Title: To George Washington from Officers of the New York Brigade, 1 February 1780
From: Officers of the New York Brigade
To: Washington, George

            ⟨Camp⟩ [Jockey Hollow, N.J.] Feby 1 1780

          ⟨To His Excellency George Washington, Esquire, General & Commander in Chief of all the Forces of the United States of America.
          With the most painful sensations we approach Your Excellency with a request, which nothing but our necessities, arising from what we conceive to be ill treatment, could have ever prevailed on us to make.⟩

          With the rest of our Breth⟨ren in America we early embarked in⟩ defence of our oppressed ⟨& Injured Country, and in its service most of us have constantly been employed, since the commencement of the present war, and would with the utmost chearfulness continue in a service we so much approve and in defence⟩ of a Cause the most just, that ever ⟨called forth Men in arms.⟩
          But the alarming Depreciation ⟨of the currency in which⟩ we are paid renders us not only incap⟨able of supporting ourselves⟩ with any degree of Decency, but makes ⟨it altogether impossible⟩ for such of us who have families, to ⟨afford them the smallest⟩ assistance.
          The Honourable Congress Sensible ⟨that their Troops in the⟩ Field Ought not to be entirely excluded ⟨those comforts of life⟩ enjoyed by Citizens ⟨have recommended to the Legislatures⟩ of the Several States, to make such ample ⟨provision for their⟩ Officers & Soldiers, as their Necessities should require ⟨and the ability⟩ of the States permit; and we have the Satisfaction ⟨to find that several⟩ of the states have made such provision for their ⟨Officers & Soldiers⟩ as renders their Situation Comfortable.
          At the same time, we are Unhappy in the ⟨thought, that⟩ We who belong to a state, not inferior in Ability, and ⟨whose services⟩ we presume, have not been less Laborious or Sin⟨cere than our⟩ Brethren of other States, Should be Intirely Disrega⟨rded, not-with⟩standing our repeated Applications to our Legisla⟨ture⟩.
          Our own Wants and the sufferings of our Distress⟨ed families⟩ Loudly Call on us to Quit a service, which although of the utm⟨ost ne⟩cessity, promises Nothing better, th⟨an an⟩ Increase of Misery Already scarce Supportable, an⟨d we⟩ hope that our Legislature have provided such Gentlemen, our Successors⟨,⟩ who ⟨from⟩ an Equal Zeal for the Cause, & Love to the Service; and from ⟨being⟩ possess’d of Independant Fortunes, may be able to render the⟨ir Coun⟩try more Eminent Services, We having Given that Body timely ⟨notice,⟩ that under present Circumstances our services Could not ⟨extend⟩ Beyond this Day.
          ⟨We therefore beg your Excellency to accept our Resignations, and grant us leave to retire from service⟩.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 1 February 1780
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Hartford [Conn.] 1st Feby 1780

          The Assembly of this State were delay’d by the severe weather near a Fortnight, and since they have conven’d have not taken up the Subject of recruiting the Army; I have applied to the Governor as well as the Gentlemen of the Assembly on the Subject, and am inform’d that neither your Excellency or Congress have made any Requisition to this State for that Purpose.
          I am induc’d to beleive the recruiting Service might be forwarded succesfully here in a few weeks if the State settle with the Army their past Wages in a Manner satisfactory to them, of which there appears to me a great Probability althô the Settlement is not yet completed.
          Should it be your Intention to have the Quota of this State fil’d, I am convinc’d it will be necessary for your Excellency to make a Requisition for that Purpose to this Assembly, otherwise I beleive no Measures will be taken by Government for that Purpose, or if any are taken they will prove ineffectual from a general Beleif of their being unnecessary. I am with the greatest Esteem yr Excellency’s Obedt Servt

            Saml H. Parsons


Title: From George Washington to Major General Arthur St. Clair, 1 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

            Dr Sir
            Head Quarters Morristown 1st Febry 1780

          I have received your favor of yesterday.
          As the horse are so very essential during the continuance of the ⟨ice—I⟩ think you had better ⟨engage them at al⟩l ev⟨ents, a⟩nd, ⟨at such a pay as they can be obtained. The militia horse, that were employed as patroles &c. last winter—had (if I do not mistake) the same allowance as express riders. You however, will make your agreement on the best terms you can.
          I shall mention the state of the beacons to the governor; but you will, in the mean time, take such steps to put those which have been neglected, in repair, and what other measures may be⟩ judged necessary on the occasion.
          The two Connecticut brigades are to march to-morrow—when Col. Hazens and the whole detatchment will be releived. You will continue on the present command. I am Dr Sir ⟨mutilated⟩le sert

            ⟨Go: Washington⟩


Title: General Orders, 2 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown Wednesday Feby 2nd 1780.
            Parole France—  C. Signs Florence. Florida.

          The next weekly returns are to contain the names of the Field officers—the duties they may be on—times of absence—where—and upon what occasion.


Title: Circular to the New Jersey Magistrates, 2 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: New Jersey Magistrates

            Gentlemen
            Hd Qrs Morris Town Feby 2d 1780

          The patriotic exertions of the Magistrates and inhabitants of this state in compliance with my late application to them on the subject of provisions have a claim to my warmest acknowlegements and to the particular consideration of the public. The crisis which dictated that application was of a very delicate nature, and the worst consequences might have ensued had it not been for the assistance so chearfully afforded. You have given a striking proof of your attachment to the service[,] of your regard to the accommodation of the army—and an earnest of what may be expected in every future exigence. It is however to be hoped a similar occasion may not again occur.

          In my representations to Congress I thought it my duty to do justice to your exertions and I entreat you to be assured that I shall always endeavour to encourage in the army such a sense of the good dispositions of the Magistrates and Inhabitants of New Jersey as will produce correspondent sentiments and conduct on their part. I have the honor to be With Great respect & esteem Gentlemen Your Most Obedt & humble servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 2 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 2d Feby 1780

          Since mine of yesterday, I have been favd with yours of the 27th ulto I am happy to hear that the Fire, in the Garrison, has been suppressed with so little damage. The Officers, who lost their Cloathing, may have the liberty of drawing what Articles they may find suitable in the public store, at the prices fixed by Congress, which are, one half more than such Articles sold for in the year 1775.
          Untill proper Magazines can be constructed in the several Works, you will be pleased to take any precautions which you may deem necessary, against fire.
          The Certificates produced by Lieut. Peabody being sufficient, you have liberty to grant him a discharge from the service. You will, by the next opportunity, inform me of the time when it took place, that I may register the Resignation.
          Capt. Flowers and Lieut. Snow are intitled to the amount of their expences while on command at Springfeild. Upon producing their accounts regularly made out, you are to grant them Warrants on the Dy Pay mr General.
          My letter of yesterday informed you fully and truly of the state of our Magazines. Inclosed you will find the Ration which governs here at present, and, by which, you will be pleased to regulate yourself when circumstances will admit.
          Inclosed you have a Copy of General Poors instructions—by which you will perceive that he was directed to cover the

Country Eastward of Norwalk, and to take his orders generally from the Officer commanding at the Highland posts. Under these, you are at liberty to make such dispositions as you may deem best calculated to answer the ends in view. But, I cannot help thinking, that the purchase is too low down to station a Body of Men with safety. One hundred Men, moving occasionally down, and not at stated periods, would, in my opinion, have better effects than a standing Guard. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

            Go: Washington

            P.S. I am informed that the Ice affords a passage from the City of New York to the Highlands—This may tempt the enemy to undertake some thing against you by surprize, by carrying up their Men in Sleighs, of which they have lately collected a large parcel—It may be, this is to take the advantage of drawing in Wood while the Rivers are frozen: but we ought nevertheless to be upon our guard against every possible event. I would therefore recommend it to you to keep men in every Work where there is cover—and to direct the officer commanding in them to bar their Gates carefully every Night—and to take every precaution against a surprize which is the only mode in which the Enemy can operate at this season.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 2-3 February 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General,
            Highlands [N.Y.] Feb: 2d[–3] 1780

          I have been honor’d with yours of the 27 ulto to which I am paying due attention.
          I thank your Excellency for leave of relaxation from business for the recovery of my health: The present distresses of the army will cause me to do it with much reluctance.

