Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 31 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

						Robinson’s in the Highland’s [N.Y.]July 31st 1780
						My dear Marquiss

					I received Your Two Obliging Favors of the 26th just as I was commencing yesterday our second day’s march for the North River. There is no doubt that Sir Henry Clinton means to attack the Count de Rochambeau and that a considerable force has sailed for the purpose, of which You will have the greatest certainty by the time this reaches You. I am happy in the measures which have been taken for calling in aid from the Militia and I hope it will arrive & prove effectual. I can’t help wishing that the Count had taken post on the Main, and if circumstances will admit, this might be best still. In such case he would derive much greater support from the Country & the Island of Rhode Island is not of itself an Object for which we should put any thing of importance to the hazard. From the great distance from hence to Rhode Island I do not think it probable that any Succour from this Army could be there in time, & were it to be attempted by a rapid march, a great part of the Men detached would be unfit for service when they arrived. Besides from the present state of things, I do not know how they would be subsisted with bread. These considerations leave me but one line of conduct to pursue, which is to move against New York. I am straining every nerve to accomplish this—and would willingly hope that it will relieve the Count if nothing more. It appears to be the most probable mode of doing it, & indeed the only practicable one, so far as his relief can depend upon the Troops here. That part of the Army which was with me in Jersey will pass the River at Kings ferry this morning or forenoon—and part of those at this post moved yesterday evening & will be followed by the Remainder to day, except so many as may be essential to be left in the Garrison.
					With respect to your remaineing with General Heath, You will use

your own pleasure in the matter. Wherever you are, your best services will be rendered and will be interesting. I am exceedingly hurried in arranging & preparing a variety of matters, which must justify me to You for not adding more than that I am with the most affectio⟨nate⟩ regard & esteem My Dr Marquiss Yr Most Obedt st

						G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 31 July 1780
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

							My dear General
							Newport july the 31st 1780

						in Consequence of A Note from me the Admiral Came to Last evening, and defensive ideas Gave way to offensive plans—our Conversation was long and is not yet ended—But I hasten to write you a Summary of what past Betwen the Count, the Chevalier, and Myself.
						I first Began in My own name to Give them a pretty exact Account of the Situation we were in three Months Ago, of the Super natural efforts which the Country had made for the purpose of an immediate Cooperation—I told them that By the first of january our Army would be dismiss’d, that the Militia was to Serve only for three Month—I added that for the defensive they were useless to us, Nay they were hurtfull, and that I thought it Necessary to take New york Before the winter—all that, my dear General, was Said in my own Name and therefore in a less delicate way than when I am your interpreter.
						I then told them that I was Going to Speak from you And after Many Compliments, assurances of Confidence &c. I went on with your plan, Beggining with the importance of possessing the harbour and Going on about the three ways which you have directed me to point out as to be hereafter Regulated By Circumstances.
						As to the possessing of the harbour the Chevalier told that he did not Believe his ships might Go in—But that if Superior at Sea, he would answer By Cruizing off to protect the Landing, the transportation, and prevent an evacuation—indeed to Blockade the harbour.
						The french General with the advice of the Naval Commander did not hezitate to prefer the Going in transports to the point you know off—Both were of opinion that Nothing Could be undertaken unless we had a Naval Superiority, and as I know it is your opinion also (tho’ it is not mine) I durst not insist on that Article.

						There was an other Reason which Made me Wait for the Reinforcement—I knew we had Neither arms nor powder, I knew we would be at least a long time to get them—But as they did not think of making me the objection I put my assent to the others on the account of my private Confidence in theyr Superior abilities—told them that You also thought we should have a Naval Superiority—and added in my own name that however we must, any how, act Before the winter, and Get Rid of a Shamefull defensive.
						The Summary of the arrangement will, I presume, Be this—that as Soon as we hear of A Naval Reinforcement we Go where you know, and establish what you intend to fix—that if possible we Get where I want you to be—that immediately the french will embark and Go where you Wish them to be or thereabout—that a number equal to the ennemy’s whole force be stationn’d in that part—that they don’t want there More than ten pieces of our heavy Cannon—that after every think will be disembark’d three weeks in theyr opinion will do the Business on theyr side—that proper means will be taken By sea to keep up the Communication and prevent an evacuation—that we must not Give up that plan if we may Begin in August or September—that fashines and other apparatus must be Ready on the opposite shore—that they will take for us all the Boats Belonging to the Continent which will be at providence—that as soon as our Cloathing &c. arrive it will without entering any harbour be Sent to W. C. or there about.
						Theyr Superiority at sea will I think take place in the Course of this month—they have two ways to depend upon it. 1st unless of an absolute impossibility the Second division Consisting of four other Regiments and the Remaining part of Lauzun’s, with the Alliance and all our stores, and with a strong Convoy of Ships of the line will be here very Soon—when they will be heard off on the Coast, Chevalier de ternay will at all events Go out and meet them—2dly the Gentleman I wrote to on My arrival has full liberty to Send here Reinforcements—the admiral has already applied to him, But I am Going to make him write other letters in my way, and will send them to morrow or the day after to Chevalier de la luzerne whom I Beg You will immediately desire to Secure three fast sailing vessels for the west indias.
						I am Going this evening to fix places with pilots, and also to speak of the entrance of the harbour—dobs and shaw are here and I will have a full Conversation With them and the Admiral Both for the entrance of the harbour and the Navigation of the Sound—to Morrow I Call with as much Secrecy as possible a Number of pilots for the harbour of hallifax and River st laurens.
						inclosed you will find a letter from Count de Rochambeau—he Requests you will have the Goodness of letting the Minister know what

the french army is about, as he had no time of writing to him—it is, I Believe, very important 1st to Send every where to meet the Reinforcement And Give them proper directions 2dly to have Some vessels Ready for the west indias.
						The french set more value upon Rhode island than it is worth—I however Got them to promise that in Case of an operation they will not leave here a Garrison, and that theyr Magazines would be sent to providence.
						You know, my dear General, I did not expect clinton, and tho’ I Could not stand alone in my opinion, I ever lamented the Calling out of the Militia—I am happy to inform you that they have been dismiss’d—nothing Can equal the Spirit with which they turn’d out, and I din’t neglect letting the french know that they have done more for theyr allies than they would have done for the Security of theyr own Continental troops in a Similar occasion.
						As to the three Month men, the french General Wants them to establish the Communication with the Main—But I will soon Request him to let them Go to the Grand army, and will in the Same time Get from this state as many arms and powder as possible—I have wrote to Mashashushet for the Same purpose.
						After I will have Seen the pilots, and made Calculations with the Commander of the Artillery and the first engeneer whom the Count will Consult, I shall draw a plan which I will Get theyr Answer to and Repair with it to head quarters—in the Mean time, I will Receive Answers from Boston and from Governor Greene.
						The Admiral Can’t lend to us more than thirty thousands of powder—But you see that theyr demands as to heavy pieces are Small—they indeed Say that they don’t want Any on the island, and that theyr twenty ones will be sufficient—all that, my dear General, I will be more positive upon after the Commanders of artillery and engeneers will have Made with us theyr Calculations.
						I hope, My dear General, that By the 5th or 6th of August I will have Nothing more to do in this place.
						The french army hate the idea of staying here, and want to join you—they Swear at those that Speack of waiting for the Second division—they are enrag’d to be Blockaded in this harbour—as to theyr dispositions towards the inhabitants and our troops, And the dispositions of the inhabitants and the Militia for them they are such as I may wish—You would have been Glad the other day to See two hundred an fifty of our drafts that Came on Kononikut without provisons and tents, and who were mix’d in Such a way with the french troops that every french Soldier and officer took an American with him and divided theyr Bed and theyr supper in the most friendly manner.

						The patience and Sobriety of our militia is so much admir’d By the french officers, that two days ago a french Colonel Call’d all his officers together to desire them to take the Good examples which were Given to the french Soldiers By the American troops—So far are they Gone in theyr Admirations that they find a Great deal to Say in favor of general Varnum and his Escort of Militia dragoons who fill up all the Streets of Newport—on the other hand the french discipline is Such that Chiken and pigs walk Betwen the Tents without being disturb’d, and that there is in the Camp a Corn field from which not one leaf has been touch’d—the torys don’t know what to Say to it.
						Adieu, my dear General, to Morrow I hope having the pleasure of writing you an other letter and Am With The highest Respect with the Most tender friendship dear General Your most obedient humble servant

							Lafayette

						I Beg, My dear General, You will present My Compliments to the family.


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Lewis, 31 July 1780 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Joseph

					Letter not found: to Joseph Lewis, 31 July 1780. A notation on the draft of GW’s letter to Morgan Lewis of this date reads: “One [letter] to Mr Joseph Lewis As. D[epu]t[y] Q.M.G. to impress waggons for the transport of the boats to the

N: river.” The notation is in the writing of GW’s assistant secretary James McHenry.


