Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 19 November 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Richmond Novr 19th 1780

                        I arrived here on the 16th in the evening, and found things in such a train as will unavoidably detain me for
                            several days to make some necessary arrangements, which I shall leave Baron Steuben to complete.
                        The Enemy below after making every preparation for establishing a permanent port at Portsmouth by fortifying
                            the place strongly, suddenly drew in their advanced parties, evacuated the Town, and embarked their troops, and fell down
                            to Hampton road where they lay when the last accounts came away which was on the 17th. They left shoals of Negros on the
                            shore, and all the vessels in the harbour unhurt. Generals Muhlenberg and Weedon were in the neighbourhood of the great
                            bridge on the West side of James River with all the Continental force of this State not already marched for the Southern
                            Army and a very considerable body of Militia. The sudden change of measures by the enemy is altogether unaccountable from
                            any information I am possessed of, and therefore I am persuaded there must be some foreign cause which must be left for
                            time and further information to explain.
                        There are no official accounts of the Southern operations since the Enemy’s first retreat of eleven miles
                            from Charlotte. Gouvenor Nash writes Gouvenor Jefferson that Lord Cornwallis was conveyed to Charlestown in a waggon very
                            much indisposed; and there are flying reports which say he is dead.
                        Matters here are in the greatest state of confusion imaginable; and the business of government almost at a
                            Stand for want of money and public credit. Our prospects with respect to supplies are very discouraging. The
                            Gouvernor says their situation as to cloathing is desperate. Nor is the business of transportation in a much more eligible
                            condition. We can neither march the troops of this State or transport the provisions necessary for their subsistance for
                            want of waggons. The Gouvernor is taking measures to collect 100, but the business goes on heavily, having been in hand
                            three weeks and only 18 come in notwithstanding the person commissioned to execute the business has full power to impress
                            all he can find.
                        On my arrival at Hillsborough I intend to have all the rivers examined in order to see if I cannot ease this
                            heavy business by water transportation. I shall also recommend it to this State and to N. Carolina to stall-feed a large
                            number of beeves for the support of the Southern army with a view of lightening the transportation. Unless I succeed in
                            these two measures, I am afraid it will be impossible to subsist either in North or South Carolina a sufficient force this
                            winter to prevent the enemy from holding their present possessions and extending their limits. However the spirit of the
                            people is rising, and the Legislatures appear perfectly disposed to give all the aid in their power. Our greatest
                            difficulties will arise from the want of Cloathing, arms, ammunition, and the means of transportation. Provisions and
                            forage are plenty in the Country if we can but hit upon measues to collect and convey them to the Army. I think the
                            Legislature will adopt your Excellency’s plan for filling their Regiments for the war. But I foresee very great
                            difficulties in arranging the Officers of the Virginia line, as there are so many prisoners of war, and such great
                            discontent prevailing among them.
                        The late draft made in this State for 3500 men to serve eighteen months has fallen short of 2000 and these
                            for want of cloathing begin to desert in shoals, and those who continue, such is their situation they must be the greatest
                            part of them in the hospitals before the middle of December. I am with the greatest respect and regard Your Excellency’s
                            Most Obedient Humble Servant

                            Nath. Greene

                            Governor Jefferson has this moment received accounts from the Southward, the particulars of which he
                                will enclose your Excellency. I have broken the seals of this letter, to make this note, as the Southern dispaches
                                arrivd since I wrote, & as I had mentioned no accounts from the Southward had come to hand since the enemies
                                retreat from Charlotte.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Adrienne-Françoise de Noailles, marquise de Lafayette, 19 November 1780
From: Lafayette, Marie-Adrienne-Françoise de Noailles, marquise de
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General
                            Light Camp November the 19th 1780

                        Clel Smith having Rode All Night Return’d this Morning at four o’clock from Elizabeth town and gave me the
                            following Account of his journey.
                        he first Saw the doctor—whom I wanted to Employ;who told him that Every one of the Men Arriv’d from England
                            had been Reimbark’d Again a few days ago—that he Saw himself Many of them Going on Board—that he thinks Gal philips will
                            have the Command—he went in Again last Night and from him I will get pretty Accurate intelligences By the 21st or 22d—Clel Smith has fix’d a new Chain through a Gentleman in Elizabeth town; who told him the Same thing as the
                            doctor, and Added that Mr lenox a British d. Commissary of prisoners had Confidentially told a friend that there was an
                            embarkation going on—lenox’s private opinion was that they were going to possess the heights of Wilmington—I don’t Believe
                            Mr lenox’s plan of Campaign, Unless, there is a treaty going on, and they Want to have a footing Every Where—But it Seems
                            my informants of Yesterday were Mistaken, which I Attribute to the precaution the Ennemy take of embarking theyr troops
                            from the points of Staten and long island.
                        the Ennemy have Not a Mouth full of forage for theyr horses upon Staten island—they have been very particular
                            in inquiring about the State of forage, hay, grain &c. in the Neighbourood of Elizabeth town and Newark—so that
                            they are expected to Come out.
                        Gal Smith is Gone to England—Skinner Commands on the island.
                        This is, my dear General, what I Could get since our Conversation of Yesterday, and these Accounts Seem more
                            favorable than the last ones.

                            Lafayette

                            P.S. Clel Smith Repeats in very strong terms what I wrote last morning concerning the provisions that
                                are Carried in to the Ennemy.


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 19 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 19th Novemr 1780

                        I have been this day honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 15th You may be assured that I shall pursue
                            the same measures this Winter, that I have invariably done heretofore—of sending every Horse that can possibly be spared,
                            to a distance from the part of the Country which has been the seat of the Army during the Campaign, and as there will be
                            fewer troops in Jersey this Winter than usual, I hope the inhabitants will find releif in proportion. The exertions of the
                            State have been great, and it is intitled to every indulgence that the nature of the service will allow.
                        Your Excellency and the Legislature must be sufficiently acquainted with the State of the Army to know, that
                            our force, after the dismission of the Levies, will admit but few troops to remain in Jersey. I shall throw all that can
                            be spared, after securing West point from any possible insult, on the communication from Morris Town to King’s Ferry; but
                            as their numbers will be but few, they cannot be cantonned nearer to the sound than Morris Town. They will occasionally
                            keep patroles and light parties advanced to give notice of any approach of the Enemy. I am convinced that a force within
                            striking distance of an enemy, any thing short of a body sufficient to keep them in perfect awe, instead of affording
                            protection to the inhabitants, only serve as an inducement to bring the enemy out upon them—I have the honor to be with
                            very great Respect and Regard Yr Ecellency’s most obt and humble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Allyne Otis, 19 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Otis, Samuel Allyne,Henley, David

                            Gentlemen,
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 19th Novemr 1780

                        I have received your favours of the 25th Ulto and 8th Instant. I am glad to hear that part of the Goods
                            mentioned in the former had been sent off, and I hope, the Teams procured by the State will proceed at least as far as
                            Springfield. I shall give particular directions to the Quarter Master General to have them brought forward from thence as
                            well as those which have been laying there sometime past— I beg you will immediately forward what Cloth remains upon hand
                            to the Army with a proper quantity of thread, Buttons, and other trimmings to make it up— It will not only be done quicker
                            by the different Regimental Taylors, but it may be made into the different Articles of Clothing just as they are wanting.
                            Shirts you will have made in Boston.
                        I most sincerely wish that the business which Colo. Wigglesworth is upon may be compleated properly, as I
                            cannot find that we can depend, with any degree of certainty, upon any Cloathing this Winter, than what is included in
                            your Contract with the Traceys. I am,  &c.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 19 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 19th Novemr 1780

                        I have just received advice from Otis and Henley of Boston that they had, thro’ the interest of the State,
                            procured upwards of forty Teams which they had loaded and sent forward with Cloathing. They do not say how far the teams
                            are to proceed, but in all probability no farther than Springfield, at which place there is also a considerable quantity
                            of Cloathing much wanted by the Army. The bringing the whole forward to New Burgh as expeditiously as possible is a matter
                            so indispensably necessary in the present naked condition of the troops, that I must request you to send an active person
                            of your department to springfield whose Business it shall be to attend solely to the forwarding the Cloathing from that
                            place—If you are not furnished with the means of procuring transportation, I will give the person who goes, a letter to
                            the Governor of Connecticut solliciting his aid and assistance.
                        You will direct the above and all other public stores to come the upper Route by Litchfield.
                        Be pleased to order the working party under Major Bruen to return by Kakeate and Paramus to Camp—He will mend
                            that Road from Paramus to Camp which the Baggage came when we marched last from that place—it falls in at Ryersons Mill—I
                            am Sir Yr most obt Servt


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 19 November 1780
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Camp Novr 19. 1780.