          I have been indefatigable in my endeavors to obtain a Supply of Provisions for the Troops here. My prospects have been at times various. Mr Fitch by his last Letter of the 25 ultimo observes “I think it is possible that the Troops will not be out of Bread again Soon.” but he expresses his apprehensions that our magazines will not be properly replenished. this, is my principal concern. the enclosed copy of a Letter from Colo. Colt is also expressive of it: yet, I am certain the provisions of the country are not exhausted. Our want springs from another source. His Excellency the Governor, and the Legislature of this State have the situation of the army under consideration. I hope we shall feel the salutary effects of it.
          I am unhappy in being under the necessity of acquainting your Excellency that the Bomb proof in the North redoubt was discovered to be on fire the last night between ten & Eleven o’Clock. Every assistance was immediately afforded, but the fire being in the top of the Bomb proof in the joints between the Timbers where it pursues the caulking (on which I apprehend it at first kindled by a Spark from the pipe of the Stove) cannot be come at, and the Earth, of which there is a large body on the top of the bomb proof and frozen as hard as earth can be, will prevent for Some time the top being uncovered. The Troops work with great alacrity, and every method is taken to deaden the Fire—the most efficacious we find to be the barrel of a musket with the britch pin taken out with a Spunge on the end of the ramrod; With this water is forced into the Seams and joints, which cannot otherwise be come at. this, is a Striking proof with how much ease the fire might be extinguish’d if we had a water Engine, the leather Hose of which might be directed to any part of the work on fire. Is it not indispensably necessary that one or more should be kept at West-point? I have been up to the redoubt twice to day have returned Since dark; the Troops work with unremitting assiduity—have opened a part of the top of the bomb-proof. Lieut. Colo. Vose with a Strong detachment will work all night unless the Fire is extinguish’d sooner.
          3d Feby. The Fire was happily extinguish’d this morning about 2 oClock. no lives were lost, but Several men hurt. the damage done is the throwing off the Earth & taking up the top timbers of the north end of the East Side of the Bomb proof.

the under Side of the timbers are considerably burnt, the Bunks and linings of the Bomb proof were taken out. the bomb proof at the west end is not injured, nor are the Sides or end of the other part, or any of the posts—These repeated Fires may seem extraordinary: they are So: but I assure your Excellency that no endeavors in the principal officers have been wanting to guard against them.
          I take the liberty to enclose Copy of an order I issued the 10th of January, as I have done many others since that time on the same Subject. Indeed the Situation and construction of our wooden buildings, & redoubts are Such that it is a wonder Fires have not been more frequent. The Barracks were built in winter and in a hurry. the chimneys have wooden mantle-pieces, and the chimneys badly built. And those places wherein Stoves are fixed Soon become as dry as tinder. In this cold and blowing Season a Spark catching against a building or work, or blown into a crevice is almost certain to be fanned to a flame. Lt Colo. Brooks has just informed me that the Garrison in hard blowing weather are almost afraid to close their Eyes, lest Fire should break out.
          Enclosed is the report of the Court of enquiry appointed to investigate the cause of the Fire’s breaking out at West point on the night of the 26th ulto. I have desired General Paterson to appoint another Court of enquiry to ascertain what articles of public property were lost in the late Fire.
          Enclosed is also a Letter handed to me yesterday by a Mr Wm Spencer of Fort Pitt West augusta who was a Serjeant in Colo. Wood’s Regiment & wounded in the assault on Stony point, by the enclosed is Since appointed to an Ensigncy. Mr Spencer is yet in the Hospital at Fish kill. probably your Excellency has Some knowlege of the matter. I never Saw him before but he appears deserving, tells me he has neither friends cloathes or money, the officers of the Virginia line being gone. He is now dress’d in his Serjeants Coat, which is much worn. If any relief can be afforded him, either of money or cloathes I will gladly acquaint him with it. This Evening I have been honor’d with a letter from Governor Clinton & take the liberty to enclose Copy of a paragraph. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect your Excellency’s Most obedient Servt

            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Arthur St. Clair, 2 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 2d Feby 1780

          The two Connecticut Brigades march this morning. I think you had best detain all the Men of that line, who are already

down, who are cloathed and in other respects fit for duty—The others may be sent up under Officers to do Camp duty. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Arthur St. Clair, 2 February 1780
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Cranes Mills [N.J.] Feby 2d 1780.

          I received your Excellencys favour of Yesterday but was at New Ark when the Messenger arrived here, and as it was Night when I returned; detained him untill this Morning least I might have something to communicate.
          The Intelligence I obtained at New Ark was of little Consequence—but the Person repeats that the Numbers upon Staten Island and at the Hook are as he before informed from all that he can learn—He was, however, last Night to go to New York, and Colonell Willet has directed him to some Persons there from whom he expects an exact Account of the Distribution of the Ennemys Troops, and their Numbers at the different Posts, which will enable Us to judge of the Truth of the Other. from the Accounts received from Staten Island Buskerque’s Regiment is cantoned in Houses along the Kills from Deckers House down towards the watering Place, with an officers Picket advanced in the Night to the Morning Star—in this Situation they seem liable to a Surprise, and I have Thoughts of attempting it either this Night or tomorrow Night, if I can procure Guides and it meets with Your Excellencys Approbation.
          I have the Pleasure to inform You that the last Night was the fourth in which we have had no Desertion. I Am Sir Your Excellencys most obedient Servant

            Ar. St Clair


Title: From George Washington to Major General Arthur St. Clair, 2 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

            Dr Sir
            Head Quarters Morristown 2d Febry 1780

          I am this moment favored with your letter of this date.
          The detatchment which I mentioned as to march this morning, owing to some causes that have unavoidably intervened, does not leave camp till to-morrow.
          With regard to the enterprise you have in view—should circumstances make it eligible in your opinion, I have no objection to your trying the experiment. I am Dr Sir Your obt & hble servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Arthur St. Clair, 2 February 1780
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Cranes Mills [N.J.] Feby 2d [1780] 11 oClock

          The Attack upon Buskerque as we have digested it, will be conducted in the following Manner—Colonell Hazen with two hundred pickd Men will pass at Halsteds Point and march across the Country, avoiding if possible every House, untill he arrives in the Rear of Donglasses House, which is, as we are informed, near the lower part of the Cantonement, and is to make the Attack—Colonell Willet with two hundred more to pass at De Harts Point and take Post near the Morning Star to co-operate with Colon[e]ll Hazen, making the necessarey Detachments on the back Roads to intercept the Patroles—a third Detachment consisting of two Capts. and sixty Men to pass at the new blazing Star to make an Attempt upon the Picket posted to the southward of Richmond and keep the Troops at that Post in Check—Colonell Ogdens Detachment to be moved down to the Neighbourhood of Elizabeth Town to be ready in case of any cross Accident.
          It is proposed that Colonell Hazen should move about ten oClock which will enable him to be at the Ground where he is to act about four oClock in the Morning; and the March of Colonell Willets and the other Detacht to be regulated in such a Manner as that they may arrive at their respective Stations about

the same time—if the Parties arrive undiscovered Success seems certain—if they are discovered they must retreat in the most expeditious way they can without Confusion—If this meets your Excellencys Approbation I shall be glad to receive it as soon as possible, and that some Combustibles were sent us in case any of the Houses should be defended. I have the Honour to be Sir Your Excellencys most obedient Servant

            Ar. St Clair


Title: From George Washington to Major General Arthur St. Clair, 2 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

            Dr Sir
            Hd Qrrs [Morristown] Feby 2d 17⟨80⟩

          I have received Your 2d Letter of this date. As I wrote You this forenoon I leave the Enterprize in view entirely with You—and the execution to be attempted or not as You may judge proper from a full consideration of all circumstances—the intelligence you have received—and the characters of the persons who gave it. If it should appear to You that there is a strong probability of it’s succeeding the experiment can be made, if not—it may be best not to undertake it.
          The Dragoon has Two or Three bundles of prepard combustible⟨s⟩ in charge and some port fires. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 3 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown thursday Feby 3rd 80.
            Parole Greece—  C. Signs Germany. Georgia.

          By a Division Court Martial of the Maryland line, Major Hardman President—Ensign Ford of the 2nd Maryland regiment was tried,
          1st—“For disobedience of orders issued the 29th of November last, in marching the second regiment from the parade at Pompton when directed to the contrary.[”]
          2ndly—“For conduct unbecoming the character of an officer and gentleman, in relating to Col. Woolford orders different to those he received, by which he obtained his permission to march.[”]
          3rdly—“For contempt of orders and subversion of subordination, in executing the orders of Col. Woolford in direct opposition to those sent by the Brigade Major,” and acquitted with honor.
          The Commander in Chief approves the sentence, and Ensign Ford is released from his Arrest.
          The Books to be kept according to the new Regulations of the Army, not already opened, are to be opened as soon as possible, agreeable to the forms which have been communicated.


Title: To George Washington from the Maryland Council, 3 February 1780
From: Maryland Council
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            In Council Annapolis 3d February 1780

          We have given Permission to Mrs Chamier, Widow of Daniel Chamier Esquire deceased, to bring her Household Furniture, Wearing Apparel, and other Goods mentioned in a List annexed thereto, from New York, to Hampton Road in Virginia.

          We are induced from Motives of Compassion, and the generous Conduct of her late Husband, to many of our Prisoners, to grant her Leave, and to solicit your Excellencys Interposition, to obtain her the desired Indulgence, if you esteem it consistent with propriety. We are with the utmost Respect Your Excellency’s Most Humble Servts

            Tho. Sim Lee


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Stephen Moylan, 3 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Moylan, Stephen

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 3d Feby 1780

          I have been favd with yours of the 4th 17th and 22d ulto. Since I wrote to you to remove all the Cavalry to Colchester, I have seen a second representation from Mr Hubbard to the Quarter Master General, in which he seems to confess that they cannot be accommodated with conveniency at Colchester, and wishes Sheldons Regiment to be left at Weathersfeild—I shall therefore leave the Cantonment of the Horse to your discretion, and have only to recommend to you to keep them as compact as the State of Forage and Quarters will admit. I should be sorry that there should be any misunderstanding between Governor Trumbull and you, and I think you acted with great prudence in not answering a warm letter from him in the same stile, as you had reason to think he had been unwarrantably prejudiced. You will, upon the whole, find many advantages by cultivating a good understanding with the Civil Authority.
          Captains Pike and Craig called upon me for Money for the recruiting Service. I dissuaded them from going upon that Business, upon an assurance that they would involve themselves in a very heavy Expence, with scarce any prospect of success. I have no power to allow a greater Bounty to the Officer than 20 dollars for each Recruit, which, admitting he should be more than

commonly successful, would in these times be incompetent. I think you had best turn your attention to reinlisting your old Men, and to picking up new Recruits in the Country near the Quarters of your Regiment. This may be done without incurring any extra Expence.
          The promotion of Lt Colo. White to the command of the 1st Regiment will not occasion the promotion of a Feild officer. He takes command as Lt Colo. Commandant, in which case, there will be only another Feild officer, a Major, to the Regiment. Lt Colo. Temple now of the 1st will take Lt Colo. Whites place in the 4th This is agreeable to the Regulations of the Army.
          As Capt. Bull is confessedly the eldest Capt. of the Line, he may proceed forthwith to take the Majority of the 1st Regiment. I will, if he will call at Head Quarters in his way, give him a Certificate to the Board of War, to obtain his Commission.
          If Capt. Fauntleroy was appointed by you previous to Capt. Hopkins, he must undoubtedly take Rank of him. Capt. Hopkins has great merit from his attention to his duty and from the length of his service—and, by his representation, he has been much disappointed in his expectations: But, if former promises have not been complied with, he cannot on that account revive old Claims to the detriment of Capt. Fauntleroy, who, if I am rightly informed, has been always considered in the Regiment as the senior officer. I an Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elisha Sheldon, 3 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

            Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 3d Feby 1780

          I have been favd with yours of the 21st ulto If the Men of your Regiment, to whom you refer, have been lately inlisted for any term but for the War expressly and contrary to your positive orders, the Officer guilty of a breach of them should be arrested, and tried for disobedience. As the form of the inlistments is ambiguous, you had best fill up new ones fixing the term for the War—This will prevent any disputes, in future.
          If the Men in question have been inlisted p[r]evious to the 23d Jany 1779, they will be intitled to a Bounty of 100 dollars upon signing new inlistments for the War—This has been insisted on [and] practiced though out the Army, where the inlistments ran in the dubious manner of “three years or during the War.” I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Philip Turner, 3 February 1780
From: Turner, Philip
To: Washington, George

            Military Hospital, Danbury [Conn.]3rd Febry 1780
            Your Excellency

          Doubtless remembers, not from any particular oppertunity ever with your Excellency, but by hear-say, that I were at the Hospitals Cambridge, Roxbury, New York &c. &c., & have served ever since the War; in the present Establishment of the Genl Hospital, Congress Hon’d me with an appointment as Surgeon Genl to sd Hospital eastn Department, in that Charactor have served to this day weary & almost worn-out with the Conduct & management of Hospital Affairs there is a ⟨Strif’t⟩ among the leading Gentlemen in oppossition to each other, which makes difficulties, hard-thoughts and striveings. these things are intirely wrong & very troublesome, There ought to be that harmony & friendship perhaps among this set of Gentlemen, more then any other, high-time, and I think a very proper time, that our System be purged & the Publick better served; The Medical department is too large, too Expensive & ought to be Curtailed, our Numbers are more then are Needed, our armies & Hospitals are

healthy; I hand your Excellency a plan for a New-Establishment, which I sent Mr Sherman some months ago, he lay’d it before one of the Medical Committee who highly approved of it, if adopted by Congress; your observation on said plan, & your Aid to bring it about, in my Opinion will greatly Serve the public, as well, as Honr your Excellencies most Obedient Humble Servt

            P: Turner


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Armand, 4 February 1780
From: Armand (Armand-Charles Tuffin, marquis de La Rouërie)
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Colonel Armand, 4 Feb. 1780. On 6 Feb., GW wrote to Armand acknowledging receipt of Armand’s letter “of the 4th.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 4 February 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Highlands [N.Y.] Feb: 4 1780

          A relation of disagreable circumstances has of late composed my correspondence. this is of the Same complexion. The enclosed I received this morning about 10 oClock. The detachment who have been doing duty on the Lines consisted of 250 rank and File, properly officer’d & commanded by a Feild officer whose instructions were to be constantly moving between Hudsons river and Bedford, Croten River and the white plains and, to avoid being Surprized, never to remain long in one place. As I have not yet receiv’d all the particulars of this unhappy event I cannot relate them: As Soon as they come to hand they Shall be transmitted. It is said the Enemys force consisted of 80 Horse of

the Legion and refugees under a Colo. DeLancy & 200 Infantry principally from the Irish volunteers. I had Some days since intelligence that the Enemy were meditating an enterprise, said to be against Colo. Mead, which I mention’d in mine of the 27th ultimo—I then caution’d Lt Colo. Thompson who commanded on the Lines to be much on his guard as he probably might be their real object; indeed, more explicit orders could not have been given than those which he had in writing. Yesterday was the day Lt Colo. Thompson was to have been relieved—Lt Colo. Badlam with the relief were on their march for that purpose. the augmentation of the Enemys Horse may be Something troublesome on the Lines.
          Enclosed is the report of the Court of enquiry ascertaining the loss of Public Stores in the late Fire at west point, as near as possible—which is very considerable. A Court is now sitting to investigate the cause of the Bomb proof taking Fire on the night of the 1st Inst. this has been done in every instance of Fire, but with the most critical enquiry, we cannot fully ascertain how the late fires have happened—whether by design or accident—there are Some Suspicions of the former—there are Strong grounds for the later.
          As the sound is now frozen over and Troops may with ease pass almost any where, I fear the Enemy will do Some mischief—and our numbers are So much reduced by the men’s time of Service having expired, and daily expiring, and by Furloughing the reinlisted men that it is not in my power to make any Considerable detachments. I expect next to hear that the Enemy have beaten up Colo. Meads quarters. The Season, the deep Snows, and long inactivity of the Enemy, have led many to suppose that there is not the most distant danger. it is hard to convince them of the contrary. some will be taught only by misfortune. I have the honor to be, With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedt servt

            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Hewes, Smith, & Allen, 4 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hewes, Smith, & Allen

          Letter not found: to Hewes, Smith, & Allen, 4 Feb. 1780. On 3 March, Robert Smith wrote GW: “I am honoured with yours of the 4th ulto to Our House.”


Title: From George Washington to La Luzerne, 4 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

            Sir,
            Head Quarters, Morris town 4th Feby 1780.

          Major Galvan delivered me the letter which your Excellency did me honor to write me on the 23d of Jany—to which I have paid all the attention the importance of its contents demands. I am much flattered by this commencement of a corrispondence from which I have every thing to gain; and equally indebted for the interesting communications it affords.
          It is a happy circumstance that the efforts made by the British court for obtaining Troops in Germany are attended with so little success. This will naturally increase their exertions for procuring men in this country and will no doubt make them more solicitous for effecting the exchange or release in some way or other of their prisoners in our hands—It will be well if in the negotiatio⟨n⟩ on this subject we can extract concessions favourable to those which ma⟨y⟩ take place in Europe, and you may depend the experiment shall be ful⟨ly⟩ tried. But from the aspect of the late propositions on the part of th⟨e⟩ enemy, I should not entertain an⟨y⟩ sanguine hopes of the success of th⟨is⟩ experiment. The reinforcement they would derive from a full compliance with their proposals is n⟨ot⟩ calculated at more than ten or ele⟨ven⟩ hundred private men; and this seems hardly to be an object of sufficient magnitude to induce th⟨em⟩ to concede points of the nature w⟨ch⟩ your Excellency’s information supposes; especially as you emphatically express it after “having s⟨ought⟩ with so much affectation to make ⟨the⟩ thirteen States be considered as s⟨ub⟩jected to the English domination⟨.”⟩ The offers made through Major G⟨ene⟩ral Philips are far more moder⟨ate⟩ than any that have hitherto com⟨e⟩ from them, and appear in a grea⟨t⟩ measure to have been influenc⟨ed⟩ by his personal solicitations dictated by an extreme anxiety to be released from captivity. But notwithstanding the matter in its present form wears to me the appearance I have mentioned I shall not neglect any measure which it may be in my power to take to improve the intimations your Excellency has given and I entreat you to be assured that I shall endeavor to make the event confirm the opinion you do me the honor to entertain that nothing will be done derogatory to the magnanimous part your Court has acted or to the honor or interest of the united States.

          The inconsistency of the Court of London so well delineated by that of Madrid in the extract you had the goodness to annex would appear extraordinary, if their whole conduct in the course of the War did not exhibit many similar examples—But it is evident that their refusing to consider these States as independant of fact during a negotiation was a mere pretext to cover their unwillingness to concur in the pacific views of his Chatholic Majesty, and the memorial from the Britis⟨h⟩ Ambassador shows that they were artfully aiming to effect a seper⟨a⟩tion of interests between France and these States the better to prosecute their hostile designs agai⟨nst⟩ either or both.
          I thank your Excellenc⟨y⟩ for the agreeable intelligence yo⟨u⟩ give me of his Christian Majes⟨ty⟩ intentions to send us succours o⟨f⟩ Arms and ammunition. It is a New & valuable proof of his frien⟨d⟩ship—and will be of essential u⟨ti⟩lity—I agree with you that ther⟨e⟩ ought to be no relaxation in th⟨e⟩ measures otherwise intended ⟨to⟩ be taken to procure the necessar⟨y⟩ supplies of those articles.
          I am sensibly mortif⟨ied⟩ that the present situation of aff⟨airs⟩ will by no means suffer me to yi⟨eld⟩ to the desire I have of paying y⟨ou⟩ my respects in Philadelphia; a⟨nd⟩ I shall impatiently look for th⟨e⟩ oppertunity of doing it here which your Excellency promises me in the course of this month. Besides the important objects of public utility which I am authorised to hope from it, I shall take pleasure in every occasion of testifying to you those real sentiments of respect & esteem with which I have the honor to be Yr Excellencys Most Obt & Most Hble Servt

            Go: Washington

            The interest your Excellency is pleased to take in Major Galvan, will be an additional motive with me, to avail myself of his talents and zeal, as far as circumstances will possibly permit.

              G. W——n.


Title: To George Washington from La Luzerne, 4 February 1780
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

            Monsieur
            Philadelphie le 4. fevrier 1780.

