy’s Fleet have at length fairly entered Chesapeak Bay, Swan point being at least 200 Miles up. I desire you will immediately forward this account to Govr Trumbull, to be by him sent on the Eastward. As there is not now the least danger of General Howes going to New England, I hope the whole Force of that Country will turn out, and by following the great stroke struck by Genl Stark near Bennington intirely crush Genl Burgoine, who by his letter to Colo. Bern seems to be in want of almost every thing. I hope you will draw in such a Force of Militia as will effectually secure your post against any attempt from New York. I shall be obliged to draw Genl Sullivan with his division down to me, for by Genl Howe’s coming so far up Chesapeak he must mean to reach Philadelphia by that Rout, tho’ to be sure it is a very strange one. I am &ca.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 22 August 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Genl
Head Quarters Peekskill [N.Y.] August 22d 1777

We have recievd yours from Bucks County 18th Inst. And Apprehend from The Introduction of the Second Paragraph, That Your Exelly must have been misinformed respecting The Militia of Connecticut; By the Returns, Your Exelly will be evinced That of the Militia of Con[necticu]t, upwards of a Thousand, are on Command, with their Brigdr Genll Ward—coopperating with B. Genll Warnum—in distressing

the Enemy at White Plains; while influencd by necessity I have dismissed The Whole belonging to the State of N. York—& had wrote To his Excelly Govr Trumbull respecting The Militia’s being regularly relieved—& shall detain These, untill They are, with expectations that in future they remain Three Months; have not yet recieved his Exellys answer—but dare say it will be Satisfactory.
Am very Sorry That it is inconsistant with Your Excellenys present Plan of opperation—To allow Genll Sulivan To return to this Post.
Hope that Genll Howes destination, will not much longer remain a Secret—We are more & more convinced that The River St Lawrence or Portsmouth is His object—Capt. Montgomery a Prisoner at Kingston, Taken at or near Fort Edward—Says that it was the general Opinion & frequent mention, of The Officers, at the Northward, That All Genll Howes opperations This Campaign depended upon Genll Burgoyne, & that They expected, That Genll Howe with his Main Body would Join Them—To penetrate The Country—perhaps his only present design may be to intercept Invaders—at the Mouth of the River—The Season being so far advanced, He cannot hope to opperate with Genll Burgoyne—as it most undoubtedly must be an ill attended Enterprize—The Accounts of Colo. Willets second most favorable Encounter—Which We had the honor of transmitting Your Excelly, together with The Accounts just now reciev’d (& enclosed) will establish Them in Their Hopes—as They will be convinced of their Need of Reinforcments—to Carry Their Plans into real Execcution—The Loss of Sr Wm Brandt, Johnson—& the Death of Sr John Johnson, must dishearten The Savages, & give a Turn In Affairs much in our Favor—The Express, from Connecticut Last Eveng, handed me An Account—which was Corrobborated by another from Albany—that a Large Party of The Enemy in attempting to destroy The Stores at Bennington were repulsed by our Brave Troops under The Command of Colo. or Brigd. Genll Starks—The Connecticut Acct Which the Govr has order’d printed in Hand Bills says 500, The Albany ⟨illegible⟩ 750—Taken Prisioners—& both agree that We have taken Four Field Peices & a large Quantity of Ammunition—We have frequent favorable Intelligence from that Quarter & am happy in Transmitting it forward—A Leiutt—a Hessian & Six Men have deserted from Fort Edward, & are at Kingston with Govr Clinton—They do not appear to be particularly disgusted at any late Conduct, But signify that it is The almost universal Wish of the Hessians of his acquaintance to Quit a Service, where Principle or Honor have no Footing & Join the Americans, whom They allow to be largely possessed of both—We have also Numbers of Hessians daily coming out from Kings bridge—(Yesterday a Serjeant)—They are all allowd Their choice—& except Those, that enlist into The

Waggon Service & on Bd Ship universally go To Pensylvania—Your Exelleny will frequently See Them—Your P.S: respecting The Payment of the [deserters] Shall be Strictly attended To. I am Dear Genll with much, Respect Your Exy most ⟨illegible⟩

Israel Putnam

P.S: The military Chest is Out tho’ so lately Supplyd & The So frequent applications makes it indispencibly neccessary to desire a further Supply.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 22 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dr Sir
Neshamine Camp, Bucks County [Pa.] Aug. 22: 1777 Sunset

By an Express this Minute come to hand from Congress, We are informed, General How’s Fleet is arrived in Chesepeak Bay and are high up in the North East part of It. I have inclosed a Copy of the dispatches upon the Subject, to which I refer you. You will immediately march with your Division and join this Army, proceeding with all convenient expedition, but not in such a manner, as to injure the Troops. You will cross the Delaware at Coriels Ferry and avoid Philadelphia in your March down; you will be under a necessity of passing near It, but I would wish you not to halt so near it, that the Troops can straggle into the City. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

Go: Wash⟨ingto⟩n

P.S. The Inclosed Letter for Colo. Dayton, you will send him by Express.
I was this day favoured with Two of Your Letters. The Subject respecting

Your Brother, Captn Sullivan, is now before Congress. Two or three days ago, I referred it to them a Second Time.


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

Head Quarters; at Stanton, near German Town [Pa.]August 23rd 1777.

No officer, or soldier, is to leave the encampment this evening, without leave in writing from the Major General or Brigadier under whom he acts; and they are desired not to give such leave unless there be very apparent cause for it.
The army is to move precisely at four in the morning, if it should not rain—The division commanded by Genl Wayne is to take its proper place in the line (to wit, between Lord Stirling’s and Genl Stephen’s division) and it is strongly and earnestly enjoined, upon the commanding officers of corps to make all their men who are able to bear arms (except the necessary guards) march in the ranks; for it is so great a reflection upon all order & discipline to see such a number of strollers (for they cannot be called guards) with the waggons, that it is really shocking.
The army is to march in one column thro’ the City of Philadelphia, going in at and marching down Front street to Chesnut street, and up Chesnut street to the Common—A small halt is to be made about a mile on this side the City, till the rear closes up, and the line is in proper order—The divisions march as follows—Greene’s, Stephen’s—Lincoln’s, Lord Stirling’s—The Horse to be divided upon the two wings—Bland’s and Baylors regiments upon the right—Sheldon’s and Moylan’s upon the left.
The following Order of March is to be observed. First—A Sub: and twelve light horse—200 yards in their rear a complete troop, the residue of Bland’s and Baylors’s regiments—100 yards in the rear of these, a company of pioneers, with their axes &c. in proper order—One hundred yards in rear of the pioneers a regiment from Muhlenberg’s

brigade; and close in the rear of that regiment, all Muhlenberg’s Field Artillery—then his brigade followed by Weedon’s, Woodford’s & Scotts, in order, with all their field artillery in their respective fronts—The park of artillery, and the artificers belonging thereto, in the center—Lincoln’s and Lord Stirlings’s divisions following, with all their Brigade Artillery in the rear of their respective brigades—A regiment of Lord Stirling’s division for a rear guard, and to be 150 yards from General Maxwell’s brigade—Sheldon’s and Moylan’s horse 150 yards in the rear of this regiment, and a troop 150 yards in the rear of the regiments of horse.
The whole line is to march by sub-divisions, at half distance, the ranks and files at the most convenient distance for marching. Which is to be exactly observed in passing thro’ the City, and great attention given by the officers to see that the men carry their arms well, and are made to appear as decent as circumstances will admit.
It is expected that every officer, without exception, will keep his post in passing thro’ the city, and under no pretence whatsoever leave it; and if any soldier shall dare to quit his ranks, he shall receive Thirty-nine lashes at the first halting place afterwards—The officers will be particularly attentive to prevent this, not only in their own divisions, but in others also; if they should see an attempt of the kind—They are also to prevent the people from pressing the troops.
There is to be no greater space between the divisions, brigades and regiments, than is taken up by the Artillery, and is sufficient to distinguish them: And that the line of march thro’ the city may be as little encumbered as possible, only one ammunition waggon is to attend the field pieces of each brigade, and very few the Artillery park—All the rest of the waggons, baggage, and spare horses, are to file off to the right, avoid the City entirely, & move on to the bridge at the middle ferry, and there halt, but not so as to impede the march of the troops, by preventing their passing them—Not a woman belonging to the army is to be seen with the troops on their march thro’ the city.
The Waggon Master General and all his Assistants together with the division, brigade and regimental Quarter Masters, are to attend the waggons, and assist the field officers appointed to that duty, in preventing any men who are allotted to attend the waggons from slipping into the city—As the baggage will be but a little while seperated from the column, a very few men will be sufficient to guard it; and the General wishes to have as many of them, as are able, appear in the ranks, in the line of march.
The baggage & spare artillery waggons of each brigade, together with the waggons of the artillery-park, are to move in the same order that the brigades &c. do in the line, that they may more easily remit again when we have pass’d the city.