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 31 July 1780
From: Massachusetts Council
To: Washington, George

						State of Massachusetts BayCouncil Chamber Boston July 31st 1780
						Sir,

					Your Excellency’s favors of the 19th & 22d inst. have been received & Communicated to the Council The Contents were immediately

attended to & We should with Chearfulness have fully complied with the requests therein contained had it been in our Power but upon Inquiring into the State of our Military Stores We found that neither Cannon, Shott, Howitzers or Shells could be spared from this State without rendering our several Fortresses defenceless nay that We have not a sufficiency of several of these Articles for ourselves, however We hope that the Arrival of Admiral Ternay with the Squadron under his Command will furnish, with what you may obtain from other States, a sufficient supply of those Articles—With respect to powder our Magazines are left so destitute of that Articles by means of the Powder we have within a short time past furnished the Continent with, that We cannot consistent with our own Safety at present spare any more, however We have given Orders to the Owners of the several Powder Mills in this State to Manufacture what Salt Petre & Sulphur We have on hand into Powder with all possible Expedition so that in a short time We flatter ourselves We shall have some to spare, in the mean time We have the Pleasure to inform You, that upon Applicaton to Mr Valnais the French Consul here, upon this Subject, he informs us that Messrs Count de Capellis & Blanchard, one of whom is Major of the French Fleet: have told him to assure us that they know that Count de Rochamb⟨eau⟩ has said that he can supply you with Powder until the Arrival of the Alliance—With respect to Arms & Cartouch Boxes We have directed the Board of War of this State to forward immediately to Fish Kill all the Arms & Cartouch Boxes this State is possessed of with Orders to have them delivered to the Commissary of Military Stores there—The Arms amount to Thirteen hundred & Twenty three with Bayonets for the same & the Cartouch Boxes to five hundred & Sixty four—This is all that this State are at present possessed of—We may not omit to mention at this time that the Militia of this State detached for three Months destined for Claverack were many of them upon their March but upon receiving advice from Genl Rochambeau & Major Genl Heath that the Enemy had in Contemplation making a descent upon Rhode Island & they having requested that all the three Months Militia, excepting those of the Counties of Hampshire & Berkshire might be ordered with all possible dispatch to Rhode Island, where it was probable they would not long be detained, We immediately issued our Orders for that purpose, a Copy of which you have inclosed.
					You may depend that no exertions of Our’s shall be wanting that the Measures in Execution may not be suffered to relax but pushed on with the greatest Activity & Zeal. In the Name & behalf of the Council I am With every Sentiment of Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble Servt

						James Bowdoin Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Esther de Berdt Reed, 31 July 1780
From: Reed, Esther De Berdt
To: Washington, George

						Sir—
						Banks [of the] Schulkill [Pa.] July 31st 1780

					Ever since I received your Exellys favor of the 14th of this Month, I have been endeavoring to procure the Linnen for the use of the Soldiers, & it was not ’till Saturday last, that I have been able to meet with any fit for the purpose—it being unavoidably delay’d so long. I have been inform’d of some Circumstance’s which I beg leave to mention, & from which perhaps the necessity for Shirts may have ceased—one is the Supply of 2000, sent from this State to their Line, & the other that a Considerable Number is arrived in the French Fleet, for the use of the Army in general, togather with these, an Idea prevails among the Ladies, that the Soldiers will not be so much gratified, by bestowing an Article to which they are entitled from the Public, as in some other method, which will convey more fully the Idea of a Reward for past Services, & an incitement to future Duty—those who are of this Opinion propose the whole of the Money to be changed into hard Dollars, & giving each Soldier two, to be entirely at his own disposal.
					This method I hint only, but woud not by any means wish to adopt it or any other, without your full Approbation—If it shoud meet with your Concurrence, the State of Pensyla will take the Linnen I have purchas’d, & as far as respects their own Line will make up any defficiency of Shirts to them which they suppose will not be many, after the fresh

Supplies are received—If after all, the necessity for Shirts, which tho’ it may cease as to the Pensyla Troops, may still ⟨con⟩tinue to other parts of the Army—the Ladies will immediately make up the Linnen we have, which I think can soon be effected, & forward them to Camp & procure more as soon as possible—having kept in hand the hard Money I have received untill I rece⟨ive⟩ Your reply.
					The Circumstance which I have mention’d I hope will appear a Sufficient motive for the Ladies postponing the execution of the Plan your Excelly propos’d I will not therefore take up your time in Apologeising for the Delay.
					I have to acknowledge the receipt of a Letter from your Excelly of the 20th—to which I woud reply that if the Scheme to give the Soldiers hard Money shoud be tho’t proper, of course the putting the Money I have into the Bank Coud not be done & I find on enquiry that considerable Advantage may be had by laying out hard Money—either in Linnen or any other Article. I have the honor to be Dear Sir With the highest Esteem Your Obt Hum. S⟨ervant⟩

						E. Reed


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 31 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

						Sir
						Highlands State of New York July 31st 1780

					Your letter of the 25th Instant reached me yesterday. Sir Henry Clinton has sailed as mentioned in my last with the principal part of his force to attack you—estimated at about eight thousand men; it cannot be more, nor do I suppose he would hazard the enterprise with a much less number. I am glad the inactivity of the Enemy has given you time to prepare; and relying on your abilities and the excellence of your Troops, I hope you will send them back with disgrace.
					Had I any prospect of arriving in time I would march to your support; but as I think there is no probability of this, the only way I can be useful to you is to menace New York; and even to attack it, if the force remaining there does not exceed what I have reason to believe. I am pressing my movements for this purpose with all the rapidity in our power. I have the honor to be With perfect consideration Sir Your Most Obet, servant

						Go: Washingto⟨n⟩


Title: From George Washington to Nathaniel Shaw, 31 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Shaw, Nathaniel

						Sir
						Head Quarters Robinsons House 31st July 1780

					In the present situation of Affairs, it is indispensably necessary that we should have the most instantaneous advices of the movements of the Enemy at Rhode Island. For this purpose, I have posted relays of Dragoons at every 15 Miles distance between New London and the Head Quarters of the Army. This taking as many as we can conveniently spare, I shall be exceedingly obliged to you to hire as many trusty Men with their Horses as will continue the Chain from New London to Tower Hill, posting three at every 15 Miles, with orders to ride by night or by day whenever dispatches arrive at their quarters. I will be answerable for their pay while in service, which will be as long as the British Fleet and Army continue at or off Rhode Island. should you not be able to accomplish this Business, you will inform the Officer, the Bearer of this, who must in that case carry the Dragoons the whole way through, however inconvenient it may be. I shall also be obliged to you to have a constant look out kept upon the sound, and if the Fleet appear standing from the Eastward towards New York, to give me instant intelligence of it by the Chain of Expresses. I am with great Respect Sir Yr most obt Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elisha Sheldon, 31 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

						Sir
						Robinsons House 31st July 1780

					You will be pleased instantly upon the Receipt of this to send off an Officer with a sufficient number of Dragoons to post three at every fifteen Miles distance between New London upon the lower Road and the

Head Quarters of the Army, which will be in West Chester County—The inclosed letter to Mr shaw of New London is to sollicit that Gentleman to continue the Chain by hired Expresses from thence to Tower Hill. But should he inform your Officer that he cannot accomplish the Business, your Dragoons must be moved forward to Tower Hill three at every 11 Miles and we must fill up what will be wanting at this End. The intent of posting these Men, is to convey intelligence in the most expeditious manner to and from Rhode Island—You will therefore pick out such as may be depended upon to ride at all hours whenever dispatches arrive at their quarters. I am &.

						P.S. You will move with the remainder of your Regt to Sing Sing.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Israel Shreve or Colonel Elias Dayton, 31 July 1780 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias,Shreve, Israel

					Letter not found: to Col. Israel Shreve or to Col. Elias Dayton, 31 July 1780. Shreve wrote GW on 3 Aug.: “I Receivd your Excys Letters of the 30th and 31st of the Instant, Col. Dayton being Absent.”


Title: To George Washington from Rear Admiral Ternay, 31 July 1780
From: Ternay, Charles-Henri-Louis d’Arsac, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

						sir

							31 July [1780]

					I have received the Letter which Your Excellency, has done me the honor to write: It is with a true satisfaction that I see myself destined to cooperate with a General of his reputation in the execution of projects which may in the issue determine absolutely the fate of America; the hurry in which I was obliged to leave the ports of France did not permit that all the succours of Men and ships destined for the support of the common cause should come at the time I did. Monsieur the Chevalier de la Luzerne will have been able to inform Your Excellency of the intentions of the King in future. I do not enter with You, Sir, into a detail upon the operations of this year. I have had a long conversation with Monsieur, the Count de Rochambeau & Monsieur the Marquiss Fayette, this last who merits without doubt your confidence, for his talents—his patriotic zeal and above all for his attachment to You, will inform You of all matters which it has been practicable to adopt between us, in present circumstances. I hope these will change, and that being no longer confined within the bay of Rhode Island, I shall be able to

determine the fate of the campaign. All must depend on the succours which I expect to come from France or from the West Indies. My Seamen recover slowly. The scurvy prevails among them, but this is a disorder the land air & Vegetables dissipate in more or less time. Your Excellency may be assured that as soon as there is an equality of naval force, I shall seek the Common Enemy. I pray You to receive to day the assurance of the strongest attachment on my part and of the respect with which I am Sir Your Most Humble & Most Obedient servant

						The Chevalier de Ternay


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Washington, 31 July 1780 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

					Letter not found: from Samuel Washington, 31 July 1780. On 31 Aug., GW wrote Washington: “Your letter of the 31st Ulto came to my hands by the last Post.”


Title: Summary of General Officers’ Opinions on Military Operations, July 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						[July 1780]

					Summary of the opinion of the General Officers upon the propriety of attacking New York in the Campaign of 1780
					Genl Greene.
					States the Enemy’s force in New York at 11,000 Regular Troops—Militia & Refugees 4,500—Sailors & Marines 3,500—Total 19,000—and
					Our force at 8,000 Contls—Recruits for Regr Ballns 12,000 (of 16,000 demanded)—Militia 8,000—French Troops 6,000—In all 34,000.
					Is very doubtful of the propriety of undertaking the Siege of N. Yk—Issue very precarious,
					But if it should be resolved on thinks we shall be under the necessity of Investing the City, & Brookl⟨yn⟩, which will give the Enemy an oppy of attacking either, with the principal part of their Force.
					Madness to undertake this enterprize without we are Masters at Sea—& can be certn of it.
					Transportation without it almost impracticable.
					Thinks the Siege at Charles Town precarious & that to shut the enemy up in the City is all that can be attempted with propriety.