                        Four days ago I sent off an express to Springfield & Boston with letters to Otis & Henley the
                            Clothier at Springfield, Colo. Jabez Hatch my deputy at Boston, & to Mr Tuckerman his Assistant at Springfield—in
                            all representing the naked condition of the troops, the near approach of winter, and the necessity of their instant
                            exertions to forward the cloathing at both places to Newburgh. I had some time before directed Colo. Hatch to order all
                            his teams to take the upper route thro’ Litchfield.
                        I have no person with me whom I could send to Springfield to see personally to the forwarding the cloathing:
                            but will find some active officer for the purpose whom I will dispatch by to-morrow morning at the farthest.
                        I cannot imagine the means of transportation can be wanting, as I have forwarded a warrant to Colo. Hatch on
                            the Boston loan office for 40,000 new dollars, which are current in Massachusetts, & I believe ready in the
                            office. Nevertheless, as a farther security against disappointment, I will thank your Excellency for a
                            letter to Govr Trumbull requesting his aid.
                        I will direct Major Bruin to return with his fatigue party to camp by the route your Excellency has
                            prescribed. I have the honour to be most respectfully your obedt servant

                            Tim. Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 19 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 19th Novemr 1780

                        The Bearer is sent by the Quarter Master General purposely to superintend the forwarding a quantity of Cloathing
                            from Springfield to New Burg --indeed the whole of our dependance in that Article, as far as I can see, for the Winter. The
                            Quarter Master General is in hopes that His Deputies will be able to find the means of transportation without applying to your
                            Excellency for assistance, but should they not, I must earnestly entreat you to give them the aid of the State, as the
                            troops will be much distressed for want of the Cloathes before they can arrive, even with every possible exertion.
                        I am in hopes that the salted Beef which I requested your Excellency to forward in my letter of the 20th
                            October has been sent on-- Our dependance for a Winter Magazine for Fort Schuyler still rests upon that parcel. I have the
                            honour  &c.


Title: From George Washington to George Walton, 19 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Walton, George

                            Sir.
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 19th Novemr 1780

                        I was honored on the 17th with your favor of the 11th. I proposed the exchange of Lieut. Morris for Mr Burke, to
                            Sir Heny Clinton, on the 15th Septemr last, but I have not received any answer from him on the subject --I shall take
                            occasion to remind him of the application, in a letter I shall write to him tomorrow.
                        Congress, by their Resolve of the 11th Feby last, directed me to pay due regard to the exchange of Brigr or
                            Colo. Elbert, should a general exchange, which was at that time in contemplation, be carried into execution-- This I should
                            most certainly have done, had the exchange taken effect, but the negociation was broken off, for want of proper powers on
                            the part of the British Commissioners, and the matter has since rested. Congress have, as you must know, directed me to
                            make new propositions for the exchange of the Convention Troops against our southern prisoners-- should the terms be acceded
                            to-- Mr Elbert will be exchanged, in turn, in the Rank of Brigadier of Militia or Colonel of Continental troops, according to
                            the command he held when taken. I am informed that the Enemy claim him as Brigadier.
                        I am ignorant of any transactions which may have passed between General Lincoln and General provost on the
                            subject.
                        I have requested liberty for Miss Camber to go to Charles town in the Flag sloop Carolina packet-- upon the
                            same terms as those asked for Mrs Matthews. I have the honor to be with great Respect Sir yr most obt Servt


Title: General Orders, 20 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Totowa Monday Novemr 20th 1780
                            Parole Tripoli
                            Countersigns Troy Trim Watchword Try

                        For the Day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Patterson
                        Lieutenant Colonel commandant Hubley
                        Lieutenant Colonel Fernald
                        Major Wallbridge
                        Brigade Major Pettingile
                        Return of Shoes wanting by the Artillery Connecticut and Massachusetts lines to be made this afternoon to the
                            Adjutant General and the shoes drawn tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Clinton, 20 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, Henry

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters November 20th 1780

                        I am authorised by Congress to propose a meeting of Commissioners for the purpose of "effecting an exchange
                            of all Continental prisoners of War, now in your possession, and of the hostages given in Canada, as well as of all
                            officers on parole, and officers violators of parole, and militia actually taken in arms and remaining prisoners of war,
                            for an equal number of The Convention troops, and other prisoners in our hands, rank for rank, and where similar rank will
                            not apply to pursue the exchange on the footing of Composition, according to the valuation or tariff agreed on by The
                            Commissioners at Amboy in march last." In this business will of course come into contemplation an equitable adjustment and
                            payment of the accounts of The Convention troops. I think it necessary to apprise you of this circumstance, that there may
                            be no misapprehension and that if the Commissioners meet they may come clothed with proper powers to render the meeting
                            effectual. I request your speedy answer; after which the time and place of meeting may be regulated.
                        I beg leave to recall your Excellency’s attention to my letter of the 15th of September, proposing an
                            exchange of Lt Morris of the Georgia Artillery, for Mr Burke of the Island of Antigua, to which you have not yet favoured
                            me with an answer.
                        To the application in behalf of Mrs Mathews I take the liberty to add another for a similar permission to
                            Miss Anne-Sarah Camber in the same vessel. I am Sir Your most Obedient servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Arthur Lee, 20 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Arthur

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 20th Novr 1780

                        I am much obliged to you for the suggestion which you do me the favour to make in your Letter of the 11th, as
                            I shall at all times be for any others which may occur to you conducive to the public service.
                        I am so entirely convinced of the absolute necessity of a large and immediate foreign aid of money, to the
                            continuance of the war, that I should be happy to do any thing I could with propriety to promote it. I impart to you in
                            confidence, that I have in the most explicit manner given my Sentiments on this head to the Minister of France here; and
                            if my Opinion can have any influence with the Court of Versailles, I imagine it will be known through this channel—A more
                            direct communication might appear an intrusion and an interference in matters out of my province. I am happy to hear
                            Congress have this important object under consideration.
                        I persuade myself they will urge it with all the emphasis in their power and in the form most likely to
                            succeed—If there should be any thing by which I could contribute to the success of the application, I should certainly
                            think it my duty to give all the aid in my power. I have the honor to be sincerely & with real respect &
                            esteem Sir, Yr Most Obedt & Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 20 November 1780
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Newport November the 20th 1780

                        I have the honor to inform your Excellency of the return of two of our Frigates, to Boston: They left the
                            Amazoune and our Letter-bearer on the 30th at Night, at an hundred Leagues distance from their, sailing fast before the
                            wind, after being chaced by a ship of the Line and a frigate that were a cruising, and having taken in view of them the
                            ship I mentioned in my Last.
                        We have an intelligence from Boston that the American ship that carried our first Letters was arrived at
                            Bilboa in spain, on the 12th of September, and that our Letters were dispatched away to Versailles the next day. It is a
                            vessel belonging to the same Trader that brought this piece of News.
                        Another Ship coming from Gottenburg assures that the Russian, Danish and Swedish combined fleets has convoyed
                            in a French Port a Large convoy of materials of woods for the navy, but that the Dutch had not yet joined themselves to
                            this combined fleet. I am with Respect, sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient and most humble servant

