Title: To George Washington from Colonel Henry Jackson, 9 February 1780
From: Jackson, Henry
To: Washington, George

            May it please your Excellency
            Camp Morristown Feby 9 1780

          At a late Brigade General Court Martial of which Lt Colo: Huntington was President, Joseph Waterhouse, William Straw, & Amos Rounds, Soldiers in my Regiment were Sentence’d to suffer Death for the Crime of Desertion—Christian Myers, Phillip Wild, Jese Peirce, Nathan Barney, John Mathews, James Whitney William Harman, Peletiah Harman Nathaniel Milliken, & Joel Milliken also Soldiers in the Regiment tried at the same Court, for the same Crime found Guilty & sentenced to receive Corporal Punishment—the situation of the Regiment is such that it does not call for a Capital Punishment, and if it is consistent with the good of the Army, and conformable to your Excelleny⟨’s⟩ view’s, I would take the Liberty to recommend, Waterhouse, Straw, & Rounds (under sentence of Death) to your Excelley for a free Pardon—I would also beg permission to recommend, Wild, Whitney Myers, Harman, Milliken, Mathews, Harman, & Milliken that their punishmen⟨t⟩ may be remited, and that Barney & Peirce have’g deserted several times before, may receve their punishments agreeable to the Judgement of the Court. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Exceellencys most Obt Hume servant

            Henry Jackson


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 10 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

            Gentlemen
            Head Quarters Morris Town 10th Feby 1780.

          I have, agreeable to the Resolve of Congres⟨s⟩ of the 12th Novemr, formed a regimental arrangement of the eleven

Companies of Artificers at pres[ent] acting in a detached manner under the direction of the Quarter Master General—who I have consulted on the occasion, as being better acquainted with the merits of the Officers, and the nature of the service, than I could possibly be.—I have concluded to form the Regt in ten Companies—No. 1. contains the names of the Officers at present of the eleven Companies, wit⟨h⟩ their relative Ranks and pretensions. No. 2. such of them as are recommended for promotion and for contin⟨u⟩ance in the service, and those recommended for new Commissions—No. 3. The number of Comm. and Staff Officers, and privates of which the Regim. is to consist—No. 4. A Roll of the Artificers at present in service, with their terms of inlistment. By this last you will perceive the necessity of an early attention to recruiting the Corps—or being obliged to add to the heavy deduction already made from the Line of the Army—by taking Men of this Class from it. The 10th Captaincy and some Subs are yet vacant—The Quarter Master General has some persons in View to fill those places and will shortly recommend them.
          Colo. Baldwin the Commandant of the Corps will have the honor of delivering this to the Board and will be able to give them any further insight which they may require into the nature of the Business—The Commissions for the Officers who are nominated may be delivered to him.
          It is my wish, as I before mentioned, that measures may be immediately taken to recruit the Corps to the establishment, if the plan is approved—and I think we might with safety adopt a measure, which has not been thought expedient in the line of the Army, which is, the inlistment of those deserters from the Enemy who are mechanics of the kind wanted. Being remote from danger in this Corps, they will not have the same inducements to return again to the enemy, as if they were of the line. The fear of being taken, generally operates so powerfully upon them, that they often go back, rather than run the risque—If this should be approved it will be necessary to insert it in Colo. Baldwins recruiting instructions, as there is a Resolve of Congres⟨s⟩ existing, against inlisting deserters, except by special licence—It will also be necessary should orders be given to recruit to furnish the Colo. with a sum of Money, as the military Chest is barely adequate to the pay an⟨d⟩ contingent Expences of the Army. I have the honor &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 10–11 February 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General,
            Highlands [N.Y.] Feb. 10[–11] 1780

          In the following I shall give your Excellency a State of facts relative to the late capture of Lt Colo. Thompson and part of his detachment on the lines of this post, on the 3d Instant.
          Lt Colonel Thompson was at that time at young’s near the

white plains his detachment consisted of five companies. Cap. Watson of the 3d Regt with his Company was at Young’s house with the Lieutenant Colonel. Capt. Roberts of the 15 Reg. and Capt. Stoddard of the 1st Regt were on his right their greatest distance about two miles. On his Left were, Capt. Lt Farley of the 9th Regt & Capt. Cooper of the 14th Regt—their extreme distance rather greater than the Companies on the right. Pickets were advanced from each. On the morning of the 3d Instant about 9 oClock, the Lt Colo. was informed that a body of the Enemy’s Horse were advancing & at that time about 2½ miles distant: apprehending the Enemy to be Horse only he determined to remain where he was and Sent to the Several companie⟨s⟩ to join him. Soon after this, the Enemy attack’d his picket (a Serjeant & 8 men) who fired on the Horse, which checked them—on which the picket attempted to join the body but were overtaken by the Horse One or two of them wounded and the whole taken prisoners. Not long after, the Enemy’s Horse appear’d in Sight of the House. the Lt Colo. had been joined by Capt. Roberts’s Company who formed on the right. the Enemys Horse halted at a distance and discharged their rifles: Soon afte⟨r⟩ the Infantry appeared advancing to the front & right flank of our troops who were now join’d by Captn Lt Farleys Company on the left—Captn Stoddard and Captn Cooper coming up—One on the right, the other on the left. Our Troops preserved their order and did not fire untill Some time after the Enemy began; when they received orders to fire the Enemy immediately Scattered, availing themselves of Trees and the Ground, of which, it must be acknowleged, they very judiciously took the advantage, Springing from one tree & place to another, and constantly gaining Ground—their fire being directed both against the front and flank of our Troops—and, a number being kill’d & wounded they broke, Some retreating up the road, others into the House, from the doors & windows of which they fired on the Enemy. At this time Captain Stoddard, and Capt. Cooper came up. the former gave the Enemy two or three fires, but the distance being great probably did little or no execution.
          the Horse at this instant were very active & overtook Several of our men who were making their escape. It is said our troops discovered great bravery & fought well for about fifteen minutes when the Lt Colo. was compell’d to Surrender.

          We had 14 men kill’d on the Spot, including Capn Roberts, and 17 wounded, three of which are Since dead. Lt Colo. Thompson of Marshall’s Capt. Watson of Greaton’s, Capn Lt Farley of Wesson’s Lt Burley of Tuppers, Lt Maynard of Greatons Ensign Fowler of Nixon’s & Ensign Bradley of Sheppard’s with 90 Non Commissioned officers & Soldiers were taken prisoners—9 of whom who were wounded were left by the Enemy at a house Some miles down the road. The Enemy Sat fire to young’s house, & soon retired, leaving two dead and Carrying off their wounded—among whom was a Captn of Grenadiers wounded in the hip and a Lieutenant of the Infantry in the Thigh. Our Troops immediately after went on to the Ground and buried the dead—The Enemys force is said to have consisted of about 60 Jäger Horse & 40 of the Refugee, and between 400 & 500 Infantry detached from different Corps, including a part or the whole of the Grenadier & Light Infantry Companies of the Guards. Colo. Emmerick was out as a volunteer on foot with his rifle, and was very active. Colo. Norton of the Guards commanded the whole, & Colo. Delancy was with the refugee horse.
          11th By two deserters who left Fort washington a few days Since, I am informed that the Enemy had at that place about 150 Sleighs when they came away. the sleighs were employd in hauling wood. I am just now informed by Colo. Badlam who is on the advanced post, that a body of three hundred of the Enemys horse (probably part of these Militia) and the 7th British Regiment came the last monday from Long Island to West Chester on the Ice, where they now are. whether their taking post at west Chester is with offensive or defensive views, is uncertain. probably both. I have written Brigadier General Poor to hold his Brigade in the most perfect readiness for action, have patroles on the Ice of Hudsons River against Peeks kill, and from the Guard at Swim’s down towards fort Montgomery. Every precaution is in exercise & I trust the Enemy will be disappointed should they attempt to Surprise us. I have the honor to be With the Greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servant

            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 10 February 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

            sir,
            Philadelphia Feby 10. 1780

          your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed the Copy of an act of Congress of the 9th Instant requiring that for the ensuing Campaign the States furnish by drafts or otherwise on or before the first day of april next the deficiencies of their several Quotas so as to make the number of men exclusive of Commissioned Officers for the Continental Service 35,211 for the present year,

the particular Quotas to each State being assigned by the Act except Georgia which under its present Circumstances is separately considered.
          you will please to observe that all the men whose times of Service do not expire before the last Day of September next are to be counted towards the quotas of the States to which they respectively belong, whether they compose the Battallions in the line of the several States, or the additional Corps or departments mentioned in the act.
          As I am sensible of your Excellencies anxiety on account of the delay of this business allready, it is needless to mention the propriety of transmitting to the several States an accurate Account of their respective deficiencies without farther loss of time.
          Similar Copies of the Act enclosed are forwarded to all the States except Georgia and Congress have under Consideration a general Regulation to make provision in future if necessary to recruit the army annually in the month of January. I have the honour to be with every sentiment of respect your Excy’s hble Servant

            S. Huntington President

            P.S. Your letter of the 30. Jany hath been duly received.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 10 February 1780
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Williamsburg Feb. 10. 1780.