					Canada is an object of great importance—would not think of reducing Quebec. but possess Montreal, & seperate the upper from the lower Country. ‘seems fond of this plan if N. Yk.
					Estimates the Enemys force in that Country at 4000 Men—proposes our force to consist of 4000 Contls 1000 Militia—& 2000 French Troops—the whole to March by Co’os.
					A few frigates, with Cannon fit for Sieges & Stores &ca to be sent into the St Lawrence.
					If the French force is small the whole to go upon the Canada Expedition.
					Time to commence the March—10th Aug. which will give the farmers time to gather their Harvest—& afford their Aid.
					In case new York should be the object determined on—he seems more inclined to commence the operation by the way of Staten Island.
					Lord Stirling
					Is for attempting New York; & for commencing operations by the way of Staten Island for the following reasons. viz.
					Saving of transportation
					Conveniency to Paulus hook.
					Diverting the Enemy, & covering the Com[municatio]n thro’ Jersey.
					Securing the passage through the Narrows, & opening a communication with Long Island.
					Securing to ourselves, & depriving the Enemy of, the Watering place on Staten Island.
					Conveniency to the Ocean.
					Covering the French Navy & Transports, & securing a safe Harbr for them.
					Cutting off more effectually, Supplies & reinforcements for the Enemy
					He proposes for this Service 8,000 Continl Troops & 6,000 Militia, in addition to the French Troops. He also proposes 6,000 Contl Troops & 8,000 Militia to be assembled in Westchester County and advanced towards Kingsbridge.
					He would advance from Staten Isld to Long Island with 20,000 Men—establish 12,000 at Brooklyn & join the other 8,000 to the Army in Westchester to commence the operations on York Island.
					He thinks this will be the most effectual & most expeds method of reducg N. York.
					General St Clair
					Thinks an Enterprize against New York rather too much for our Means, and the prospects before us.
					Estimates the Enemys force in that place at 11,000 Regulars, & 5000

Militia & Refugees—in all 16,000 Effectives. supposes our force to consist of 7,500 Contls—6,000 Rec[rui]ts for [the Continental army] —& 8,000 French—Total besides Militia 21,500.
					Places the success entirely upon a Naval superiority—without which it ought not to be attempted. this force to remain during the Siege.
					He thinks that not less than 20,000 Men should be thrown on York Island. prefers commencing operations (in case the siege is undertaken) by the way of Staten Island. at the same thinks it necessary that a body of 8,000. Men should be in Westchester to give jealousy to York Island. In this case a comd of the Water must be certain.
					He is much in favr of an Expedition into Canada. proposes that a force equal to the Enemy’s in that Country should March by Hazen’s rout—while the French force, & some Ships of War, with ordnance & Stores, go by the way of St Lawrence. Frigates he thinks sufft & that they may be effectually se⟨cu⟩red at the Island of Coudre against a superior force.
					He thinks Hallifax might be attempted. & the Troops at Penobscot shut in by a single frigate which wd prevt their being withdrawn to reinforce either of the above places.
					Marqs De la Fayette.
					Is for attacking New York. thinks 20,000 very good Troops, & 10,000 Militia competent to the Enterprise.
					Is for keeping the French & American Troops seperated—thinks Oyster bay might do for the latter to Land at. Would have the American Troops move down to Morrissinea & establish Batteries—Move to York Isld if the enemy quit their upper Posts & send a detachment to long Island in that case—or throw the whole on Long Island & attempt Brooklyn first.
					Genl McDougall.
					Under many doubts & difficulties is—upon the whole—disposed to the Enterprise against New York, & would adhere to that object untill the 15th of Septr wch he thinks is as long as the commencemt can be delayed.
					Unless we are Masters of the Navigation, the Siege is utterly impracticable. The Bay & Sound possessed—& some frigates to spare to Convey our Provisions & Stores from the Southward.
					Paulus hook should be posses⟨sed⟩ or a flying Corps in the Jerseys to secure our Land communication with the Delaware.
					Three times the Enemys force necessary to the Enterprize agt New York exclusive of what are necessary for our distant communications & Posts.
					Is of opinion that a force, superior to any the Enemy can oppose to it,

should Land at Graves end bay & March to Brooklyn—covered by the Shipping—which should advance threw the Narrows—the remaining force to operate against the No. End of the Island of New York.
					Baron. de Steuben.
					His opinion is not translated.
					General Knox.
					See his opinion on a seperate Paper.
					General Wayne.
					States the Enemy’s force at 11,000 Regular Troops—& 5,000 Mila & Refugees, besides Sailors & Marines. And our force at 7,000 effective Contl Regulars, & 7,000 Recrts for the Regular Regiments, besides french which he thinks may make up 20,000—these with 12,000 good Militia would warrt the Enterprise agt New York.
					To approach by the way of York Island with the above force—but if our Numbers should reach 40,000 then to advance by the way of York & Staten Island at the sametime.
					Is against an Expedition into Canada even with 10,000 Men.
					General Hand
					Upon the supposition that our regular Force will amount to at least 20,000 R[ank] & F[ile] & that that of the enemy does not exceed 11 or 12,000—and that in addition to our force, Militia to any amount may be had; is of opinion if the French can possess the harbour of New York with their Navy and maintain it, that we ought to attack that place in preference to any other.
					at the sametime he seems to have a strong biass to Canada with 10,000 Men which he thinks would reduce it very soon.
					Genl Starke
					Is for attacking New York, because we can do nothing else. not being able to act to the South of New Jersey—it being too late to carry an Expedition into Canada. and Hallifax is so far off that they can do us no hort.
					Genl Irvine
					Is for attacking New York.
					Remove the Army so soon as it amounts to 10,000 effectives, & establish a Post of communication at Dobbs’s Ferry. When it increases to 20,000 cross the Hudsons river—if it can be done with safety at that place—if not, then at Kings ferry and take post in an Intrenched Camp Parrallel to Harlaem River establishing a battery across it—possessing if possible the Islds about Hell Gate—communicating with Long Island if it should not be found more expedient to do it by Frogs Neck.
					The French Troops to Land at Oyster bay, a Corps of Americans to cross on to Long Isld at the same time by the Communication which shall be established—form a junction at Jamaica—and March to

Brooklyn. where they are immediately to take an intrenched Camp—the securest method will be to leave 10,000 Men in the Intrenched Camp on the Main & to cross & march with the rest till the Post is established at Brooklyn—after which a part may return.
					This is on a supposition that the enemy hold their Posts on the North end of York Island, & it will be too dangerous to attempt the passage of Harlaem River: But if the case should be otherwise, we may begin the Investiture & approaches on York Island with our whole force, or otherwise as circumstances & the strength of the enemy shall point out. if the appraches cannot be made together the Troops on York Island must remain quiet in a secure Camp till the Works at Brooklyn are carried & part of the Troops withdrawn from thence—A Blockade if nothing better must be attempted.
					This of great importance for the Shipping to clear the Harbor & No. River.


Title: General Orders, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Peekskill Tuesday August 1st 1780

							Parole Copenhagen.
							 Countersigns K. F.Watchword Discipline

					’Till the absent Corps join the Army and a more complete Arrangement can be made for the Campaign the following formation for the Light Infantry is to take place.
					New Hampshire Brigade to furnish 3 Companies New York [Brigade to furnish] including State Troops 5 [Companies making] 8 Companies [in] 1 battalion Commanded by Colo. [Van] Cortlandt [and] Major Galvan.
					Massachusetts 1st & 2nd brigades [to furnish] 8 [Companies in] 1 [battalion Commanded by] Colo. Sheppard [and] Major Trescott[.Massachusetts] 3d & 4th [brigades to furnish] 8 [Companies in] 1 [battalion Commanded by] Colo. Gimat [and] Major Keith.
					The Above three battalions will form a Brigade under Brigadier General Poor.
					Connecticut 1st & 2d Brigades [to furnish] 8 Companies [in] 1 battaln [commanded by] Swift[,] Clift[.] New Jersey [brigade] 4 [Companies] Hands [brigade] 3 [Companies] Starks [brigade] 3 [Companies making] 10—8 of which will form a battalion commanded by Colo. Ogden [and] Major Thayer.
					Pennsylvania 1st & 2d Brigades [to furnish] 6 Companies [and with] Two Companies of Hands [brigade adding] 2 [companies for] 8 [companies in] 1 Battalion [commanded by] Colonel Stewart [and] Major McPherson.
					The above three Battalions will form a Brigade, under Brigadier General Hand.
					The first four battalions will remain as the Companies have been already formed by the Inspector General.
					The last two Battalions will consist for the present of thirty two rank and file to each company to be immediately completed to this number.
					Each Battalion will have an Adjutant. Quartermaster who will also do the duty of Paymaster, a surgeon and Mate, a serjeant Major and Quartermaster serjeant, eight drums and fifes.
					Each Brigade will have[:] 1 Brigade Quarter Master[,] 1 [Brigade] Commissary[,] 1 [Brigade] Forage Master[,] 1 [Brigade] Waggonmaster[,] 1 [Brigade] Conductor with a forge and two armourers. These Appointments are immediately to be made.
					Each brigade will have two Field Pieces.
					These battalions to parade at Verplanks point, three ô clock this afternoon to be reviewed and formed by the Inspector General.