          L’année derniere une Compagnie, à la tete de laquelle se trouve M. Duer a proposé au Ministere du Roi de fournir à la Marine françoise des Bois de Construction et des matieres. Ces offres étant de nature à mettre dans nos mains de nouveaux moyens d’accroitre nos Forces Navales ont été bien acceuillies; mais les Circonstances n’ont pas permis d’Exécuter le plan qu’on avoit fourni de Faire descendre ces Bois jusqu’à la Mer par la riviere du Nord. Cette même Compagnie fait aujourd’hui des offres d’une execution plus Facile quant aux transports de ses bois jusqu’à la Mer. Elles consistent a tirer des Forets situées sur les parties supérieures de la Delaware et à les conduire par eau jusqu’à philadelphie, avant le mois d’octobre prochain. Votre Excellence verra par la Copie d’une lettre ci-jointe de M. Duer quelles sont les difficultés qui s’oposent à L’Exécution de son plan, et la maniere dont il pense qu’on pourroit les lever. il a désiré que je vous fisse part de ses projets et que je vous Fisse Connoitre L’utilité dont ils peuvent être pour le soutien de la Marine de S.M. Je me suis prété â ses demandes d’autant plus volontier⟨s⟩ que nous ne Saurions en effet trop multiplier les moyens de tenir nos forces navales Sur un pied respectable Quant au desir qu’il a de Faire protéger Ses ouvriers par un détachement de votre armée pendant L’Espace de sept semaines, je n’ai absolument aucune opinion à avoir sur cette Matiere, et vous saurez beaucoup mieux que moi, Monsieur, si L’utilité générale peut se Concilier avec ses demandes. Je suis avec un respectueux attachement De Votre Excellence Le très humble et très obeissant serviteur

            Le che. de la luzerne


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Thomas Proctor, 4 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Proctor, Thomas

            sir
            Hd Qrs Morris Town Feby 4. 1780

          As there is now a Field Officer in Camp from each of the Artillery Regiments except Yours—and It is essential that these Corps should be arranged without farther loss of time—I request that either yourself or Lieut. Colo. Forrest will repair to the Army without delay, that the business may be set about and the arrangement be finally adjusted. I am sir Your Most Obedt servant

            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Arthur St. Clair, 4 February 1780
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Spring Field Febry 4th 1780

          The Enterprise intended against Buskerque’s Corps, the Night before last, I was obliged to give up after every thing was ready for the Execution—The Column that was to have been led by Colonell Hazen would have had seven or eight Miles to march thro’ the Woods, and, as the Night became very dark, and the Air thick, he was unwilling to trust altogether to the knowledge of the Guides without some Star to direct them—they indeed also disapointed us a whole Hour.
          Last Night the Person that had been sent to new York returned. He did not receive the Information that was expected from Colonell Willets Freind, who, it seems stands in so suspected a Light, that he is obliged to act with great Caution, and at that time declined seeing him—but from his own Observation, and what he learned from some Friends of his own in the City, he reports that, the East River is open, and a free Communication by water with Staten Island. that the number of Troops on York Island amount to about five Thousand and on Staten Island to an equal or greater number. Guards posted along the North River, and Cannon planted at different Distances from the City to Fort Washington—a Subalterns Guard at the Ferry from Paulus Hook, where there is about one hundred Tons of Hay Stacked—the Main Guard in the City Hall—Genl Knyhausen in Mr Moystens House; Genl Tryon in Mr Verplancks, and Genl Jones in Mr Reeds all in the same Street—a vast Number of Vessels laid up along the Wharfs—a forty Gun Ship in the east River, and three Frigates hauled up—a Vessel also lying at the point of the Battery, but he could not discover her to be of Force (other Accounts mount her with twenty Guns)—a Galley ashore in the Ice in th⟨e⟩ North River, but her Guns landed. He could get no Account of the Vessels at Turtle Bay or

Newtown but only generally, that some Ships were there, nor could he learn any thing of the Guards there. the greatest part of the Troops quartered in Town in the Colledge, and a Number of other public Buildings And many of them in the Houses of the Inhabitants—Wood extremly scarce, and no great Quantity has been carried from this side, what has been carried is almost entirely from Bergen and comunepas—This is I think the whole of his Information except that he saw about two thousand Men paraded in the Broad Way betwixt the old English Church and the Oswego Market—he judges they must have been that Number from their ocupying that Space formed four Deep.
          Mr Mercereau returned from New York last Night and reports that the Night before last a number of Sleighs, to the amount six hundred, were collected at Kingsbridge to carry Troops upon some Enterprise—if this be true, the Party in the broad Way were probably designed for it.
          Colonell Star with the Connecticut Troops arrived last Night, and Colonells Hazen—and Ogden are relieved. I Am Sir your very humble Servant

            Ar. St Clair

            P.S. When it was judged improper to proceed to Staten Island on the Plan that had been projected, Colonell Hazen proposed joining the Detachments that were to have taken different Routs and taking the command of the whole, and passing at DeHarts Point—this I did not approve of.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 4 February 1780
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

            My Dear General
            Wayne’s borough [Pa.] 4th Feby 1780

          I was so unfortunate as not to be acquainted with the Intended attempt upon Staten Island, otherwise I certainly would not wish to be Absent, but the misfortune I most regret is—that Nature had not formed her bridge previous to the Dessolution of the Light Corps—for be assured we remained some days (wishing & anxiously waiting for that event) after the State of our Magazines, together with your Orders rendered a Seperation Inevitable.
          I am confident that your Excellency will do me the Justice to believe, that if any opening had offered to strike the Enemy with a prospect of Success, & where the Object would have justified the Attempt, that not one moment would have been lost in asking your permission, & final Direction.
          In addition to my former request respecting the Command in the Light Corps, I beg to be employed on every Occation where

your Excellency may think me Worthy of trust, either as a volunteer, or in any other Character that you may deem most Conducive to the benefit of the Service, & to believe me with the truest Esteem Your very Affectionate & Most Obt Hume Sert

            Anty Wayne


Title: General Orders, 5 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown saturday Feby 5th 1780.
            Parole Japan—  C. Signs Java. Iceland—

          A reserve Pickett of one Captain, one subaltern, four serjeants, four corporals two Drums and Fifes & fifty privates to mount daily in each brigade. These Picketts will assemble at troop beating every morning on the Grand Parade where the officers of the day will inspect them, after which they will retire to huts that are to be appropriated for the purpose in each brigade. The old guard will be dismissed on brigade parade at turning out the relief.
          The General absolutely forbids the practice of making guards do fatigue duties, as irregular and subversive of discipline—Where any fatigue is to be done, parties must be ordered for the purpose.
          The following returns are to be made up to this day & immediately lodged with the Adjutant General to be transmitted to the Board of War.

            Infantry.
            1st—A General Return of the number of non commissioned officers and Privates whose times of Inlistment expire by the 1st of July next, regimentally digested.
            2nd—A like return of the men employed out of the regiments, as in the Commander in Chief’s guard—Waiters on officers who

are absent from their regiments—Waggoners—Artificers and in short all those who cannot appear under arms in time of action, also regimentally digested.
            3rd—A return similar to the preceding, of men in the Hospitals & those who have been absent and not heard of for six months past.
            4th—An exact return of the arms and accoutrements in the several regiments and of those in the hands of the regimental Quarter Masters.
            Each regiment must give such a return as the last to the Brigade Inspector, signed by the Colonel or Commanding officer, upon honor, and the Inspector will make a general return agreeable to the form communicated.

            Cavalry.
            Each Colonel or Commanding officer of a regiment will give—
            1st—An exact return of the officers, non commissioned officers and men of the regiment or Corps.
            2nd—The three general returns already mentioned for the Infantry.
            3rd—An exact return of the stores present with the regiment.
            4th—A return of the horse equipage.
            5th—A return of the Arms like that of Infantry.

            Artillery
            Is to send immediately—
            1st—A return of the officers, non commissioned officers, music Matrosses and Waiters.
            2nd—The three general returns similar to those of the Infantry and Cavalry.
            From the moment these orders are communicated, no regiment or corps, unless by special orders from Head Quarters, is to receive from, or deliver, any Articles into the Military stores, ’till the returns have been examined & orders given with regard to the distribution.
            Many unfair certificates having been given to soldiers by officers who have been dismissed, or who have otherwise left the service, by changing the time of inlistment, from “During the War” to “Three years”—In making the returns here required, where the original inlistments are not to be found, the Muster-Roll must be the Criterion.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Armand, 5 February 1780
From: Armand (Armand-Charles Tuffin, marquis de La Rouërie)
To: Washington, George

            sir
            Head quarter [Morristown] 5th fbry 1780

          I beg leave to tell to your Excellency that Having Heard one of your most essential reasons against my promotion—was that I was a very young officer in france—your Excellency must Have Been miss informed, for I am in the kings gards with the rank of a Captain since the beginning of the year 1766—and by the time of my Services, I am not far from getting the Crosse of st louis—if your Excellency should guge that the opinion He Has given to Congress of the time of my Services could Do some Hurt to me in respect to my promotion or otherwise—I would be Happy if you would give me leave to assure them of the very time in which I begone to serve in my country and that very few of my country men came Here Had been as long as I in the french service. with the gretrest respect your Excellency’s the most Humble and obediant servant

            Armand


Title: To George Washington from Jabez Bowen, 5 February 1780
From: Bowen, Jabez
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            State of Rhode Island &c. Providence Feb. 5. 1780

          This will be deliver’d your Exellency by Capt. Campbell of the 71st British who you will perceive by the incloased Vote of the Council of War, is recommended to you for Permission to go

into New Yorke for the purposes theirin expressed; as the Officers have Subsisted intirely at their owne expence tis necessary that they should be supplyd with Cash &c. I doubt not but your Exellency will Comply with the Recommendation of the Council so far as the good of the Service will permit. we could wish for a General Exchang of Prisoners to take place both from Humanity and other reasons. with sentiments of the highest Esteem I am Your Exellencys Most Huml. Servant

            Jabez Bowen


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 5 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 5th Feby 1780.