          It is possible you may have heard that in the course of the last summer an expedition was mediated by our Colonel Clarke against Detroit; that he had proceeded so far as to rendezvous a very large body of Indians (I beleive four or five thousand) at Saint-Vincennes; but being disappointed in the number of whites he expected, and not chusing to rely principally on the Indians, was obliged to decline it. we have a tolerable prospect of reinforcing him this spring to the number which he thinks sufficient for the enterprize. we have informed him of this, and left to himself to decide between this object and that of giving rigorous chastisement to those tribes of Indians whose eternal hostilities have proved them incapable of living on friendly terms with us. it is our opinion his inclination will lead him to determine

on the former. the reason of my laying before your Excellency these matters at present is that it has been intimated to me that Colonel Broadhead is meditating a similar expedition. I wished therefore to make you acquainted with what we have in contemplation. the enterprizing and energetic genius of Clarke is not altogether unknown to you. you also know (what I am a stranger to) the abilities of Broadhead and the particular force with which you will be able to arm him for such an expedition. we wish the most hopeful means should be used for removing so uneasy a thorn from our side. as yourself alone are acquainted with the whole circumstances necessary for well informed decision, I am to ask the favor of your Excellency, if you should think Broadhead’s undertaking it most likely to produce success, that you would be so kind as to intimate to us to divert Clarke to the other object, which is also important to this state. it will of course have weight with you in forming your determination, that our prospect of strengthening Clarke’s hands sufficiently is not absolutely certain. it may be necessary perhaps to inform you that these two officers cannot act together; which excludes the hope of ensuring success by a joint expedition. I have the honour to be with the most sincere esteem Your Excellency’s Most obedient & most humble servt

            Th: Jefferson


Title: General Orders, 11 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown friday Feby 11th 1780.
            Parole Pennsylvania—  C. Signs Persia Peru.

          Charles McClean of the 3rd Pennsylvania regiment; Thomas Herrindeen and William Potter of Colonel Angell’s regiment; John Lewis of Colonel Jackson’s regiment, and John McLane & William Hooper of the 4th New-York, are to suffer agreeable to the sentences decreed against them.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 11–12 February 1780
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

            My Dear General
            Chas Town [S.C.] February [11–]12th 1780

          I have received information that on the 3rd instant the enemy landed about 8000 troops commanded by Sir Hy Clinton—if this is true, we may soon expect them before this town—for they probably know that we soon expect reinforcements.
          2 o’clock P.M. I have just received information that a large fleet is off—matters are fast ripening, and will, I think, soon become very serious.
          8 o’clock, I am told that fifty sail of vessels got into North Edisto this day.
          Feby 12. 3 o’clock morning—By a person just from Edisto I learn that the number of vessels in at the harbour there is a little short of fifty.
          I am collecting the Troops, and posting them in and near this town, saving the light Horse, and 200 light troops—those are in the southern part of the State; left with a view to hang on the enemy’s left flank, should they attempt to march across land, and prevent the small parties strolling into the country—plundering, and distressing the inhabitants. I am My dear Genel with the highest esteem your most obedie[n]t servant

            B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Charles Pettit, 11–12 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Pettit, Charles

            Dear Sir
            Morris-town Feby 11th[–12] 1780

          General Greene has been pleased to promise me, that he would write to you on a matter which I consulted him on the

other day, but lest he should forget, or delay it, I give you the trouble of a letter myself.

            The thing is this
            I have Bills on the Commissioners, at Paris for 1392 Dollrs for interest of money lent the United States—They are made payable to me, or order in the usual form & I shall endorse them; tho’ I am no further interested in the business than to oblige a friend—The money arising from the Sale of these bills is by particular desire to be deposited in the loan office of the State of Virginia & the question I want to be solved is.
            Whether in the course of business it would suit you to receive & make use of the sum arising from the Sale of these Bills at Phila. & deposit as much in the loan office in Virginia—taking a certificate in my name as surviving acting attorney of George Mercer Esqr. and his Mortgagees—to wit Richd Gravat and Mary Wroughton?
            If this could be done, it would avoid the risk of sending the money—or the endorsed Bills through a long tract of Country to Virginia—It would oblige me—& serve a worthy man whose Estate has been sold under the powers above & lost in a manner to him & his creditors by the depreciation of our currency.
            I shall thank you for an early answer to this letter—& shall be glad to learn the present exchange. with much esteem & regard I am—Dr Sir Yr obedt Hble Servt

              G. W——n

              P.S.—Feby 12th
              On second thoughts I have determined to send you the Bills—and request the favor of you to dispose of them. The Gentn who sent them to me for endorsation—(desiring to have the Money lodged in the Virginia loan office)—Says “I submit the following mode for doing it—to wit—to hand the Bills by some Gentn of the Army (your acquaintance) to the Virginia deligates in Congress, they will be glad of them, as they must draw their future support from the Virginia treasury—They will therefore find out a friend to sell them, or they may do it themselves; but let your friend take their joint receipt for the current money, as received of your Excellency as Attorney for George Mercer Esqr. &ca (the former style) and give an order for that sum on the Virginia treasury; on sight of this order a loan office certificate

may be obtained from our treasury—this receipt may be forwarded by Post but for fear of a single conveyance, I recommend a duplicate.”
              I communicate this in case you should not be able to negotiate the business in the manner mentioned in the body of the letter—If neither of these modes can be made to answer I shall depend nevertheless upon your friendly aid to dispose of the Bills to the best advantage—the Money to be retained till some good conveyance offers of sending to Mr Lund Washington near Alexandria or the loan Office in Williamsburg. I am &ca

                Go: Washington

                1 Bill
                for

                1200 Dollrs

                6 Do
                for
                30. each
                 180.

                1 Do

                12
                  12

                1392. all dated Decr 20th 1779


Title: To George Washington from Major General Arthur St. Clair, 11 February 1780
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Springfield [N.J.] February 11. 1780

          The Enemy made an incursion into this State this Morning about an hour before Day, in three different places from Staten Island, and one from Paulas Hook—A par⟨ty of a⟩bout three hundred commanded by Colonel Simcoe ⟨lan⟩ded at Woodbridge—A small party in Raway Neck, & the most considerable Body at DeHarts Point, and marched to Elizabeth Town—The Guards at Elizabeth Town and Woodbridge were timely aprised of their approach; and retreated to some little distance from both these Posts, and were not attacked—& have sustained no other loss than having each one Man wounded.

          I have not been able to asscertain the Force of the party that came to Elizabeth Town. The two Persons that were made prisoners there seem extreemly ignorant of it, and had followed the Troops in order to plunder.
          There Numbers are said to have been two Thousand, which is improbable, but from General Sterling and General Skinners both being with them, they must have been considerable[.] A Number of Houses in the Town have been stript of every thing, and ten or twelve of the Inhabitants carried Off—The Party at Woodbridge committed no outrage of any kind upon either the Persons or Houses of the Inhabitants, but carried off about thirty Head of Cattle.
          Their principal aim seems to have been the Guard, and missing of that they staid a very short time. On their retreat they were followed by the Horse Patroles, some of the Militia, and the Troops, who say they wounded several but none were left on the ground. The party that landed at Raway, in a very obscure place, plunder⟨ed⟩ two houses and carried off two Men, and seem to have had no other object—But the surprising a party of fifty Men seems too triffling to have been the design of so large a Party as that at Elizabeth Town—Whatever it may have been the finding the Guard so alert probably induced them to desist. The party from Paulas Hook consist’d of about three hundred Horse, and landed at Hackinsack.
          The Person I had sent to New York, and who had been detain’d at Paulas Hook, inconcequence of Orders, the day before, to suffer no person to go ⟨out,⟩ came over with them—They proceeded some distan⟨ce into⟩ the Country, and from the rout they persued he thi⟨nks in⟩tended to have pass’d the Cedar Swamp, and were very perticular in their Inquiries, about the situation of your Quarters, and where I was quarter’d and the guards that were posted betwixt Hackinsack & Morris Town—He says perticularly that after marching some way into the Country, he heard an Officer ask the Commandant where they were going—He replyed, he could not tell them that but they had more than Thirty Miles to March that Night—That in a short time after this, finding the Snow very deep & the Roads not broken they returned and he was dismissed.
          If their design was an attempt upon your Excellencys Quarters, the other partys were intended to direct our attention from

that Party of Horse that were to have marched upon our left Flank, and I hope you will pardon me for hinting that there is not a sufficient Body of Troops near enough, to render you secure.
          Had they been designed to have fallen upon our Rear which they might have done, they had Troops enough to have given us full Occupation, and them the Opportunity.
          But supposing either of them it is difficult to account for their retiring so soon without even attacking the Elizabeth Town Guard, which was not above a quarter of a Mile out of Town.
          The Person from New York says that the East River is still open; & in general gives the same account of the situation of the Shipping, Guards and Quarters of the General Officers as I had the honour to transmit to your Excellency in a former Letter.
          His account of Paulas Hook is not an accurate one It consists of a pretty large Redoubt, with a smaller one within it capable of containing about One hundred & fifty.
          The Barracks about ten Rods without the Works, which are Abbatied to the land side, but not to the Water, and not one peice of Cannon planted that Way—that the Garrison consists of about Six hundred Men, from which they Detach daily a serjeants Guard to the Green Island, about a Mile from the Hook and lower down the River—and that they have ceased to send the Reinforcement I mentioned before for some days.
          I have had no authentic Intelligence from Staten Island for some days, and indeed it is very difficult to obtain—T⟨he⟩ Inhabitants in general cry out so much a⟨gainst⟩ Morris Hatfield that I have not employed him and they are all affraid of being detected by his Brothers on the Island—I expect however to hear from thence by tomorrow Night and if it is of concequence will transmit it immediately to your Excellency—I still think Busquorqua Corps may be taken Off. I am Sir Your most Obdet servant

            Ar. St Clair


Title: From George Washington to the Officer Commanding Brigadier General John Stark’s Brigade, 11 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Officer Commanding John Stark’s Brigade

