Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 26 November 1776
From: Massachusetts Council
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excelley
State of Massachusetts Bay Council Chamber[Boston] Novr 26th 1776

The Bearer, Major Shaw, has at Length arrived here with a few Indians, Inlisted into the Continental Service, we are Sorry he has met with no better Success in this Business, however the few there are we

Conceive, Will be of this Service if no other, to keep the Tribes from whence they came in a State of Amity—The Indians when here, were fond of Returning back again to their Families, but were Informed that We had no Power to grant them any such leave—But they must Attend Upon your Excellency; And as they made some Objection to Travelling so far on Foot a Waggon and Horses have been purchased for the Sole purpose of Conveying them along. In the Name & by Order of the Council I have the Honor to be Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

Jer: Powell President


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Thomas Mifflin, 26 November 1776
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Washington, George

My dear General
Philadelphia 26th November 1776 9 OClock A.M.

At 10 O’Clock last Evening I receivd your Letter of the 24th Inst: and will make proper Applications of your Excellency’s Sentiments on the probable Movements of the Enemy.
I came into this Town at 8 OClock Sunday Evening; and waited on Mr Hancock with your Letter immediately after my Arrival—Yesterday Morning I was admitted to Congress in general Committee and went as far in my Relation of the wretched Appointments of the Army, the dangerous & critical Situation of the Jerseys & pennsylvania & the Necessity of immediate vigorous Exertions to oppose Mr Howe as their Sensibility and my own Delicacy would justify. After some Debate a Requisition was made to the Assembly now sitting & Council of Safety of pennsylvania of their whole Militia, & Resolutions formd for the purpose of establishing wholsome & necessary Regulations for this and the next Campaign.
I receivd Orders from Congress to remain in this Town untill your Excellency judgd it necessary for me to join the Army—Those Orders were in Consequence of the divided & Lethargic State of my Countrymen, who appeard to be slumbering under the Shade of Peace and in the full Enjoyment of the Sweets of Commerce.
In the Afternoon I waited on the Committee of Safety and with

much Success addressd their Passions—The Assembly are to meet this morning, their Lesson is prepared, by the Committee of Safety and some of their Leading members, who say Matters will now go on well—It is proposd to call on every Man in the State to turn out; such as refuse are to be find £5 ⅌ mo. the Fines to be distributed among those who enlist.
To morrow the City militia is to be reviewd. If they appear in such Numbers as we expect I am to give them a Talk well seasond. The German Battalion move from hence To morrow[.] Three Regiments from Delaware & Maryland are to follow them to Brunswick as soon as possible—By which I fear the Shores of Delaware at & near New Castle will be much exposd provided Mr Howe attempts to disembark in this River. Your Excellencys Opinion on the Designs of the Enemy & the best means to oppose them, should they divert your Attention in Jersey and attempt an Impression on this State by means of their Ships, will be necessary from Time to time. The Light Horse of the State of Virginia are orderd to join your Excellencys Army. The principal military Stores are to be removd from hence—500000 Musquet Cartridges will be sent to Brunswick[.] A Prize Ship came in Yesterday—she had on board, when taken by a Congress packet, 20,000 hard ⟨dollars,⟩ 9000 of which were lost by an Attempt ⟨to heave⟩ them on board the packet at Sea. ⟨I⟩ have orderd 1000 Wagons to be collected if possi⟨ble⟩ near this City; to remove when Occasion requires the most essential Articles belonging to the public. I sent Col. Harrisons Letter to him last Eveng. Mrs W—s Letter is in the post Office & will be forwarded by post at 11’ OClock this day. I am my dear General with much Attachmt Y. Ob. St

Thomas Mifflin

The Council of Safety I am just informd open the Campaign this day by siezing the prin[c]ipal Tories in & near the City.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Trumbull, 26 November 1776
From: Trumbull, Joseph
To: Washington, George

My Dear General
North Castle [N.Y.] 26th Novr 1776

Inclosed is a Warrant on The Pay Master General for One hundred thousand dollrs which I beg you to Sign, & send me by the Bearer, I expect he will find Colo. Palfrey, removing into Jersey, & therefore have put a Rect on the back, that he may take the Money, from him, & bring it on here to me. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servt