The soldiers will go early to rest this evening, as the General expects that the whole line will be on their march at the hour appointed. That this may be the case, each Brigadier is to appoint patroles, to take up all stragglers, from the camp & all others of the army who do not obey this order.
The directors of the hospital will order where the sick are to be sent.
The drums and fifes of each brigade are to be collected in the center of it; and a tune for the quick step played, but with such moderation, that the men may step to it with ease; and without dancing along, or totally disregarding the music, as too often has been the case.
The men are to be excused from carrying their Camp Kettles to morrow.
A proper guard from the horse is to be posted on the road leading to the city, to take up strollers from the camp.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 23 August 1777
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Head Quarters [Van Schaick’s Island, N.Y.]23rd August 1777.

Yesterday Col. Willet arrived here with the Inclosed Papers from Major General Arnold; Governor Clinton being then at Head Quarters, I consulted with him upon the best Method of immediately reinforcing the General—We agreed, that Cortlands and Livingstons Regiment, then encamped with General Poor’s Brigade at Loudons Ferry, upon

the Mohock River, were the readiest Corps to be sent to reinforce the Troops, intended to raise the Seige of Fort Stanwix—They accordingly march’d at Day light this Morning, under the Conduct of Lt Col. Willet, who is perfectly well acquainted with every Approach to Fort Stanwix—I shall hold a Conference Tomorrow with the Governor and Genl Lincoln at this Place, when, no Doubt, we shall unanimously agree in Sentiment with Your Excellency, to keep General Lincoln and Stark, to act upon the Flank, and Rear of the Enemy, while the main Army opposes them in Front. I am Sir, Your Excellency’s most Obedient, Humble Servant

Horatio Gates


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Smallwood, 23 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

Sir,
Camp 5 Miles from Philadelpa Augt 23d 1777.

On the march to day I was honored with a Letter from Congress transmitting Sundry Resolutions for calling out reinforcements of Militia to repel the threatned invasion by the Enemy, who have arrived high up in the North East part of Chesepeak Bay. Such as respect the Militia of Maryland and which make the Subject of this Letter, you will find inclosed. I request, that immediately after receipt of them, you will communicate the Contents to Colonel Gist and that you and he repair to Maryland without loss of time for the purposes therein mentioned. I need not urge the necessity of expedition upon this interesting occasion and flatter myself nothing in either of your powers will be omitted to answer the views of Congress in this instance and the important calls of the States at large at this crisis. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

G.W.


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

Head Quarters, at Derby [Pa.] August 24th 1777.
Chester.Derby. Easton.

General Greene’s and Genl Stephen’s divisions are to march to morrow morning at four o’clock precisely, if it should not rain, towards Wilmington, and encamp on the first good ground beyond Naaman’s creek. All the horse are likewise to march at the same time, and proceed to Wilmington, and encamp on the first good ground there, or in their neighbourhood thereof.
Genl Lord Stirling’s division, and that commanded by Genl Wayne, with the park of artillery, will remain to morrow at their present encampment, and on Tuesday follow the other divisions, beginning their march at four in the morning, if it should not rain. The Commander in Chief possitively forbids the straggling of soldiers of the two divisions which remain behind, their quarters; and the General Officers commanding these divisions will take every precaution in their power effectually to prevent it; and likewise to prevent an inundation of bad women from Philadelphia; and for both purposes, a guard is to be placed on the road between the camp and the city, with particular orders to stop and properly deal with both.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 24 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada 24 Augst 1777 8 oClock Eveng

By a Return Express, this moment Rec’d from the Northern Departmt the Inclos’d Letter for your Excellency—I inclose you Copy of Genl Gates’s Letter to me, in which he mentions Genl Schuyler’s having wrote me particularly, but I have not a Line from him unless one should be Inclos’d in your packett; should that not be the case, & you should have any material Intelligence, I shall be much oblig’d by being favour’d with such Extract[.] I have just Rec’d a Letter from Head of Elk Copy of which I inclose also, & to which beg to Refer you.
We have a report, which seems to be confirm’d several ways that a Detachmt of Continental Troops have been on Staten Island, burnt some houses, brought off some Cattle & about 160 Prison[er]s among whom are Two Colonels, Dungan & Allen.
Should I Receive any further Intelligence you may Depend on having the earliest Notice. I am with respect Sir Your most Obedt srt

John Hancock Prest


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 24 August 1777
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Hanover [N.J.] August 24th 1777

The Enemy having made a Descent upon Woodbridge from Staten Island & Taken about twelve of the Inhabitants and a hundred head of Cattle I Thought it would not be amiss to make Reprizals. I was Sensible that the Least movement of my Troops that way would Alarm the Disaffected who would Soon Communicate it to Staten Island I therefore gave out That I had received orders to march toward Philadelphia & ordered my Troops to march the 21st Instant at Two of Clock P.M. for Elizabeth Town Taking only those who were the most Active & best Able to Endure a march. I ordered Colo. Ogden with his & Colo. Daytons Regiment (Colo. Dayton being absent) to march opposite old Blazing Star Ferry where they were to be Joined by a hundred of the Jersey militia he was to Cross from thence So as to Land up the Fresh Kill, & Surround Colo. Lawrences Regt which Lay at the Ferry he was then to march across So as to cutt off the Retreat of Colo. Duncans & Colo. Allens Regiments & in Case he found their Force too great for him he was to take an advantageous post & hold them in play till Reinforced by me. my Troops were to Cross at Halseys point & one Division to Attack Colo. Buskirk who Lay at the Dutch Church near Decker’s Ferry & the other Division to proceed to the New Blazing Star to Attack Colo. Bartons Regiment Each Division Leaving a Regiment at the Fork of the Road to Cover the partys Destined to the Attack when we had

Compleated the Rout of those Regiments we were to proceed toward the old Blazing Star to Pick up Such parties as might Escape Colo. Ogden and form a Junction with him to Compleat the Reduction of the Regiments Commanded by Duncan Lawrence & Allen if it remained to be done on our arrival—in pursuance of this plan both Divisions Crossed over before Day without any Discovery & marched to the Posts assigned them: Colo. Ogden with his party got Round Lawrence before Day Light & after Day we heard his firing which was Severe but Lasted a very Little Time The Colo. Charged them at once which put an End to their opposition—he as well as his officers behaved with great Prudence as well as Bravery—Several of his officers who Distinguished themselves more particularly he Desired me to mention to your Excellencey: but receiving your Excellenceys orders Last Evening I Instantly repaired to this place to prepare for marching which prevented me from ascertaining their names I will Take the Freedom to mention them to your Excellencey as Soon as I See the Colo. & obtain their names—while This was Doing in that Quarter General Smallwood marched with his Division to Attack Colo. Buskick where he found the 52d Regt British Incamped with Buskicks Regt This was Quite Contrary to all the Intelligence we had received he however Endeavoured to throw himself between them & their Forts & bring them to Action but being Deceived by his Guide they Ran off across a Bridge Leaving the British Standard behind them with all their Stores Tents &c. he Destroyed the Tents Burnt Six of their Vessels Took a Large Quantity of Baggage arms &c. Some of the officers were So much Frightned as to Run off without their Cloathes which were Secured—General De Borres Brigade marched Down to Attack Colo. Barton who Drew up his men & after firing a few Shot Ran off Toward the Ferry we followed them very Close but unfortunately Several Boats Laid at the Ferry which they Took & Rowed off Some to the Jersey Shore & Some into Cricks where we could not Come at them we however Secured the Colo. with a number of his men to the amount I think of 40 we Took a Considerable Number of Arms Blankets & hats as also a Considerable Quantity of Baggage we then marchd up to form our Junction with Colo. Ogden who we found had Taken Lawrence with three Captains one Lieut. 2 Ensigns & Eighty Privates with a Large Quantity of Stores & a Sloop Loaded the Several parties Took a great number of Horses & Cattle when I was at the New Blazing Star I Sent off a Searjent with Two men to order the Boatmen to Bring up the Boats with the mens Packs to the old Blazing Star Ferry but they having Seen the Sloop taken by Colo. Ogden under Sail Coming up the Sound Supposed it a Tender & Run the Boats up into the River which prevented the messenger from Finding them we had at the old Blazing