					The General entreats the officers commanding Divisions and brigades to exert themselves to get in readiness as fast as possible and as fast as they are ready they are to move towards the New bridge on Croton river.
					Convalescents and such men as are otherwise absolutely unfit to march yet capable of duty in a fixed post are to be left at Verplanks and Stoney points with a Captain and two subalterns at each the detachments of Infantry now there will join their respective Corps tomorrow morning.
					All the Women and Children of the Army are also to be left at these Posts for a few days where the commanding officers will see that they are furnished with rations as usual.
					General Poor’s and Clinton’s brigades each give a Subaltern to act as Adjutant and Quartermaster, also a capable serjeant for Serjeant Major and Quartermaster serjeant for the regiment of Light Infantry to be commanded by Colonel [Van] Cortlandt: a Surgeon from General Clinton’s and a mate from General Poors for the same.
					The first and second Massachusetts brigades give two Subs., a Surgeon, Mate, and two serjeants for the regiment to be commanded by Colonel Sheppard.
					The third and fourth Massachusetts brigades give two Subs. a Surgeon Mate and two Serjeants for the regiments to be commanded by Colonel Gimat.
					The Connecticut line gives two Subs. a Surgeon Mate and two Serjeants for the regiment to be commanded by Colonel Swift.
					The Jersey and Stark’s brigades give each a Sub. and Serjeant the former a Surgeon and the latter a mate for the regiment commanded by Colonel Ogden.
					The Pennsylvania regiments give two Subs. a Surgeon Mate and two serjeants for the regiment commanded by Colonel Stewart, to act in the abovementioned Capacities.

						After Orders
						The Safety of the Baggage of the Army being an object of great importance the Commander in Chief directs that in addition to the order of yesterday, a subaltern officer from each brigade be sent with it to Westpoint who is to take charge of that of his own brigade see it properly deposited there and remain with it untill further orders.
						Orders will be issued daily at twelve o clock and at five in the afternoon—The most punctual attendance for orders is expected.
						The 4th Pennsylvania regiment is to join the first Pennsylvania brigade—the 11th Pennsylvania regiment is to join the second brigade—Hazen’s regiment will join Poor’s brigade and Livingston’s is to form a Battalion with Spencer’s in the Jersey Brigade.

						The following will be the order of Battle for the present—The right wing commanded by Major General Greene will consist of two divisions in the first line and one division in the second line.
						1st Line Right Wing[:] Right—1st and 2d Pennsylvania brigades will compose one Division commanded by Major General St Clair[.] Left—New Jersey and New York brigades will compose one Division commanded by Major General Lord stirling[.]
						2d Line Right Wing[:] 1st and 2nd Connecticut Brigades will compose one division commanded by the Eldest Brigadier.
						The Left Wing commanded by Major General arnold will consist of two Divisions in the first line and one Division in the second line.
						1st Line Left Wing[:] Right—1st and 2nd Massachusett’s Brigades will compose one Division commanded by Major General Howe[.] Left Stark’s and Poor’s brigades will compose one division commanded by Major General McDougall[.]
						Second Line [Left Wing] 3d and 4th Massachusetts brigades will compose one Division commanded by Major Genl B. de Steuben.
						The two Brigades of Light Infantry will compose a Division and form the Advanced corps of the Army.
						Major General the Marquis de la Fayette will command it for the Campaign; in his absence Major General St Clair is requested to take the command.

						Evening Orders
						The whole corps of Light Infantry is to be paraded tomorrow ten o’clock on the same ground they were paraded on this afternoon, where the Brigades and Battalions will be formed and afterwards will encamp by themselves.
						The men will have all their Baggage and Camp equipage with them—The Quarter Masters are to be on the Ground to lay out the Camp—All the Inspectors and Sub Inspectors will attend.
						A return of Shoes and linnen overalls actually wanting by the pennsylvania line—the Artillery and Hazen’s—Angell’s and Webb’s regiments are to be made at nine o clock tomorrow morning without fail.
						A return to be made tomorrow morning to the Quarter master General at VerPlank’s point of all the Waggons and the number of waggon horses employed in every department, by the officers who have the immediate superintendency of them.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonels Bezaleel Beebe and Levi Wells, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Beebe, Bezaleel,Wells, Levi

						Sir
						Head Quarters Peeks kill Augst 1st 1780

					I am to desire you will be pleased to put the Regiment under your Command immediately in Motion—You will proceed by the shortest route to join the main Army in the neighbourhood of the White Plains, or wherever it may be: of which you cannot fail to have early information.
					I have also to entreat the Regiment will march with as little Baggage as possible; as the whole Army have divested itself of every superfluous & heavy article—I have written to Governor Trumbull informing him of the steps I have taken. I am Sir Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

						Go. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Philemon Dickinson, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

						Dr Sir
						Peck’s Kill Aug. 1. 1780

					From our present advices, a considerable part of the Enemy’s force is gone to the Eastward with a view of striking the Armament from France. In consequence of this I am moving with our Continental force towards New York, there to act as circumstances may justify. Events may arise to make the aid of the Jersey Militia essential, of which I have

apprised His Excellency the Governor, & requested that they might be in readiness to move & give us succour should it be requisite. If this should be the case I need not tell You that I shall be happy to see You at their Head. I am confident it will be the case—and my principal design in troubling You with this, is to advertize You that the Militia may be called for—and that You may turn your Eyes towards the event, and have it the more in your power to expedite their movement whenever it may be proper. I am Dr sir

						G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

						Dr Sir
						Peck’s Kill August 1. 1780

					From the great & many difficulties and the delay which attend land transportation, I think it essential that several of the Albany Sloops should be brought down to Kings ferry as soon as possible, where they can occasionally take in provision & other Stores and convey them down the River to some Landing convenient to the Army. You will therefore pursue immediate measures for collecting a good Many & have them brought down to Kings ferry. And you will embrace the opportunity which will be offered by their coming, to bring down all the plank & Square Timber that may be collected. Too much expedition cannot be used in executing this busin⟨ess⟩. I am Dr Sir, with great regard Yr Most Obedt st

						G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 1 August 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Robinson’s Farms 1st August 1780

					This Moment I have a Letter of which the following is an Extract—it is dated the 31st of July—“This Morning about 8 oClock The Troops under Command of Sir Henry Clinton left Huntington Harbour bound to the Westward.
					[“]A Frigate from the Eastward came Yesterday After noon—spoke with the Fleet & continued her Course.” This Sir evinces that the Enemy did not return on the 28th, as has been said—I sent yesterday by Express to four different Agents—I momentarily expect Answers, which will, I doubt not, reduce Matters to a Certainty. I am Dear Sir, with the greatest Respect your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

						Robt Howe


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

						Peeks-kill 1st Augt 1780

					We are thus far, my dear Marquiss, ⟨o⟩n our way to New-York. Tomorrow the whole army was to have taken up its line of march, and would have moved with all the rapidity in our power to this object, had we not a few hours since received advice from the Sound, dated yesterday that the fleet of transports had put back, and were steering westward. Col. Sheldon by a letter come to hand this instant, writes me to the same effect. We shall, therefore, govern our subsequent motions agreeably to our original plan.

					The express which takes this, comes from the minister, and only leaves me time to beg you to communicate to the Comte De Rochambeau and the Chevalier de Ternay, the force of this information, and to tell you that I am most affectionately, my dear Marquiss your friend & hble st

						G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 1 August 1780
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

						My dear General
						Newport August the 1st 1780

					Your letter to Count de Rochambeau mentionning the ennemy’s embarkation, and your future movements Against Newyork, a positive letter from Governor Trumbull, and a positive one from General par[s]ons, have once more altered the dispositions, and Such of the Militia as had been dismiss’d have been again Sent for.
					in Consequence of those expectations my offensive Arrangements have been entirely Cut Short—They are Wholy taken in theyr preparations—my letter of yesterday has been detain’d with the hope that Some intelligence Might be Added to it—But I will Send it this morning, And if it is possible to obtain from the Admiral Some hours’s Conversation with Captains dobs and Shaw, I Shall to morrow morning dispatch an other express.
					The dispositions of defense are, I Believe, these—the french to occupy the english lines—General heath to Command a Corps of Militia on the Tivertown Side—I to have his Van Guard on the island, and to watch the ennemy’s motions almost all around the island Which is not a Small affair—if the ennemy land I will try to oppose it, and the french will Come in Column to attak them with fix’d Bayonnets—if This attak don’t Succeed they will Retire Behind the lines and take with Them fifteen hundred Militia, when with the few ones that May Stay I will Retire to Butt’s hill and Secure the Communication with General heath.
					As You did not write to me, My dear General, I Could not know what you want me to do—if you think Seriously of entering on the island of Newyork, I am extremely Sorry to Stay here—if on the Contrary you

Send troops this way, (which if the ennemy land would be fatal to them) I will not be to lament my being a way from the army—I Shall feel very Unhappy to be with Some Militia when the light infantry is acting under you, and had I been sent for I would have join’d you very fast, But if You Can take Newyork I will heartly forget that I Could have been there and feel Nothing But joy—if however there was time enough I’d beg you will Send for me—if you Send troops this way I Believe they may strike a Great Blow.
					The Wind is against them, so that they won’t be here Before the day after to morrow. adieu My dear General, with the highest Respect I have the honor to be your friend

						lafayette


Title: From George Washington to the Officer Commanding the Additional Maryland Battalion, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Sir
						Hd Qrs Pecks Kill Augt 1st 1780

					By the time this arrives at the Head of Elk, I would willingly hope, that the Battallion which the Legislature determined to raise for the War, in lieu of the number of Militia required by the Honourable the Committee of Congress, acting with the Army, will have assembled and be in readiness to join me. If this is the case I am to request, that You will proceed with it and join the Army on the East side of Hudson’s River, with all the expedition You can, compatible with the health of the Men. Should it happen that not more than a part of the Battallion is assembled—You will send the Men forward under proper Officers & follow with the Remainder as soon as possible. I am Sir Yr most Obedt Hble st