Jos: Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 27 November 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New Ark Novr the 27th 1776

I do my self the Honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of the 21st & 24th with their Several Inclosures. The execution of the Resolves has been & will be attended to, as far as in my power. I have wrote to Genl Schuyler to send down as early as possible, the Troops in the northern department from this and the State of Pensylvania. The proposition for exchanging Mr Franklin for Genl Thompson, I shall submit to Genl Howe as soon circumstances will allow me.
I have nothing in particular to advise you of respecting the Enemy, more than that they are advancing this way. Part of ’em have passed the Posaick, and I suppose the main body that they have on this side the north River would have done the same before now, as they are coming on, had their progress not been retarded by the Weather, which has been rainy for several days past. I have Scouts & Detachments constantly out to harrass them and watch their motions and to gain, if possible, intelligence of their designs.
Colo. Miles who has been permitted to go to Philadelphia for a few days by Genl Howe, will deliver you this, and inform you of the distresses of our Prisoners and the necessity of effecting their exchange as far as we have Prisoners to give in return.
By a Letter from the Board of War on the subject of an Exchange, they mention that Several of the Prisoners in our hands, have inlisted. It is a measure I think that cannot be justified, though the Precedent is furnished on the side of the Enemy, nor do I consider it good in point of policy. But as It has been done, I shall leave it with Congress to order them to be returned or not as they shall judge fit. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 27 November 1776
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Burlington [N.J.] 27 Nov. 1776

I have directed General Williamson to order all the militia of the Counties of Bergen Essex Morris Sommerset Middlesex & Sussex (having myself ordered that of Hunterdon) immediately to march & join the Army under your Command & to continue in Service for the defence of this State for a time not exceeding six weeks to be computed from the time of their joining the said Army.
The Legislature of this state has made Provision for raising four Battalions of 8 Companies each & 90 men to be inlisted till the first of April which will be carried into Execution with all possible Dispatch.
I can easily form some Idea of the Difficulties under which you labour, & particularly of one for which the public can make no allowance, because your Prudence & Fidelity to the Cause will not suffer you to reveal it to the public, an instance of Magnanimity superior perhaps to any that can be shewn in Battle—But depend upon it my dear Sir the impartial World will do you ample Justice before Long—May God support you under that Fatigue both of Body & Mind to which you must be constantly exposed—I am with Sentiments of the greatest Respect your most obedt & most humble Ser.

Wil: Livingston

P.S. The printed Copy is what I issued some days ago to our Colos. before I knew whether there would be a necessity for marching.


Title: To George Washington from Major John Clark, Jr., 29 November 1776
From: Clark, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
Tapaan [N.Y.] Novr 29. 1776

The Bearer of this a Private in Colo. Rawlins’s Regiment made his escape from the Enemy in New York yesterday, he is an intelligent Fellow, and brings information that upwards of ten thousand of the Enemy embarked on Sunday last, under the Command of General Clinton, the place of their destination uncertain; some of them informed him they were gone to Carolina, others say to the Eastward. (quere if not to the Capes of Delaware)—The number of the Enemy at Fort Lee three thousand, at Hackensack about seven thousand under the Command of Lord Cornwallis. Doctr Pell has just made his escape from them, he also confirms the above accounts, but says it was believed by many the Troops under Clinton were gone to Rhode Island.
I have the pleasure to inform you the Stores are all moved from this Place—One of our little scouting parties brought off a Waggon & Horses yesterday from the Enemy within a few Rods of them tis marked Genl Vaughan No. 1. To Day I march my Detachment in

hopes of joining you soon—should the above intelligence be of any service I shall think myself happy, and am Your Excellency’s most Obedt

Jno. Clark Junr Maj.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Charles Lee, 29 November 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Charles

Dear Sir
Brunswick [N.J.] Novr 29th 1776

I this morning received your favor of the 26th: Your Letters to Governor Trumbull for a reinforcement of Militia were exceedingly proper, though I doubt much whether they can be obtained, as they have suffered many inconveniences in the course of the present Campaign; Nor was the application to Mr Bowdoin for Cloaths &c. less necessary. I am happy to hear the Men discover so much readiness to engage in the service and that there may be no objection for want of Bounty Money, I have directed the Paymaster Genl to advance it to such of the Cols. as apply & who are appointed & agree to continue.
I immagine you have settled with the Commissary a Plan for being supplied with Provisions on your March, that will be highly expedient, I will use my exertions.