                            le Cte De Rochambeau


Title: From George Washington to John Sullivan, 20 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

                            Dr Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Passaic Falls 20th Novr 1780

                        You have obliged me very much by your friendly letter of the 12th and I can assure you that I shall be very
                            happy in a continuation of them—You are too well acquainted with my course of business to expect frequent, or long
                            letters from me, but I can truely say that I shall write to none with more pleasure, when it is in my power to write at
                            all, than I shall do to you.
                        The determination of Congress to raise an Army for the War, & the honorable establishment on which the
                            Officers are placed will, I am perswaded, be productive of much good—Had the first measure been adopted four, or even
                            three years ago—I have not the smallest doubt in my mind, but that we should at this day have been sitting under our own
                            vines and fig trees in the full enjoyment of Peace & Independence—and I have as little doubt that the value which I
                            trust Officers will now set upon their Commissions will prove the surest Cases of public Œconomy—‘Twas idle to expect
                            that Men who were suffering every species of present distress with the prospect of inevitable ruin before them could
                            bear to have the cord of discipline strained to its proper tune, and where that is not the case it is no difficult matter
                            to form an idea of the want of Order, or to convince Military Men of its consequent evils.
                        It is to be lamented that the call upon the States for specific Supplies should come at this late hour,
                            because it is much to be feared that before those at a distance can be furnished with the Resolves & make their
                            arrangements, the Season for Salting Provision will be irretrievably lost, and this leads me to a remark which I could
                            wish never to make—It is, that the multiplicity of business in which Congress are engaged will not let them extend that
                            seasonable & provident care to many matters which private convenience & public œconomy indispensably call for, and
                            proves, in my Opinion, the evident necessity of committing more of the executive business to small boards, or responsable
                            characters than is practiced at present, for I am very well convinced that for want of system in the execution of
                            business and a proper timing of things, that our public expenditures are inconceivably greater than they ought to be—Many
                            instances might be given in proof, but I will confine myself to the article of Cloathing as we are feelingly reminded of
                            it.
                        This, instead of being ready in the Fall for delivery, is then to be provided or to be drawn from the Lord
                            knows whither, and after forcing many Soldiers from the field for want of it, is eked out at different periods as it can
                            be had through the Winter, ’till Spring, & in such a piece-meal way, that the Soldier, deriving little comfort from it
                            is hurt both in appearance and pride while the Recruiting Service is greatly injured by it. Was this the result of
                            necessity, not a word would be said; but it is the effect of a dividd attention or over much business for at the periods
                            of the extreme suffering of the Army, we can hear of Cloathing in different places falling a prey to Moth, and
                            cankerworms of a worse kind—and I am much mistaken too, if the Cloathing System (if ours can be called a System) does not
                            afford a fruitful field for stock jobbing &c.
                        It may be asked what remedy I would apply to these evils? In my opinion there is a plain and easy one—It
                            will not I acknowledge give relief to our immediate & pressing wants no more than order can succeed confusion in a
                            moment, but as both must have a beginning. Let Congress without delay (for this is the season to be looking forward to the
                            supplies for another Year) employ some eminent Merchant of approved integrity & abilities to import (in his own way)
                                Materials for the annual cloathing of Officers & Men agreeably to estimates to be
                            furnished by the Cloathier General—Or if they prefer it, let these imports be made by a Committee of their own body. When
                            a stock is once obtained, discontinue all Continental Agents & State Agents for Continental purposes and confine the
                            business of Cloathing the Army wholly to the Importer, Clothier Genl,  and
                            Regimental Cloathiers—this would be easy and simple, and would soon extricate that department from those embarrassments,
                            and impositions which have a tendency to distress Individuals and load the public with an enormous expence.
                        At present we do not know where or to whom to apply—I have made the distresses of the Army known to
                            Congress, the Board of War & the States Individually without learning from whence the supplies are to come and &
                            without the aid of a perspective, see a very gloomy prospect before us this Winter on the Score of Cloathing.
                        I have two reasons for prefering the materials for Cloathing to ready made Clothes—first because I think we
                            can have them made by the Regimental Taylors to fit each Man, & to suit the fashion of each Regiment—And secondly
                            because the materials will always be a more ready sale if Peace takes place & the Troops are disbanded, than ready made
                            Cloaths; they would attract less notice too, at the places of Export. Another question may arise here—where are the
                            means? Means must be found or the Soldiers go naked. But I will take the liberty in this place to give it as my opinion,
                            that a Foreign Loan is indispensably necessary to the continuance of the War. Congress will deceive themselves, if they
                            imagine that the Army, or a State is the Theatre of War can rub thro’ a second Campaign as the last: It would be as
                            unreasonable as to suppose that because a Man had rolled a Snowball ’till it had acquired the size of a horse that he
                            might do so till it was as large as a House. Matters may be pushed to a certain point, beyond which we cannot move them.
                            Ten months pay is now due to the Army. Every departmt of it is so much indebted that we have not credit for a single
                            Express—& some of the States are harrassed & oppressed to a degree beyond bearing—To depend under these
                            Circumstances, upon the resources of the Country unassisted by foreign loans will I am confident, be to lean upon a
                            broken Reed.
                        The situation of the Southern States is very embarrassing & I wish it was in my power to afford them
                            relief in the way you have mention’d, but it is not—The very measure you suggest, I urged as far as decency and policy would permit me to do at the Interview at Hartford, but
                            to no effect. I cannot be more particular on this subject, and what I now say, is in confidence.
                        The Report of Sir Henry Clinton’s going to the Southward was groundless and I believe few Troops have left
                            New York since those under Leslie—I set out with telling you, I could not write long letters, but have ended with a flat
                            contradiction of it. I am with much esteem & Regard, Dr Sir Yr Obt Sert

                            G. W----n


Title: General Orders, 21 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Totowa Tuesday November 21st 1780
                            Parole Verona
                            Countersigns T.U.
                            Watchword Valor

                        For the day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Wayne
                        Lieutenant Colonel commandant Smith
                        Lieutenant Colonel Peters
                        Major Maxwell
                        Brigade Major Moore
                        The General having received intelligence that the enemy mean to make a Forage in this State; The Army is to
                            be held in readiness to move at a moments warning: They will keep two days provision cooked before hand—The officers are
                            to remain in Camp and no passes granted to soldiers to go beyond the limits of Camp ‘till further orders.
                        The Quarter Master General will have orders respecting the horses of the army.


Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 21 November 1780
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia 21 Nbr 1780

                        I have been honor’d with the orders of your Excellency given to me in a lettre of the 5th Nbre the contains of
                            it were so nearly Connected with the Succès of a petition which I had put at that time under the Consideration of Congress
                            that it was out of my power to answer sooner your favor—the promotions granted to my country men in Consideration of
                            smalls times of Services and persuaded me that they were not promoted according to the just rotation of ranks and
                            prétentions in the army at large, from thence I considered the french officers in this service as making a line among
                            themselves, and in that line my services authenticated—and put to an estimable value by the goodness of your Excellency, I
                            found myself the more entitled to a promotion—I pettitioned for it, I was twice de’nied of my prétentions but at those
                            times they were perhaps more established upon the jealousy which others promotions gived to me than upon a real principle
                            which must have been the time of my Service and a longuer proof of the promotion of others—I beg leave to say here that
                            respect did so much attached me to your Excellency, that so long my Honor could be preserved, I was determined to trayed
                            under your Command the events of a war which otherwise after two or three campaigns, could not offer to me not only
                            satisfaction in this Country but even a great deal more advantages at Home; last year I saw myself going out of your
                            Excellency’s immédiat Command and I did not sooner begun my journey that I regréted the Happyness and advantages which I
                            lieved Behind—I served under Gnl Gates, and by no means nature had put me when I was born under the necessity of being
                            traited like a slave; Hoever it was my fate, and I subdued my self entirely to it hopping that fortune reserved me a
                            better one—After the defeat at Campden I wint to Congress, to know what were their will on respect to my legion, if it was
                            to be remounted & reunited or not; I had also resolved to ask to be promoted, I fell so sick for a month that I
                            could do no business, but as soon as I recovered my Health, I presented a petition to Congress for promotion my former
                            pettition was this—that should I be promoted, I would not take the Command of no older Colonels than I—but even on all
                            occasions confine myself to the command of my legion. Congress could mantion my purposal to your Exellency and by that it
                            was impossible to me even if willing to do it, to take more command than I had myself stipulated. this pettition was
                            rejected, then I presented this, that should I be granted with the commission of brigadier, I would immediately in order
                            to quiet the jealousy it might give in the army go to france and feach from there the equipement for the legion, I
                            mantioned that this voyage considered as a service payed to america, together with four compeignes would justify my
                            promotion to the eyes of the army—this request was rejected. I would not be sincere if I did not mantion here that I
                            established in my memorial as one of the valuable principe for my promotion the promotion of Cnl Morgan, who having spented
                            two years at Home had not so long services than I in this country, whoever I was promoted to give that reason, by Congress
                            telling me that there were olders Cnls than I in the army—Cnl Morgan being under the same disadvantage I could not be
                            silent upon his succés in Congres, this reason having some weight they told me that I was not the older Cnl of the
                            horses—by no means did I answered, because I was never put in the line of the Cavallery, nor had I ever any command in
                            that line. after this they told me that promotions took place in the line of the several States? What state do I belongs
                            to have I asked to non was I answered—When then shall I have the right to be promoted—When you are the very oldest colonel
                            in the army. from these particulars your Exellency may judge of my Case which appears to me under such disadvantage that I
                            desired Congress to accept of my resignation and leat me go to france, the ambassador told me to day that they were not
                            disposed to see me leave the service and that they will not resolve bifore I make another pettition—I believe of my duty,
                            and that duty I feel more into my hart to wrait your Exellency on the matter and I wishes it could be convenient to give
                            me your advice and help me on the occasion.
                        the promotions granted to strangers hurt me really at such a degree in france that I could not remain longer
                            with the same Commission under the present government. the only motive which Congress appears to have for not grant my
                            demand is the jealousy it would rise in the army—perhaps your Exellency would be of advice that if being granted with the
                            commission of brigadier disgusted Cnls of older date than I, so far as to persuad them to resign on that account, I was to
                            promise to your Exellency to resign my position of brigadier as soon as it would hurt so far the feelings of the officers,
                            and keap my command of Colonel, it would prevent resignations and trouble—Another way could be to appoint a board of
                            officers in the army and my reasons being layed before them ask their oppinion & determination—I take the liberty
                            to reffere entaerly the dicision of that matter to your Exellency, and to put under your consideration that my meaning is
                            not to have a larger command—not to extend it over more officers—nor proudness—but the necessity of preserving at home the
                            character which I had there when I came over—With the greatest respect for your Exellency’s, Sir, the most hble obt St

                            Armand


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Craig, 21 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Craig, Thomas

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters Novr 21st 1780

                        On Thursday Morning you will march with all the men of your detachment fit for duty to Springfield where you
                            will halt during the night and next day ’till three O Clock in the afternoon; at Three OClock on Friday, you will move
                            towards Elizabeth town, making a slow easy march to avoid fatiguing your men. At Elizabeth Town, you will receive further
                            orders from a General Officer, which you will obey. It will be necessary to execute this order with punctuality. I am Sir,
                            Yr most Obedient Ser

                    P.S.  Let your party be provided with two days provisions cooked.  They are also to without Baggage.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Craig, 21 November 1780
From: Craig, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Jocky Hollow Novr 21st 1780

                        I have received your favor of this day and Shall strictly comply with the orders contained in it. I have the
                            Honor to be Your Excellencies Most Obedt and Most Hbe Servt

                            Thos Craig Colonel
                            Commandg Detachment


Title: To George Washington from John Fowles, 21 November 1780
From: Fowles, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Cranes Town 21th Novr 1780

                        This Morning Seven OClock I Receivd Intelegence that the enemy had Landed at Newark brak day But their
                            Numbers as yet I cannot ascertain I am informd that they have some Artillery and from the Nights Can Discover a Large
                            Smoak but hear no firing. I am Sir your Excellencys most obedient Humble Servt

                            J. Fowles
                            Captn Offr Guard


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste de Gouvion, 21 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Gouvion, Jean-Baptiste de

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Prekaness 21st Novr 1780

                        You will proceed to Fort Lee and thence with the greatest secrecy and caution along the margin of the North
                            River to the landing which is opposite Spiten Devil Creek. You will observe with the greatest accuracy possible the number
                            & situation of the enemys works from Fort Washington upwards—the huts incampments barracks in or near them—the
                            number of troops that occupy these and are otherwise within view—the landing places on the Island, noting which are
                            easiest for debarking troops, and which admit most of secrecy—the approaches to the several works, particularly Fort
                            Washington, the redoubt on the same ridge to the Northward of it, and Laurel Hill—the guard houses and washing houses
                            along the river; the vessels boats &c. in the river and their several stations.
                        You will make these observations at different points from the landing opposite Spiten devil to the banks opposite
                            the hollow that extends across to Harlæm river—You will endeavour to arrive in time to-morrow morning to observe where
                            the troops parade at Assembly, which will the better enable you to judge of their number.
                        In short you will make every observation necessary for forming a plan for surprising the posts which have
                            been mentioned by a night expedition, and for determining the propriety of such an attempt.
                        You will also remark the state of the road, from the incampment of the light corps to Fort Lee; particularly
                            that part of it from the Heights of Fort Lee to the landing below—to ascertain the practicability of moving down boats in
                            carriages to the landing either in waggons or on the shoulders of men.
                        The perfect confidence I have in your judgment and address assures me that you will execute this trust in the
                            most proper manner.
                        For your better security I shall send a patrole towards the three pigeons but who shall not fall in with you
                            or know any thing of your errand. I shall expect your report tomorrow night or very early next morning. I am with the greatest
                            esteem Sir Yr most Obed.

                            P.S. You will observe whether there are any small boats at any of the landings on this side which the
                                inhabitants may make use of to convey intelligence.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 21 November 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            West point November 21st 1780

                        I am just informed by express from Fish kill that Counte Chatilieux arrived
                            there from the Eastward Yesterday afternoon. He will be here this day and I apprehend will proceed to Head quarters
                            this afternoon, or to morrow. Every thing Respecting the grand forage has gone on very well hitherto. The Troops are now
                            crossing the Ferry. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servant

                             W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to James Parr, 21 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Parr, James

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Novr 21 1780

                        I have received private information that some inhabitants of Bergen County will probably on thursday evening
                            carry into the enemy at Powles Hook a quantity of flour and other provisions. As this kind of Traffic is very pernicious,
                            I am particularly desirous of detecting some of these who carry it on in the fact that an example may be made of them—You
                            will therefore on thursday afternoon move with your corps as secretly as possible by way of the new bridge to three
                            pigeons, and there continue scouring the neighbouring Roads during the night.
                        If you meet with the persons, I have described, you will send them immediately with their effects to the
                            Adjutant General; and in any case you will retire on friday to the liberty Pole where you will remain till next day, and
                            then march to camp. You will keep your men together and be vigilant against a surprise. I am Sr Your most Obedt servt