						G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Reed, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

						sir
						Peck’s Kill Augt 1st 1780

					I beg leave to inform Your Excellency, that the exigency of the service makes it necessary for me to call the German Battallion from Sunbury to join this Army, & that I must embrace the earliest opportunity to transmit an Order for the purpose. I have thought it proper to communicate this to Your Excellency, that You may, if You deem it essential, supply it’s place, by incorporating & ordering a number of Your Militia to act in that Quarter. Had the requisition of the Honble the Committee of Congress to the State for Men to fill her Battallions, been even nearly complied with, and which I thought as they did, the public interest required, I should have foregone the advantages which would have been derived from the service of this Corps, and continued it at it’s present station; but this not having been the case, I am compelled to avail myself of it’s aid. I have the Honor to be

						G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Silvanus Seely, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Seely, Silvanus

						Sir
						Peck’s Kills [N.Y.] Augt 1st 1780

					I presume before this that the Militia required by the Committee of Congress of Your State, for cooperating with the Army, are assembled in the whole or in part, at Morris Town. If the whole are collected You will be pleased to march with them without any delay for Dobbs’s ferry, where You will receive further Orders; and if the whole are not assembled You will send on such as are, under proper Officers & continue to do it, as they arrive. I am sir Yr Most Obedt st

						G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Peekskill 1st Augt 1780

					I am assembling our whole Continental Force at this place with an intent to move down towards New York, in hopes, that an opportunity may offer in the absence of Sir Henry Clinton of striking the Enemy to advantage or at least of gaining possession of some posts which will be of very great advantage in carrying on our future operations. I have taken the liberty to order the two State Regiments under Colo. Wells and Beebe to join me, and have written to the Officer commanding the Militia assembled at Danbury to come forward. I shall be much obliged to your Excellency to give directions to the Militia detained upon Connecticut River for the purpose of cutting Fascines, to quit that Business and march as expeditiously as possible to join the Army. Should we be so lucky as to gain any advantagious posts it may require an additional force to keep them untill our Allies are in condition to form a junction with us. You will therefore be pleased to order two thousand of your Western Militia in addition to the number already voted, to hold themselves in readiness to move upon my requisition, and I shall be obliged to you for the names of the Officers to whom I am to apply, should there be occasion, that not a moments time may be lost—If Sir Henry Clinton should continue to prosecute his enterprize against the Fleet and Army of our Ally at Rhode Island, it may afford us an opportunity of striking a decisive stroke at New York—a thing of all others to be desired. I have the honor &.

						P.S. I recd your Excellency’s letter of the 24th on my march to this place.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Ludwig Weltner, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Weltner, Ludwig

						Sir
						Head Qrs Peck’s Kill Augt 1. 1780

					The exigency of the service makes it necessary that the Battallion under your command should join the Main Army, which is now on the East side of Hudson’s River. I therefore desire, that You will march with it without any delay, after receipt of this and form a junction with it. I am sir, with respect & esteem Yr Most Obedt st

						G.W.


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

						Head Quarters Peekskill Wednesday August 2d 1780

							Parole Halifax
							 C. Signs Kent LymeWatchword Liberty

					The order of yesterday directing the Troops to move to the New bridge on Croton is suspended; but the troops are to continue preparing for a march and each Division is to report at Headquarters when it is ready—Those that are not ready to day are to report at seven ô clock tomorrow morning the deficiencies and the causes.
					An immediate return is to be made of the proportion of recruits which have formerly served in the Army or otherwise for a continued term of three months and upwards distinguishing the terms they have served and the kind of service whether as continental: state troops or militia.
					Tomorrow ten ô clock a return is to be made to the Adjutant General of all the recruits that have joined the several lines.
					The next day at twelve ô clock an accurate Field return is to be made shewing the number of men we may absolutely employ in time of action excluding any little Guards which must necessarily remain for any particular purpose and which must ever be composed of the Invalids or men least capable of Field duty—This return will also shew in seperate columns such men as are unfit for action, wanting Clothes or Arms though it is hoped there will be few of the former description and none of the latter as there are a sufficiency of arms on the ground to supply our present wants. The officers will exert themselves to call in all detachments.
					As there is a very great scarcity of bayonet belts and scabbards the General directs that the troops keep their bayonets constantly fix’d

except when cleaning as well in camp as on every kind of duty whatever with arms—This is to be considered as a standing order.
					The Men in the Corps of Sappers and Miners are to be furnished with good french arms and accoutrements from the regiments respectively from which they were drafted.
					Lieutenant Welch of the Corps of Sappers & Miners is appointed Quarter master to the same.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 2 August 1780
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

						Sir.
						War Office [Philadelphia] Augt 2nd 1780.

					The Board request your Excellency will be pleased to furnish them with an account of the places you have fix’d upon as Magazines for State supplies of provisions throughout the United States specifying the quantity and quality of the articles which you have directed to be deposited at the several posts. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Yr Excellys Most Obedt Servt

						Willm Grayson.
						By order.


Title: To George Washington from the Georgia Delegates in Congress, 2 August 1780
From: Georgia Delegates in Congress
To: Washington, George

						Sir,
						Philadelphia, 2 August, 1780.

					We do ourselves the pleasure to enclose to your Excellency, a letter from Governor Burt, of Antigua, respecting Mr Thomas Morris, an officer of the Continental artillery in the Georgia line, to General Prevost, who was supposed to be Commanding Officer in the Southern Department. (You will perceive that its object is to liberate Mr John Burke, a citizen of that Island, who is your prisoner, and whose parole he says You took at Cambridge in 1776.[)] Mr Morris says he speaks in the highest terms of your treatment of it, and wishes that you would favor his exchange for Mr Morris. The Delegates of Georgia, in addition to a claim upon your attention on account of his having a large family, & having suffered to their knowledge most capitally by the war, would

be obliged to your Excellency to propose the Exchange to Sir Henry Clinton. We are, Sir, with great respect, Your Excellency’s most ob. Sers.

						Geo. Walton.Edwd TelfairW. Few


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 2 August 1780
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Fish Kill [N.Y.] 2nd August 1780

					I had the honour of receiving your Excellencies letter of 31th ult. on the subject of forwarding immediately to Albany a quantity of Ammunition, every thing respecting which as far as in my power was immediately sett in motion, but I was oblidged to apply to the commanding officer at West Point for men.
					A considerable Body of the Eastern Militia is now here, more are momently expected; I have advised the commanding officer to march his Troops down to the Army, but he says he has no orders for that purpose; I thought proper to acquaint your Excelleny of this by express, that you might have the earliest opportunity of transmitting such orders on the subject as you think necessary. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect Your Excellencies most obedt and very humble s⟨t⟩

						Udny Hay


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 2 August 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Robinsons 2d of August 1780

					I found when I came Home a Letter, of which the following is an Extract—the Agent is, in my Opinion confidential—the Letter is dated August the 1st—“The Enemy’s Maneuvres are strange and surprising—after embarking their Troops at white Stone, & coming up the Sound to Huntington Bay on Thursday last, they anchored, & sent two Ships Eastward, one of which returned on Sunday, & yesterday about 5 in the Morng the Signal for sailing was fired, & about 8 the whole Fleet were under Sail & went westwardly, the Wind then at East—they certainly had on Board six or eight thousand Troops—I have traced them no

further than Heart’s Island—I have Persons on the Island From whom I expect a further Account momentarily, which if important enough to be worth Notice, you shall have—The People here, fear the Ravages of the Enemy”—Another Agent whose Letter is of the same Date says—“That the Fleet of Transports which lay in Huntington Bay got under Way yesterday Morng & sailed to the Westward, supposed to have returned to New York upon News received from Rhode Island—as a Frigate arrived to them from thence the Eveg before.”
					These Accounts come from other Hands than those did, which I have already communicated—& tho’ I believe them, & have no Doubt that the Expidition against Rhode Island is given over, yet I wish not to have Such Reliance put upon my Informations, as may, (should they not be veritable) draw upon me either your Excellency’s, or my Country’s Censure.
					I have laid myself out to obtain, & think I have established no very bad Chain, & such as it is, it is perfectly at your Service.
					I have written this to Night, but shall order the Man not to sett off till tomorrow Morng early, not thinking it worth disturbing you to Night. I am Dear Sir with great Respect your Excellency most obedient

						Robert Howe


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 2 August 1780
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Richmond Aug. 2. 1780.

					In obedience to the act of our assembly, a copy of which I now do myself the honor of inclosing you, I am, in the name of the General assembly, “to request you to proclaim pardon to all deserters from the Virginia line of the continental army, who shall within two months after the publication of the act” (which took place about a week ago) “return to their several companies, if on land, & if at sea, within two months after their return, and serve during the war, if so engaged, & if otherwise, shall serve two years over and above the time for which he or they engaged.” the capture of the Virginia line took place during the

session of the assembly, & probably was not known when this act passed. this will account to your Excellency for the requisition to deserters to join their companies; and will no doubt point out to you the necessity of changing it in that part. Your Excellency having had experience of the efficacy of Proclamations can better judge what expectations may be formed from the one now asked: from that part of the act which makes it the duty of the militia captains to seek for deserters I do hope that very good effects will proceed. I have the honor to be with every possible sentiment of esteem & respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient & most humble servt

						Th: Jefferson


Title: Proclamation to Deserters, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						[Peekskill, 3 Aug. 1780]

					By his Excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON, Esq; General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United States of America.
					WHEREAS the Honorable General Assembly of the State of Rhode-Island have been pleased, by an Act passed in the Session of July, 1780, “to request me to pardon all the Deserters from the Troops of the said State, who should join their respective Corps in such a Time as I might think proper to fix.”
					I do hereby, in Compliance with the said Request, by this my Proclamation, offer a full and free Pardon to all Deserters from the two Continental Regiments of the said State, who shall join the Corps to which they respectively belong, on or before the 10th Day of September next: And I also, in like Manner, do hereby grant a full and free Pardon to all and every Deserter belonging to the said two Regiments, who shall have joined the same at any Time since the passing of the said Act.
					And whereas there may be Deserters from other Corps of the Continental Army, lurking within the said State of Rhode-Island, who would willingly return to their Duty, were they not prevented by a Fear of Punishment: In order therefore to remove every Pretext for their remaining absent longer, I do also offer a full and free Pardon to all such under this Description, if any there are, who may join the Corps to which they respectively belong at or before the Time above mentioned.