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 29 November 1776
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fish kill [N.Y.] 29th Novr 1776.

Agreeable to the directions of the Committee of Safety of this state, I do myself the honor to transmit the enclosed resolutions, & to request if your Excellency should concur with them in thinking that every means should be persued to obstruct the navigation of Hudsons river, & to secure the passes thereon, that you would be pleased by uniting in, to add weight to their applications to the hon: the Congress.

   The Enimy have long manifested an intention to possess themselves of this State, to which indeed they are greatly invited by its situation. Past experience, with the blessing of heaven upon your Excellencys endeavours, must e’er now have convinced them, that this is impractica⟨b⟩le unless by means of their navy, again⟨st⟩ which, every motive concurs in inducing us to guard—Your Excellency will easily enter into the reasons which influenced the committee to wish that this business may be confided to Genl Schuyler, whose activity aided by his knowledge of the country & its resourses, together with the leisure afforded him by the retreat of the enemy from the northern frontier give him many advantages over any Gent. in whom these circumstances do not so happily unite. they can not therefore but hope that the whole of the enclosed resolv⟨es⟩ wi⟨ll⟩ meet with your Excellencys approbation. if unfo⟨rt⟩un⟨ate⟩ly they should be deceived in this hope, they will on your Excellencys favouring them with your sentiments thereon endeavour to render them most conformable to your wishes. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obt Hum: Servt

(by order &ca[)]


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 30 November 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Head Quarters Brunswic [N.J.] 30th Novemr 1776
Gentlemen

I am to acknowledge the Rect of your Favors of the 18th 19th and 23d Instant, which, from the unsettled Situation of our Affairs, I have not been able to answer before.
That of the 18th incloses a List of Stores taken in the Hancok and Adams Continental Ship, and carried into Dartmouth in New England, with a Resolve of Congress to deliver the Muskets, Powder, Lead & Flints to my Order. As the other Articles of the Cargo will be full as useful to the Army, as those included in the Resolve, I would advise, that Directions be given, to have the whole Cargo removed from Dartmouth to some secure place in the Neighbourhood of Philadelphia, and there deposited till call’d for. It is by no means proper that so great a Quantity of military Stores should be lodged with the Army, especially at present, as we know not to day where we shall be obliged to remove tomorrow, and that will in all probability be the Case, while the Enemy continue, with a Light Army, on this Side the North River.
In Answer to that part of yours of the 19th in which you ask my Advice as to the propriety of inlisting Prisoners of War, I would just observe, that in my Opinion it is neither consistent with the Rules of War, nor politic; nor can I think, that because our Enemies have committed an unjustifiable Action by inticing, and in some Instances, intimidating our Men into their Service, we ought to follow their Example. Before I had the honour of yours on this Subject, I had determined to remonstrate to General Howe on this Head. As to those few who have already inlisted, I would not have them again withdrawn and sent in, because they might be subjected to Punishment, but I would have the practice discontinued in future. If you will revert to the Capitulation of St Johns and Chambli, you will find an express Stipulation against the inlisting the prisoners taken there.
I remarked, that the Inlistment of prisoners was not a politic Step,

my Reason is this, that in time of danger, I have always observed such persons most backward, for fear, I suppose, of falling into the Hands of their former Masters, from whom they expect no Mercy, and this Fear they are apt to communicate to their Fellow Soldiers. They are also most ready to desert when an Action is expected, hoping, by carrying Intelligence, to secure their Peace.
I met Capt. Hesketh on the Road, and as the Situation of his Family did not admit of Delay, I permitted him to go immediately to New York, not having the least doubt, but General Howe will make a Return of any Officer of equal Rank who shall be required. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Gentn Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 30 November 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Brunswick [N.J.] Novr 30th 1776