            Sir
            Head Quarters Morristown 11th Febry 1780

          In a circular letter of the 22d of January, I transmitted the inspector’s reports of december, deliniating several defects and abuses, and exhorting to effectual measures for remedying them. I observe some further matters in the reports of January which require notice. Among other things, though much less than in several of the Brigades, there is still too great a waste of arms, accoutrements, and ammunition since the last

Inspection⟨.⟩ The same may be said also of the deficiency of clothing in Col. Sherburnes regiment.
          In Col. Angels regiment there are arms and accoutrements in possession of the regiment, not in the hands of the men. This is contrary to the regulations, agreeable to which they ought to be deposited with the Brigade conductor. These also prescribe penalties for unnecessary loss and waste, which if carefully inflicted would correct the evil.
          How happens it, that ther⟨e⟩ are musicians returned as rank and file in Col. Webbs regiment who do no duty in the line? This seems to be an abuse and to require a remedy.
          There are several men reported unfit for service. You will have them examined by the surgeon General, and either transferred to the invalid corps or discharged as their respective cases may require.
          In all the weekly returns, many men are borne unfit for duty wanting cloths. Yet in these reports there appears to be clothing in Webbs and Jacksons regiments, undistributed. The clothing on hand ought to be issued to the men most in want.
          In the report of Sherburnes Regiment there is no mention of cartridge boxes. This probably is an omission of the Inspectors, but I shall be glad to have it explained.
          I must request to be satified without delay concerning the situation of the 20 men who have been so long at Easton, that proper steps may be taken They ought either to rejoin the Regiment or be struck off its roll. I am Sir Your most obt & hble sert

            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 12 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown saturday Feby 12th 1780
            Parole Question—  C. Signs Quiet Quere.

          The General had flattered himself that when once a system of regulations for the government of the army had been framed

and put into officers hands by which their several duties were become definite and easy to be known, we should soon acquire by a proper spirit of emulation, that perfection in discipline, essential to the goodness, success and reputation of the Army; but he is sorry to be obliged to declare that these pleasing hopes have hitherto in a very great measure been disappointed by the event, and that numerous disorders and irregularities still prevail—He therefore in the most earnest manner calls upon the officers commanding divisions and brigades, by the closest personal attention, to the Police of their respective Corps to correct those disorders and introduce an exact conformity to the regulations for the order and discipline of the troops of the United States, established by Congress, for which, and for the execution of all general orders, they are immediately responsible: The duties of every kind are there clearly pointed out and may be easily understood and practised; Ignorance of any of them cannot be an excuse, but is an aggravation of neglects, nor will they be overlooked in any officer whatsoever.
          It is impossible for the Commander in Chief to discharge the general duties of his station while he is incumbered by the many minutious details which are daily brought before him only because the regulations are not attended to and made the rule of Conduct: The waste of arms, ammunition & accoutrements which still continues in a great degree, in some Corps, is among other instances of neglect.
          Not less than one hundred and from that to two hundred men have, for the last six weeks, been returned unfit for duty “wanting arms” in this part of the army, notwithstanding from the number of men discharged, if there had been proper care & attention, the Commissaries and Conductors would now be incumbered with spare quantities of those articles, so little have availed the regulations and the repeated and positive orders on this head; to which the General directs a recurrence, particularly to that issued at West-Point the 17th of August last.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Clinton, 12 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

            Sir,
            Morris Town Feby 12th 1780

          In a circular letter of the 22d of Jany—in your absence—I transmitted the Inspectors reports of december to the Commandant of your Brigade delineating several defects and abuses there pointed out and exhorting to effectual measures for remedying them. This letter I presume you have since your return received; if not you will be pleased immediately to call for it, and have the objects contained in it properly attended to—I am chagrined to observe that the subsequent reports of Jany afford fresh matter for animadversion—In particular The waste and destruction of arms ammunition and accoutrements since the last inspection exceed all reasonable bounds. The 4th and 5th Regiments (and the first more than the last) have been in this respect singularly delinquent. My duty to the service and my regard to the Gentlemen themselves oblige me to declare that your own reputation and that of the officers commanding the regiments demand a speedy reform.
          I also observe that there are arms and accoutrements in the possession of the respective regiments not in the hands of the men. This would not be the case if the regulations were complied with, for according to them all such articles are to be l⟨odg⟩ed with the Brigade conductors—These also prescribe penalties for unnecessary loss and waste which if carefully inflicted would correct the evil.
          I request to be informed whence proceeds so great and general a deficiency of arms ammunition and accoutrements as appears upon the face of these reports.
          There are several men reported unfit for service. You will have them examined by the Surgeon General and either transferred to the invalid corps or discharged—as their cases may respectively require.
          You will be pleased to examine how it happens that four men are reported waiters to the Colonel in the 3d regiment, three of whom have been absent such a length of time, and have the matter rectified without delay.

          What is the reason the Col. himself has made so long a stay from his Regiment?
          In all the weekly returns many men are returned unfit for duty wanting cloaths and yet in these reports there appears to be more or less cloathing in each regiment undistributed—This seems not to be perfectly consistent but to require explanation—As fast as the cloathing is received it ought to be issued to the men who are most in want.
          I inclose you the last reports for your examination. When this is done you will return them with the others. I shall flatter myself that the next inspection will exhibit a more favourable picture of the state of the Brigade. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Moses Hazen, 12 February 1780
From: Hazen, Moses
To: Washington, George

            Camp Near Morris Town 12th February 1780
            The Memorial of Col. Moses Hazen

          Humbly sheweth,
          That your Memorialist is a Native of the State of Massachusetts-Bay; was a Lieutenant at the Age of Twenty Years in the

Provincial Service in 1756; a Lieutenant in the Ranging Service in 1757 and 1758; 1759 and 1760 commanded a Company; was at the Seige of Louisburg, Quebec, and the Reduction of all Canada the last [War]; was afterwards appointed a Lieutenancy in the 44th Regiment, reduced on Half Pay at the Close of the War, and Reduction of the British Army; in all which your Excellency’s Memorialist flatters himself he has it in his Power to shew he served his Country with a fair Character, Reputation and Honour to himself.
          That your Memorialist was possessed of a Real growing Estate in Canada; the Revenue of which exceeded Five Hundred Pounds Sterling a Year.
          That in the Year 1775, when the Continental Arms were carried into Canada, your Excellency’s Memorialist was seized and thrown into Prison, by Order of Government, where he remained Fifty-four Days, and until he was set at Liberty by Genl Montgomery.
          That during the Time of your Memorialist’s Confinement, the Continental Army plundered his House, ravaged his Effects, and destroyed his Interest to a very large Amount.
          That in the Month of January 1776, Congress was pleased to order an Estimation, by Commissioners, of his Losses and Damages sustained; at which Time your Memorialist was led to believe he would be indemnified; and at that Time your Excellency’s Memorialist unsolicited accepted of the Command of four Battalions, One Thousand Men to be raised in Canada; and then received One Thousand Pounds Pennsylvania Currency only, as a Part of the Bounty ordered by Congress, with a Promise of an ample Supply.
          That Four Hundred and Seventy-seven Men were soon recruited, mustered and carried into Service; the Want of the necessary Supply of Cash prevented the filling up of the Regiment.
          That your Excellency’s Memorialist was under the Necessity of advancing large Sums of Money, as well to arm, Clothe and accoutre the Men he had raised, as to supply them and other Parts of that Army with Provisions; insomuch that on the Settlement of his Accounts in the Year 1777, upwards of Ten Thousand hard Dollars was found due to him, which Congress have resolved to repay in Specie with Interest.
          That by a Resolution of Congress of the 23rd of October 1776

your Excellency’s Memorialist was empowered to recruit his Regiment in any of the Thirteen United States of America, and that in the Month of June 1777 your Memorialist had Seven Hundred and Twenty Men in the Field, and that for many good and wise Reasons this Regiment has been continued on the Original Establishment thereof.
          That no Regiment in the Army has seen more or harder Service, and as it is presumed behaved better than that which your Excellency’s Memorialist has the Honour to command.
          That in the Course of the last Campaign this Regiment was ordered on a particular; laborious and hard Service, and by the Neglect of the Purchasing Commissary ill supplied and on short Allowance of Provisions the whole Summer.
          That your Excellency’s Memorialist was obliged to borrow and advance the Purchasing Commissary upwards of Seventy Thousand Dollar⟨s⟩ for the Purchase of Provisions for the Troops under his Command, or oth⟨er⟩wise he would have been obliged to abandon the Work which your Excellency had ordered him upon.
          That your Excellency’s Memorialist re-joined the Army in the Month of October, and brought to it near Four Hundred and Fifty Men inlisted to serve during the War.
          That your Excellency’s Memorialist is now the fifth Colonel in the Continental Army, and that a Number of younger Colonels than himself have been promoted to the Rank of Brigadiers, some to Major-Generals, owing as he is induced to believe, to a wise Regulation by Congress, that each State should have a Proportion of General Officers.
          That as your Memorialist is considered as belonging to no one of the Thirteen United States, if he has served with a fair Character, he thinks himself intitled to a common Chance of Promotion amongst the Colonels as the Army stood at the Time of his entering into the Service; that if four older Colonels than himself still remain unpromoted merely because the several and respective States to which they belong have a large Proportion of General Officers, and that six, eight or Ten young Colonels than your Memorialist have been promoted over his Head f⟨or⟩ Want of a Proportion of General Officers to the States to which they belong it would be singular and particularly hard that your Excellency’s Memorialist Promotion should now be considered in the Light of Seniority, more especially as your Memorialist

has not only made a large Sacrifice in Point of Fortune, by joining the Continental Arms, but that he has actually brought a considerable Body of good Men from a Foreign Country into the Service of these United States. It has been a particular Misfortune to your Memorialist, that Congress did not furnish the Money proposed to complete the Battalions on the first Establishment, as well as not being able to give the Officers an equal Chance with others in State and Town Bounties.
          Your Memorialist therefore humbly begs your Excellency’s Patronage and Protection, and that you will be pleased to recommend your Memorialist for the Rank of Brigadier, or otherwise give him a separate Command nearly equal to that which he at first entered the Service upon, unless a Northern Expedition should be undertaken, in that Case your Memorialist begs your Excellency will recommend that the Regiment he has the Honour to command may be continued on the present Establishment, in which Case your Memorialist will not ask the Command of any more Men than those of his own Regiment, together with such Recruits as may be willing to join it, and then take the Rank which such Numbers only will intitle him to. Your Excellency’s Memorialist will, as in Duty bound, ever pray.