Star but three Boats my Troops had marched fifty one miles & Crossed a ferry from Two of Clock afternoon of the preceeding Day to Twelve that Day besides the amazing Fatigue they had in Running through Marshes & woods to Secure prisoners & Cattle & being Disappointed of provisions I found it necessary to Cross the River as Quick as possible as I Saw the Enemy might take advantage by Attacking my Rear This Being a Difficulty I could by no means avoid unless by Expedition in Crossing my Troops I began it immediately & had almost Accomplished it when I Discovered the Enemy in full march to Attack the Rear they had Carefully kept out of Sight ’till they found most of our troops had Crossed & then had the Resolution to march up to Attack our Rear Guard of a hundred men Commanded by Majors Taillard & Steward but they Soon found that Disparity of Numbers could not Intimmidate those Brave officers & men for though they had Collected the whole Force of the Island Consisting of the 52d & part of the 57th British Two Regts of Anspanchers one of Walders & part of Seven Regts New Recruits the Brave Little party Drew up upon an Eminence Reserved their Fire till they were near up to them then gave them So well Directed a Fire that they Broke & Run in the utmost Confusion our party after giving them Several Fires retired to Another Eminence from Which they repulsed them Several times & then retired to Another which they held against the utmost Efforts of the Large Body till their Ammunition was totally Expended I had Drawn up the Troops on this Side to annoy the Enemy in Flank while I Sent over two Boats to bring them off but the Boatmen were So frightned by their Field pieces that they would not Cross Though I ordered our people from this Shore to fire upon them to Drive them over they Rowed out in the middle of the Sound & could not be prevailed upon to come to one Side or the other The officers Seeing this Thought proper to Surrender with about forty men The Rest made their Escape Some by Swimming & others by going to Amboy where I Sent to provide a Boat for them This would have been all our Loss had not the Enemy picked up a number of Straglers who notwit[h]standing the vigilance of their officers found means to get out of Their Ranks & Fall in the Rear Mr Skinner Sent a Flag to me yesterday proposing an Exchange of prisoners & Inclosed a List of those taken by them Consisting of three majors viz. Steward Taillard & Woodson one Captain 3 Lieuts. 2 Ensigns one Surgeon & a hundred twenty Seven privates So that in Prisoners they have nearly Ballanced the Accounts with us we have taken two Lieut. Colo. Commodants 3 Captains two Lieut. 2 Ensigns 1 Surgeon one Searjent Major 4 Searjents 2 Corporals 2 Drum & Fife & about 130 privates they in their Late Incursions Took twelve whigs we have Taken twenty Eight Tories we had about ten men killed and fifteen wounded two of which

Dangerously among the former is Captain Herons of Colo. Hazens Regt whose bravery could Scarcely be parrelled. I have not been able to Ascertain the Number of Killed & wounded of the Enemy I hear it is very great & from my own observations I think in the Course of the Day They must have hadd at Least four hundred killed & wounded & among the wounded are Colo. Duncan & Colo. Barnes both mortally beside the Loss of their vessels Stores Baggage Arms Tents &ca and also A Large Quantity of Hay they had Collected which we Destroyed.
much Credit is Due to both officers & Soldiers for their Conduct Through the whole of the Expedition—their Silence in passing over the Sound & on their march their Eagerness to Ingage & their patience under Fatigue Exceeds Description—the Enemy were So Sensible of this that they did not dare to Look them in the face till they found but a Small number could Act the others being prevented by the River from punishing their Insolence & Even from this Little party they found a resistance Seldom Equalled & never Exceeded by any Troops this the officer who came with the Flag was candid Enough to Acknowledge. I have Consented to the Exchange hope your Excellencey will approve it out of Regard to the Bravery of the officers & Soldiers of the party Ingaged who cannot well be Distinguished from the others who were Captured by their own Imprudence. I have the Honor to be Dear General your Excellenceys most obedient Servant

Jno. Sullivan


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 24 August 1777
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Hanover [N.J.] 24th Augt 1777

I have to Inform yr Excellencey that Colo. Antill gave us the Slip Day before yesterday & went over to the Enemy—his Brother officers Say

they have Long Since Suspected his Intentions from the whole Tenor of his Conduct—I found a Number of p⟨apers⟩ of Intelligence among the Baggage of the office⟨rs⟩ which Shall take Care to forward to yr Excellencey as Soon as Sorted—among the Rest is a paper of Information from the Quakers at their yearly meeting at Spank Town held the 19th Instant giving an Account of Our Army where it Lay & the force in the Several Departments—I Shall march tomorrow & Join yr Excy with all possible Expedition—I hope yr Excy will Defer beating Howes Army that my Division may have a Share of the honor. Dr General I am with much respect your Excys most obedt Servt

Jno. Sullivan


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

Head Quarters, Wilmington [Del.] August 25th 1777.

At a General Court Martial held the 23rd instant whereof Lieut. Col. White was president. Capt. Henry Lee, of Col. Blands regiment of light horse; charged with “Disobedience of orders”—was tried—The sentence of the court is as follows. viz. “The Court having fully considered the charge and evidence are unanimously of opinion, that Capt. Henry Lee is not guilty of the charge exhibited against him, and do acquit him with honor—And they are also unanimously of opinion, that the charge against Capt. Lee is groundless and vexatious, and that Capt. Lee, in what he did, acted merely for the good of his troop”—The Commander in Chief approves of Capt. Lee’s acquital with honor.
The whole body horse are to parade at Head Quartrs to morrow morning precisely at five o’clock—Each officer and man to bring with him one day’s provision cooked.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Armstrong, Sr., 25 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Armstrong, John Sr.

Dear Sir
Wilmington [Del.] 25th Augt 1777–6 OClock P.M.

I have just recd information that the Enemy began to land this Morning about Six Miles below Head of Elk opposite to Cæcil Court House. The informant says he saw two thousand Men, but he may be mistaken as to the Number. I desire you to send off every Man of the Militia under your command that is properly armed as quick as possible, if they were to begin their march this Night while it is cool it will be the better. They are to proceed to Wilmington where they will receive orders for their destination.
I desire you will immediately send for Genl Potter, and give him directions to come on to me with all possible expedition, you must supply his place in the best manner you can. The first attempts of the Enemy will be to seize Horses Carriages and Cattle with light Parties and we must endeavour to check them at their outset. Whatever Militia are at Philada and equipped should be ordered down immediately. I am &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel George Baylor, 25 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Baylor, George

Dear Baylor.
Wilmington [Del.] August 25th 1777

I received your Letter of the 18th by this days post. I have never doubted of your assiduity and industry to raise your Regiment, and am but too well satisfied of the difficulties you have met with. I wish you to come on, with Such Men as you have ready, and that you will leave proper Officers to recruit the Troop you mention to be deficient, and also the Remainder of the Regiment, if you think there is a probability of doing it.
The Fleet are laying in Elk River, and by an Express received this Evening, the Troops were landing on the West side this Morning. As matters are thus circumstanced, I think, the upper Road should be your Route. I am Dr Baylor Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 25 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Chester [Pa.] Augt 25th 1777 8 OClock

I last night had the Honor of your favor of the 24th with Its inclosures. No Letters came for you from Genl Schuyler, and therefore, agreable to your request, I transmit you a Copy of the One I received from him, and of the material papers, which it covered. Among the Copies, you will find Genl Burgoyn’s instructions at large to Lt Colo. Baum, pointing out the Objects of his Command, when he was first detached. What we had before, was after he marched, and was an Answer to a report he had received from him. There was also a mistake in his name before, being called Bern in the Copies sent by Genl Lincoln.
I shall be happy, if the Account respecting Staten Island, should prove true. I hope it will.
Two Divisions of the Army moved this morning and will proceed after a short halt near this place to refresh them-selves. The Remainder will continue on their Ground to day, in order to rest and recover from the fatigue of the march Yesterday & the day before. After Breakfast, I intend to set out for Wilmington with the Light Horse, to reconnoitre the Country, & to obtain the best information, I can, respecting the Enemy. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The publication of Genl Burgoyn’s Instructions with a few Comments, I think, might be attended with many advantages.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 25 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Wilmington [Del.] 25 Augt 1777. 6 oClock P.M.