          General poor sent down the Bearer Capt. Leigh for 10,000 dollars for the purpose of recruiting, but the military Chest

here being intirely exhausted, I must request you, if possible to spare him that sum. But should your stock of Cash not admit of the whole, be pleased to let him have as much as you conveniently can. I am informed that the New Hampshire troops are just now in good temper and shew a disposition to reinlist, which makes a supply of Money the more desirable. I am Dear sir Yr most obt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 5 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

            Dr Sir
            Hd Qrs Morristown 5th Feby 1780

          The state of Genl Heath’s health making a releif from duty necessary he has received my permission for this purpose— This with other considerations which will occur to yourself, (especially as the condition of the river may tempt the enemy to enterprise something in that quarter), renders your presence there essential I have therefore to request that you may return as soon as convenient to your command. I am Dr Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Lewis Nicola, 5 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Nicola, Lewis

            Sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town Feby 5th 1780

          Inclosed You will receive an Extract from the General Orders of Yesterday, by which You will find that the sentence of the Court Martial against Thomas Warren of the Invalid Corps has been approved and his execution ordered. I have however since on account of the frequency of capital punishments and from General Woodford’s representation that this was the first offence the prisoner had been guilty of, remitted the Sentence—and for this purpose I inclose You a pardon for him of the present date. It might possibly have some operation towards the prisoners future good conduct—if you were to publish the approbation of the sentence in your Garrison Orders and to keep him ignorant of the pardon for a few days; but this is left to your own discretion and you will act with respect to it as you may think best. I am sir Your Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Enoch Poor, 5 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Poor, Enoch

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 5th Feby 1780

          I am favd with yours of the 29th ulto by Capt. Leigh. Our military Chest being at this time intirely exhausted, it is not in my power to send you recruiting Money by him, but I have given him a letter to Genl Heath, who I hope will be able to spare some from the Chest at the Highlands.
          I should have been glad had the state of your domestic Concerns permitted you to remain with your Brigade during the Winter. But as they do not, I cannot refuse your request of leave of Absence—I must however make a point of your returning to Danbury by the Middle of April—The peculiarity of Major Norris’s circumstances induces me to deviate from the Rules

established for furloughing Officers, but I must also insist upon his returning at the same time that you do.
          Capt. Leigh has settled the matter of Cloathing with the Cloathier General.
          I am pleased to hear that you are well supplied with provision and am with great Regard Dear Sir yr &c.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Armand, 6 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Armand (Armand-Charles Tuffin, marquis de La Rouërie)

            Sir
            Morris town Feby 6th 1780

          I have received your two letters of the 4th and fifth.
          Inclosed you will find a letter to the Board of War, recommending the incorporation of your corps with the late Pulaski’s including the troop command⟨ed⟩ by Capt. Bedkin. I do not unite the Marechaussee, because that corps is destined for a particular service, to which it will be altogether applied in the course of the next campaign, nor should I think it adviseable to convert it to any other purpose—The infantry with Selin is now necessarily employed on the frontier, and cannot at this time be conveniently relieved; Besides the circumstances under which that corps was formerly separated from your’s make me unwilling to recommend a reunion. I have advised the Board to give

you orders for assembling your whole corps in Georgia, and to make the necessary arrangements without delay for enabling you to march there.
          I have read the letter from the Board of War to you on the subject of Monsieur Du Plantier. It is not possible for me to give efficacy in our service to his commission in that of France or to oblige your officers to submit to his command; but so far as the views of the Board can be accommodated by you to the officers of your corps, it will give me the greatest pleasure to see Monsieur Du Plantier furnished with the opportunity he desires of being useful. This however must be absolutely an affair of accommodation not of authority.
          The inclosed certificate will show the sense I entertain of your services and I hope will be satisfactory to you.
          As you will probably be removed from my immediate command, I take this occasion of repeating to you the assurances of my esteem—You may depend that I shall always be happy to hear of your success—and that circumstances have seconded your zeal, & your talents. I am &c.

            G.W.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 6 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

            Gentlemen
            Head Quarters Morris town 6 Feby 1780

          In a letter which I wrote to Congress a few days ago, I took the liberty to recommend uniting the remains of the late Count Pulaski’s legion—Colo. Armands Corps—and a small troop of Horse under the command of Capt. Bedkin. The whole to be under the command of Colo. Armand. Should Congress determine upon the measure—Colo. Armand wishes the Resolve, for the incorporation of the Corps, should be somewhat to the following effect—that it not being possible to promote him to the Rank of Brigadier without infringing the rights of elder Colonels—Congress, sensible of his services, had formed the before mentioned into a legionary Corps and appointed him to the command—This he thinks would afford a reason for the refusal of his request for promotion and would at the same time be expressive of the opinion which Congress entertain of his Merit.
          Should he be directed to repair to the southward, a number of necessaries will be wanting to equip his Horse and Foot properly for so long a march—These no doubt the Board will supply as far as lays in their power—Capt. Bedkin unfortunately lost twelve of his Horses with their Accoutrements the Night the Enemy surprized our Guard at Elizabeth Town, and had six of his Men taken and wounded—He will therefore have occasion for a few Horses to remount part of his troop.
          It is very much my wish that the incorporation of these Corps should take place, and that as speedily as possible, that Colo. Armand may arrive in time in Carolina to take an active part

in the operations which may be expected to commence early in that quarter. I have the honor &c.


Title: To George Washington from Royal Flint, 6 February 1780
From: Flint, Royal
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            morris Town Feby 6. 1780

          Having finished my service, under the late Comisary General, and having no further connection with the department, my authority, over the affairs of it, is at an end. My continuance here, in such a situation, will afford no advantage to the public, and consequently no great satisfaction to myself. The circumstances, that have occasioned my leaving the army, have no ways abated my wishes for its prosperity, or my zeal & inclination to serve it.
          I can give your Excellency no information, with respect to future supplies, so authentic as to be depended on. The revolutions, that are taking place in the departments, cast such a ⟨s⟩hade of confusion over the whole business that it is impossible at this time to form any conclusions, with certainty. It is probable the Legislature of Connecticut are taking measures to supply the army with beef. If they do not instantly give attention to this matter, I see no probability of the troops being fed with meat more than three or four weeks longer. How far the plans, that are adopted in some states, for affording supplies of grain, will effect the purpose, is beyound my power to determine. At present, there is some appearance of their being competent to the demands; yet there may, in the breaking up of winter, be

such obstructions in transporting provisions as will occasion a temporary scarcity or want.
          As it has been my ambition, in a public capacity, to merit your approbation; so now I am out of office, I shall be no less ambitious, in whatever situation I am, of manifesting my personal attachment to your Excellency. I am with great respect your Excellencys most obt hbl. Srvt

            Royal Flint


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Edward Hand, 6 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hand, Edward

            Dr Sir,
            Morristown Feby 6th 1780

          The number of Genl Officers in Camp is so Small, & of that number, several very anxious for leave to be absent that I am, exceedingly distressed, & put to it to conduct the ordinary business of the Army, with the smallest degree of propriety. I must therefore request, that upon receipt of this Letter you will repair to Camp. With esteem & regard I am Dr Sir—Yr obt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Johann Kalb, 6 February 1780
From: Kalb, Johann
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Camp [Jockey Hollow, N.J.] 6th february 1780

          your Excellency’s letter of the 22d ult: was received the 28th—I have ever Since employed myself in correcting the defects which your Excellency has been pleased to point out.
          The general want of officers throughout the army is an evil which has long ago broke upon us, attended with every prejudicial consequence. Most of the officers appointed of late have been taken from the Noncommissioned, and though this channel is not the one which furnishes the best qualified men, yet it is drained, and that very ressource is denied us. So is the one which furnished the Companies with Sergeants and Corporals, in So much that in two Regiments of my Division, it has been impossible to find a Single individual fit to be appointed noncommissioned officer. The unequality with which the Companies are officered is an evil annexed to the establishment itself, three Comp[an]ies out of the Nine which compose a Regiment, are, essentially short of one officer. the three taken for the Staff in each regiment are another Source of unequality for ever Subsisting. The General Staff of the army whose calls are all Supplied from the Line, the number of the regiments So ill proportioned to that of the Men, greatly contribute also to the Scarcity of officers.

in fact, it is impossible to prevent an effect to which So many causes concur, and your Excellency knows that those causes are inherent to the very constitution of our Military. Except a total reformation of the Establishment, no remedy can be applyed but such as are only Palliative, momentary & unsufficient.
          The one employed in the maryland Division is this: I have called together the Commanding officers of every Corps: I have imparted to them your Excellency’s letter and required their present and future exertions in concurring with me to establish and maintain things agreeable to your Excellency’s views. I have caused a General Return to be furnished to me Shewing in the greatest detail the State of those objects which your Excellency wishes to have regulated, and upon those returns the practicable alterations shall be made. It is certain that, next to a reduction of the number of Regiments, the measure which will be conduiceve to the nearest approximation to perfection is the levelling of the Companies in each Regiment and the equal repartition of the officers and Noncommissioned officers to those Companies. this measure Seems rather desired than opposed by the generality of the officers of this Division; however no arrangement will be inforced by orders, previous to its being Submitted to your Excellency’s consideration.
          As soon as I shall have been able to ascertain the probability of the absent men rejoining their Corps, I shall cause those to be Struck off the rolls whose return is the least to be expected, and take the most effectual means to compell the others to join.
          On this head permit me, Sir, to mention an abuse in the administration of General Hospitals—Some of our men who have been Sent there at different periods have been ever Since lost to their Corps: The Doctors employ them as Servants, give them furloughs and in Short, despose of them in Such a manner as renders it impossible to their officers to recover them again, particularly when it is so difficult to trace them out through the frequent mutations of Seats and administration of the Hospitals.
          In regard to officers employed in Stations unbecoming their commission or Character, there are no such in this Division.
          In the returns furnished to Your Excellency by the Inspector General there are Several inaccuracies (probably owing to Some mistake or overlook) which may have led your Excellency to think that matters were worse then what they really are.