            Moses Hazen


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Henry Sherburne, 12 February 1780
From: Sherburne, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Camp Near Morris Town Feby 12th 1780

          Agreeable to your Excellencys Directions, to the Commanding Officer of General Starks Brigade, I have made Inquiry

respecting the Men of Colo. Jackson’s Regt on Command at Easton, Likewise those of Colonel Webbs, who were sick absent, and Improperly absent, near Two Years, as appears by the Inspectors Reports on the Review of December last—The Inclosed Reports from the Commanding Officers of those wherein the particular Circumstances attending the absence of the Men are mentioned, will I hope be satisfactory to your Excellency.
          The Deficiency of Arms in the Brigade, was at the Time of the Report Occasioned by a Number of Deserters belonging to Col. Jacksons Regt then in Provost, and the Band of Music in Col. Webbs Regt are returned as Rank & file, but not armed.
          The scarcity of Officers in the Brigade and the frequent Calls of Duty has put it out of my power to send after the absent Men as your Excellency has been pleased to direct. But as many of them on furlough are soon expected to return, the Business may be then entered upon without prejudice to the Service. I am with the greatest Esteem Your Excellencys Most obedt humble servt

            Hy Sherburne Colonel Comdt General Starks Brigade


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, c.12 February 1780
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Durham [N.H., c.12] February 1780

          I was Some time Since honored with your favor of the 15th December, since which I have been tottally Incapable of writing untill within two Days past.
          I now take the Liberty to Intreat your Excellencys acceptance of my Thanks for the many oblidging things therein Contained.
          Though unfortunate Circumstances have Seperated me from you in the Military Line, I flatter myself that your Excellencey will Indulge me the Liberty of writing you occasionally, and I doubt not of your being well pleased to hear of my welfare.
          After I left the Army on the 4th of December I was Several Days ill on the Road which Compelld me to be twenty three Days on my way. As Soon as I arrived I Sent for an Eminent Physician on whom I had placed much Dependance for the Recovery of my Health & who I had in view before I Left the Army; as I had not found one there from whom I could obtain the Least Relief, or who could give me any Satisfactory Account of the Rise of my Disorder. what alarmed me Exceedingly ⟨mutilated⟩ that my Countenance was Sometimes florid & Every outward mark of Health would appear when I was Laboring unde⟨r⟩ the most painful & Threatning Complaints.
          The Physicians to whom I applied Informed me that my Complaints in great measure arose from the Imprudent attempts which I had been advised to make for Stopping the Billious

Disorder which Siezed me in the beginning of the Campaign, & that I had by this means been thrown into a Hydropick State: This Eventually turned out to be the Case. And I am now happy Enough to Inform your Excellency that Though the operations of the medicine & the Quantities of water Discharged reduced me Exceeding Low: I am Intirely free from all my Complaints; & have at present only to Conquer that weakness which Such a Disorder must necessarily have Left me in. I have been the more particular in this Respect to Convince your Excellencey that I had Sufficient reason to alarm & oblidge me to Quit the Service when I could find relief from no other Quart⟨er⟩ & as I had not the Least reason at that time to Suppose I Should Ever be perfectly restored to Health Though I am now happy to find that I was mistaken in my Conjecture.
          I received no answer from Congress respecting my Resignation untill the 9th Instant Tho I find the Presidents Letter was Dated the 2d of Decemr and as I Lookd upon myself as an officer till I received an answer. I Drew a months Rations out of th⟨e⟩ Store at Portsmouth & gave an order for it. I wish you⟨r⟩ Excellencey would be So oblidging as to Inquire from Congres⟨s⟩ whether it will be allowed me or whether I must refund—And Also whethe[r] the Expence of my Sickness is to be born by myself or by the publick in whose Service my Disorders were Contracted & that by the fatigues I was Compelld to go through. Though this Demand may appear too triffling for the Consideration of Congress; yet when it is considered as Coming from a person who has Spent five years of the prime of his Life in their Service who has Suffered his private Interest to go to Ruin while he was Serving the publick & that a hundred & Sixty Six Dollars per month will not go far in Defraying the Expence of his Sickness where wood Stands at Eighty Dollars per Cord Rum at Sixty Dollars per Gallon, wine medicine & Every other Article in proportion, I Doubt not the Justice of Congress & their regard for those who have Served the publick faithfully will Induce them to make Some allowance. I beg your Excellency to Excuse my giving you this trouble, & to believe me to be with the most perfect Esteem & Respect Dr General Your—Excellys most obedt Servt

            Jno. Sullivan

            P.S. I Shall be obliged to yr Excy for an answer to this as Soon as possible.

              J.S.


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 12 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

          Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 12 Feb. 1780. On 25 Feb., GW wrote to James Mercer: “On the 12th Instt I wrote to Mr Lund Washington.”


Title: General Orders, 13 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown sunday Feby 13th 1780.
            Parole Revenue—  C. Signs Reserve. Riches.

          The Quarter Master General and Commissary of military stores will forthwith make a return of all the Espontoons in their possession and of the deliveries since the 1st of June last.


Title: General Orders, 14 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown Monday Feby 14th 80.
            Parole Sicily—  C. Signs Salisbury. Salem.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 14 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

            Sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town February 14 1780

          I have been honoured with Your Excellency’s Favor of the 7th and am much obliged by the transmission of the Letter from Major General Lincoln—and for Major Lane’s state of the prisoners at the Southward. The General is not precise in his information on this subject, as to the number or rank of Our Officers still in captivity, but from what he says, I conclude it is nearly as Major Lane has related it.
          I transmit Your Excellency Extracts from some dispatches I have lately received from Major General Heath. Those indorsed No. 1 2 & 3 will inform Congress, that Two fires have happened at the posts in the Highlands—and of the loss of Stores in the Quarter Master’s department, occasioned by the First. There has been a very minute inquiry with respect to this—and the Court have reported unanimously that it was accidental. Besides these Two fires—One of the Redoubts on the East side of

the River, suffered a little in the same way some time before. Major General Heath appear⟨s⟩ by His orders, issued so early as the 10th of January to have pointed out & enjoined every proper precaution to prevent accidents of this kind in the Barracks & Works—but these will sometimes take place notwithstanding every provision that can be made. The Extracts No. 4 & 5 contain an account, the best I have yet received, of a moveme⟨nt⟩ on the part of the Enemy on the morning of the 3d against a Detachment of our Troops under the command of Lt Colo. Thompson, which was advanced to the Neighbourhood of the White plains. Captain Stoddard’s relation of this affair is very imperfect; but it seems pretty evident that it was unfavourable in the issue. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servant

            Go: Washington

            P.S. Since writing the above I have received a Letter from Generl Heath, giving a particular account of the movement of the Enemy against the Detachment under Lt Colo. Thompson. This and the result of the affair Your Excellency will find in the Inclosure No. 6.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Henry Jackson, 14 February 1780
From: Jackson, Henry
To: Washington, George

            sir
            Camp Morristown Feby 14 1780

          I inform’d your Excellency the situation of my Regiment with respect to the Mens Arm’s & Accoutrements & that the Soldiers claim’d them as their own have’g part of their bounty stop’d for that purpose—& they all expect to carry them home when discharged.
          Inclose’d is a true Copy of the Resolve of the State on that Subject, as some of my Soldiers terms of Service expire tomorrow, I wish your Excellenys direction in the matter—the Arms &ca were drawn from the Continental Magazines. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obt Humbe sert

            Henry Jackson


Title: General Orders, 15 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown tuesday Feby 15th [1780]
            Parole Transylvania—  C.S. Timothy. Titus.

          The issuing Commissaries will issue a jill of rum ⅌ man ⅌ day to the officers and men on Main guard and picket at Morristown.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 15 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

            Gentn
            Head Qrs morris Town Feby 15: 1780

          I find by a Resolution of the 9th Instant, of which I received a Copy last night, that Congress have been pleased to determine

the Quota of Troops to be furnished by the respective States the ensuing Campaign—and that the Non-Commissioned Officers & privates in the additional Corps—Artillery & Cavalry and the Regimented Artificers in the departments of the Quarter Master General & Commissary of Military Stores, whose times of service will not expire before the last of September next are to be considered as part of the quotas of the States to which they respectively belong. I also find, that they have been pleased to direct me to transmit to the several States accurate Returns of their Troops, including the proportion of Non-Commissioned Officers & privates in the Corps I have mentioned belonging to each. Unfortunately I have but very inaccurate States of these Corps in general—and from this circumstance and the remote and dispersed situation of many of them much time must be spent in obtaining them. as particular Returns of most of these—so far at least as respected the States from—which the Men came, have been transmitted to your Office in consequence of the Act of the 15th of March last—I might perhaps derive some assistance from them and be enabled if I had them to make more early transmissions of the Returns directed by Congress. I would therefore request that the Board would favor me by the earliest opportunity with the Returns of this kind—of the German Battallion—Baylors Regiment of Dragoons—and of Von heer’s Marachaussi Corps—with any particular States they may have respecting the terms of the Men’s inlistments. The Levies required being connected with and indeed made dependant on these Returns—The Board I am convinced will feel the propriety of the earliest attention to this business—and will most willingly afford me every aid in their power with respect to it. If they have a particr State of the late Rawlings Corps—of Shots & Seley’s Companies—and of the Regiments at Fort pitt—I shall be obliged by their favouring me with it. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem Gentn Yr Most Obedt st.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Flower, 15 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Flower, Benjamin

            Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 15th Feby 1780.