					Given at Head-Quarters, at Peck’s Kill, this third Day of August, A.D.1780.

						GEORGE WASHINGTON.
						By his Excellency’s Command,ROBERT H. HARRISON, Sec’ry.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benedict Arnold, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

						Sir
						[Peekskill, 3 Aug. 1780]

					You are to proceed to West Point: and take the command of the Post, and its dependencies—in which are included all from Fish-kill to Kings Ferry, The Corps of Infantry and Cavalry advanced towards the Enemy’s lines on the East side of the River will also be under your orders, and will take directions from you, and you will endeavour to obtain every intelligence of the Enemy’s motions. The Garrison of West Point is to consist of the Militia of New Hampshire and Massachusetts, for which reason, as soon as the Number from those States amounts to twelve hundred, the New York Militia under the command of Colonel Malcom are to join the main Army on the West side of the River. And when the number from Massachusetts Bay alone shall amount to fifteen hundred Rank and File—the Militia of New Hampshire will also march to the main Army. Colonel James Livingstons Regiment is till further Orders to Garrison the Redoubts at Stoney and Verplanks Points.
					Claverac upon the North River is appointed for the place of rendevous of the Militia of New Hampshire and Massachusetts, from whence you will have them brought down as fast as they arrive. A supply of provisions will be necessary at that place, which you will order from time to time as there may be occassion.
					You will endeavour to have the works at West Point carried on as expediously as possible by the Garrison, under the direction and superintendance of the Engineers—The stores carefully preserved—And the provision safely deposited and often inspected—particularly the salted meat. a certain quantity of provision has been constantly kept in each work, to be ready against a sudden attack. Where there are Bomb Proofs they serve for Magazines—but in the smaller works where there are none, you will have places erected sufficiently tight to preserve the provision from damage and pillage.
					You will as soon as possible obtain and transmit an accurate Return

of the Militia which have come in, and inform me regularly of their encrease.
					Should any Levies, from the State of New York or those to the Eastward of it, intended for the Continental Army arrive at West Point, You will immediately forward them to the lines to which they respectively belong.
					The difficulties we shall certainly experience on the score of provisions render the utmost œconomy highly necessary. You will therefore attend frequently to the daily issues, and by comparing them with your Returns, will be able to check any impositions. Given at Head Quarters at Peekskill this 3d of August. 1780.

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 3 August 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Ver Planks Point [N.Y.] Augt 3d 1780

					The more I have thought upon the subject of explaining the reasons and causes of our movements to the Army, and through them to the Country, the more I am confirmed in my opinion, of the propriety and necessity for it.
					Your Excellency will consider this is a great movement, and has been very rapid. The march of the Army has been very fatiguing. The teams of the Country have been impressed and every kind of property laid hold on to pave the way to a certain plan of operations. If it is all relinquished without any explanation. The natural reflections that will arise upon the occasion will be, why has the Army been thus harassed without an object, why has the people been draged from their homes with their teams and the public subjected to a most enormous expence; and why has the property of the people been laid hold on by the hand of power when there appears nothing to warrant these extraordinary measures.
					Without some explanation we shall not do justice to our selves, nor

will your excellency to your own Military character. The enterprize was great, the object noble; and the end for which it was undertaken appears to have been partly answered if not fully so. To explain the reasons for the movement will give the Army a high opinion of the confidence you have in their spirit and enterprize and perfectly reconcile them to all the past fatigues and to those which may follow in regaining our former position. It will strike the Enemy with the boldness of the design. It will be pleasing to the French Army as a measure calculated to give the most speedy relief. It will reconcile the Country to all the inconveniencies they have felt and prepare their minds for future exertions of a similar nature in full confidence that the object is worthy the preparation.
					Tho I am no advocate in common for giving reasons either to the Army or the community for our movements; yet there are cases when substantial advantages can be drawn from it and when the peoples curiosity can be gratified and the public be benefited at the same time I think it will [be]justifiable to adopt the measure.
					It is unnecessary to gasconade highly upon the occasion; but I think we may with great reason suppose the Enemies return to be in consequence of our movements; and that gives us the reputation of having saved our Allies from an injury and subjected the Enemy to the mortefication of having been obliged to relenquish their project.
					If the explanation takes place there will be no inconvenience in our recrossing the River without it I think there will [be] for both the Army and the Country will think all is given up and there will be no preparations proportionable to the business in contemplation.
					Your Excellency may remember that Sir Henry Clinton explained his movement up to Stony Point last Campaign after General Wayne took that place. He had not half the reasons for that explanation as you have for this.
					I wish your Excellency to determin upon your further operations as soon as possible as Boards and Teams are impressing collecting and coming to Camp as fast as possible. If the Teams are not likely to be wanted immedeately they had better be discharged without loss of time as it will save a great expence and free the people from no small inconvenienies.
					Col. Hay has sent down a considerable quantity of Boards to Kings ferry; and more are coming. Mr Clarke of Danbury writes me, that [he] has got an Account of 100,000 feet; which may be had; but not without great inconvenience to the Inhabitants, as they were got to rebuild the houses burnt by the Enemy last Campaign There is a great number of impressed teams at Kings ferry on the other side which I wish to dismiss if there is not an immedeate necessity for them. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Ser.

						Nath. Greene M:G.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

						Dr Sir
						Peeks Kill August 3d 1780

					I shall adopt the order you recommend.
					Tomorrow if we are all ready to ma[r]ch we will begin to cross the River for Dobbs’s ferry. You will therefore discontinue your preparations for the object that brought us here as it has ceased, further than as they may promote the views of the campaign. Endeavour to have every thing in your department ready to day to move the Troops. I am &c.

						G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Peekskill 3d Augt 1780.

					I have recd your favors of yesterday—I have ordered the Militia of Massachusetts and New Hampshire from Fishkill to West point—Claverac being fixed upon for the Route of the Militia of those two States they will be coming on that way, and there is for that Reason a necessity of depositing some provision for them there. The Commy General not having yet come on from Jersey, I am at a loss to know whether he has made any or what arrangements for throwing in provision at Claverac, but probably the acting Commy at West Point or Fishkill may know something of the matter, you will therefore oblige me by seeing them and concerting this Business with them. Should any Beef be coming from the Eastward by the upper route part had better be stopped at Claverac, than to send it up the River. Flour must, I suppose, at all events be sent from West point—I am confident you will arrange matters in the most advantagious manner. I am Dear Sir Yr &.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

						Dr Sir,
						Head Quarters Peeks Kill August 3d 1780

					I received Yesterday your letter of the 29th Ulto. Before this comes to hand you will have been informed that the Fleet in the Sound, which it is generally believed was designed to proceed to Rhode Island, has returned. We have so many accounts of this that we have no doubt of it, and are pursuing measures accordingly. With respect to the return of the Militia who were called for, under the persuasion that the Enemy meant to attack the Count, it will rest with him and you to determine the point, but as it is of consequence, on account of the state of our provisions, that we should not have more of these in the field than prudence and necessity may require, and as it is not very probable that the Enemy will now return upon their steps and prosecute their supposed original plan, it might be best to permit the militia to go to their homes.

					A⟨s⟩ to your coming on to the army immediately, I shall leave it intirely with yourself to act in the affair as you please—Your command is and will always be ready for you—however if you find your presence where you are necessary and that it will contribute to the accommodation of our allies and to the cultivation of harmony, matters about which I am very anxious, it may possibly be more eligible for you to remain longer, as we shall not probably have any instant—active operations. But as I have already said do in the matter as you like, and as circumstances may decide.
					I find by a letter from His Excellency Governor Greene of the 24th that nearly the whole of the States quota of Levies for filling her two Regiments had assembled, and were doing duty under the command of Col. Greene. It is of consequence that Col. Greene’s Regiment & the Levies should join the army, in order to compleat our arrangements, and that they may be disciplined. However I would not wish them to be ordered on, without your consulting the Count and his approbation of the measure. If they do not march immediately, you will impress Col. Greene with the necessity there is, for his strictest and most constant attention to disciplining them, and for his being ready to proceed the moment he is ordered or the Count shall judge his remaining longer unnecessary. You will also direct him to transmit me a return of his regiment & of the Levies. I am Dr Sir With great regard & esteem Your most Obet Servant

						Go: Washington

						P.s. I also find by the Governor’s letter, that the militia required by the committee & requested by me to march by the 25th Ulto have been delayed by the arrival of the British Ships of War off Rhode Island. You will consult the Count on the propriety of their advancing or remaining longer, and will communicate the result to the Governor, to whom I have written, and requested him to act with respect to the one or the other, according to the information he should receive from you. In case the Count judges their remaining material, I have intreated the Governor that they may be held in such a state of readiness, as to be able to move on the shortest notice, on my requisition, or when the Count is about to proceed with his Troops, or shall signify that their detention will be no longer necessary.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