The inclosed intelligence has just come to my hands. Genl Green’s and Genl Stephen’s divisions are within a few Miles of this place, I shall order them to march immediately here. The two other divisions halted this day at Derby to refresh themselves, but they will come on as expeditiously as possible. There are about five hundred pennsylvania Militia at Chester and Marcus Hook that are armed, there are a number more unarmed. I have ordered all the armed immediately down. I do not know what Number of Militia of this State are yet collected, but I am told they turn out with great Alacrity.
There are a quantity of public and private Stores at the Head of Elk, which I am afraid will fall into the Enemy’s hands if they advance quickly, among others there is a considerable parcel of Salt. Every attempt will be made to save that.
When I get my force collected, I shall dispose of it in the most advantagious manner in my power. To this End I purpose to view the Grounds towards the Enemy in the Morning. I am yet a stranger to them. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Francis Nash, 25 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Nash, Francis

Sir
Chester [Pa.] 25th August 1777

This will be handed to you upon your Arrival in this Town—It is my desire that you make no delay here but proceed with all convenient dispatch to Wilmington, If from the Intelligence you recieve here you

have reason to conclude there is no danger in going by Water it will be your best & easiest mode of Conveyance—taking with you a Person whose knowledge of the Water can be depended on—at Wilmington you will receive my further Orders[.] Colo. Proctor’s Corps of Artillery continues with you.
Genl Dickinson just informs me that you could not procure Boats at Trenton[.] You will therefore continue your March as above direct’d. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Maj. Gen. Stirling, 25 August 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. Stirling, 25 Aug. 1777. The 13th Antiquarian Booksellers Association catalog, 1970, item 586, includes the following excerpt from this letter signed, which was written at Wilmington, Del.: “The Enemy are landing, as you will be informed by the enclosed Copy of a Letter, which came this afternoon by Express to Brigad’r Gen’l McKinlay. I request . . . you march with your Division under your command without any loss of time, to this place, where you will receive further Orders. The Troops will come light and the Baggage will folow.”


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

Head-Quarters, Wilmington [Del.] August 26th 1777.

The officers commanding corps are to see that their men’s arms are immediately cleaned and put in the best order possible; that the ammunition likewise be carefully inspected, and the proper number of rounds for each man completed; that the bayonets fix well; that the flints be screwed in fast, and every thing put in perfect readiness for action.
The troops are without fail continually to have one day’s provision of meat on hand, ready cooked, and two day’s rations of bread. should any complaint be made by the soldiers for want of such provisions, the commanding officers of corps must be answerable for it; unless it should appear, that the provisions were not to be had at the Commissary’s; and in such case the deficient Commissary shall be accountable—Complaint has been made, that some regiments have lately been two days without provisions, owing to the negligence of their Commissary: such conduct is insufferable and must be attended with the worst consequences—The Commander in Chief is determined to make an example, of the first Commissary, who shall be guilty of the like negligence—The Commander in Chief likewise insists, that the Commissaries shall supply the troops with hard bread—The present

most common mode of supply, by issuing flour which they make into bad bread, not only injures their health, but is attended with delays sufficient to frustrate the most important, and well formed enterprises—As the means therefore are now abundantly in their power, the Commander in Chief can admit no excuse, for their not supplying the troops with good bread.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Chase, 26 August 1777 [letter not found]
From: Chase, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Chase, 26 Aug. 1777. GW wrote Chase on 27 Aug.: “I am favd with yours of Yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philemon Dickinson, 26 August 1777
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

Middletown [Del.] 10, OClock Tuesday Morng. [26 August 1777]
Sir

I this moment met with the Bearer Mr Hindman, who is just returned from viewing the Enemy; he saw them land, & can give your Excellency a very particular account, for which reason, I have desired him to wait upon you immediately. Mr Hindman thinks, they finished their debarkation last Evening, he saw both Horse & Infantry paraded.
Mr Hindman is an Inhabitant of Maryland, which he left Yesterday, & says, the Militia are in great Confusion for want of some proper Person to head them; having no Orders given them, but from the Lieutenant of the Counties, & those very irregular—he is of Opinion, that if your Excellency would appoint some Officer to command them, it would answer a valuable purpose—Gen. Cadwalader resides in Maryland, if your Excellency thinks proper to make that requisition from him, I make no doubt of his Compliance—If your Excellency rather inclines to send down a Continental officer for that purpose, it will answer the End. In great haste, I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s, most Obt

Philemon Dickinson


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Theodorick Bland, 27 August 1777
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

Sr
Elks [Md.] Augt 27th 1777

I have the Pleasure to Inform your Excelly that Leiutt Lindsay came a Cross two Prisoners near northeast to day straggling from the British Camp which he has taken and sent to this place, & I have order’d them on to Camp. one of the Prisoners a native of Maryland, and incorporated into the German’s in the British army the other a German, the Accts of the Marylander are extravagant with respect to the Enemys Numbers Says that they have been generally healthy at sea, & contradicts the acct of the French deserter sent to day with respect to the German troops being unhealthy. he says the Enemy talk Currently in Camp of coming to Philada by way of Brandiwine, as they have heard that Yr Excly is there. they have landed most of their men, & each Regt has two feild Peices landed. He could give little satisfactory information concerning the Waggons, or the Artillery further than what I have mentiond above. he says their Horse are fat but they do not yet ride them but lead them about on acct of the effect the sea has had on them.

I shall according to yr orders Sr draw off the Horse from this Place about three miles into the Country & return in the morning. I am with great respect Sr yr most obedt Sert

Theok Bland


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Chase, 27 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Chase, Samuel

Dear Sir
Wilmington [Del.] 27th Augt 1777

I am favd with yours of Yesterday. Colo. Richardsons Battalion was left in Maryland by order of Congress to keep the disaffected in the lower Counties in order, if their presence was necessary before, it is certainly much more so now. The Enemy are in want of many necessaries, with which those people would undoubtedly supply them if a watch is not kept over them—I do not therefore think myself at liberty to recall the Battalion, except I am ordered by Congress. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

G.W.

P.S. Since writing the above I have yours of the 25th & am obliged for the Acct you give me of well affected & suspicious Characters, to which I shall attend. I have not an Engineer to spare to go to Baltimore. Several of those who came over with Monsr Du Coudray are not employed yet, by applying to him, he will be able to point out a proper person. One division of the Army already wants a Major Genl by Genl Lincolns going to the Northward, Genl Dehaas Vacancy has not been filled up & Genl Smallwood is ordered to Maryland, under those circumstances I cannot detatch another Genl Officer without injuring the service: The Board of War ought to give orders for the removal of the Continental Powder from the Neighbourhood of Baltimore, & if you will be kind enough to let Colo. Flower the Commissary Genl of Stores know of the flints at Baltimore he will purchase them if wanted. I am Sir &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philemon Dickinson, 27 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

Dr Sir
Wilmington [Del.] Augt 27th 1777

I was favoured with your Letter Yesterday by Mr Hindman. The measure you recommend, respecting the Militia, is extremely necessary and what I much wish to be done. It came under the consideration of Congress, when the Fleet first came up the Bay, and dispatches were sent by their Order to Genl Smallwood & Colo. Gist to repair to Maryland to command them, at least the Quota called for by Congress. I expect these Gentlemen are now on their way for this command, but shall be extremely obliged to you & Genl Cadwalader, if, in the meantime, you will give your advice and assistance about forming and arranging such as may assemble previous to their arrival. Your interesting yourselves upon the occasion, I think, will be well accepted, and may be attended with happy effects. I am Dr Sir Your Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Evan or William Evans, 27 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Evans, Evan,Evans, William

Sir
Wilmington [Del.] 27th Augt 1777

After the Men of your own, Colo. Hunters and Colo. Udrees Battalions have refreshed them selves you are to march them to Christiana Bridge—and there halt till further orders.
You are to get your Men as well covered as the Situation of the place will admit of, and always keep them near their quarters, that they may be ready to move at a moments warning.
As most of the Men in this County have left their families at home and turned out in a spirited Manner in defence of their Country, it is hoped that the Troops under your command will not in the least injure their property by destroying their Fences, Corn, or Fruit. I am &c.

G.W.

P.S. Your Ammunition is to be inspected to see if injured by the Rain, and the Arms kept in good Order.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 27 August 1777
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Head Quarters [Van Schaick’s Island, N.Y.]27th Augst 1777.

Upon being informed by Mr Cuyler, Commissary General in this Department, that he had no Salt Meat in Store, the whole that was provided for this Army being lost at Ticonderoga, I directed him to apply to the D.Q.M. General at Peeks Kill, to order a Supply from thence to Albany—he has acquainted me Yesterday by Letter, that there is a Quantity of Salt Provisions at a Magazine in Ulster County, within Twenty Miles of the North River; but says, I must apply for Your Excellency’s Order to obtain a Supply from thence. To you Sir, I need not animadvert upon the absolute Necessity of a certain Quantity of Salted Meat (Pork if possible) being immediately furnished to this Army—To represent the Want, is Sufficient; Your unremitted Zeal for the public Service, will decide what is proper for us.
Neither Col. Morgan’s Corps, nor any of the Militia, are yet arrived, as soon as a proper Reinforcement joins this Army; Your Excellency will be acquainted with its Motions. I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servant

Horatio Gates


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 27 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir.
Wilmington [Del.] August 27th 1777.