          I have occasion for an immediate Return of the Regiment of Artillery Artificers specifying the particular States to which the non Commd Officers and privates belong and the terms for which they stand engaged. Inclosed you will find a form of the return required. As the Companies composing the Corps are considerably detached, you will be pleased to take the most effectual measures to convey your orders to the Officers at a distance. As soon as you have collected the Company Returns and formed them into a Regimental one, you will transmit it to me without loss of time. I am &c.

            P.S. I shall myself obtain Returns of those Companies of Artillery Artificers serving in the feild.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 15 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dr Sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town Feby 15th 1780

          Congress have been pleased to determine by an Act of the 9th Instant, a Copy of which I received last night, the Quota of Troops to be furnished by each of the States for the ensuing Campaign, and have directed me to transmit them respectively, accurate Returns of their NonCommissioned Officers & privates, that they may know the deficiency for which they are to provide. I therefore request that You will send me as soon as possible, a Return of the number of NonCommissioned Officers & privates of the Fifteen Massachusett’s Regiments; distinguishing particularly what proportion of them are inlisted

for the war and the different terms of service of the residue, digested in Monthly Columns. I obtained a pretty exact state of All the Troops from the Muster Master General in November, which I transmitted to Congress—the better to govern them in their measures and requisitions; but as these have been so long deferred, there may have been many material alterations with respect to the Troops. To the NonCommissioned Officers and privates in the respective State lines, I am to add those in the Regiments and Corps, which were not originally apportioned on any particular States by the Resolution of Congress of the 16 of September 1776, as part of the quota of the States from which they came; and the number between the aggregate amount and the quota fixed at present by Congress, is the only deficiency for which the States are to provide. You will I am convinced feel the necessity of the earliest attention to this business and will not delay sending me such a Return as I have requested, a moment longer than circumstances may make it indispensibly necessary. I am Dr sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washingto⟨n⟩


Title: From George Washington to La Luzerne, 15 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

            Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 15th Feby 1780

          I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency’s letter of the 4th which only reached me late on the 13th.
          Sincerely desirous of doing every thing in my power by which

the interest of his christian Majesty inseparable from that of these States can in any manner be promoted, and still more in a point so essential as that which makes the subject of your letter, I should not hesitate to furnish the detachment required by Mr Duer, whatever might be my opinion of its necessity did not the present state of the army absolutely forbid it—I with confidence assure Your Excellency that our force is so reduced by the expiration of the terms of service for which a considerable part of it was engaged, and will be so much more diminished in the course of a month or two from the same cause, as scarcely to suffice for the common exigencies of the service and to afford just cause for uneasiness, should the Enemy be actuated by a spirit of enterprise, before we receive the reinforcements intended for the next campaign. So circumstanced my duty to the common cause will not justify me in adding to the insecurity of our situation by maki⟨ng⟩ a detachment which though apparently inco⟨n⟩siderable would be materially felt in our present weakness—and I am persuaded aft⟨er⟩ the information now given, Your Excellency wi⟨ll⟩ wish me not to hazard the measure.
          With respect to the necessity of a covering party I shall not venture to decide⟨,⟩ but I should imagine in the present state of things, the business may be carried on wit⟨h⟩ tolerable security without one. The consequences of the late expedition promise tranquillity for some time to our frontier, and ma⟨ke⟩ it at any rate improbable that the Savages will be able to penetrate so far at so early ⟨a⟩ period—and the proposition does not requ⟨ire⟩ that the covering party should remain long⟨er⟩ than till the last of April. The intelligen⟨ce⟩ I have received corresponds with these idea⟨s⟩[.] It might be added that the Garrison at Wy⟨o⟩ming gives some degree of protection to th⟨e⟩ part of the country in question. But a⟨s⟩ it is very important that no interruption should be given to the workmen, if a coveri⟨ng⟩ party should upon the whole be thought ⟨re⟩quisite, the best mode of furnishing it w⟨ill⟩ be from the neighbouring militia. For this purpose, on Your Excellencys application to Congress, I cannot doubt they will immediately make the necessary arrangements. I have the honor to be, With the most perfect respect and attachment Your Excellencys Most obet & hum. servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Charles Pettit, 15 February 1780
From: Pettit, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Phi[l]adelphia 15th Feby 1780

          I have had the honor to receive your Excellency’s letter of the 11th & 12th Instant, together with the Bills of Exchange therein mentioned amounting to 1392 Dollars, which, I shall sell in the course of a few days and take the necessary measures to lodge the produce in the Loan Office of Virginia according to directions.
          As the Loan Office Certificates are made payable to the Bearer, I should suppose that the possessor of them might take the Bills for the interest in his own name and negotiate the whole matter as if the property were his own, without troubling Your Excellency with the business at all, farther than to inform you what has been done. I take the liberty of suggesting this as a mode that may save the trouble & risk of sending the next year’s Bills so long a journey for indorsement.
          The best Bills of exchange were a few weeks since fallen from 35 to be unsaleable at 30 for one—hard money at the same time fell from 45 to 35 or under; but since the promulgation of the Terms demanded for the public Bills drawn on speculation, hard money has risen again at least as high as ever, and the exchange for good bills is now brisk at 32 & some ask 34 & 35. I am offered 32 for yours, but as they appear to me to be rather rising I do not urge the sale. As I have occasion to negotiate money at the public Offices in Virginia I do not apprehend any difficulty in lodging the produce of these Bills in the Loan Office there. I shall pursue Your Excellency’s directions in ordering the Certificates to be made in the special form prescribed, but am apprehensive the blank spaces left in the Certificates for the name will not admit of so full a description.
          By desire of a Committee of Congress I lately directed two Pipes of Madeira Wine to be forwarded to your Excellency from

Egg harbour, out of a parcele saved from the wreck of a Ship coming from Boston to this place. As I heard of it’s arrival at Trenton some days ago, I hope it is now in proper Quarters. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant

            C. Pettit


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Reed, 15 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

            Sir,
            Morris-town Feby 15th 1780

          I am much indebted to your Excellency for announcing my election as a member of the Philosophical Society. I feel myself particularly honored by this relation to a society whose successful efforts for promoting useful knowledge have already justly acquired them the highest reputation in the literary world.
          I entreat you to pres[en]t my warmest acknowledgments, and to assure them that I shall with zeal embrace every oppertunity of seconding their laudable views & manifesting the exalted sense I have of the institution.
          The Arts and Sciences essential to the prosperity of the State and to the ornament and happiness of human life have a primary claim to the encouragement of every lover of his country and of mankind. With the greatest respect & esteem I am Sir, Yr Most Obedt Servt

            Go: Washington

          Fig. 3. GW’s certificate of membership in the American Philosophical Society, February 1780. (Library of Congress)


Title: To George Washington from John Cleves Symmes, 15 February 1780
From: Symmes, John Cleves
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Morris Town the 15th February 1780.

          I have the Honor to communicate to Your Excellency a copy of a letter which I have wrote to the Legislature of the State. As it relates to the Army, I think it my duty thus early to acquaint your Excellency with the Contents thereof; that if I am misinformed,

the matter may be truly represented by the Gentlemen of the Army. I have the honor to be, sir. with much esteem, Your Excellencies very humble servant.

            John Cleves Symmes


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 15 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Van Schaick, Goose

            Sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town Feby 15 1780

          I am to request that You will transmit me as soon as possible an exact Return of the number of Noncommissioned Officers & privates in your Regiment; designating in a particular manner what proportion of them are inlisted for the war—and the different terms of service of the residue, digested in Monthly columns. You cannot be too expeditious in forwarding me this Return. I am Sir with esteem & respect Yr Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 15 February 1780
From: Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Albany February 15th 1780

          I have the Honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellencies favour of the 26th Ultimo—I have agreeable to directions sent Adams down to the Highlands for Trial & given the necessary Orders to Major Graham.
          Altho I am sensible that it is the Duty of a Soldier to wait for Orders, & when given to obey them with Alacrity; I should not do Justice to the Regiment I have the Honour to Command, was I not agreeable to a Requisition made by the Officers in General

Represent to your Excellency. That from the length of Time the Regiment has been Stationed at Fort Schuyler & the Remoteness of the Country, many disadvantages have arisen to the Officers & Soldiers with respect to Cloathing, & other necessaries.
          I shall therefore with the Officers be happy that the Regiment may be Relieved the Ensuing Spring, if that can be done consistent with the good of the Service.
          Captn Lieut. Young of my Regiment having for some time past been placed in arrest—I ordered a General Court Martial for his Trial, & now inclose the proceedings for your Excellencies Approbation. I am Most Respectfully Your Excellencies most Obedient Humble Servant

            G. V. Schaick


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 16 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 16th Feby 1780