          In the Inspector’s report of the 1st Regiment, it is said that there are not officers Sufficient with the Regiment. tho’ the Same return acknowledges 4 Captains, 1 Capn Lieut., & 5 Subalterns, in all 10 present fit for Duty besides the Staff, the Same return complains of many officers absent, tho’ in fact there were 5 on actual duty and only 2 absent, except Prisoners of War.
          In the report of the 4th Regiment the Colonel & the Major are both returned as present and as Vacant.
          In the report of the 6th Regiment the Col. was present on Command; the Lt Colonel on Detachment; the Major present with the Regiment; three Capns present fit for Duty; one on Detachment; the Capn Lieut. and 2 Subalterns present; one Sick present and three on Detachment, which was more than an officer per Company. if the Companies are counted without an officer when he is not actually present at the inspection, the ordinary Duties of Camp will often occasion this, and there is no other way to prevent it but exempting the Corps from Duty the day appointed for the Inspection.
          As to Lieut. Colonel Forest, he has lost a thigh at the Battle of German Town and joined his Regiment at Middlebrook last Spring, when your Excellency was pleased to grant him leave to go to Maryland with orders to Superintend the recruiting of the Division. It is certain that to turn him out of the Service without a proper Provision being made for him would render his case very Lamentable, on the other hand, he remaining in a regiment where he cannot act is a great hardship on the Major who, by this becomes the only field officer of the Regiment and consequently has all the Duty to do and no chance for a furlough.
          Out of the few field officers in my Division, 3 are Prisoners of War, 4 likely never to join, 3 on furlough, 1 acting as adj: Gl, 1 Commanding a Brigade, 1 under an arrest, So that there remains a number hardly adequate to the daily exigencies of the Service and absolutely insufficient for the internal Government of the Regiments.
          As Colonel Williams can not conveniently continue to perform the duties of adjudant general and Division Inspector, and that the taking out of a Colonel or Lt Colo. from the Line to fill that place would increase the inconveniencies, I take the Liberty to propose the appointment of Major Galvan pro tempore, which I have reason to believe would not be disagreeable to the officers

of the Division and could give no offence because the Brigade Inspectors are both Captains.
          The Reports inclosed in your Excellency’s letter are herewith returned. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir your most obedient & most humble Servant

            The Baron de Kalb


Title: General Orders, 7 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown Monday Feby 7th 1780.
            Parole Loretto—  C. Signs Lucca. Leo.


Title: From George Washington to Royal Flint, 7 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Flint, Royal

            sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town February 7th 1780

          I have been favoured with Your Letter of the 6th—As I find by this that you are no longer to continue in the department in which You have for some time acted, I with pleasure avail myself of the present opportunity to inform You, that your conduct in the discharge of your duty so far as it has come to my knowledge, has been much to my satisfaction. From your activity and attention—your intimate knowledge of the business of the Department and of our provision resources in general, I should have been happy if circum: would have permitted You to remain in it; but though these it seems would not, yet I am fully persuaded from the zealous part you have taken in the Contest as well as your present assurance—the supply of the Army and the prosperity of the service will always be great objects of your

wishes—and that so far as these may in the least depend on your influence or advice they will be promoted. I feel myself particularly obliged by your expressions of personal regard and am with great esteem & wishes for your happiness sir Yr Most Obedt sert.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 7 February 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Morris Town 7th Feby 1780.

          The inclos’d copy of a representation from Colo. Berry, an Assistant D.Q.M.G. in this State, will shew your Excellency that a new difficulty has arisen to delay transportation. It is very unfortunate that we should lose the advantage of this favourable turn of conveyance, as the time is just at hand when it will be almost impossible to bring forward the supplies.
          The Inhabitants are unwilling to give their aid at the prices regulated by law, unless the regulation extends through all the States. I do not consider myself authorized to instruct my Agents to break over the laws of the State; and now find a stagnation in bringing on the provisions.
          People will with-hold their services in this State, so long as they receive a less compensation than their neighbours. They seem to claim it as a right that they be allowed their usual prices untill the other States adopt measures for enforcing a regulation. I do not hear them object to have a limitation of prices take place; but they insist upon its not being binding on them till it is so on others. Your Excellency can foresee the consequences of the present difficulty; and will direct and authorize me in what manner to proceed. I am Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Hume Servt

            Nath. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 7 February 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Morris Town 7th Feby 1780

          I was Yesterday honour’d with your Excellency’s favour of the 5th Instt, and shall in Obedience to your request proceed to my command in a day or two, or Earlier, should you think it requisite, tho’ Some Business very consequential to me requires that time, if it can be Spared me without Injury to service. It has been very lately Suggested to me by one of my friends that your Excellency meant to comprehend me in the Order for the Adjournment of the Court martial of Which I was President, and that consequently I was by that Order remanded. Should this have been the Case (that the least shaddow of negligence may not appear in my Conduct) give me leave to Assure you, that I really did not consider myself included in the Order, but far from it conceiv’d it my Duty to remai⟨n⟩ here until the pleasure of Congress was had upon our Proceedings, that I might be at hand in case a Revision should be order’d, and to this Alone my presence at this Post has been Owing. My military Duty I can solemnly Aver has with me Preceded Every other Consideration however interesting or heartfelt, As my four years Unabating Attention to it, without once Visiting my Home or asking or taking one moments recess from Service would Demonstrate, had I given no other proofs of it. I have taken the liberty to be thus particular because my most Ardent wish is to stand well in the Opinion of A man I so truly love and honour, and in whose Bosom I could not impress An unfavourable Idea of me without Deeply wounding my Happiness. I am Dear Sir with the Greatest

respect and affection your Excellency’s most ob⟨ed⟩t ⟨and⟩ very humle ser⟨vt⟩

            Robt Howe


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 7 February 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Philadelphia Feby 7th 1780

          I do myself the honour to forward the enclosed letter from Genl Lincoln address’d to your Excellency.
          As Major Lane the Express charged with this Letter was late a Prisoner in Savannah, and your Excellency must be anxious to know the State of the Prisoners in the southern Department; I have examined him on that Subject and taken his information in writing which is herewith enclosed, yet hoping you may find in Genl Lincolns Letter a more accurate Account of the Matter. I have the honour to be with the highest respect your Excy’s hble Servt

            Sam. Huntington.


Title: To George Washington from Major Justus Christoph de Meibom, 7 February 1780
From: Meibom, Justus Christoph de
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Lancaster [Pa.] Februar. 7th 1780.

          About nine months ago I did myself the honour to apply to Your Excellency for leave to send an officer into New York in order to bring out our pay and cloathing. Your Excellency was pleased to give me for answer, that circumstances would not admitt of complying with my request for that time All my endeavours to transact my business in writing having prouved ineffectual to this very time; I find myself under necessity to trouble, Your Excellency with repeating my former request. Knowing, Your Excellency’s generosity in granting to prisoners of war any advantages, compatible with their situation, I beg the favour to send an Officer upon his parole into the British lines for forty days, in order to bring out our pay, without which, we do not know [how], either to subsist any longer, or to satisfy our creditors in case an exchange should take place. I cannot omitt mentioning; that the corps of Brunswic Officers residing in Lancaster, in whose name I have the honour to address myself to Your Excellency, is, to my knowledge the only one, that has not before sent an officer into the British lines; all the other corps, British as well as Hessians having not been deny’d this favour. I flatter myself not to make my humble request at an unseasonable time, understanding that a Hessian Major from Reading has just now been indulged with leave to go in. With greatest respect I have the honour to remain Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant.