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 21 November 1780
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            War Office Nov. 21. 1780

                        Captain McIntire the Bearer represents to the Board that from some former Orders of ours he does not think
                            himself at Liberty to leave the Western Department & join the main Army & has desired a Letter to your
                            Excellency continuing our Assent to his serving in the Army under your immediate Command. We have represented to him the
                            Embarrassments which will attend his Promotion or Command in the Main Army but have consented to his going to Head
                            Quarters & taking Your Orders & Advice on the Subject. We have the Honour to be with the greatest respect
                            & Esteem Your very obed. Servts

                            Richard Peters
                            By Order


Title: From George Washington to John Stark, 21 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Stark, John

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 21 Novemr 1780

                        Capn Humphrys one of my Aides de Camp is charged by me with orders of a private and particular nature, which
                            he is to deliver to you and which you are to obey—He will inform you of the necessity of this mode of communication. I
                            am Sir Yr most obt Servt


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 21 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                            Dr Sir
                            Head Quarters 21st Novemr 1780

                        On Friday-morning, at Sun rising you will march the division under your command to a mile below Acquaquenack
                            Bridge, advancing a Regiment a Mile or two in your front towards New Ark, and remain in this position ’till Retreat
                            beating. You will then renew your march, slowly, a Mile or two forward and till it is quite dark and there halt till
                            further orders. These will reach you in all probability before you halt.
                        When you arrive however at Acquaquenack, you will begin a Forage, for which purpose a number of Waggons will
                            be sent down: but you will do this in such a manner as not to fatigue your Men, whose services may be wanted in a more
                            essential manner. You will have two days provision coocked, three wd be better. You know the importance of secrecy in all
                            military movements. I am with great Regard Yr most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Darby, 22 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Darby, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Novr 22d 80

                        You have been directed to do everything necessary for putting the boats under your care in perfect order,
                            muffling the oars &c. and the Quarter Master General has been desired to furnish you with all the necessary means.
                        You will be pleased to distribute your Boats into four equal divisions, as nearly as may be, both with
                            respect to number and size, numbering the whole 1. 2. 3. &ca. each of these divisions you will place under the
                            particular command of one of your Subalterns, the whole under your general direction- You will make a previous
                            distribution of the hands to each boat that every officer and man may know his place to prevent confusion.
                        On thursday twelve oClock you are to begin to move the boats through the notch below the mountain, to the
                            first farm Houses where they are to halt till friday- On friday at 12 oClock they are to recommence their march to
                            Aquakanunk bridge, by the left hand road leading by Henry Garritsons where they are to halt and the horses to be refreshed. The place I would have the Boats stopped at is in the field where a farme encampment was about two or three hundred yards this side the Bridge and Church. You are yourself upon your arrival at Arquayuayactto make the same inquiries for which you have been directed to send an Officer, respecting the navigation
                            down the Passaic- the state of the tide- the interruptions, windings &ca in the River- that you may be fully
                            acquainted with every circumstance of that kind necessary for your government.
                        In all your movements I shall depend upon an absolute precision, and the greatest dispatch practicable, when
                            you receive your final orders-for on this hangs the most important consequences.
                        I need not recommend secrecy respecting your orders; Your own prudence will direct you. I am Sir, Yr most obed humbl.

                            P.S. You will acknowledge the Rect of the above should there be any part of it which you do not
                                clearly understand be pleased to communicate to me.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Darby, 22 November 1780
From: Darby, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Two Bridges Novr 22d 1780

                        In the Estimate I mad the other Day, of the number of men, the Boats would Carry, I included the five water
                            men in that Number & the Number of men I estimat to carry the boats—could carry them on level Ground about 200
                            yards—with hand spiks fixst for that purpos to carry them in ruf & Difficult Ground it will require about five or
                            6 more men to carry them—I found by Experence I could not carry them on Oars without Braking them. the Oars for Each boat
                            I carry in the boat Stopt to the thawarts, that the moment the boats are Lanchd into
                            the water the men Step in, the oars are ready. I have not recd any more Boats Since my report—I Just recd a letter from
                            Colo. Pickering that ten More Boats would be here to Day. I shall be very punctual in sending the officers to Aquahanack
                            bridg at the time mentiond, in obeying all other Orders your Excellency Shall See fitt to Order. I am with respect Yours
                            &c.

                            Sam Darby
                            Major


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 22 November 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                             November 22. 1780

                        Sometime last fall when I spoke to your Excellency about going to the Southward, I explained to you
                            candidly my feelings with respect to military reputation, and how much it was my object to act a conspicuous part in some
                            enterprise that might perhaps raise my character as a soldier above mediocrity. You were so good as to say you would be
                            glad to furnish me with an occasion. When the expedition to Staten Island was on foot a favourable one seemed to offer.
                            There was a batalion without a field officer, the command of which I thought, as it was accidental, might be given to me
                            without an inconvenience. I made an application for it through the Marquis, who informe me of your refusal on two
                            principles—one that giving me a whole batalion might be a subject of dissatisfaction, the other that if an accident
                            should happen to me in the present state of your family, you would be embarrassed for the necessary assistance.
                        The project you now have in contemplation affords another opportunity. I have a variety of reasons that
                            press me to desire ardently to have it in my power to improve it. I take the liberty to observe that the command may now
                            be proportioned to my rank, and that the second objection ceases to operate, as during the period of establishing our
                            winter quarters there will be a suspension of material business; besides which, my peculiar situation will, in any case
                            call me away from the army in a few days and Mr Harrison may be expected back early next month.
                        My command may consist of an hundred and fifty or two hundred men composed of fifty men of Major Gibbs’s
                            corps, fifty from Col Meig’s regiment, and fifty or an hundred more from the light infantry: Major Gibbs to be my
                            Major. The hundred men from here may move on friday morning towards , which will strengthen the appearances for Staten Island to form a junction on the other side of the Passaick.
                        I suggest this mode to avoid the complaints that might arise from composing my party wholly of the light
                            infantry, which might give umbrage to the officers of that corps, who, on this plan, can have no just subject for it.
                        The primary idea may be, if circumstances permit to attempt with my detachment Bayard’s Hill. Should we
                            arrive early enough to undertake it, I should prefer it to any thing else, both for the brilliancy of the attempt in
                            itself and the decisive consequences of which its success would be productive. If we arrive too late to make this
                            eligible (as there is reason to apprehend) my corps may form the van of one of the other attacks; and Bayards Hill will
                            be a pretext for my being employed in the affair, on a supposition of my knowing the ground, which is partly true.
                        I flatter myself also that my military character stands so well in the army as to reconcile the officers in
                            general to the measure. All circumstances considered, I venture to say any exception which might be taken would be
                            unreasonable.
                        I take this method of making the request to avoid the embarrassment of a personal explanation. I shall only
                            add that however much I have the matter at heart, I wish your Excellency intirely to consult your own inclination; and
                            not from a disposition to oblige me, to do any thing that may be disagreeable to you. It will, nevertheless, make me
                            peculiarly happy if your wishes correspond with mine. I have the honor to be very sincerely and respectfully Yr
                            Excellencys Most Obed. servant

                            A. Hamilton


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 22 November 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            West Point Novr 22d 1780

                        I have just received the inclosed letter, and state of provisions at Fort Schuyler, from Colo Malcom. It
                            seems no time is to be lost in forwarding provisions. as Colonel Blane is probably by this time at Head Quarters, I beg
                            leave to submit to your Excellency, his being directed to order, the number of Cattle mentioned by Colonel Malcom, to
                            Albany as soon as possible. By late accounts from the Eastward, a great number of Cattle are comeing on. I have the honor
                            to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                State of Provisions at F. Schuyler
                                    Fort Sch Nov. 8th 1780

                            In Store Octr 1st:

                                    147

                                    Barrs. of flour each weighing

                                     190 lb.