I this morning returned from the Head of Elk, which I left last night. In respect to the Enemy, I have nothing new to communicate. they remain where they debarked first. I could not find out from inquiry what number is landed—nor form an estimate of It, from the distant view i had of their Encampment, But few Tents were to be seen from Iron Hill and Greys Hill, which are the only eminences about Elk. I am happy to inform you, that all the Public stores are removed from thence, except about seven thousand Bushels of Corn. This I urged the Commissary there to get off as soon as possible, and hope it will be effected in the course of the few days if the Enemy should not prevent, which their situation gives them but too easy an opportunity of doing; The scarcity of Teams in proportion to the demand will render the removal rather tedious though I have directed the Quarter Master to send some from hence to expedite the measure. A part of the Delaware Militia are stationed there, and about nine hundred more from Pensylvania are now on the March that way—I also intended to move part of the Army that way to day, but am under the necessity of defering it, till their Arms are put in order and they are furnished with ammunition, both having been greatly injured by the heavy rains that fell yesterday and last Night. I have the honor to be Sir your most Obet Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 27 August 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada August 27th 1777.

I have the Honour to transmit you the enclosed Resolves which Congress have passed at this critical Period, with a View to have the disaffected in the States of Pennsylvania and Delaware immediately apprehended and secured. I shall forward Copies of them to those States with the utmost Expedition, that a Measure of such Consequence may be carried into Execution as soon as possible.
I have only Time to refer your Attention to the Resolves, and have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect Sir, your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt

The Inclos’d Letter I have just Rec’d, & judging it of Consequence I send it by Express—We have a report that General Parsons has been on Long Island, & brought off some Prisoners & Cannon, but have no particulars—I wish it may prove true.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 27 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Sir
Wilmington [Del.] Augt 27th 1777

I have received your two favours both of the 24th informing me of the particulars of an expedition you have lately made to Staten Island.
It is unfortunate that an affair which had so prosperous a beginning should have terminated so disagreeably, as in a great measure to defeat the good consequences that might have attended it. I am however glad to hear that the officers and men distinguished themselves by their good behaviour; and if there are any who behaved more remarkably well, than others, I should be happy to take all the notice of them, consistent with propriety, that their conduct may appear to merit. I am not sufficiently acquainted with circumstances to form a certain judgment of what might have been expected from this expedition, but from the view I have of them, and from your own representation of the matter, the situation of the enemy seems to have been such as afforded an opportunity of reaping much more decisive advantages than were in fact gained.
As your division must no doubt have been greatly harrassed in this movement, their health might be very much injured by pressing them too hard in their march to join me. I would therefore wish you to spare them as much as may be necessary, to avoid that inconvenience: at the same time, there ought to be no delay but what a proper attention to the health and accommodation of the men ⟨r⟩eally demands. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel John Dockery Thompson, 27 August 1777
From: Thompson, John Dockery
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Bohemia Manor [Md.] Augt 27th 1777

I have the honor to send up four deserters who I apprehend are able to give your Excellency some material information—The 18th Battalion of Militia of Maryland under my command are embodied & ready to act, but we have no arms fit for service to put in their hands—This post is opposite the enemy’s fleet, a fine fertile country abounding with Stock &c. & may reasonably expect their foraging here—Genl Howe has issued a proclamation offering protection to the inhabitants of the Eastern shore, who they think friends to their Govt, which has deluded many people near the shore, & prevented their driving off Stock

&c.—They now carry on a constant intercourse with the Shipping, dealing with them, & supplying provisions. I beg your Excellency to order whether I shall endeavor to keep this post or what else I shall do. Our number is about 500. If you think it expedient we should continue here, pray sir endeavor to supply us with arms & accountrements as soon as possible, as we are in utmost danger of being cut to pieces by an handful of men—when if we were armed I can assure your Excellency our Troops are good, & inferior to no Battalion in this State—If we are not supplied with arms I must disband my men unless you think proper to order us from here—Yesterday a party of Hessians landed on this Side Elk River, & made 4 of our men prisoners, who afterward gave them the slip—we have received information that we may hourly expect parties out in pursuit of us—I apprehend the communication with the Shipping must be cut off or we have no security—If the arms are to be had, I will immediately send to bring them down—My Adjutant Mr Veasey has the honor to present this to you & will immediately return with your orders. I have the honor to be your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

Jno. D. Thompson


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Cadwalader, 28 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Cadwalader, John

Dr Sir
Wilmington [Del.] August 28: 1777.

General Howe has advanced part of his Force about Two miles this side the Head of Elk, and from the information of Deserters and prisoners, there is reason to beleive, he is either marching or soon will be

towards Philadelphia. If that is his Object, and of which there can be but little doubt, I think many important advantages would be derived from the Militias hanging on his Rear or Right Flank, after he leaves Elk, while he is opposed by this Army in Front or in such Other way as shall seem most adviseable from circumstances. But then, I am wholly at a loss to whom to address myself respecting the Militia on the Eastern shore, not knowing their Officers or where they are assembling. The Congress thought proper to point out Genl Smallwood and Colo. Gist to arrange & conduct ’em, who, owing, I suppose to a miscarriage of the dispatches that were sent them, have not yet reached this place, nor have I heard any thing of them. Matters being thus circumstanced, and as the aid of the Militia is very material and no time is to be lost in obtaining It, I must request your Good Offices and interest in assisting to assemble—spirit up and forward them in the best manner things will a⟨llow⟩ towards the Head of the Bay, that they may be in a situation to annoy the Enemy should they make a push against Philadelphia; giving such advice and direction to the Officers as shall appear to you necessary and proper. I know well, that your situation in this instance will be delicate and not a little embarrassing. I feel myself in that predicament; Yet, I trust the exigency of our Affairs will not only furnish an apology but will fully justifye your interesting yourself upon this Subject. For the requisition I have made, I shall offer no excuse. It is the result of necessity and founded in the most implicit confidence that you are, and will be ready upon all occasions to afford every aid in your power to advance the true interest and happiness of your Country; influenced by these considerations I have made It, and have only to add that I am with great regard & esteem Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Several deserters have come in to day and our parties made between thirty & forty prisoners.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 28 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir,
Head Quarters Wilmington [Del.] August 28th 1777

Having endeavoured, at the solicitation of the Count De Pulaski, to think of some mode for employing him in our service, there is none occurs to me, liable to so few inconveniences and exceptions, as the giving him the command of the horse. This department is still without a head, as I have not, in the present deficiency of Brigadiers with the army, thought it adviseable to take one from the foot, for that command. The nature of the horse-service with us being such, that they commonly act in detachment, a general officer with them is less necessary, than at the head of the Brigades of infantry. In the absence of General Smalwood, who is ordered to put himself at the head of the Maryland Militia, we shall have two brigades, without General-officers.
But though the horse will suffer less from the want of a General-officer than the foot, a man of real capacity, experience and knowlege in that service might be extremely useful. The Count appears by his recommendations to have sustained no inconsiderable military character in his own country, and as the principal attention in Poland, has been for some time past, paid to the Cavalry, it is to be presumed this Gentleman is not unacquainted with it. I submit it to Congress how far it may be eligible to confer the appointment I have mentioned, upon him. They will be sensible of all the objections attending the measure, without my particularising them, and can determine accordingly.
This Gentleman, we are told, has been like us, engaged in defending the liberty and independence of his country, and has sacrificed his fortune to his zeal for those objects. He derives from hence a title to our respect that ought to operate in his favour as far as the good of the service will permit; but it can never be expected, we should lose sight of this. I have the honor to be With great respect Sir Your most Obedient servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 28 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear Sir,
Wilmington [Del.] Augt 28th 1777.

Your favour of the 20th Instt came to my hands last Night by Mr P.—I thank you for sending him to me, as I think many valuable advantages may result from his endeavours to serve us. He seems sensible & willing, & I trust will be faithful—I have given him such Instructions respecting his conduct as my hurried Situation will allow. to Mr P. I shall refer for the Acct of things in this Quarter and am with sincere regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Ser.

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 29 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Wilmington [Del.] August 29th 1777
Portsmouth.Falmouth. Yarmouth.

Each Brigadier is to make return immediately to the Quarter Mr General of the number of Arm-Chests necessary for carrying safely, all the spare arms, that may from time to time, happen to be in their brigades, by means of the sick, & other usual accidents.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 29 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir,
Head Quarters Wilmington [Del.] August 29. 1777

On my return to this place last evening from White Clay creek, I was honored with yours of the 27th, with sundry resolves of Congress, to which I shall pay due attention. The enemy advanced a part of their army yesterday to Gray’s hill about two miles on this side of Elk, whether with intent to take post there, or to cover while they remove what stores they found in the town, I cannot yet determine. I do not know what quantity of private property remained; but, of the public, there were several thousand bushels of corn and oats, which might have been removed also, had not most of the teams in the Country been employed by private persons, in bringing off very valuable goods. Our light parties yesterday took between thirty and forty prisoners, twelve deserters from the navy and eight from the army have already come in, but they are able to give us very little intelligence. They generally agree that their troops are healthy but that their horse suffered very much by the voyage.