I have been honoured with your favor of the 26th and with its Inclosures, by which I perceive the measures that have been adopted for forwarding a reinforcement of Militia. Their arrival is much to be wished, the situation of our Affairs being truly alarming and such as demands the earliest aids. As Genl Mifflins presence may have a happy influence on the disposition and temper of many of the Associators, I shall not direct his return so long as he can be done without, and till it becomes indispensibly necessary.
On Thursday morning I left New Ark and arrived here Yesterday

with the Troops that were there. It was the Opinion of all the Generals who were with me that a retreat to this place was requisite and founded in necessity, as our force was by no means sufficient to make a stand against the Enemy, much superior in number, with the least probability of success, & whose advanced Guards were entering the Town by the time our Rear got out. It was the wish of all to have remained there longer and to have halted before we came thus far, but upon due consideration of our Strength, the circumstances attending the inlistment of a great part of our little force, and the frequent advices, that the Enemy were embarking or about to embark another detachment for Staten Island, with a view of landing at Amboy to cooperate with this, which seemed to be confirmed by the information of some persons who came from the Island, that they were collecting and impressing All the Waggons they could find, It was judged necessary to proceed till we came here, not only to prevent their bringing a force to act upon our Front and Rear, but also that we might be more convenient to oppose any Troops they might land at South Amboy, which many conjectured to be an Object they had in view. This conjecture too, had probability and some advices to support it.
I hoped we should have met with large and early succours by this time, but as yet no great number of the Militia of this State has come in, nor have I much reason to expect, that any considerable aid will be derived from the Counties which lie beyond this River and in which the Enemy are. Their situation will prevent it in a great measure from those parts where they are, provided the inclinations of the people were good. Added to this, I have no assurances that more than a very few of the Troops composing the Flying Camp will remain after the time of their engagement is out. so far from it, I am told that some of Genl Ewing’s Brigade who stand engaged to the 1st of January are now going away. If those go, whose service expires this day, our force will be reduced to a mere handfull.
From intelligence received this morning, One Division of the Enemy was advanced last night as far as Elizabeth Town, and that some of their Quarter masters had proceeded about four or five miles on this side to provide Barnes &c. for their accomodation. Other accounts say, another division, composed of Hessians are on the Road through Springfield and are reported to have reached that place last night. I do not know how far their views extend, but I doubt not they mean to push every advantage resulting from the small number & State of our Troops. I early began to forward part of the Stores from this place towards Philadelphia. many are gone, the rest we are removing and hope to secure. I am Sir very respectfully Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I have wrote to Governr Livingston who is exerting himself to throw in every assistance & to have guards placed at the ferries to prevent the return of the Soldiers who are not discharged.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Charles Lee, 30 November 1776
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

Dr General
Peeks Kill [N.Y.] Novr the 30th 1776

I receiv’d yours last night dated the 27th from Newark—You complain of my not being in motion sooner—I do assure you that I have done all in my power and shall explain my difficulties when We have both leisure—I did not succeed with Rogers and merely owing to the timidity or caution of the Enemy who contracted themselves into a compact body very suddenly—I am in hopes I shall be able to render you more service than had I mov’d sooner—I think I shall enter the Province of Jersey with four thoushand firm and willing Troops who will make a very important diversion—had I stirr’d sooner I shou’d have only led an inferior number of unwilling—the day after tomorrow We shall pass the River—when I shou’d be glad to receive your instructions but I cou’d wish you wou’d bind me as little as possible—not from any opinion, I do assure you, of my own parts—but from a perswasion that detach’d Generals cannot have too great latitude—unless They are very incompetent indeed—adieu My Dr Sir, Yours—most affectionately

Charles Lee

P.S. I have just been speaking with General Heath the strictness of whose instructions a good deal distress me—I cou’d have replac’d the few I require by Men who [are] able to do stitionary duty—but not to make expeditious marches—my numbers will in consequence be fewer than I promis’d.