                                    50

                                    Head of Cattle each do

                                     250 lb.

                            The Garrison of Ft Schuyler to be victualled at the rate of 1 lb. of each per man per day.
                            320 Men from 1st Oct. to the 10th will want in 3200 lb. of each The garrison then was reduced to 260 Men
                                by the capture of Capt. Vrooman & party 60 strong.
                            260 Men from the 11th Oct. to the 15th Novr. want 9100 lb. of each. Then there must remain on the 15th
                                Novr (after deducting the whole that is used (which is 12,300 lb. of each) in Store 15,630 lb. of Flour & 1200
                                lb. of beef—Then we will suppose Colo. Wissenfelts with the new garrison to arrive at Ft Schuyler about 180 strong
                                including the Train of artillery and to bring with him

                                    35

                                    Head Cattle each to weigh

                                    300 lb.

                                    total

                                    11,500

                                    30

                                    Barrels of flour each

                                    190 lb.

                                    5,700

                            Total then in Store 12,700 lb. of beef & 21,350 lb. of flour which will last
                                the garrison of 180 men in the Flour way till the 12th March Beef way till the 24th Janry.
                            The above is a true state if the consumption is not greater than what is stated.

                                H. Glen

                                 Q. Master

                        P.S. The first convoy of provisions for Ft. Schuyler may go off in flags by the 15 Decr if any thing of an early winter, it is necessary the Agents for procuring provsions have a supply of beef flour &rum ready by that time H. Glen

                     Enclosure

                                Dear General
                                New borough Nov. 16 1780

                            I left the Western Frontiers the 10th Inst.—Genl Clinton was at Saratoga with Gansevorts, & a few
                                militia, The Enemy were at Ticonderoga—& had made no attempt upon any part of the Northern Frontier,
                                notwithstanding all the noise which I find hath been made below. It will be impossible either to Subsist the Garrison
                                of Fort Scuyler or any number of Troops between that & Albany unless the beef is orderd from the Eastward—I
                                inclose a Calculation of the Provisions in Fort Scuyler & necessary for it untill the time when it is supposed
                                possible to carry by —but as the Bridge is broke & the roads very bad that is not
                                entirely to be depended upon—I have represented this matter to the Governor & to Co. Hay—it is certain that
                                unless some immediate measures are taken to forward Cattle the Garrison will be abandon’d—not above 20 of the Cattle
                                mentioned in the estimate were approched for the use of the Guard—they were used by Wesenfiels Regt on the
                                Communication.
                            Two State Regem. (Harpers & Pawlings) & the Troops raised by the Late Law of this State
                                are under my Com’d & on the Frontiers of that I return next Week to albany and as Genl
                                Clinton depends upon my procuring some supplys to go up I coud wish to know whether the Commissary General could not
                                be orderd to Lend 50 or 60 good  cattle to Albany—those from this State are not worth driving
                                to Fort Scuyler—I expect to wait upon you before I go up—and am both with very great Esteem & Respect Dear
                                General Your most obedt & very Hble Servt

                                W. Malcom

                                P.S. I find there is some necessary articles of Cloathing in store here which I
                                    want exceedingly—I beg Sir that You will be so good as to give me an order, for the few things
                                    which Capt. Black State cloatheir & whom you knew in my Regt 1776 has—I have never had or asked for an  out of Public Stores before—or would I at this time, if I could do without or get it any
                                    other way.


Title: From George Washington to David Humphreys, 22 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Humphreys, David

                            Sir,
                             22 November 1780

                        You are immediately to proceed to West Point and communicate the business committed to you, in confidence to
                            Majr Genl Heath, and to no other person whatsoever—from thence you will repair to the Detachmt at the White Plains,
                            on friday next, taking Measures to prevent their leaving that place, before you get to them. and in the course of the
                            succeeding Night you may inform the Commanding Officer, of the Enterprize in Contemplation against the Enemy’s Posts on
                            York Island.
                        As the Troops are constantly to lye on their Arms, no previous notice should be given, but they may be put
                            in Motion precisely at 4 oClock, and commence a slow and regular march towards Kings Bridge, until they shall discover or
                            be informed of the concerted signal’s being made, when the march must be pressed with the greatest rapidity—Parties of
                            Horse should be sent forward to keep a look out for the signals.
                        Although the main Body ought to be kept Compact—Patroles of Horse and light-Parties might be sent towards
                            East and West Chester—And upon the signals being discovered, Sheldons Regt and the Connecticut State Troops (which may
                            also be put in Motion as soon as the Orders can be communicated after 4 oClock) should be pushed forward to intercept any
                            of the Enemy, who may attempt to gain Frog’s Neck, and to Cut off the Refugee Corps at Morrissania. A few Men with some
                            address may spread such an Alarm as to prevent an attempt of the Enemy to retreat to Frog’s Neck, from an apprehension of
                            surrounding Parties.
                        You will communicate these instructions to the Commanding Officer of the Detachmt, who upon his approach to
                            King’s Bridge, will receive Orders from me as early as possible.
                        Should the signals not be discovered, the Troops will halt at least 6 Miles from the Bridge, untill further
                            intelligence can be obtained.
                        The absolute necessity of the most perfect secrecy is the occasion of Communicating my Orders thro this
                            channel. Given at Head Quarters Passaic Falls this 22d day of Novr 1780.

                            Go.Washington


Title: From George Washington to Aaron Ogden, 22 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Ogden, Aaron

                            Sir,
                             22 November 1780

                        The letter from Major Crane is left open for your perusal. You will converse with this Officer on the several
                            objects of it, and after obtaining a knowledge of the number of Boats—their sizes—and how they can be got to the places I
                            have mentioned to you, & have fixed the matter with respect to guides, you are to return with a report of your
                            proceedings—at any rate you must be back by noon or friday.
                        Your own prudence will dictate to you a cautious conduct—not only with respect to secrecy, but for the safety
                            of your person. Given at Head Quarters this 22d day of Novr 1780

                            Go. W——n


Title: To George Washington from William Story, 22 November 1780
From: Story, William
To: Washington, George

                            May it please Your Excellency
                            Boston, Novemr 22d 1780

                        As I have the highest esteem for you who I am well Satisfied care for the Comfort of the Soldiers under you,
                            and greatest regard for the Welfare of my Country & more especially for those who are engaged in the defence of
                            the Rights & Libertys of these United States who I am informed are & have been Suffering greatly for want
                            of Cloathing &c.
                        I who am in public office as Clerk to the Navy Board Eastern Department think it my duty & beg leave
                            to—represent to your Excellency that I am Informed that there is Cloathing of all Sorts at Springfield in this State
                            Sufficient to Cloath the whole Army and that great part of it has been there for near two years that large quantitys of
                            Shoes that were lodged there have been thrown away as Spoiled this Information is given by an Inhabitant of Springfield—of
                            some note there, and as I have not the least doubt of the truth of great part of it So I have not the least doubt but that
                            your Excellency has not been Acquainted with it if you had I am Sure it would never have remained there Useless &
                            perishing for so long a time whose business it is to give the Information to your Excellency I know not but I must think
                            there is blame some where. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Servt

                            Willm Story

                            I have a son who has been in the Army from the begining his name is John who was with Majr Genl
                            Green.


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 22 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters 22d Novemr 1780

                        The appointment to which you interest yourself in behalf of Mr Watkin’s does not lay ultimately with me, but
                            as it is more than probable that Congress will consult me before they nominate a successor to Mr Erskine, I think it but a
                            peice of candor to declare that I shall think myself obliged in justice to Mr De Witt, who has been long and constantly in
                            the office & of whose abilities I have heard Mr Irskine speak in very high terms—to recommend him to the vacancy
                            occasioned by Mr Erskines death. I have been unreserved upon the occasion, because it would not be treating a Gentleman of
                            Mr Watkins’s character with propriety, to amuse him with false expectations. I am Dear Sir very sincerely yours.