By a letter from General Gates, which you were pleased to transmit me yesterday—he requests, that Commissions may be sent to Brigadiers, Glover—Poor and Patterson, which I beg the favour of you to do by the return express. The two last lost theirs, with their baggage at Ticonderoga & General Glover had none. I have the honor to be With great respect Sir Your most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 29 August 1777
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Princeton [N.J.] 29 Augt 1777

As the inclosed (which was taken at Staten Island,) may probably be of some Service on Lieutenants Troup’s Trial, I thought it my Duty to send it to your Excellency.
I have wrote you fully on the Subject of your Requisition of 1000 of our Militia to garrison the forts along Hudson’s River, by Major General Sullivan.
I have still some apprehensions that the Enemy will play you a trick by turning suddenly to the Eastward when they have drawn you far enough Southward; but I do not pretend to be able to penetrate into their Stratagems. I have the Honour to be with the warmest Esteem your most obt Sert

Wil: Livingston


Title: General Orders, 30 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Wilmington [Del.] August 30th 1777.
Northampton.Newbern. Norfolk.

Information being given by the Commissary General, that it is at present impracticable to supply the army daily with hard bread; the troops are to receive soft bread or flour, as the Commissaries shall be able to supply them. The Commissaries are nevertheless to exert themselves to the utmost, constantly to supply the troops with bread, either hard or soft, and without fail to have a large quantity of hard bread made ready, to be issued, whenever the army marches.
Brigadier Genl Maxwell will take the Command of the corps of light Infantry.
Brigadier Genl Conway, as eldest officer, will take the command of Lord Stirling’s division, ’till the state of his Lordship’s health shall permit his joining it.
John Kennon was on the 1st of May 1777 appointed Pay Master to the 6th Virginia regiment. The Commander in Chief approves of the appointment.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Du Coudray, 30 August 1777
From: Du Coudray, Philippe-Charles-Jean-Baptiste Tronson
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Philada 30 aug. 1777.

According to the desire of the board of war I have the honour to send to your excellency a memorial which I have written yesterday, upon the request of the navy board, on the two passages of the river, after the verification that this board caused to be made of the soundings performed by me in the last week before fort Milflin, and the result where of I had the honour to give an account of verbally to your Excellency, conformable to the letter which I had directed before to Colonel hamilton, one of your aid de camps, who ought to have received that Letter since his departure from hence.
I am waiting for an answer to the letter which I had honour to direct to your Excellency three days ago by Colonel Pinkney with regard to the nine militia men whom General Armstrong took away from the Engineer employed about the map from Walmington to Philadelphia which remains interrupted since the taking away of these militia men who are not replaced. I am with a great respect Sir of your Excellency The most obedient and respectful Servant

Du Coudray


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 30 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Wilmington [Del.] August 30th 1777.

Since I had the Honor of addressing you Yesterday, Nothing of Importance has occurred and the Enemy remain, as they then were. I was reconnoitring the Country and different Roads all Yesterday, and am now setting out on the same business again.
Sensible of the advantages of Light Troops, I have formed a Corps under the command of a Brigadier, by drafting a Hundred from each Brigade, which is to be constantly near the Enemy and to give ’em every possible annoyance. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

10 OClock. This Minute 24 British prisoners arrived, taken yesterday by Capn Lee of the Light Horse.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 30 August 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston August 30th 1777

The Council of this State have ordered the prisoners lately taken near Bennington to this place where they intend to confine them on board Guard Ships, which they are preparing for the purpose. I suppose they will arrive about the middle of next week. Inclosd is a Copy of a Vote of Council sent to me a few days since. I have given orders for the prisoners & Guards being supplied with provisions at the different Stores on the Rout from Springfield to this place, as it will be almost impossible to obtain them otherwise, With respect to victualling of them here I objected to it; but upon the pressing importunity of some of the members of Council, I have consented, untill I can obtain your Excellency’s pleasure.
The scarcity of provisions here is such, especially of Bread, that it is with difficulty that the Inhabitants can obtain a supply. Almost every article of the necessaries of Life is either really or artificially scarce and nothing plenty except money.
I could wish that the prisoners were taken under the direction of the Continental Commissary, it would most certainly be best.
In the late Draft of the Sixth part of the Militia to go to the Northward, the Towns, and Individuals who were drafted have given from twelve to forty pounds pr Man for three Months. The State by their Resolve have promised each Man two pounds ten shilgs pr Month over and above their Continental pay, this I fear will not only greatly retard the filling up the Continental Army but also tend to make the Soldiery, already inlisted, very uneasy.
We have lately apprehended a number of Deserters and are sending

of them back; among the rest a Light Horseman who deserted from the Troops now doing duty with the Northern Army. He not only brought home the Horse on which he was mounted in the Troop, but led home another which had been taken from some of the disaffected by our Scouting parties. One Woodward, alis Williams, alis Brown, an abandoned villain, who has inlisted & deserted several times, and was not long since whipped 200 Lashes, has again been found guilty, and is now sentenced to be Shot on the eleventh of September. I have the honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s Most Hble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 30 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

[Wilmington, Del.] Aug. 30th 1777.½ after 8 OClock P.M.
Sir

It seems to be the Opinion of several of the prisoners and also of the Deserters that have lately come out, that the Enemy intend to move to morrow morning. How well founded this Idea may be, I cannot tell, but I thought it right to communicate it to you, that you may be ⟨watc⟩hfull and guarded on all the Roads. It will be well to place some of your ⟨men⟩ at the pass on the Road which has been represented to be so advantageous, attending at the same time to the rest. If the Enemy come on they will be well posted and may have an ⟨opp⟩ortunity of annoying them greatly—If otherwise ⟨their⟩ being there will do no harm. They should be directed to lie quiet & still & ought to be posted early to night as the Enemy will most probably move if they d⟨o at⟩ all, between 2 & three OClock.


Title: General Orders, 31 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Wilmington [Del.] August 31st 1777.
Rockingham.Arlington Abington.

Every officer commanding a troop or company is immediately to make out his muster-rolls to the first of september, that the whole army may be mustered with the utmost expedition—Officers commanding corps not annexed to any particular division, or brigade, will apply to the muster Master of the nearest division who will muster all such corps.
A General Court Martial is to sit to morrow at 9 o’clock in the morning at Mr Lawson’s at the Cross Keys near the Academy, for the trial of Lieut: Troup a prisoner in the provost. Brigadier General Knox is appointed president of this court.
Genl Potter will order two battalions of Militia, (each to be 250 strong, rather more than fewer) to march, one to Richling’s ford, and the other to Gibson’s ford, to take post on the east side of the Brandiwine, and fix upon the best ground for defending those passes.


Title: Instructions to Colonel Mordecai Gist, 31 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gist, Mordecai

Sir
[Wilmington, Del., 31 August 1777]

The Congress having called upon the State of Maryland to furnish a number of Militia to assist in repelling the Invasion of the Enemy by way of Chesepeak Bay and appointed Brigadr Smallwood and yourself

to arrange—conduct and command them, You are to repair, without loss of Time to George Town on Sassafras on the Eastern Shore of that State, or elsewhere on the East side of Chesepeak Bay where the Militia are assembling for the purpose aforesaid, and to arrange & form them as soon as possible into the best order you can; Which having done, you are to march them immediately towards the Head of Elk within a convenient distance to harrass and annoy the Enemy’s right Flank and the parties they may send out; either while they remain there, or in any march they may attempt towards Philadelphia, or into the Country. For this purpose you will occupy the best posts you can, having regard to the security of your Corps against sudden attacks and Surprizes by the Enemy. To prevent the Latter, it will be necessary to keep out constant patroles & scouting parties, and you will also use every means in your power, to obtain good information of their situation and the earliest intelligence of their designs & intended movements.
You will report to me an Account of your Arrival—the place where—the amount of your Force, and every Occurrence from time to time that you may consider material and necessary.
In a peculiar manner you will extend your care to the Cattle—Horses & Stock of all kinds, lying contiguous to the Enemy and within such a distance, that there may be a probability of their falling into their Hands. These must be driven out of their reach, and All Waggons & Carts removed that might facilitate the Movement of their Baggage and Stores.
I shall not enlarge upon this occasion—nor enter into a more minute detail for your conduct, observing at the same time, that the situation of the Enemy, calls loudly for the exertions of all, and that I cannot but recommend the strictest care—attention—and dispatch in executing the Objects of your command.
You will speak to the Quarter Master & Commissaries of provisions & Forage and agree with them upon a mode by which you may be supplied with such necessaries, as you may have occasion for in the Line of their respective Departments.
There is One thing more, which I would mention, Viz.—If there should be any Mills in the Neighbourhood of the Enemy, and which may be liable to fall into their hands, the Runners should be removed and secured. This can be of no injury, or but a temporary one to the proprietors, while it will effectually prevent the Enemy from using the Mills. Grain too, should be carried out of their way, as far as circumstances will admit. Given at Wilmington this 31st day of Augt 1777.