          I have recd your several favors of the 2d 4th 8th and 10th Instants. From the frequency of fires at West point and its dependencies, one would think there was something more than accident, and yet, from the enquiry, they do not appear to be the effect of design. It is possible that there may be Fire Engines in some of the town up the River, one of which you might perhaps obtain upon application. The posts at the Highlands are of so much consequence to the people of the state of New York, that, I am convinced, they will readily afford every assistance towards the safety and security of the Works.
          You will be pleased to furnish Mr Spencer with a sum of Money to enable him to travel to Virginia—of which he should take a Certificate from the Dy Pay Mr Genl that he may settle his account with his Regimental pay Master, and as you mention his Want of Cloaths, he may be permitted to draw such necessaries as the public store affords, paying for them at the price regulated by Congress.
          I am pleased to find that the state of Massachusetts have, upon reconsideration, given Major Hull his rank, and I hope that, as they are now fully possessed of the principles of Rank and of the consequences which would ensue from a deviation from them, they will not in future make any promotions out of the regular line.
          The Affair at the White plains is a very unlucky one, and our loss, considering the strength of the detachment, very considerable. It is some consolation that our Officers and Men appear to have made a brave resistance. I cannot help suspecting that our Officers, in advance, quarter too long in a place—by these Means, the enemy, by their emissaries, gain a perfect k⟨now⟩ledg⟨e⟩ of their Cantonments, and form their attacks accordingly—were

they to shift constantly, the enemy could scarcely ever attain this knowledge.
          A short continuance of the present weather will break up the Ice or render it impassable, either of which will put you in a better state as to security. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 16 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

            sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town Feby 16th 1780

          I have the pleasure to transmit Your Excellency a Letter from Major Genl de Riedesel which only came to hand Two days ago.
          I would now inform Your Excellency, that agreeable to my Letter of the 18th of December I have obtained a Return of Moylan’s Regiment of Light Dragoons—and find as I apprehended, that there are Sixty three Non Commissioned Officers & privates in it, who belong to Virginia. Of this number Two only are inlisted for the War—and the service of the Rest will expire in December next. Having given Your Excellency an account of these men—I have only to observe, that with the Returns transmitted in my Letter of the 18th of December—You now have the fullest and most accurate state of the Virginia Troops that I can furnish—and of those to be applied to the credit of your Quota. By these and the information Your Excellency may have received with respect to the Levies under General Scot—& Blands & Baylor’s Regiments You may perhaps be able to form a pretty just estimate of the force of the State employed in the Army—and to govern yourself with tolerable certainty as to the deficiency of the State’s Quota which Congress, as Your Excellency will no doubt be informed by the president, have required to be levied

for the ensuing Campaign by an Act on the 9th Instant. I have the Honor to be with the most perfect esteem & respe⟨ct⟩ Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Stephen Moylan, 16 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Moylan, Stephen

            Dr Sir
            Head Quarters Morristown 16th Febry 1780

          I have to acknowlege your favors of the 1st and 8th of this month.
          With regard to the act of Assemb[l]y of the State of Connecticut, it appears to me founded on a principle which if extended or carried into a precedent, would be productive of consequences most injurious to the service. In the present instance however there seemed a necessity for complying with it, for the greater ease of the inhabitants and to prevent the cantonements falling too heavy on any particular place. It is always my wish to accommodate where no great injury can result to the service. And I would hope, that notwithstanding the sparse situation into which the cavalry are thrown the attention of the officers will provide against the inconveniences apprehended. I am &.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Walter Stewart, 16 February 1780
From: Stewart, Walter
To: Washington, George

              Sir,
              Camp [Morristown] Feby 16th 1780

            I beg leave to Inform your Excellency, that the Number of Deserters from my Regiment, and who are now in Pensylvania is very Great; That I am of opinion should your Excellency think proper to permit my Sending two officers who are well acquainted with the Country after them, many might be secur’d and brought to Camp, those officers can be Spar’d from my Regiment, as I shall afterwards have one to each Company.
            I observe in your Excellencys Circular letter to the General and Field officers of the Pensylvania Line, Your Excellency remarks, that Captain Ashmead (who has long been return’d Absent without leave[)] should either be Superceded or Order’d for Tryal. This officer procur’d Your Excellency’s Permission to go on Furlough the 21st of Septemr for five Weeks on his Positively promising, and Pledging his Honor, that during the Course of that time He would resign his Commission, this promise he has

paid no regard to, and some few days past (for the first time) He has Written to me, desiring his pay and Cloathing, & observing, that he should come to Camp as soon as his Wife got better; The Former I have not Suffer’d to be drawn since I return’d Him Absent Without leave, The latter I cannot think him Worthy off, Having before His different Courts Martial, and at other times, given Him the Character of an Inattentive officer, who was as often Absent from His Duty as in his Power, and when in Camp almost Constantly Intoxicated with Liquor; This Character I shall Transmit to Governor Reed, to whom I shall refer Him for his Cloathing.
            As He has been since last Inspection left Entirely out of my Rolls, I must request your Excellency’s permission to Appoint Capt. Lt John Irwine to Command the Company formerly His, for as He made this Promise of resigning, in Presence of Genl Irwine, Lt Colo. Murry, & Myself, on which Promise He obtain’d his Furlough, I cannot think he can with the least degree of Propriety Claim his Post in my Regiment Again.
            It makes me Unhappy, knowing the Multiplicity of Business which comes before Your Excellency, so often to trouble you on this Subject, but I flatter myself this will be the last time I shall have the disagreeable necessity. I Am with Great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt & hble servant

              Walter Stewart Colo. 2nd Pena Regt

            should Your Excellency approve of the two officers going after Deserters, I shall Send Lt John Stoy, & Lt Wm Moore.


Title: General Orders, 17 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown thursday Feby 17th 1780.
            Parole Yeoman—  C. Signs—Yellow. Youth.

          A serjeant, corporal and ten men from General Hand’s brigade to be sent this day to Commissary Gambles to assist in securing the stores from the weather and to continue ’till that business is done.
          An exact return of all guards furnished by divisions or brigades to be made with the ensuing weekly returns.

          All brigade and camp guards (which are to be relieved once a day or in two days at farthest) are not to be included.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 17 February 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Dr Sir,
            Fish Kill [N.Y.] February. 17th 1780

          I left Morris Town on Friday, and arrived at this place on Sunday. A Detail of Military Matters, I perswade myself Your Excellency duly receive’s from Genl Heath, who is still here, which renders a descant on that Subject from me, at present unnecessary. I have the Honour to be, with the greatest respect Sir Yr Excellency’s Most Obt Hume Sert

            Robert Howe


Title: To George Washington from John Mitchell, 17 February 1780
From: Mitchell, John
To: Washington, George

            Dr Sir
            Philada 17 Feby 1780

          I shou’d have had the honor of writing your Excellency by Major Gibbs, but waited ’till I cou’d send you the Articles which were not then ready—I have now sent by Mr Ling Express Rider a Matrass & Pillow, the Memorandum Books in a Box, and a large Silver Soop Spoon, I hope they will meet your aprobation. I have got the several things your Excellency ordered of the best kinds it was in my power to procure here—the prices are high but the very great depriciation of the money will acount for it it is astonishing how quick it has been lately, am told that it is now from 45 to 50 for one.
          If the Tea pleases Mrs Washington I will indavour to get more of it, or some as good—hope the Carriage got up Safe. I went to as little expence as Possible, yet it comes high, copys of the several Bills I now inclose you. it will at all times give me particular pleasure to render your Excellency every service in my power the President of Congress has informed you of the News

from the Southward, & from Martinique, we have no other at present.
          I beg leave to congratulate your Excellency, on the Defeat & disapointments of the Enemys Plan, and as we are informed full determination to make an Atack on your Quarters in hopes of surprising them—may every Intention and Idea of such a plan, revert with redoubled force on the Heads of those who atempt it, or harbour such a design I beg leave to assure your Excellency that it was with universal Joy, that the disapointment of the Enemys hopes and expectations were so compleatly frusterated, as it wou’d have been with the Same grief & horror we shou’d have thought on such a design, had we not known it had miscarried at the same moment we heard it had been intended.
          Mrs Mitchell Joins me in most respectfull complemts to your Excellency & Mrs Washington. I have the Honor to be with great respect & the highest esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedt and most hume Servt

            Jno. Mitchell


Title: To George Washington from Philip Schuyler, 17 February 1780
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Albany February 17th 1780

          I am Just Informed that a person is to set out In ten Minutes for Philadelphia I can therefore only do myself the honor to Acknowledge Your Excellencys favor of the 30th ult. which I recieved on the 1⟨4⟩th at Saratoga.
          I find myself under the necessity of repairing to Congress without delay I shall most Certainly call on you and In person Answer the Several Querreis Containd in Your letter. I am Dr Sir with the most Affectionate sentiments & the Greatest respect & Esteem your Excellencys Most Obed. Hm. servt

            Ph: Schuyler


Title: General Orders, 18 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown friday Feby 18th 1780.
            Parole Arms—  C. Signs—Ammunition Accoutrements—

          By a division General Court Martial held in the Pennsylvania line by order of Colonel Johnston, Commandant of the division, Colonel Walter Steward President—James Hammell and Samuel Crawford, soldiers of the 5th Pennsylvania regiment were tried, “On suspicion of robbery” and found guilty of the charge being a breach of the 21st article, 13th section of the articles of War and sentenced to be hanged (more than two thirds of the Court agreeing[)].
          The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence & orders the execution thereof tomorrow between the hours of three & four ôclock in the afternoon: The officers of the day and all others whose duty it is will attend at that hour.