Title: General Orders, 23 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Totowa Wednesday Novemr 23d 1780
                            Parole
                            Countersigns
                             Watchword

                        For the day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Glover
                        Colonel Bailey
                        Lieutenant Colonel Mellen
                        Major Winslow
                        Brigade Major Smith
                        The Army will march tomorrow at eleven ô clock; The General will beat at ten; the Assemblé at half past ten
                            and the March at precisely eleven—The Quarter Master General will furnish the order of March and Route—The Troops will
                            have two days provision cooked.
                        After the late rainy weather it will be expedient to Inspect the State of the Arms and Ammunition and supply
                            Deficiencies.


Title: From George Washington to Judah Alden, 23 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Alden, Judah

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 23d Novemr 1780

                        I impart to you in confidence that I intend to execute an enterprise against Staten Island to morrow night,
                            for which reason I am desirous of cutting off all intercourse with the Enemy on the East side of the River. You will
                            therefore tomorrow at Retreat beating set a guard upon any Boats which may be at the slot or Niack, and not suffer any to
                            go out on any pretence whatever, till next morning—Towards evening you will send a small party down to the Closter
                            landings, and if they find any Boats there, you will give orders to have them scutled in such a manner that they cannot be
                            immediately used. but to prevent a possibility of it, the party may remain there till towards day light but are not to
                            make fires or discovr themselves and then return to your post. I depend upon the punctual observation of this order, and
                            that you will keep the motive a secret.
                        Acknowledge the rect of this that I may be sure you have got it. I am Sir yr most ot Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Ephraim Blaine, 23 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Blaine, Ephraim

                            Sir,Hd Qrs Nov. 23d 1780

                        I enclosed you an extract of a letter which I have received from Col. Hay—The case of Major Hale appears peculiar, and as far as public considerations will permit, to merit particular attention. I can however do nothing but refer him to you. I doubt not you will do every thing in your power to render him justice. I am with esteem Sir Your most Obed. & humble servant.


Title: From George Washington to William Crane, 23 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Crane, William

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Passaic-falls Thursday Novr 23d 1780.

                        Captn Ogden will communicate to you in confidence (and more fully than I can do by letter) the business on
                            which he is sent in the execution of which I must require your aid and best exertion—The Boats with the army are
                            inadequate to the purposes I have in view—more therefore must be provided at, and in the Vicinity of Elizabeth Town. they
                            will be wanted to morrow night by one o’clock at farthest: The mode of collecting them in a way least liable to suspicion
                            at the point of Embarkation or contiguous thereto will be left to your discretion.
                        It is much my wish to know also if it be practicable without creating suspicion to have a few Boats drawn
                            together at the old blazing Star or some other unsuspected place in that part of the Sound, by means of which a party
                            could be thrown undiscovered upon the Island.
                        Several good Guides well acquainted with the Roads leading to the enemy’s Works at the Watering place flag
                            staff & Richmond will be wanted by the hour the boats are required to be in readiness—the necessity of using art &
                            address to provide these without giving suspicion you will readily see the propriety of & act accordingly.
                        As I presume the detachment at Newark under Captain Jno. Ogden is subject to your command I have to request
                            that you will order him and his party to join you at Elizabeth Town after dark on friday Night & be in perfect readiness
                            yourself to follow such further orders as you may receive from me, or other Superior Officer, by whom you may be joined.
                            If you could with any kind of certainty know what Troops are upon Staten Island, whether any reinforcement has been sent
                            there lately, or is expected and whether they have any suspicion of our making an attempt upon the Island, it would be
                            very acceptable to me & the earlier I could receive the intelligence on Friday the better.
                        You must I am persuaded, be too deeply impressed with the necessity of secrecy in the management of this
                            business, to need of admonition. I am Sir yr very Hble Servt.

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Simeon DeWitt, 23 November 1780
From: DeWitt, Simeon
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Ringwood Novr 23d 1780

                        I did not intend to have troubled your Excellency with any applications for an appointment in the
                            Geographical Department, thinking that of what samples of my abilities, the few oppertunities I have had have enabled me
                            to give, were thought satisfactory, I would naturally be considered as the first Candidate for the present Vacancy: but
                            since other applications have been made, Justice to my self demand an unreserved declaration of my sentiments on the
                            subject.
                        The qualifications necessary for executing with propriety the business of a Geographer are perhaps more than
                            what every pretender to the profession conceives—Drawing and surveying tho’ absolutely necessary are the smallest
                            requisites—In making Maps of any extent and laying down the surface of a Globe as if it were a plane very sensible errors
                            will arise; in order to correct which a knowlege of Plain Trigonometry is by no means sufficient, but it requires a
                            perfect Acquaintance with the Doctrine of Sphericks—The most accurate mensuration that can possibly be made especially on
                            an irregular surface will never be totally perfect, and when a thousand different surveys come to be Joined, the result of
                            all the Errors will some where appear; In this case by the help of Astronomy only such correction can be made as will
                            bring the work nearer to perfection—other matters which at first appear to be meer Punctilio’s, Experience will teach a
                            skillful practitioner to consider as deserving of his notice. I would not have made these observations, were it probable
                            they would on the first reflection occur to any but those who have been employed in a business where it is necessary they
                            should be attended to.
                        Concerning those who have offered themselves as Candidates for the head of this Department I beg leave freely
                            to speak my Opinion, as far as my acquaintance with them extends—Mr Watkins may, thro’ the Artifice of his relations, have
                            some Gentleman so far influenced as to receive a Recommendation; but from what I have seen of his performances, I am fully
                            convinced he is by no means adequate to the Business—Scull I have been with as long as he acted under Mr Erskine, and
                            consequently know the extent of his Abilities: He is an excellent surveyor as far as practice can make a man such, but in
                            Theory so much deficient as not to know how to take the Lattitude of a place.
                        Were I entirely disinterested it would perhaps be criminal in me to make these remarks, but since it is now
                            to be determined whether the honor of our works is to devolve to those who are entituled to it or not, and others are
                            coveting the rewards of our labors, I would feel guilty in keeping silent on the subject.
                        When the War first commenced in this State I had Just finished my College Education and intended to devote
                            my self to the study of some one of the liberal Professions, but the Commotions of the times prevented it. Governor Clinton,
                            hearing that Mr Erskine was to be appointed Geographer to the Army, without any previous solicitations on my part
                            recommended me as a proper person for an assistant and as the business perfectly suited my taste, at the same time that
                            there was a Prospect of receiving every improvement from Acting under a person of the most approved Abilities I readily
                            engaged and have not been disappointed—Having by these means my Views carried off from their Original Object and no
                            channel at this time presenting itself thro’ which I may attain that established reputation necessary for conducting a
                            person thro’ the world with honor as well as usefullness to society, my ambition must naturally direct me to aim at
                            excelling in what is now become my profession and in which I flatter my self with a competent proficiency—These are the
                            principle reasons why I would wish to continue in a line where I can expect to be most serviceable should my Country think
                            me a person proper to succeed to the Vacancy made by the Death of Mr Erskine.
                        To recommend one’s self carries with it a presumption that his Character is not established—I acknowlege it
                            to be the case with me; for after considering the short history I have given of my self it will readily be granted, that
                            there tis no possibility for any but my Tutors or the Person Under whose inspection I acted in this
                            Department, to know how far my abilities extend, or which way my genius may point for the proper sphere of my actions.
                        If I was honourably disengaged from the Army, I would not in the least be solicitous for a post which
                            another might possess but circumstanced as I now am I cannot but conceive my Reputation at stake while there are persons
                            who endeavour to get me dismiss’d from the service to make room for themselves: This subjects me to the disagreeable
                            necessity of speaking concerning my self with a freedom Which at any other time could not fail to excite a blush.
                        I hope the occasion of this Letter will apologize to your Excellency for any deviation from that Modesty I
                            would always wish to observe in mentioning personal Concerns. I am with perfect esteem Your Excellency’s most Obedient
                            Humble Servt

                            Simeon DeWitt


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 23 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                            Dear Marquis,
                            Head Quarters . 23d Novemr 1780

                        Be pleased to order Capt. Von Heer to parade tomorrow Morning at nine oClock with his Corps at Totawa Bridge,
                            with two days provision. He will meet Colo. Moylan there from whom he is to take orders. Let Capt. Bedkin with his Corps
                            be at your Quarters tomorrow, by one OClk and there wait my orders. Let him have two days provision also. I am,
                            &c.