Go: Washington


Title: Intelligence Report from Captain David Hopkins, 31 August 1777
From: Hopkins, David
To:

9. OClock Sunday Evening [31 August 1777]

The party I mentioned by the last man returned this evening to their camp at Bohema Church & brought with them about 500 head of Cattle.
In the mean time there was landed a body of Troops at Cecil Court house under the command of Genl Gray & Nephouson upwards of five thousand with 35 or 40 pieces of Artilery none above 4 pounders they say they are to march tomorrow and form a line cross from one bay to the other, this was said by one of their Majors—To a Gentle[man] who he took for a friend. their encampment covers about a Mile Square. they have waggons but cant say how many Horses in bad Condition—This I got from three Gentlemen who were in the Camp all day & I met them as they came out, their Inteligence is to be depended on—one of them I knew before I shall watch them tomorrow.

David Hopkins Capt. L.D.


Title: Instructions to Brigadier General Caesar Rodney, 31 August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Rodney, Caesar

Sir
[Wilmington, Del., 31 August 1777]

The Congress having called upon the State of Delaware for its proportion of the Militia, to assist in defeating the hostile Designs of the Enemy in this quarter, You are, without loss of time, to use your utmost exertions towards accomplishing that necessary purpose, and for assembling and arranging in the best order possible, the quota assign’d your State, at Middle-town and in its neighborhood—When assembled, they are to cooperate more immediately with the Militia from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, in watching the motions of the Enemy

and taking every opportunity of harrassing them, by alarming them frequently with light parties, beating up their Pickets, and intercepting as often as it can be done, whatever parties they may send out to procure Supplies of forage, horses, cattle, provisions and necessaries of every kind; which will equally serve to distress them and shelte⟨r⟩ the Inhabitants from their Depredations, and ought therefore to be an object of your peculiar care. The more effectually to distress them in this respect, I would have you to remove such grain, catt⟨le,⟩ horses, stock and other articles of subsistence, that lie so contiguous ⟨to⟩ them, as to be in more immediate danger of falling into their hand⟨s⟩ out of their reach, and to continue doing this as they continue thei⟨r⟩ progress through the Country. You will also withdraw every kind of carriage which might serve to facilitate the Transportation of their Baggage and Stores to a distance from their Camp, than which you can do nothing that will be more injurious to them, as there is nothing they are more in want of.
One more precaution in this way I must recommend to you to use—which is, if there should be any Mills in their neighborhood, to take away the Runners and have them removed out of their reach—This will render the Mills useless to them, and will be little or no detriment to the Inhabitants, more especially to the well affected, who it is probable will, for the most part, quit their homes, where they appear, and to whom they can be restored at a proper time.
While you are attentive to annoying and distressing the enemy, you will not neglect any expedient necessary for your own Security—for this purpose, you will take posts the most advantageous and the least liable to Surprise, you can find, and will station proper Guards at every pass by which you are accessible, obliging them to observe the strictest Vigilance and order. You will find scouting Parties by day and Patroles by nigh⟨t⟩ going from Post to Post, and towards the Enemy, extremely useful, both to discover every thing, that is passing with them, and to guard yourself from any attempt to surprise you.
If the Enemy should march towards Philadelphia, as is expected, you will hang constantly upon their right flank and rear, and give them all the annoyance in your power; keeping yourself in such a situation as to be always ready to communicate and cooperate with this army.
When you arrive at the place of your destination, you will inform me of it—and of your numbers and situation from time to time; and you will make a point of giving me instant and certain advice of every occurrence of Importance, that comes to your knowledge.
Apply to the Quarter Master and Commissaries of Provisions and forage and settle a plan with them for furnishing you duly with such Supplies, as you will have occasion for, in their respective Departments.

As General Maxwell will want Persons well acquainted with the Country to remain with him, in the capacity of Guides, you will leave with him thirty or forty men fit for the business, out of the Batallions that are now advanced towards the Enemy. These should be select men, who have a thorough knowledge of the Country, intelligent and of known attachment and fidelity to the American Cause.
I need not urge it upon you how essential your utmost care and activity are upon this occasion. You are fully sensible of its importance, and that the season loudly calls for the greatest efforts of every friend to his Country. We have no time to spare, and cannot be too soon prepar’d, as we have reason every moment to expect the enemy will prosecute their march towards the object they have in view. Given at Head Quarters—Wilmington—this 31st August. 1777.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Theodorick Bland, August 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Bland, Theodorick

Sir,
[August 1777]

I have received your three several favours of this day—I have spoken to the Commissary & forage master, who have promised to take the proper measures for furnishing you with supplies in their respective departments.
You will be pleased to send all Capt. Lee’s troop that remain behind with the regimt to join the detachment now with him and you will also return immediately to him, whatever men he may send with prisoners, or on any other errand. He is so entreprising and useful an officer that I should wish him not to be straitened for the want of men. I am with respect Sir Your most Obdt serv.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 31 August–30 September 1777
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
[August–September 1777]

It grieves me exceedingly that I am [under] the Necessity of bringing any disagreable Matter before your Excellency, especially at this Time; But the late behaviour of General Conway renders it unavoidable. Since the Complaint entered against him in June last at Middle Brook Camp, of behavior unbecomeing a Gentleman and an Officer he has frequently behaved in a Manner very inconsistent with an Officer or Gentleman but of late he has endeavoured to throw Contempt on every order I have Issued to the Division, Mr Barber who Acts as Brigade Major to his Brigade tells me that Genl Conway has Strictly forbid him to Obey any order from me untill it has had his approbation, that three day’s on his Informing him, that I had sent for a Guard of a Sergeant and twelve Men his Answer was, “Tell my Lord I do refuse him the Guard,[”] that yesterday Morning on Shewing him a like written order, he put [it] in his pocket without paying the least attention to it. Such apparent determination to disobey my orders puts me under the Necessity of again Complaining of Genl Conway as Guilty of behaviour unbecomeing an Officer or Gentleman, and of disobedience of Orders. Nothing would at present have prevailed on me, to have taken this measure, but the InJustice I should do myself in Risqueing my reputation in the hands of a man Capable of disobeying my Orders, and that perhaps at a time when it may be attended with the most Serious Consequences to the public as well as myself.


Title: Agreement with Colonel Patterson Bell, 1 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

[Wilmington, Del., 1 September 1777]

Colonel Patterson Bell of the Eighth Battalion of Chester County Militia, having informed me, that he can bring into the Field Two Hundred Volunteers to reinforce the Army under my command, I do hereby agree with him, that the said Corps or such Number of Men as he brings, shall be furnished with provisions & Ammunition during their continuance in service, in the same manner, that the Troops are which compose the Continental Army, he the said Colo. Bell promising to join his Corps to the Detachment commanded by Brigadr Genl Maxwell and to observe his Orders & those of his the said Bell’s Superior Officers while in service. Given at Head Qrs this 1st day of Septemr 1777.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 1 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir,
Head Quarters Wilmington [Del.] Septembr 1th 1777

I received to day the favour of your two letters of the 27th and 28th Ulto with a Copy of General Arnolds. The raising of the Seige of Fort Schuyler, is fortunate indeed, and I trust will free us from any further Apprehensions of an Invasion in that Quarter this campaign, if it does not produce a friendly and favourable change in the dispositions of the Indians towards us. It is to be wished, General Arnold had arrived sooner, in such case, it is probable, the Enemy would have suffered much more in their retreat. As matters were, I should suppose, their Loss of Provisions and baggage, and the distance they have to go, will reduce them to such a condition that they will be able to give but little Assistance any where this Year.
I have written to Colo. Hughes the Depty Quarter Mastr General at Peeks Kill, immediately to forward half the Salt provisions in the Magazine in Ulster to your Army. I do not know how much there is, but I have directed him to send from thence a further Quantity if you should order It. It is to be regretted that our supplies of so Essential an Article are extremely scanty, and by no means equal to the necessary demands. I should be happy, if they were larger, as a more frequent use of Salt food, I am well convinced, would contribute greatly to the health of our People.
Since Colo. Hamilton’s Letter of the 29th Ulto nothing remarkable

has occured. The Enemy’s Van remains where it then was, and I believe the Main Body about Elk. There has been some skirmishing between our Scouting Parties but with little Loss. We have taken about 70 or 80 British prisoners, & there have been several Deserters from the Sea & Land service together. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 1 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Wilmington [Del.] Septr 1st 1777.