            Just. Christoph de Meibom Major


Title: To George Washington from Major General Arthur St. Clair, 7 February 1780
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

              Sir
              Cranes Mills [N.J.] Febry 7th 1780

            Nothing Extraordinary has happened here since my last, neither have I received any Intelligence of Consequence—My Man from New-York not yet being returned; I expect to see or hear from him this Evening—It is said that in consequence of the Report of some Deserters who got in to Paulus-Hook from Connecticut Farms, the day before the Detachment was relieved, that Post is reinforced every Evening from N. York—if this be true, which I hope to asscertain to-day, a stroke may be made upon them. The Country was very much alarmed Yesterday by the Appearance of a Party and a number of Sleighs on the Sound—The Report reached me as I was on my Return from Woodbridge, with the Addition that they were actually landed, and in Elizabeth Town; which occasioned the Troops to be got under Arms that were nearest—It proved to be a Party from N. York, most probably carrying Provisions. They came on the Ice at Bergen Point passed up towards De Harts Point, about half

way; and then turned off, and landed near Deckers on Staten Island—The Sleighs were in Number about one hundred and the Escort consisted of about sixty Infantry & Twenty Horse.
            I have made some Alteration in the Disposition of the Cantonments the Body of the Troops now lying in a Line from Spring Field to the southern part of West Field, with one hundred and twenty Men advanced to Connecticut Farms and the same Number in this Neighbourhood, and fifty Men detached to New Ark and fifty to Woodbridge—Three different Parties of Militia Horse are instituted to Patrole the Roads along the Sound from New Ark to Amboy—fifeteen of them stationed at New Ark, fifeteen at Rahway, and fifteen at Woodbridge. These are a kind of Volunteers who depend upon the Legislature for a reasonable Compensation for their Services—As the People came very readily into this Mode, and discovered an unwillingness to engage in any other way, I declined raising the twenty your Excellency had impowered me, and if these forty five, in the Manner they are stationed, will do their Duty, there is little doubt, but that, with the Assistance of our foot Patroles, every movement of the Ennemy will be timely discovered.
            The well affected Inhabitants of Elizabeth Town are so apprehensive of Danger that I have not yet withdrawn the Guard at that Place, and if the Duty continues to be done with the same Exactness it has since the late Misfortune there, it will be in no Danger—The Guard at New Ark retires in the Night—but that at Woodbridge is of all others the most exposed and is out of all reach of support—it appears however to me to be necessary, as without a Post there the Ennemy might get upon our right Flank and even in our Rear undiscovered.
            A Son of Mr Heddon who was lately made Prisoner at New Ark waited upon me Yesterday with a Request from Mrs Heddon who has your Excellencys permission to go to N. York that your Excellency would allow her to pass by Paulus Hook—I promised him to mention it, and I believe there is no doubt but Flags will be received there—Major Skinner went in that Way, and a Flag came from thence the Day before Yesterday with a Letter for him, and by opening that Communication some useful Observations may perhaps be made. I Am with the greatest Respect Sir Your very humble Servant

              Ar. St Clair

            The Freinds of the People who were lately taken near New Ark are very desirous to obtain leave for two Persons to go over to Bergen to make some Enquiry about them—they propose Daniel Kemp & Joseph Crane who are Men of very good Character.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Steuben, 7 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von

            My dear Baron,
            Morris-town Feby 7th 1780

          In a letter which I have been favoured with from his Excelly the cheva[lie]r De la Luzerne I am led to expect the honor of his Compy at Camp in the course of this Month.
          As it is my wish to accomodate him in the best manner circumstances will admit of (which at best as you well know will be bad enough) and to pay him evy respect due to his high rank and Station I shall thank you for previous notice of the time of his setting out.
          I need not add how pleasd I should be to see you with him if it can be made to comport with your present engagements at Philadelphia.
          The inclosed letter you will make use of when occasion requires—with sincere personal esteem & regard I am my dear Baron Yr obedt & affecte Ser.

            Go: W——n.


Title: General Orders, 8 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown tuesday February 8th 1780.
            Parole Missisippi—  C. Signs Massachusetts. Maryland.

          The officers of the day having reported that the end of appointing reserve Picketts is not answered for want of spare huts

and that the practice is attended with much fatigue to the officers and men; The General discontinues them for the present, and in lieu of them directs, that instead of the usual camp guards, each brigade shall till further orders, furnish one subaltern, two serjeants, two Corporals one Drum & thirty six privates: Those of each division to be commanded by a Captain from the division.
          To keep up the duties of the grand parade, the guards are to assemble there at the appointed hour and to pass thro’ the customary forms under the inspection of the officers of the day, after which they are to be marched back to their respective brigades for the immediate purposes of camp duty—The Captains will have the duties assigned them by the officers of the day, and when relieved are to repair to the new Orderly-Room with written reports to be delivered to the officers of the day, that these may comprize whatever requires notice into a general report for the Commander in Chief.
          They will make duplicate reports to the officers commanding the divisions to which they belong and each subaltern will do the same to the commandant of his brigade: The General expects much exactness in the parade duties and other duties of the day.
          Every brigade is to exert itself to get guard huts erected at proper places—and tho’ the state of the ground prevents the digging of vaults, yet some sort of convenience may easily be built which common decency, and a regard to the health of the men render indispensable.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 8 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

            Gentlemen
            Head Quarters Morris Town 8th Feby 1780

          The inclosed is an Estimate of Ordnance and Ordnance Stores, which I think it expedient to have lodged at Pittsburgh,

ready to answer any favorable opportunity which may present itself, for carrying on operations against the Enemy’s posts to the Westward. I do not know whether there is any practicable Road at this Season for Sleds, if there is, it would be much the easiest and cheapest mode of transportation. If there is not, I imagine there is no probability that Waggons can move till the Roads are settled in the Spring. I would however wish that measures may be taken to have the Artillery and stores prepared and conveyed as early as weather—Roads and other circumstances will admit. I have the honor to be with great Respect Gentlemen yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 8 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

            Dear Sir
            Morris Town 8th Feby 1780

          I have received your letter of this day inclosing Copy of one from Colo. Berry, representing the unwillingness of the inhabitants to transport for the Army at the regulated prices, from an apprehension that the regulation will not be general. It would be excessively disagreeable to me to authorise a departure from the law, especially, in an affair of so delicate a nature, and yet it is indispensible, that the transportation should go on with Vigor. To answer this purpose, without incurring the other inconvenience—I recommend it to you to adopt this expedient—to pay for the present at the regulated prices, engaging that in case the measure of regulation should not become general, and the Assembly of this State should repeal the laws on the subject, then to make good the difference between the regulated and market prices. I am Dear Sir yr most obt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 8 February 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Morris Town Feb. 8th 1780.

          Inclosed is a return (as exact as I have been able to obtain) of the Artificers enlisted for three years or during the War, who belong to the eleven Companies ordered to be incorporated by the Resolution of Congress of the 12th of November last.
          The number is far short of what are absolutely necessary to

do the duty of the Army. I think it would be of public advantage to have the companies filled up and compleated agreeable to the plan of establishment proposed to your Excellency. For the want of a greater number enlisted for a length of time, many are employed at Posts by daily or monthly hire, upon much greater pay than they could be had for, were they engaged for the war. There is not only the inconvenience of additional wages, but the men cannot be had when most wanted, & will often take advantage of the public necessity to raise their pay or leave the service in distress.
          Your Excellency I trust will see the necessity of compleating this business as soon as possible, in order to give quiet and content to the Officers and men of the Corps, as well as for the interest of the service.
          You are now furnished with a return of the Officers and privates, the Rank of the first, and the number of the last. There is no further information in my power to give, that I concieve will be necessary to enable your Excellency to decide on the business. I am with great respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble Servt

            Nath. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 8 February 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General,
            Highlands [N.Y.] February 8th 1780

          I have been honor’d with yours of 1st 2’d & 5th Instant. I am happy to hear that Some relief of Flour may be expected from Easton and Sussex County. We are impatiently looking out for it’s arrival. The patience, temper and spirit of the Troops under

their distresses, are scarcely conceivable. I believe there is not such an other body of men in the World.
          I shall make particular enquiry respecting the delinquency in the returns. a punctual and prompt compliance have always been enjoined—those orders Shall be repeated and enforced.
          The River is frozen from this place down to new york, except between Phillips’s & fort Washington.
          By two deserters who left New york the last friday, I learn that the Enemy had drawn four days provisions the day before they came away, and were held in readiness to march at a moments notice—Were to carry only their Blankets—&c.—the talk was, they were going to morristown. perhaps they may have intentions this way, or perhaps only to keep the Troops alert and ready for action at home. The Cannon were ready &c. Should they come this way we are ready for them and altho’ destitute of Bread will give them a warm reception.
          Before the kind caution from your Excellency, Patroles were kept down the River and every precaution enjoined to guard against surprise.
          In Case of alarm, the 1st Massachusetts Regt goes to Constitution Island. the 4th to the Redoubts on the heights East side the River—the 3d 5th 6th 13th & 15th are to reinforce the Garrison of west point &c. or act as occasion may require.
          I have furnished Capt. Leigh of Genl Poor’s Brigade with 5,000 of the 50,000 Dollars Sent here for the recruiting Service, being as much as could be spared, the Regiments here having large Sums due to the men reinlisted.
          The Honorable the General Assembly of the State of Massachusetts bay have been pleased to promote Andrew Peters Esqr. to be Lt Colo. of the 15th & William Hull Esqr. to be lieutenant Colo. of the 3d Massachusetts Regiments—Nothing is Said about Major Cogswell. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedt Servt

            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 8 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

            Sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town Feby 8th 1780

          I have now the honor to acknowledge that Your Excellency’s several Letters of the 25th & 27th of last month and of the 1st Instant have been duly received with the acts to which they refer. The matters to which they respectively relate will have my attention in the best manner that their nature and circumstances will admit of. Cols. Mathews & Ely & Lt Colo. Ramsay returned to New York on the 3d with a Letter they received from me, expressing my readiness to appoint Commissioners to meet Others on the part of the Enemy to negociate a Cartel for an exchange of prisoners. I have not heard any thing from New York since upon the subject. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem yr Excellency’s Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Stephen Moylan, 8 February 1780
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Colchester [Conn.] 8 February 1780

          Inclosed is Copy of an Act of the Legislature of this State, the Governors order to me thereon, and my answer thereto, which it is my duty to Lay before Your Excellency.
          Your Letter to me of the 14th ulto mentions that I am to comply with the requisitions of the Governor, for the Cavalry, when demanded, which made me not hesitate in obeying his order, had I Not this Sanction Sir, was I at Liberty to object to the removal of the 2d Regiment? I beg Your Excellencys opinion on

this point, for my future government. I have the honor to be Dear Sir Your Most ob. H. St

            Stephen Moylan


Title: From George Washington to Major General Arthur St. Clair, 8 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