						Sir
						Head Quarters P⟨ecks⟩ Kill Aug. 3d 1780

					Having received accounts, that Sir Henry Clinton had embarked the principal part of his force for Rhode Island, I put the army in motion the 29th of July and the 31st formed a junction in the vicinity of this place with the troops in this quarter. Had Sir Henry prosecuted what appeared to be his design, my intention was to attempt New York in his absence. Our preparations were made for this purpose, when I received advice, that the fleet returned the 31st from Huntington bay, towards New York probably in consequence of our approach. The object of our movement this way having ceased, we shall repass the River tomorrow, and proceed with our whole force to Dobbes ferry, where we shall execute some preliminary measures towards the intended cooperation. The reasons of our recrossing the river are—to save transportation by meeting our bread supplies, and to avoid consuming the forage on this side, which may be essential to future operations. I have the honor to be With perfect respect yr Excellys Most Obedient & humble servant

						Go: Washington

						P.S. I am honored with your Excellency’s letter of the 26th of July. I take it for granted, from the terms of the resolve, that Congress have given the necessary directions about the junction of the frigates &c. with the French fleet in the 1st instance. At present, I imagine, it is not practicable, as The British fleet superior in force, is before the port of Rhode Island.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 3 August 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

						sir
						Philadelphia August 3. 1780

					By the enclosed Act of Congress of the 2. Instant you will be informed that all restrictions by any former Acts of Congress which confine the Operations of the Commander in Chief to the Limits of these United States are taken off. I have the Honour to be with every Sentiment of Esteem and respect your Excellency’s most obedient humble servant

						Sam. Huntington President


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

						Sir
						Head Quarters [Peekskill] August 3. 1780

					I wish to be informed, whether what Arms and Accoutrements you have on hand, together with those in the Magazines capable of being put in repair in three weeks; are sufficient to equip five thousand men, exclusive of the troops now on this ground, who are destitute and must be supplie⟨d⟩.
					If there are not Arms and Ac⟨co⟩utrements to this amount, I beg you will give me the best information you can of the number in an hour after the receipt of this. I am, with great esteem Your Most Obedient Humble Servant.

						Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Officers Commanding the Massachusetts and New Hampshire Militia at Fishkill, N.Y., 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Sir
						Peeks-kill 3d Augt 1780

					You will be pleased on receipt of this to move the troops under your command down to West-point where you will take further orders from the officer commanding at this post. It will also be necessary to leave directions for the militia as they come in to join you. I beg you to send me a return of your present strength. I am sir &.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Silvanus Seely, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Seely, Silvanus

						Sir
						Head Quarters Peekskill 3d Augt 1780

					I wrote to you on the 1st Inst. to march with the Militia under your command to Dobbs’s ferry. I then expected the Army would have moved immediately down on this side the River, but as circumstances require us to halt at this place for some days—you will not advance beyond Totowa Bridge till further orders—This is supposing this letter should meet you on your march from Morris Town: But should you not have left that place, you will remain there untill you hear from me again: Be pleased to send me a return of your Numbers by the Express. I am &.


Title: General Orders, 4 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Peekskill Friday August 4th 1780

							Parole Ontario
							 Countersigns L. A. Watchword Advance

						Evening Orders
						Colonel Livingston with his own regiment, is ’till further orders, to garrison the redoubts at Stoney and VerPlanks points—He will be under the direction of, and make reports to, Major General Arnold commanding at West Point—The Detachments now at those Posts, on the Arrival of that regiment are to join their Brigades.


Title: To George Washington from Captain William Helms, 4 August 1780
From: Helms, William
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Hacketts Town [N.J.] 4th Augt 1780

					Have hitherto had a Guard of twenty five men at this place, likewise an equil number at the post at Sussex Court House, the greatest part of the flower is now forwarded, have reduced the Guards to a Serjt & twelve at each post, thinking since the capture of Moody I had little danger to apprehend.
					The Milittia continues on duty without grumbling, the hurry of their

work being over, I think my presence here unnecessary any longer, would therefore beg for premission to join my Regiment. I Have the Honor to remain Your Excellencys Obdt Servt

						Wm Helms Capt. 2d Regt Jersey


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

						Sir
						Peek’s Kill August the 4th 1780

					Colonel Gemat arrived here last night, by whom I had the honor to receive Your Excellency’s request, that I would send instructions for the second Division coming from France, with respect to the measures which it should pursue for forming a junction with the first. I beg leave to inform Your Excellency that I wrote to the Count de Rocambeau, agreable to my Letter to You of the 27th Ulto and requested, that he in concert with the Chevalier de Ternay would communicate to me, that it might be transmitted to Your Excellency, the line of conduct which they should judge proper to be pursued by this Division. As the Marine are concerned and the junction in present circumstances is a matter of peculiar delicacy, I did not think myself qualified to decide on the point. I have not received their Answer yet, and therefore I cannot pretend to determine what should be done. I will however take the liberty to observe, that if the Ships of War with this Division are superior or even fully equal to those of the Enemy, off Rhode Island, I should suppose it would be eligible for them to proceed there at once, if they are met by the Cruizers Your Excellency has sent out on the Southern

Coast; if this is not the case, it ought to make the Delaware as soon as possible. In this event the Troops might be forwarded to Trentown in the first instance—and the Ships might remain till ulterior measures with respect to them, should be determined. These however I would not offer but as mere suggestions and much, it would seem, must depend on circumstances and the discretion of the Officer commanding the Division. Perhaps if the Ships of war should proceed directly to Rhode Island, ⟨it⟩ will be best for them to disembarrass themsel⟨f⟩ of their transports and send them into the ⟨Delaware,⟩ as in the other case. I take it for granted sig⟨nals⟩ of recognisance have been preconcerted bet⟨ween⟩ the two Divisions.
					On the 31st Ulto the Enemy’s fleet ⟨in⟩ the sound returned from Huntington harbour ⟨to⟩ New York. From every information the Count ⟨de⟩ Rochambeau & his Army were certainly the⟨ir⟩ object, and they had embarked in considerable force with a view of attacking them. I cann⟨ot⟩ determine with precision, the reasons which induced the Enemy to relinquish their plan, ⟨but⟩ it is not improbable that the movements of our Army & the ulterior measures I was a⟨bout⟩ to prosecute, operated in some measure to produce it. I have the honor to be With the most perfect respect & e⟨steem⟩ Your Excellency’s Most Obedt servt

						Go: Washingt⟨on⟩


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Malcom, 4 August 1780
From: Malcom, William
To: Washington, George

							Sir
							Wt point [N.Y.] Augt 4 1780

						General Howe intimated to me that it was Your Excellencys pleasure, that when the Eastern Militia Arrived, I Should employ the Garrison, on the defences of the place & such Services as appeard most essentially necessary & usefull—This day Col. Wade who Commands the Bay Troops is come in & informs me that 800 or 1000 men will be at the Water Side this Evening—the Hampshire Militia are at FishKill & may be soon expected also—When all those troops get to the Garrison,

We can do a great deal of Service And I find a great deal necessary—the magazine ought in my opinion to be the first object—It remains as I left it 20 months ago, & the Ammunition in an old barn, & in the Bomb proof—very improper places, & at Great Hazard—the Stone for the magazin⟨e⟩ was Contracted for by me, prepard at Haverstraw & I imagine paid for long ago—the Commissary Stores appear to be very ill callculated for the Security of the provisions—nor is there any place to Secure prisoners—Artificers will not be Wanted for these purposes—at least we can draw the Number Suff[i]cient from the Troops in Garrison, & I imagine there are Abundance of materials to be collected about the Fort—Some of the Redoubts are tumbling to pieces, & ought to be repaird—Indeed I observe a Number of things that require notice or the Expence already incurr’d will be lost—Firewood for Winter—& the barracks, may yet be objects—there are 60 or 70 prisoners (some confind 100 & odd days[)]—reported as Spies, Thieves &c.—they are in a Situation at which humanity revolts—they increase our duty & eat our provissions—I pray your Excellency for directions concerning them—at any rate it would be charity to take them out to Work, as was my method when I had the Command here before.
						There are great demands from the posts of Fish Kill, Windsor & Newborough for Guards & Fatigue, forwarding on stores, provisions &c.—I have furnished them & Suppose your Excellency expects it to be So.
						I am Sorry that the Baron dissmissd the officers which by the Governors particular direction I sent to Command the Three companys of Infantry—I have no doubt but they were as good of their Rank as coud be had from the York Line—They are resignd or gone to the Governor to do So, & it will give Universal discontent. I have the Honor to be with the Greatest Respect Your Excellencys most Ob. & very Hble Servt

							W. Malcom Col. Comdr

						neither our State Troops nor those coming in have, or can get any Kind of camp furniture[.] I really do not Know how ⟨to⟩ ⟨illegible⟩ ⟨them⟩ ⟨illegible⟩.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Return Jonathan Meigs, 4 August 1780
From: Meigs, Return Jonathan
To: Washington, George

						Sir.
						Verplanks Point [N.Y.] 4th Augt 1780

					I have this day receiv’d intelligence from my Family, of a nature that requires my return to it immediately; nothing but obligations too Sacred to be disregarded could induce me to request leave of absence at this time; when I would gladly do my part in the important Campaign before us. It is with regret that I am obliged to inform your Excellency; that it depends on circumstances, whether I shall ever be able to return to the command of my Regt again: if it should be impossible to return, I Shall write & request a dismission from the Army, bearing the present date, as I never have, or wish to eat the Bread of my Country without rendering personal Service. It affords me no small satisfaction that I shall leave two Able Field Officers in the Reigiment I have the Honor to command. I am with the most perfect respect Your Exellencys Obedt servant

						R. J. Meigs.


Title: From George Washington to John Mitchell, 4 August 1780 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Mitchell, John

					Letter not found: to John Mitchell, 4 Aug. 1780. On 9 Aug., Mitchell wrote GW: “Your Excellencys favours of the 4th Instant came to hand Yesterday.”