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 30 November 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Brunswic [N.J.] 30th Novr 1776

I have the pleasure and honor of acknowledging the Rect of yours of the 27th. Genl Williamson gives me small Encouragement to hope for much Assistance from the Militia of this State, indeed some of the Counties, if they were willing, are intimidated from coming in, as the Enemy have possession of the Country. I hope the four Regiments, to be raised to serve till the first of April, will be quickly full, as more dependance is to be put upon them than common Militia. The Time of Genl Heards Brigade of Flying Camp Men for this State, and that of Genl Beals from Maryland expires this day, so that the Army will, by that Means, suffer a very considerable diminution. But what is still worse, altho’ most of the Pennsylvanians are enlisted till the first of January, I am informed that they are desserting in great Numbers. I therefore entreat that you would without Loss of time, give Orders to the Officers of Militia on the Roads and the Ferries over Delaware to take up and secure every Soldier that has not a regular discharge or Pass. In order to effect this proper Guards should be immediately posted.
I thank you most sincerely for your Feelings for me at this time and upon this Occasion, I will not however despair, but look forward with a hope that such Reinforcements will yet arrive to my Assistance, as will enable me to prevent our common Enemy from making much

further progress. I am with every Sentiment of Respect and Esteem yr Excellency’s most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Joseph Reed, 30 November 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

Dear Sir.
Brunswick [N.J.] Novr 30th 1776

The inclosed was put into my hands by an Express from the White Plains. Having no Idea of its being a Private Letter, much less Suspecting the tendency of the Correspondence, I opened it, as I had done all other Letters to you, from the Same place and Peekskill, upon the business of your office, as I Conceived and found them to be.
This as it is the truth, must be my excuse for Seeing the Contents of a Letter, which neither inclination or intention would have prompted me to.
I thank you for the trouble and fatigue you have undergone in your Journey to Burlington, and Sincerely wish that your labours may be Crowned with the desired success. My best Respects to Mrs Reed, I am, Dear Sir, your mo. obt servt

G: Washington

P.S. The Petition referred to I keep.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Morin Scott, 30 November 1776
From: Scott, John Morin
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp at Haverstraw [N.Y.] Novr 30th 1776

By express last Ev’g from General Heath I received an Extract of a Letter from head Quarters to him dated 27th instant in which it is mentioned that your Excellency is assured of my Exertions to influence my Troops to continue in Service with General Heath 15 or twenty days longer—You have doubtless, Sir, been apprized by that Gent. of the Reason of my coming hither. But least it should be otherwise, give me Leave to mention, that on Application to him, by Colonel Hay of this place a Gent. uncommonly spirited in the public Cause representing the exposed State of this part of the Country by reason of the Vicinity of the Enemy, and the great Number of Tories between this & the Enemies Army, he [Heath] tho’t proper to consult with his Brigadiers on the Subject, who advised him to throw a Body of Troops across the River. This measure being approved by him, he inquired what Troops should be sent upon which I offered my Service with my Brigade. On the 25th in the Ev’g I received my Orders for crossing “to cover the Stores on this Side of the River and to prevent the Advances of the Enemy into the passes of the Highlands should they attempt it.” Early in the Morning I moved, arrived here about the Middle of the day; and on Inquiry found Colonel Hays fears too well grounded. Therefore after making The necessary disposition of the Troops, and on considering that the few remaining days of Service would put it out of my power to answer the End for which I came, I immediately wrote a most pressing Letter to our Convention requesting them to conjure the Troops in the strongest Terms to continue one month longer in the Service, and to offer them a gratuity to induce them to do it, However before my Letter reached the Convention, they had taken up the Subject as You will see by No. 1 inclosed which came to hand next day. The Convention however on receipt of my Letter came to the Resolves No. 2. Upon Receipt of them I paraded the Brigade, formed them into a Circle; & from the Center published the two Sets of resolves & in the best and most animated manner I could, urged a Compliance with them. I then retird and left them to free Consultation; and on my return, desird the Officers, who chose to continue with me in the Service, to join me in the Center, at the same Time offering my Months pay to the Noncommissioned & privates as a further Encouragement

to them to follow the Example of their Leaders. All the Commissioned Officers present except five Capts. & Subs. & two adjutants immediately joined me—This circumstance gave me flattering hopes—but, Alas Sir, I have been deceived; for upon ordering the Officers to bring me in returns of those who are willing to continue which they have done I am convinced that I cannot retain 30—However I shall immediately put the passage of the Letter above alluded to into Brigade Orders, hoping that your Excellency’s Application & the short Term you propose may have the desired Effect.
You will be waited upon, Sir, by some of my Officers with their Abstracts. I am sorry to inform, that the Detention of their pay has been made a great Handle by the Leaders of the Opposition. I therefore earnestly beseech your Excellency to dispatch the Warrants, as the men Will wait till the Officers return, and they are directed to ride Night & day—I take the Liberty to inclose the Abstracts for myself & Major Fish on which I beg your Excellency’s Warrant. I am Sir with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most obedient Servt