          The corps of Artillery will send a band of Music to attend the Criminals to the place of execution.
          The Pennsylvania division will furnish an escort of a Captain, one subaltern, four serjeants, four corporals two drums & fifes and fifty privates, and each division will send two hundred men and the corps of Artillery one hundred men properly officered to the place of execution.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 18 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

            Gen[tleme]n
            [Morristown, 18 Feb. 1780]

          Your letter of the 15th, came to hand this morning.
          It is to be regretted that circumstances should have interposed to diminish the command proposed for Col. Armand. When the idea was formed of Uniting the legion late Pulaski’s to his corps I had no intimation that Congress had determined on its reduction. I would hope however, that the order of the Board for its suspension will arrive in time.
          With regard to the addition of Capn Van Heer’s corps, I have already signified to Col. Armand, that I did not think it adviseable to convert it to any other purpose, than that for which it was raised. Were it not for the advantages arising from such a corps I would willingly coincide in the measure. I ⟨illegible⟩ honor & &.

            P.S. I am this moment favored with Mr Stodderts letter of the 7th, inclosing a memorial from Lt Col. Stafford to Congress, for leave of absence. As the recovery of his health is the cause assigned for his application I shall indulge him in his request.
            In the letter of the 15th which I had the honor to write the Board—I omitted mentioning the return of the State of Major Lees corps—conformable to the a⟨ct⟩ of Congress of the 15 of March l⟨ast⟩ which the Board will be good enough to forward with the others as also Moylans Sheldons and Armands.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 18 February 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Morris Town February 18th 1780

          Inclosd I send your Excellency a copy of a report from Mr Lewis, made in consequence of an order given him to provide a Team for transporting a quantity of Clothing to Albany. I am afraid the traveling is too bad to expect success if the Jorney is attempted. Several Horses have been ruined and some killed within a day or two only in attempting to bring loads from below the Mountains. Upon the whole I am of opinion to attempt to go forward with the Clothing will prove the loss or ruin of the Cattle and be unsuccessful in the issue. The Team is ready to make the tryal, if your Excellency thinks proper. But how the Man is to support himself or team on the Road I know not, as we have no Money to pay incidental expences of any kind. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Ser.

            N. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Steuben, 18 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 18th Feby 1780

          I have been favd with yours of the 12th and 14th instants. I had recd the Resolve of Congress, of which you inclosed me a Copy, immediately from the president, and in consequence of it; instantly gave the necessary directions for the proper Returns to be brought in to enable me to furnish the States with an account of the deficiency of their Quotas of Troops—This, from the dispersed State of several of the independent Corps—the Artillery the Cavalry—and Artificers will take up a considerable time, and it is very much to be feared that the greatest part if not the whole of the time allowed for the bringing the levies into the feild will elapse, before the Returns can be collected—digested and transmitted to the remote States. The Returns lately called for by the Board of War are preparing and those belonging to the Army at this Cantonment will be forwarded in a day or two; Those from the detachment of the Army at West point—Danbury—and the Horse in Connecticut as soon as possible.
          My personal regard for Monsr Girard Mr Jay and the passengers on board the Confederacy made me extremely regret the disaster which befel that ship, but the disappointment in our public stores, which may be the consequence of Monsr Girards delay, is a matter of very serious import—We will however hope that we shall be able to find Arms for the Levies as they come in.

          I shall impatiently expect the pleasure of the Chevaliers visit, and I am not without hopes that he will, by the time he can be ready to set out, have received such intelligences from Europe, as will enable him to judge with more precision of the prospects of the next Campaign. I am with very great Esteem Dear Sir yr most obt Servt.

            P.S. I am very desirous that every Officer sho[u]ld be furnished with a Copy of the Regulations of the Army, if you have not already ordered a sufficient number for that purpose, you will be pleased to do it before you leave Philada.


Title: To George Washington from Lt. Col. Marinus Willett, 18 February 1780
From: Willett, Marinus
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Lt. Col. Marinus Willett, 18 Feb. 1780. On 22 Feb., GW wrote Willett: “I have received your letter of the 18th.”


Title: General Orders, 19 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown saturday Feby 19th 1780
            Parole Brigades—  C. Signs Baggage. Bayonets.

          An Adjutant, a Drum Major and a Fife Major of the same brigade with the brigade Major of the day, will attend the grand parade every morning at troop-beating to assist in forming the guards & performing the field manœuvres.
          At a General Court-Martial held by order of His Excellency the Commander in Chief in Morristown the 5th day of February 1780—and by several orders and adjournments continued ’till the 14th day of the same month, Colonel Humpton President, John Beatty Esquire Commissary General of Prisoners charged with—“An improper intercourse with the City of New York in having written for, and introduced sundry articles from thence,

contrary to the resolves of Congress and repeated general orders,” was tried and found guilty of a breach of His Excellency, the Commander in Chief’s order of the 12th day of december 1779—and a breach of that part of the 5th article, section 2nd of the rules and articles of war which respects a disobedience of orders, acquitted of every other part of the charge against him and sentenced to be reprimanded in general orders.
          The General thinks Mr Beatty’s conduct in this instance extremely reprehensible—In his situation he ought to have observed a peculiar delicacy—The whole tenor of the evidence produced by himself shews that he was well aware of the impropriety of the intercourse: and though he may have generally discountenanced it, it is not an excuse for the present deviation—Every thing of this kind is, in a greater or less degree an infringement of the general association which having never been repealed must be considered as still in force, and is considered so by particular subsequent acts and by the general arrangements of Congress—It is also well known that the government of this State has been strenuous in its’ endeavors to suppress the practice, and waving the question, “how far a breach of the civil law, in such a case may be a military offence,” it is certainly very blamable in any officer to contravene the views of a State, especially in a matter which it evidently deems of importance—Besides this the orders from the Commander in Chief to the officers on the lines have uniformly prohibited the intercourse in the most pointed manner, and their constant practice made those orders a matter of such notoriety that Mr Beatty from the frequent transactions he was concerned in on the lines could not have been unacquainted with them. The plea of being ignorant of the late general order issued eight days previous to the offence is not admissable, because it is at all times in Mr Beatty’s power immediately or by his Deputies to be informed of general orders and it is his duty to be so—Mr Beatty is released from his Arrest.
          By the same General Court-Martial—Lieutenant Porter of the 7th Maryland regiment was tried for, “Unofficer, unsoldierlike and villainous conduct upon Staten-Island vizt Robbing and plundering a Woman of money &c.” found guilty of the charge being a breach of Article 21st section 13th of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to be cashiered.

          The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders it to take place immediately.

            After orders.
            The Commander in Chief is pleased to respite the execution of Samuel Crawford ’till further orders.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 19 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dr Sir
            Head Qrs Morris Town Feby 19th 1780

          I wrote You on the 15th and requested You to send me as soon as possible, a Return of the number of Non Commissioned Officers and privates in the Fifteen Massachusetts Regiments, distinguishing particularly what proportion of them are inlisted for the War and the different terms of service of the Residue, digested in Monthly columns. To this I intended to have added, as I informed You, All the Men belonging to the state serving in the additional & other Corps and then to have forwarded it to the Council; but from the remote and dispersed situation of some of these I am apprehensive that a good deal of delay may attend the procuring Returns of them—and from this consideration I have thought it adviseable to transmit the States in

general, Returns of the Battallions assessed upon them, without waiting for the Others, which will be sent as soon as they can be collected. and as it will be the means of informing the State of Massachusett’s of the condition of their Fifteen Regiments rather earlier than if the Return were to be sent to me in the first instance—You will be pleased to forward it to the Honourable the Council yourself made out in the particular manner I have mentioned—and acquaint them that I shall take the earliest occasion circumstances will allow, to transmit them a farther return of the Men belonging to the State, who are in other Corps. You will however send me a duplicate of the Return you transmit them without loss of time, as I wish to furnish the Council with a full and precise state at once—of All the Men they have in service and of the periods to which their engagements extend. They will receive from the president of Congress the quota of Men required of the state. and a Copy of the Act directing me to make these Returns. I am with great regard & esteem Dr sir Yr Most Obedt st

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 19 February 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General,
            Highlands [N.Y.] Feb. 19. 1780.

          I am just honored with yours of the 15th: have given orders to have the returns made as soon as possible, and have enjoined on Lt Colo. Brooks not to loose a moment in having them accomplished.
          Major General Howe arrived here a few days since: I intended to have set out immediately for new England, but, the mild weather sitting in which has rendered the roads almost impassible, I am yet detain’d here.
          No Flour has yet arrived from Easton or Sussex County: I apprehend the badness of the roads has detain’d it. The Legislature of the State of new york have just passed an act entitled “An act more effectually to supply the army with Flour” I hope it will answer the purposes intended.
          Enclosed your Excellency will find certificate of the time when Lt Peabody resign’d his commission.
          Capt. Flowers of the 3d massachusetts Regt has requested leave to resign his commission: Enclosed are the certificates required.
          I should before this time have transmitted to your Excellency the report of the court of enquiry respecting the Public Hydes; but, not being satisfied With the manner in which the investigation was at first made, I have desired the court to sit again, the report will be forwarded when it comes to hand.
          The enclosed Letter Colo. Nixon sent to me yesterday: I have endeavored to dissuade him from resigning his commission—He informs me that his private affairs are such as require his attention for about two months, and that he is loath to ask for leave of absence for so long time at this season.
          He has commanded the first Brigade since the beginning of January, has been in the service from the 19th of April ’75—and, very attentive to his duty. to your Excellencys determination it is submitted.
          Several of the Field officers commanding Regiments in the massachusetts Line Since the receipt of the new Commissions, have represented that several officers have no commissions sent, and some others have the time of their rank wrongly inserted—and others wrongly number’d—Whether there be grounds for

the whole, or not, I cannot say, as no Coppy of the arrangement was taken here—I believe there are some mistakes, but, it is a matter so dangerous to touch that I have avoided more than to desire the officers to point out the supposed mistakes: those that I have received I take the Liberty to enclose, and wish your Excellency would direct whether enquiry Shall be made and, if so, in what way. By General Paterson’s and Colo. M. Jackson’s certificates, the proper arrangement of the 8th Regt was not given in, which occasioned the mistakes mentioned by Colo. Jackson. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient Servt

            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant General Wilhelm von Knyphausen, 19 February 1780
From: Knyphausen, Wilhelm von
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            New York, Febry 19th 1780.