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Silvanus Seely, 4 August 1780 [letter not found]
From: Seely, Silvanus
To: Washington, George

					Letter not found: from Col. Silvanus Seely, 4 Aug. 1780. On 6 Aug., GW wrote Seely: “I just now received Your Letter of the 4th.”


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

						Head Quarters Peekskill Saturday Augt 5th 1780

							Parole Pomona
							 Countersigns Quin QuickWatchword Parade

					Brigade returns of the Drafts and recruits regimentally digested, who have joined since the last returns of that kind are to be transmitted to the Orderly Office tomorrow at orderly time; after that every two days, of the recruits or drafts that shall have joined since the preceding returns.
					A Field officer from each Division and a Captain Sub., four serjeants four Corporals and Sixty privates who are best acquainted with the management of boats from each Brigade in the Left wing are to be detached and left at Verplank’s point as said Divisions and Brigades cross the Ferry, to assist in transporting the baggage of General Staff Stores &ca they are to remain ’till General Greene permits them to rejoin.
					The Park of Artillery is to encamp in the Centre of the 2d Line.
					Lieutenant Colonel Smith is appointed Inspector and will consider the Light Infantry in his Department.
					Major Rice is appointed Inspector to Stark’s brigade.
					Major Scott as eldest brigade Inspector in General McDougall’s Division will do the duty of Inspector to the Division.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benedict Arnold, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Peekskill 5th Augt 1780.

					Inclosed is a letter which I recd this day from Colo. Malcom. His observations may perhaps be of use to you. He was a considerable time in command at the post, and is well acquainted with what relates to its security. It will be well to make inquiry into the cases of the number of prisoners who are confined in the Fort. Some of them may have

been committed upon frivolous occasions, and no charges that can be supported left against them. If so, they had better be discharged than kept. Some of the others may be usefully employed as Colo. Malcom mentions.
					The Quarter Master General expects some Camp Kettles shortly—he will endeavour to spare some to the Militia. I imagine they are what are principally wanting. In the mean time they must endeavour to make a shift with the few cooking Utensils they have.
					I beleive the matter of changing the Officers of the Infantry Companies has been settled between The Governor of New York and the Baron. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 5 August 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

						Sir,
						Camp Verplanks point [N.Y.] August 5th 1780.

					The time for which I engaged to act in the Qr Masters department at the request of the committee of Congress for cooperation is almost expired, and as I can not exercise the Office any longer consistant with my own safety; I am to request your Excellency will take measures for relieving me as soon as possible from the disagreeable predicament I am in. In the mean time I shall be exceedingly obliged to your Excellency for the sense you entertain of my conduct and services since I have been in the department, as you alone are the best judge of the propriety of one and merit of the other. The business is truly disagreeable and distressing, and has been so for a long time: notwithstanding, if it had been possible for me to have got through it this Campaign consistant with my own safety and the public good, upon the plan which Congress proposed, I would readily have done it. But from the knowledge I have of the department, I know it is utterly impossible to follow the system and answer the demands of the service; and to attempt it at this critical season, will most assuredly defeat our plan of operations and bring the Army into the greatest distress.
					It would be a folly for me to attempt to combat the prejudices of public bodies with hopes of success; time alone can convince them that

their measures are destructive of their true interest, as well as highly injurious to some of their most faithfull servants.
					I am sensible my conduct has been viewed by many in a very improper light, and I am persuaded many think the business can be done with more method and at a less expence than it has been. I wish it may be the case; but am much mistaken if the nature of the business is capable of more system or will admit of less expence; if the plan of the war continues upon the present scale, and the Army on it’s present footing.
					I have endeavoured to the utmost of my power to enter into the spirit and intention of your Excellencys measures and if my conduct has not been satisfactory to Government and to yourself, it has been owing to a want of abilities and not inclination. I am with great respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

						Nath. Greene M. General


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 5 August 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

						sir,
						Philadelphia August 5. 1780

					Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed two Acts of Congress of this Day. By the one you will be informed that Colonel Pickering is appointed Quarter Master General.
					The other respects the Southern Department.
					You will please to observe it is the Sense of Congress that the Land and naval Forces, as well of his most Christian Majesty, as of these United States, or such Part thereof as the Commander in Chief shall think necessary, be employed in the Manner, and at the Time that shall appear to him most convenient, for the Expulsion of the Enemy from their several Posts in the States of South Carolina & Georgia, and that your

Excellency concert with the Officers commanding the Fleet and Army of his most Christian Majesty, the proper Measures for this Purpose, and carry such Measures into Execution, so as not to interfere with any Plan of Operations formed against the Enemy, as the more immediate Objects of the present Campaign.
					You are also fully authorized, if you shall judge it necessary, to concert with the proper Officers and Ministers, such Plans of Operation to be under taken by any other of his most Christian Majestys Forces, or by the Forces of his Catholic Majesty, in the West Indies, or Louisiana, or elsewhere, as may either immediately, or in their Effect, facilitate, or assist the proposed Enterprize.
					Congress will, so soon as they receive proper Information, make the necessary requisitions from the States, for Supplies, and afford every other Aid and Assistance in their Power, for promoting, and effectually prosecuting the Undertaking.
					I am sensible that this proposed Enterprize, from our present Circumstances will in your Opinion very much depend on the Event of the intended Operations of the present Campaign.
					By this Act you will also observe, that the recruits now raising in Virginia for filling up their Quota of Continental Troops are ordered to join the Southern Army. I have the Honor to be with every Sentiment of respect & Esteem your Excellency’s most obedient servant

						Sam. Huntington President


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

						My Dear Marquis
						Hd Qrs [Peekskill] Aug. ⟨5⟩th 1780

					I have received your two letters of the 31st of July & 1st of August and approve the steps you have taken. I am sorry however to find that The Chevalier De Ternay is so averse to entering the harbour in case

of superiority. I believe he will find it impracticable without entering, effectually to interrupt supplies and blockade the enemy; and in my opinion, our principal chance of success is in a complete blockade. I am however willing to go on with the chances of a seige if agreeable to our allies. But My Dear Marquis, let me entreat you to ascertain the probability of a succour coming from France and the West Indies; for to be keeping so large a body of militia in the field on a slender hope of being able to operate will be unadviseable on every account. We shall exhaust ourselves to no purpose and every day will add to the ill impressions that relenquishing the enterprise will make on the minds of the people. We ought to stand upon pretty sure ground, or dismiss our preparations for offensive measures at once.
					Though I seriously intended to attack New York if Clinton had gone to Rhode Island; yet I did not send for you, because I thought it not improbable he would return in consequence of our movement as has happened, because your presence where you are in the other case would have been of great utility to The French fleet and army. but above all because I was [of] opinion that it wd be [an] impracticability for you to arrive in time as I intended to operate with the utmost celerity.
					I rejoice in the approbation Your countrymen give to mine and in the marks of mutual good-will. This alliance My Dear Marquis ought to be cemented in affection; and you will be justly dear to both countries for the share you have in binding it by those powerful and pleasing ties. You know all my friendship for you Adieu.

						P.S. I have written to the Minister on the matters you mention.
						As the medicines are much wanted will you be good enough to give directions to Dr Craik or Mr Olney that they may be forwarded with dispatch to this army.


Title: From George Washington to La Luzerne, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

						Sir
						Head Quarters Peeks Kill August 5th 1780

					The Count De Rochambeau being too much ⟨en⟩gaged to write to your Excellency, when the last express came ⟨aw⟩ay has requested me to

give you an account of his present ⟨dis⟩positions—which you will find in the inclosed copy of ⟨his⟩ letter of the 30th of July. In the letter I did myself the ⟨hon⟩or of writing to you yesterday, I omitted sending you a ⟨de⟩tail of the enemy’s naval force with Arbuthnot; because ⟨I⟩ took it for granted you were in possession of full information ⟨up⟩on this article. But as it possibly may not be the case, ⟨I s⟩end you a list, which I beleive you may rely on as accurate. With every sentiment of perfect Respect and attachment. I have the honor to be Your Excellency Most Obedient & Humbe Servant

						Go: Washingt⟨on⟩

						P.S. The Marquis De la Fayette writes me that the Chevalier De Ternay intends immediately to write to the Count De Guichen by way of Philadelphia, and suggests the propriety of having two or three fast sailing vessels ready to convey the dispatches.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

						Sir
						Head Quarters [Peekskill] 5th Augt 1780.

					I was yesterday honored with your letter of the 30th July. I applaud all the measures you have taken, which appear to me precisely such as the occasion required, and I am very happy to hear that the neighbouring States manifested so much ardor in doing what their interest, their duty and their gratitude demanded from them. It is my wish you should detain the levies as long as you think they can be useful to you.
					The Marquiss de la Fayette will have informed you by my desire, that Clinton returned with his fleet the 31st of July. He has since landed his troops on Long-Island, and I think will hardly resume the project, which he certainly entertained, of attacking you. In consequence of his return, the army is recrossing the river, and will proceed to Dobbs’ ferry about ten miles from Kings bridge, where we intend to establish a communication, that will save us a considerable land transportation, in case New-York is our eventual object. The reasons for preferring the West-side of the river to the other which at first sight will appear most natural is to meet our supplies of flour, and save the forage on this side; both of which in our circumstances are objects of importance.
					By the inclosed copy of a letter to the Chevalier de la Luzerne you will see the opinion I have ventured to give respecting the second division, concerning which I impatiently wait to receive your sentiments, and those of the Chevalier de Ternay, with a plan for a junction of the fleets as suggested in my letter of the [].
					No other changes have taken place in the situation of the enemy at New-York. I am with the truest esteem Sir, Your most obt & hble servt

						Go: Washington

						P.S. The minister agreeable to the application to him has sent out fast sailing cruizers from all the parts of the coast where it is probable they may fall in with the second division.