The latest and most material intelligence, which I have obtained respecting the Enemy, you will find in the inclosed papers, which I do myself the Honor of transmitting to you.
How far the Enemy have it in view to extend themselves in a Line from Bay to Bay, I cannot determine; But the idea has taken place with Many, and it is said to be founded on their hints to some persons, who from accident in some instances & perhaps choice in Others have had a more familiar intercourse with them. I cannot suppose they have any such design—or if they have, that it can be more than temporary, for procuring Supplies of provisions.
Genl How’s Declaration is agreable to his constant usage, and is what we might reasonably expect, The only difference is, the present exhibition is stiled a Declaration. It is another Effort to seduce the people to give up their rights, and to encourage our soldiery to desert. The Facts contained in the Deposition of Francis Alexander, which you have also inclosed, seem to be opposed to that regularity and good discipline which are promised by the Declaration.
Yesterday there was some skirmishing, between One of our advanced parties and One of the Enemy’s, in which they were obliged to retreat with the loss of an Officer & three Men killed according to report. We had One Private wounded.
I have received no particular account respecting the Maryland Eastern

Shore Militia. From the best information, I have, a Great many are well disposed to turn out, but are prevented giving their aid, through the want of Arms. Apprehending that the Militia there would stand in need of an Officer to arrange them, I wrote to Genl Cadwalader requesting his good Offices, which, I am told, have been exerted. Colo. Gist is now gone down, and I expect will move on, as soon as possible, with such as are armed towards the Enemy. Genl Smallwood is gone to take the command of those on the Western Shore of which, I hear, many are collecting, but I have no authentic advices on the Subject. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obed. servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Will it not be adviseable to order Colo. Richardson’s Regiment from their present Station to march & Join the Eastern shore Militia?


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 1 September 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada Septr 1st 1777.

Your several Favours to the 30th ulto (inclusive) I have had the Honour of receiving in the Order of their Dates.
From the enclosed Resolves you will perceive, the Congress have appointed a Committee to collect and arrange the Evidence relative to the Evacuation of Ticonderoga, which will be afterwards transmitted to you, that a Court Martial may be thereupon instituted for the Trial of

the general Officers who were in the Northern Department when the Evacuation took Place.
The great Demand for Arms to equip the Militia who are called into Service, has induced the Congress to pass the inclosed Resolve, directing that a Number of Workmen (conversant in the Business of repairing Firelocks) should be immediately detached from the Militia to be employed in repairing the Arms in this City there being between two and three Thousand that in a short Time may be rendered fit for Use.
I have the Pleasure to congratulate you on our farther Success in the Northern Department in raising the Seige of Fort Schuyler. The Enemy, on the Approach of Genl Arnold, fled with the utmost Precipitation, leaving behind them their Tents, Ammunition, Provision, &c.—As I forward herewith several Letters for you from that Quarter which I make no Doubt contain an Account of the Matter, I beg Leave to refer you to them for further Particulars. I have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect, Sir your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 1 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Wilmington [Del.] 1 Septr 1777.

At half after Twelve OClock, I was honored with Your’s of this Morning, with Its several Inclosures. I shall make inquiry, respecting the Workmen in the Militia and will order All to be detached, that can be spared.
The Intelligence from the Northward is very interesting, and, I hope, will be succeeded by Other fortunate Events. I am sorry Genl Arnold did not arrive sooner; If he had, it is probable, the Enemy would have suffered considerably in their retreat. I flatter myself, that we shall have nothing more to apprehend in that Quarter this Campaign, and that the disgrace and dissappointment they have met with, will produce a favourable change in the dispositions of the Indians. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

Go: Washington

P.S. You will be pleased to send the Letter for Colo. Hughes by the Eastern post Tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Johnson, 1 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Johnson, Thomas

Letter not found: to Thomas Johnson, 1 Sept. 1777. Johnson wrote GW on 4 Sept.: “I recvd your Letter of the first Instant.”


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 1 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Sir,
Head Quarters Wilmington [Del.] Septemr 1. 1777.

I have been duly honored with your several favours of the 15th 28 and 29 ulto and observe their contents.
From the papers you have sent, there can remain no doubt, that Mr Troupes true errand, whatever may be his ostensible one, was to recruit men for the British army; and, after being so clearly detected, should he escape punishment it cannot fail to have the disagreeable influence you mention on the minds of the people and to be an encouragement to other adventurers. As a similar instance however has not before come under my direction, I have ordered a special court-martial, composed of men of judgment and moderation to sit upon the occasion, and I have every reason to expect their decision will be dispassionate and well founded. It is doubted whether the military jurisdiction comprehends a case of this kind. This will be well considered, and If the court can with propriety go into the trial and their sentence should be such as it is naturally to be expected it will be—I do not think from my present view of the matter that it will be in my power to mitigate or remit his punishment though I shall sensibly feel for his friends, who cannot but be deeply affected by his fate.
Your reason for not entering upon the business of dividing the state into districts, till the ensuing meeting of the assembly is entirely satisfactory. I have no doubt you are sufficiently impressed with the importance of carrying the measure into speedy execution, and will use all your influence to have it done.
I am sorry you have no better prospect as to the number of militia, you expect to collect; but considering all the circumstances you mention, it is not [to] be wondered at that a people harrassed and exhausted by having their country so long the seat of the war, should be

unwilling to quit their homes; especially when they have an enemy still at their doors.
I am fully convinced of the pernicious consequences of that abuse of passports you speak of. The liberty that has been taken in granting them was altogether unauthorised by me, and cont[r]ary to my wish. I am glad to find you are determined to put a stop to the practice with respect to your militia officers, who alone will now have it in their power to continue it, as the Continental troops are all called away; and Doctor Barnet who has been so peculiarly culpable, and who had not a shadow of right to grant a single passport, will also be immediately removed.
You will ere this have heard of the enemy’s advancing from the place of their first landing, and occupying with their van a piece of high ground called Grey’s Hill. They still remain in this position and it is difficult to say how soon they will alter it. All accounts agree that They are very much distressed for want of horses, numbers of which it is said died on the passage, and the rest are in exceeding bad order, this will probably occasion some delay and give time for the militia, who seem to be collecting pretty fast, to join us. We have light parties constantly hovering about them, who frequently make a few prisoners. The whole number already made is about 70, and will be no inconsiderable check upon them.
They have as yet experienced little ⟨countenance⟩ from the inhabitants; and as we have a⟨ccounts⟩ of their perpetrating outrages similar to those they have c⟨ommitted⟩ elsewhere, I am in hopes, their conduct here, as in other p⟨laces,⟩ will not be of a complexion to conciliate many new parti⟨zans to⟩ their cause.
P.S. Since writing the above, the judge advocate of the Court Martial above mentioned has called upon me and reported that the Court had proceeded upon the tryal of the Prisoner, but on account of one point of his defence which requires time to be investigated had postponed their final decision, and adjourned to a future day the 16th Inst. Mr Troup pretends that he came out with design to avail himself of the offer of grace held out in your proclamation; but finding the people much exasperated against him and hearing that a man had been hanged who had applied for the benefit of that proclamation he was deterred from applying to you in person ’till he had made his peace through the mediation of a third person & secured his terms: That for this purpose he had communicated his intention to one Philip Schout & his mother, residing near Charlottenburgh, who were to intercede with a certain Mr Donoworth that lives with Mr Erskine at Ringwood in order to engage him to solicit you in his, Mr Troup’s behalf. He lays

great stress upon this; though it is probably a mere pretence; but as the Court have indulged him with time to have his Witnesses produced, I shall be much obliged to you to notify the persons above mentioned that their immediate attendance at Head Qrs is required, and to have them sent on without delay. You will also be pleased to inform yourself of their characters, particularly in a political light.


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. William Maxwell, 1 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. William Maxwell, 1 Sept. 1777. GW in his first letter to Maxwell of this date refers to “your Letter of this morning.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 1 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir
Head Quarters 1st Septem. 1777 Wilmington [Del.]

Since writing to you a few minutes ago, I have been inform’d that there is a considerable number of Cattle and a variety of Stores (the property of Individuals) at and in the neighborhood of Nottingham—as the distance from this place to the Head of Elk is not so great as to discourage the Enemy from attempting to make themselves Masters of such valuable Articles, it will be proper that you should contrive means for driving the Cattle and removing the Effects to some place of greater Security—while you can avail yourself of the Detachment from Greens and Stevens’s Division.
As the Service of the Horse is particularly wanted in the neighborhood of the Enemy, it will be unnecessary for you to trouble yourself with writing so frequently—if you will be so good only as to keep minutes of common occurrences and let them find in place with the accounts of more important matters which you may have occasion to transmit from time to time, you will not deprive yourself of so many useful hands & will equally oblige.