            Dr Sir
            Head Quarters Morristown 8th Febry 1780

          I received your favor of the 7th yesterday afternoon.
          As I can see no inconveniency from permitting Mrs Hadden to pass in by Pawlus Hook, you will therefore grant her request, and make such further use of that communication, in the way of flags while the frost continues as you may judge essential for any purposes you may have in view, or for obtaining useful information. I would imagine however that the enemy will object to this line, for the same reasons which we may desire it.
          I have no objection to Kemp and Cranes going over to Bergen, you may therefore indulge the friends of the persons who were lately taken, in their application. I am Dr Sir, your obt & hble sert

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Steuben, 8 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von

            Sir,
            Head Quarters Morris Town 8th Feby 1780

          I have received your letter of the 26th brot down to the 29th of January with the papers annexed and have carefully considered the contents, on which I shall give you my sentiments with freedom and confidence.
          The principal point on which your memorial to Congress turns is the force requisite for the next campaign. To determine this on good grounds we ought first to settle the following question Will it be in our power to make an offensive or must we content ourselves with a defensive campaign?
          It is not possible to decide this question, without a more

intimate knowlege of our resources of finance than I at present possess—and without ascertaining whether our allies can afford a squadron for an effectual cooperation on this Conti⟨n⟩ent. I think with vigorous ex⟨er⟩tions we may raise a sufficient number of men for offensive operations if we were able to maintain them, but from the view I ha⟨ve⟩ of our affairs, I do not believe the state of our treasury will permit thi⟨s⟩ without ⟨as⟩sistance from abroad. Whether ⟨this⟩ is to be obtained, Congress alone can ⟨j⟩udge. On the other hand, from the ⟨par⟩ticular situation of the enemy’s ⟨po⟩sts in this quarter, I should not advise to calculate measures on the principle of expelling them unless we had certain assurances that an adequate naval force will be ready to cooperate with us through all contingencies. If a foreign aid of money and a fleet are to be depended upon—I should then recommend that all our dispositions should have reference to an offensive and decisive campaign, and in this case I should ask at least one third more men than your estimate to be immediately raised by a general draft.
          But as I doubt whether these two preliminaries can be placed on such a footing of certainty as to justify our actg in consequence, I imagine we must of necessity adopt the principle of a defensive campaign, and persue a system of the most absolute œconomy. On this principle however, if I understand your estimate, I do not think it will be more than sufficient. I suppose you mean the 23 [  ] for our total number. When the deductions for unavoidable casualties are made this number will give us less than twenty thousand for our efficient operating force—This is as little as we can well have to contain the enemy within bounds and prevent their making any further progress—Including the detachment which lately sailed from New York, they have near 20,000 men fit for actual service in these states; to say nothing of the recruits they will probably send over to complete their batalions which will be an augmentation of force. For these reasons I approve the estimate you have proposed as best suited to our present circumstances.
          The number of cavalry you propose is in good proportion and in a military sense necessary. Cavalry if there is an active scene to the Southward will be particularly useful there; but the question of expence is a very serious one—and like the rest must be referred to those who are acquainted with our money-resources.

          Another point is whether the regiments had better be incorporated with each other and completed, or left as they are and completed to such a standard as will give the number of men required. A Committee of Congress as you have been informed sent me a proposal which had been referred to their consideration for reducing the number of batalions; and asked my opinion upon it. Though I was fully sensible of the inconveniences which will infallibly attend a reduction, I did not dissuade from it principally on two accounts—one a conviction that the embarrassments in our finances require every expedient for saving expence—the other the incompetency of the present number of officers to the present number of corps—But though I do not disapprove I am far from being much attached to this plan. Congress can best balance the advantages and disadvantages and determine which preponderate.
          I sincerely wish what you recommend with respect to Mag⟨azines⟩ could be carried into execution; but I fear it will be impracticable in the present extent. Every thing however that is possible ought to be attempted—There is no dan⟨ger⟩ of the Magazines exceeding our wants; and we have been under dreadful embarrassments through the whole course of the war from temporary and precarious supplies. The arms ought at all events to be provided.
          I have issued an order requiring the returns demanded by the Board of war to be made out with all dispatch; they will be forwarded as fast as they are collected.
          There are some points of inferior importance in your memorial which I approve, that do not require a particular enumeration.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Woodford, 8 February 1780
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear Genl
            Fredericksburg [Va.] 8th Feby 1780

          The first & second division of the Troops are arrived at this place; the third under command of Colo. Gist will not be here in less then five or six Days—the fatigueing March the Troops have had this extreem bad weather, the reduced situation of the waggon & artilery Horses, together with sundry repairs wanting to the waggons, has induced me to halt them here till the rear gets up—when I shall put them in motion for Petersburg.
          The continuence of the Frost will oblige me to march still by divisions; this is much against my inclination if it could be avoided, but without this method it would be imposible to procure quarters for the Officers & Men in this country.
          There has been some desertions, but not so considerable as I feard—we have picked up some Recruits & shall continue to do all we can in that way—the want of the State bounty is of great disadvantage in this business. I have wrote the Govr of Virga upon that subject, but have not been favour’d with his answer—I allso wrote him a second time upon the subject of Mr George Washingtons appointment, & expect he has wrote to the board of war as I requested in my first Letter.
          I understand the last assembly made no provision for recruiting their Battalions. I am much at a loss to know how the officers will be imployed, as soon as I have pass’d the Rear of the Troops through this place, I shall take williamsburg in my way to Join them, when I Shall consult the Govr & Council upon that subject.
          The Troops have been Healthy till lately, several have been taken Ill, & I fear the number of our sick will encrease.
          The Men who were order’d to be furloughed by the board of war, which I mention’d to your Excellency in my last, has thin’d our Battalions & I am apprehensive we shall have a bad acct of them in the Spring.
          I am informed the provision made for the Troops south of Petersburg, upon the rout pointed out by the board of war, will by no means answer the purpose of supplies—I shall be under the necessity of altering it as circumstances may happen, provided I find it is the case.
          All we have from the South is the acct publish’d in the Virga

paper, that the Fleet which sail’d from N. York the 26th Decr had pass’d Charles Town, & sent in a flag to get some prisoners exchanged—it was supposed they were destined for St Augustine.
          All our Friends in Frederickburg are well, except Colo. Lewis, who has been Ill some time. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellencies Most Obedt humble Servt

            Wm Woodford


Title: General Orders, 9 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown Wednesday Feby 9th 1780.
            Parole Nantuckett—  C. Signs Nantz. Naples.

          By a General Court Martial held at the Park of Artillery January 22nd 1780—Lieut. Colonel Stephens Presidt—Daniel Thorn, Joseph Fabro and David Slater were tried for “Striking, abusing and threatning the lives of Lieutenant Weissenfels of the 4th New-York regiment and Ensign Denston” and acquitted.
          The General disapproves the acquittal—The evidence against the Prisoners, in his opinion, overbalances that for them from a consideration of the characters of the respective witnesses; and in a case of such a nature the presumption ought to have been in favor of the officers who were injur’d.
          The prisoners are to be released from confinement.


Title: To George Washington from William Fitzhugh, 9 February 1780
From: Fitzhugh, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Rousby Hall [Md.] Febry 9th 1780

          The Distress of your Army, Communicated by a Letter Laid before Our General Assembly in December last Gave me Infinite Concern, & ’tho I am Since Advis’d by Colo. Plater, that Supplys are Gone Forward to Camp, I Still Entertain Fears, That Ample Provission will not be made to Carry through the next Campaign, without a Risque of similar Distress: when Our Assembly Pass’d an Act for The Immediate relief of the Army, By Siesure & Purchase, It is almost Imposible to Describe the Activity with which the Speculators in Every Part of the Country mov’d to Raise the Price of Provissions by Purchaseing a Small Qty in Each Quarter, to Establish an Extravigant & Insupportable Market on the Publick; The Article Corn was therby Advanc’d in a few Days from 25 to £50 ⅌ Barrel, & the Greatest Part for Sale, in the Hands of that Detestable Tribe: If this Wicked Practice cannot be prevented, I can See but one Method of Securing Plenty of Provissions for Our Army, & that is, by Levying a Tax

in Provisions to be Collected by the Sherriffs in their respective Countys, to be forwarded under Proper Directions, or As Occasion may require—& Discharge all the Purchassing Commissarys, most of whom have been Speculators of the Worst Kind, They have Us’d the Publick Money to Inhance the Price of Provissions, & at the Same time they were Starving Our Army, Have made fortunes on the Ruins of their Country; This Mode of Taxation, I will propose to Our Assembly at the Next meeting in March, & If Adopted I think may Answer the Purpose, But the Success will Depend on the Power of the Speculators in Our Assembly, who will Oppose, & have much Strength—Indeed, they have Insinuated themselves almost into Every Publick Body throughout the United States.
          I am Exceeding Glad to be Inform’d by Colo. Ramsey That an Exchange of Prisoners is likely to take Place: I most Sincerely Wish for the Happy Event, not only on Acct of my Son, But the Many unfortunate Captives, who must have Suffered Greatly, Provided The Enemy Will Exchange on Equal & Honorable Terms.
          I take the Liberty to Inclose to your Excellency Letters for Colo. Ramsay & my Son, If they shou’d be come away before the Letters reaches Camp, they may be Cancel’d.
          Mrs Fitzhugh Joins with Me in Affectionate Wishes & Compliments, to you & your Lady, who I hope is now Happily Plac’d with you. I have The Honor to be with sincere Affection & Regard Your Excellencys Most Obedt & Oblig’d Servt

            Willm Fitzhugh