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., 23 November 1780
From: Shaw, Nathaniel, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New London Novr 23d 1780

                        Agreeable to your Excellencys Letter of the 31st July last to establish a Chain of Expresses from N. London
                            to Tower Hill, and that you would be answerable for their pay while in Service, I found it necessary only to employ three
                            trusty men & their Horses for this & the Post at Tower Hill for five days, before the French General
                            releav’d those at Tower Hill, & Capt. Hurlbut of Col. Sheldens Rigt Dragoons extended his Light Horsemen to this Post. The
                            expense of which amo. £453.18s/ as ⅌ Bill Inclosed. After Capt. Hurlbut had established his men at this post, I was
                            obliged to find their Horses with Hay & Oats &c. untill I could apply to His Excellency our Governor to
                            get an assistant D.Q.M. appointed at this Post (which was much wanted before) the amo. of which is £1462.10/ as ⅌
                            Inclosed Bill. The Post is now supply’d by this D.Q.M. who is furnished with money from our Govr & Council. I was
                            in hopes of not troubling your Excellency with this triffling affair, as I made no doubt but it would be settled by this
                            D. Qr. M. & accordingly wrote by him to N. Hubbard Q.M.G. for his orders, & recd the following
                            reply—"neither can I pay the expence of the Express Riders provided by you, as I am entirely destitute of money, and have
                            not the most distant prospect of a Supply—I should imagine you might get your money soonest by applying at Head
                            Quarters"—I am obliged therefore to take this liberty of Inclosing those Bills to your Excellency, and hope it will not be
                            long before they are settled. The different Bills & Receipts if necessary can be forwarded. I have taken the most
                            prudent care and attention in the expences.
                        The British Fleet still lie at Gardiners Bay, as I wrote you in my last, making no movements excepting one or
                            two Ships that are frequently runing off Block Island & returning to them again. I am with the greatest respect
                            and esteem Your Excellency Most Obt & very Humle Servt

                            Nathel Shaw

                            N.B. The above Fleet lies 3 Miles W.N.W. Gardiners Point, (consisting of Sail of the Line), 3 or four
                                Miles South Plumb Island. It is said that Admiral Arbouthnot is to go to New York to take the Command their, when
                                Admiral Rodney leaves it, & Admiral Graves to command in the Bay this Winter. Yrs &c.

                            N.S.


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Spencer, 23 November 1780
From: Spencer, Oliver
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Mendham November 23d 1780

                        I hope your Excellency will excuse my Troubling you on the Subject of Promotion due to some Officers in my
                            Regiment agreeable to an Arrangement handed to your Excellency along with a List of Promotions due to the Officers of the
                            Jersey Brigade; the latter having taken place I should esteem myself happy to be honored with your Excellency’s answer to
                            that of my regiments, which being now on the point of being reduced, the Gentlemen concerned have desired me to mention
                            the matter to your Excellency, and as it is more than probable the Officers of my Regiment must Retire it will make a very
                            material difference to them in the allowance of their Half-Pay. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect, Your
                            Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

                            Oliver Spencer


Title: General Orders, 24 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Totowa Friday November 24th 1780
                            Parole
                            Countersigns
                            Watchword

                        For the Day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Paterson
                        Colonel Greaton
                        Lieutenant Colonel Basset
                        Major Knapp
                        Brigade Major Converse
                        The March of the Army is postponed ‘till further orders.


Title: From George Washington to Judah Alden, 24 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Alden, Judah

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qrs, Nov. 24, 1780

                        You will send a trusty non Commissioned officer and four men with the inclosed letter to Capt. Humphries, who
                            is with General Starke and a body of troops at the White plains—You will send them across the River immediately on receipt
                            of this and order them to make all diligence. They will return by Kings ferry. I am Sir Yr hum. servant


Title: To George Washington from Richard Butler, 24 November 1780
From: Butler, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Totowa Camp 24th Novr 1780

                        Inclosd is the Resignation of Lieut. Douglas of my Regt who has been prisoner with the Enemy Since the Affair
                            of Bound-brook the 13th Aprl 1777—his health & Constitution is much Impaird by his Captivity, And Although he has
                            not the most flattering prospect by going into Civil life, it Seems to be A punctilio with him to leave the Service as he
                            finds he is not Able to go through the Fatigues of Camp duty.
                        His property was left in the back Country in an unsetled & Scatterd Sittuation (as was the Case with
                            many others) & (his lands Excepted) is Almost all destroy’d. Therefore has little hopes but to begin Again with a
                            Worn out Constitution.
                        He is a Gentleman of the Strictest Fidellity; An Excellent pen-man & understands Some branches of
                            business, & am Certain, wishes to Render any Service in his power to his Country in Any Station of trust that he
                            Could Serve in with honor to himself—I have taken the liberty to give your Excellency the Outlines of his Worth, As I will
                            know your Excellency has Ever taken Merit under your Protection; And I Flatter myself if there is Any thing in Your
                            Excellency’s View that can Serve him it will be that of, I take the liberty to mention the Post of Indian Agent at
                            Pittsburghs being Vacant, if Such an Appointment is Requisite he would fill it with Fidelity & is Very Capable
                            being Well Acquainted with the Indians & talks the Delaware tongue Exceeding well, Indeed if it be possible to
                            Retain him in the Army he will one day make a fine Officer. I have the Honour to be with great Respect your Excellencys
                            most Obedt Hul. st

                            Rich. Butler Col. 9th Penn.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Craig, 24 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Craig, Thomas

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 24th Novemr 1780

                        Circumstances having rendered the prosecution of the enterprise which I had in view inexpedient, you will be
                            pleased to march your party back to their encampment. I am Sir Yr &c.


Title: To George Washington from David Salisbury Franks, 24 November 1780
From: Franks, David Salisbury
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Robinsons House 24th November 1780

                        I hope this Letter and the Proceedings of the Court of Enquiry into my Conduct, will both be handed to your
                            Excellency at the same time.
                        Being fully conscious of my own Integrity, I have no doubt but the Report will be such as must silence the
                            most malicious.
                        As Your Excellency has been pleas’d to comply with Col. Varick’s Request respecting the Publication of the
                            Report of the Court of Enquiry, in his Case; I have every Reason to hope your Humanity & Indulgence in this
                            Instance will also be extended to me, and if entirely consonant to Your Excellency’s Judgement, the same Mode of
                            Publication may be pursued.
                        The length of time which has elapsed since Arnold Defection makes me very solicitous that the Report may be
                            put in orders as soon as possible, many People are to this Hour inclin’d to think that my Connection with Arnold could not
                            be void of criminallity.
                        Reposing entire Confidence in Your Excellency’s Goodness, I remain Sir with the highest Respect Your most
                            obliged & obedient humble Servant

                            Davd S. Franks