          It appearing by Your letter of the 1st Instant, addressed to Colonels Mathews, Ely, and Lieut. Colonel Ramsay, that you are desirous of Commissioners meeting to endeavour at Settling a Plan for a General Exchange of Prisoners of both Armies, And His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton having given his Consent and Instructions thereon, I am to inform You, Sir, that Major General Phillips, The Honble Lieut. Colo. Gordon, and Lieut. Colonel Norton are appointed Commissioners on our part, and that they will meet Commissioners of Suitable Rank from Your Excellency for the purpose of Settling an Exchange of Prisoners of War, and of the Troops under the Treaty of the Convention of Saratoga; and I most sincerely hope, as you do, Sir, that the proposals already concerted may be improved into an Agreement that will be attended with Mutual & permanent advantage.
          I would propose that the meeting of the Commissioners should be, if agreable and Convenient to You, Sir, on Monday the 6th of March at Amboy, and I imagine you will be of Opinion with me that during the Meeting of the Commissioners Amboy must be considered so far a Neutral place as that no Troops, except such Guards as may be sent to attend the Commissioners, be permitted to enter it, and I propose, on my part, to send a Commissioned Officer, with a Serjt and twelve Infantry.
          You will be pleased, Sir, to grant Passports to such Officers of Major Genl Phillips’s Suite as he shall incline to take with him, and I shall order the Commissary General of Prisoners to give

such attendance as may be necessary. I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most obedt humble Servt

            Knyphausen


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 19 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

            Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town Feby 19th 1780

          About the latter end of December last I had the honor to receive a letter from His Excellency Governor Johnson dated the 27th of October, in which he proposes an arrangement for the three companies of Artillery belonging to the state of Maryland, and asks my opinion upon it. As General Knox who is at the head of the Artillery, is consequently best acquainted with its interior circumstances and can best judge of the operation of any changes which might take place, I communicated the letter to him to know his sentiments. His answer you will find in the inclosed extract. I beg leave to add that my ideas correspond with his; and that the mode he recommends appears to me well calculated to do justice to the state—to the officers of the three companies and to promote the general good of the service. It is essential to have the corps that compose the army upon one formation, and regulated by general principles—The contrary is productive of innumerable inconveniences. This makes me wish the idea of erecting the four companies into a separate corps under the command of a Major may be relinquished—If this is agreeable to the views of the state I shall be happy its intentions may be signified as speedily as possible to Congress, that the incorporation and arrangement may be carried into execution.

I have the honor to be With the most perfect respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & humble servant.


Title: From George Washington to Francis Lewis, 19 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Francis

            Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town 19th Feby 1780

          I am honored with yours of the 15th Inst. on the subject of the marine prisoners in New York. As I am ignorant of the particulars of the complaints which have been exhibited by them, I cannot undertake to determine how far they are well founded, but from Mr Beatty’s attention to the wants of the prisoners belonging to the land service, which has come more immediately under my notice, I should suppose he has supplied the Wants of those belonging to the marine as far as circumstances, and the means with which he has been furnished, would permit. It will not be in his power to make monthly Returns to the Board of the number of marine prisoners in New York, except the British Commy will make them regularly to him, as he cannot be acquainted with the prizes which are carried in—besides, the exchanges of those prisoners, most of whom have been taken in private Vessels of War, having been negotiated by the State Commissaries, without the knowledge or concurrence of the continental Commy General, he, of necessity, must have been often ignorant of the amount or circumstances of those remaining in captivity: Should the late recommendation of Congress, to put all prisoners whether state or continental; under the direction of the Commissary General of prisoners, be carried into execution; many good consequences and much more regularity than has been heretofore practiced will be the result.
          I shall be happy at all times to contribute to the releif of those who are the subjects of the present letter, and shall most willingly second the views or intentions of the Board in their favor,

by directing the Commissary General to pay a strict obedience to their orders in the matter. I have the honor to be with great Respect Sir yrs &.


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

            Sir,
            [Morristown] 19 Feby 1780

          I have just received a letter from Mr Symmes one of the Supreme Judges of this state transmitting me a copy of a letter of the 14th instant ⟨to⟩ the Honorable the House of Assembly, on the subject of complaints made to him by soldiers in the Continental army of their being detained in service beyond the period for which they were engaged, and recommending the speedy direction and inquiry of the Legislature into the matter.
          I doubt not Mr Symmes took this step from commendable motives, but I think it my duty to apprize your Excellency, that a compliance with his recommendation could not fail to be attended with the most pernicious consequences. The true source of the discontents he speaks of is a dissimilarity in the terms of inlistment for the army. Those soldiers who are truly engaged for the war, are dissatisfied at seeing others, many of whom have receive⟨d⟩ equal some greater emoluments, returning home and having it in their power to obtain new bounties and new encouragements for their services while they held to their original engagements are deprived of these privileges. They therefore frequently deny their being inlisted for the war and make a variety of pretences to extricate themselves—Frequent applications have been made to me and inquiries have taken place in consequence; but in almost every instance it has been found, that either the complaints have been intirely groundless, or too weakly supported to justify the discharge of the men. The cases most in their favour, which sometimes occur are these—The original inlistments have been lost—officers resigning or dismissed the

service have given certificates of their being engaged for limited periods—but where these certificates are found to clash with the constant returns and muster-rolls of the regiment, which are certainly much more authentic criterions, they are disregarded. The circumstance mentioned by Mr Symmes, of officers on their resignation or discharge turning over their men on oath to the succeeding officers is founded on misinformation for no such custom prevails in the army. The evil proceeds in a great measure from the reverse of this cause—the one I have mentioned above—It is probable enough, from the difficulty in ascertaining the fact in particular cases, that some men may be injured—But I verily believe the instances are rare, and that in general all possible justice is done to the men in this respect. I am at least conscious that I have uniformly cultivated this spirit in the officers and discountenanced the contrary.
          I shall give Your Excellency an example which will serve to confirm the representation I have made—The Pensylvania soldiers from the commencement were almost universally engaged for the war—When they saw the Eastern levies in the beginning of last campaign who had received enormous bounties (many a thousand pound & upward, for a few months[)]—they began to compare situations to murmur and to dispute their engagements. To remove these discontents Congress, at my instance, were pleased to order a gratuity of 100 dollars to all men inlisted for the war previous to the 23d of Jany 1779—The intention of this gratuity was clearly explained—the men received it and gave receipts expressive of that intention. They begin now to revive their former dissatisfactio⟨n⟩ and many desertions have taken place in consequence—so unreasonable are they, or rather so fatal is the influence of that system of short inlistments, which in the first period of the war laid the foundation of all our subsequent misfortunes.
          From this view of the subject I flatter myself you will readily perceive the inexpediency of the state interposing in the affair. Such countenance to the disposition now prevailing would soon—make it epidemical. New pretenders would immediately start up in every line—new expectations, hopes, and reasonings would be excited. the discontent would become general and our military system would be nearly unhinged—Instead of

gratifying the ill-humour of the men by a mark of extraordinary attention, decisive measures to suppress it will in my opinion be most consistent with justice to the public and sound policy; I confine my remarks to the inexpediency of an interference by the legislature of this state. Your Excellency’s discernment will suggest other considerations which are of so delicate a nature that I shall decline particularising them. I shall only add that I have the fullest confidence the legislature will act with perfect wisdom and propriety upon the occasion, and that I have the honor to be with the highest respect & esteem—Yr Excellys Most Obedt & humble servt.


Title: From George Washington to Charles Pettit, 19 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Pettit, Charles

            Dear Sir,
            Morris-town Feby 19th 80

          Your favor of the 15th came safe to hand. I thank you for the informations it contains.
          It may do to take the certificates in my name “as attorney to Colo. George Mercer & others”—this will answer the purpose & may be comprized in the blank spaces. With much esteem & regard I am Dr Sir Yr obedt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Enoch Poor, 19 February 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Poor, Enoch

          Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Enoch Poor, 19 Feb. 1780. GW’s secretary Robert Hanson Harrison noted on the docket of the draft of GW’s letter to Maj. Gen. William Heath of 19 Feb. that a similar letter was sent to Poor. On 7 March, Col. Joseph Cilley, Jr., temporarily commanding Poor’s New Hampshire brigade, wrote GW that he had received GW’s letter to Poor of 19 February.


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

            Head-Quarters Morristown sunday Feby 20th 1780.
            Parole Colours—  C. Signs—Camp. Command—

          Dead carcases in and about camp are to be buried by fatigue parties from the brigades near which they lie.
          At the particular intercession of Ensign Bagley and the officers of the 3rd New-York regiment, the Commander in Chief is pleased to remit the sentence against Edmund Burke of the same corps: He is therefore to be released from confinement.
          The case of Burke ought to be a striking example to the soldiery of the dangerous excesses and fatal consequences into which the pernicious crime of drunkenness will frequently betray them.