Jno: Morin Scott


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 30 November 1776
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Hartford Novr 30th 1776

I am now to acknowlege the Rect of your several favors of 6th 7th 10th & 17th instant & for the interesting intelligence they Contain—By the nonappearance of the Enemy on ours, or the Rhodisland Coast as yet, gives us great hopes that, for this Winter, we may remain quiet in this quarter, tho’ it becomes us always to be vigilant—it equally affords me the most sensible satisfaction to hear that our losses are less than were at first feard, particularly those of Monday mentioned in yours of the 6th, and wish the Loses of the Enemy, & among the rest of a Col. Carr, might induce them to desist from the further prossecution of so unjust a War—Your Conjecture of Genl Howes intention to make an excursion on the Jersey side, before he goes into Winter quarters, is undoubtedly well founded—may all his designs to distress us, prove abortive.
Impressd with the critical situation the Army must be in at the departure of the new Levies, I have laid the matter before the Assembly with your own observations on ⟨that⟩ head—they have from the necessity of the case, notwithstanding our late exertions, & the repeated drafts made upon us, Ordered four Battalions to be raised & marched, as soon as may be, until the fifteenth of March next, in meantime every nerve shall be strained to engage & forward our Quota, of the new Army—to this purpose every Incourgment & measure is takeing here—and flatter myself what has been done, will not interfere with the general Service—Am fully sensible that the applications of the Militia

for repeated dismissions, must have given you much trouble & Concern, but hope in future, you will be releived in those respects—the Militia are certainly a respectable body of Men, but without constant imploy, they will grow impatient—have no doubt every reasonable allowance will be made in their favor—The advance pay of Twenty shillings ⅌ month, over & above what was allowd by Congress, which you made mention of, has been since reconsidered—The Wages of the Troops must, at least, be similar & if any further are made them in that way it should be general & by order of Congress, for the reason you mention.
The loss of Fort Washington, with so many of our brave men, is indeed a most unfortunate Event, but tho’ we are to consider & improve this & like disappointments, as the just chastisments of Heaven for our many transgressions, yet are we by no means to despair—we are in this way to be prepared for help & deliverance—this intelligence is forwarded to Gov. Cooke & the Massachusets State according your desire.
I shall immediately forward all the Cloathing & Blankets that are or can be Obtained—the utmost pains are takeing to furnish these & every other supply in our power for the distressd Troops, for whom we most sensibly feel.
To prevent any impositions & to incourage our own Troops in future, our State has undertaken to furnish and deliver them all kinds of refreshments, not found by the Comissary General, at prime Cost—to carry this into Execution, we suppose a general Store must be provided, a Receiver General appointed, as also proper persons (perhaps the Paymasters) in each Battalion, to receive & Issue for such Battalion, and some general plan formd, that these supplies may be considered as under the Care and protection of the Army, also pass thro’ such hands as shall stand accountable, and at sametime the pay secured & stopd from the Troops, in hands of the pay master, for use of this State—I have stated the same thing to the Genl Officers from this State, & desired them to Consult your Excelly—& obtain the proper directions for effecting the undertakeing & advise me of it, that when these Stores arrive we may know how & where to apply. I am, with great truth & Esteem Sir—Your most Obedient Humble Servant

Jonth; Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Matthias Williamson, 30 November 1776 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Williamson, Matthias

Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Matthias Williamson, 30 Nov. 1776. In his letter to William Livingston of 1 Dec., GW wrote: “I wrote to Genl Williamson last Night.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 1 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Brunswic [N.J.] Decr 1st 1776

I yesterday had the Honor of writing you and to advise of our arrival here. I am now to inform you that the Enemy are still advancing and that their Vanguard had proceeded as far as Bonum, a small Town about four miles this side of Woodbridge according to my last intelligence. As to their number reports are various. Some say they were joined yesterday by a considerable reinforcement from Staten Island, how far this fact may be true, I cannot determine, but from every information before, they were between Six and Seven Thousand strong. I have for some time past supposed Philadelphia to be the Object of their movement, and have every reason to beleive my Opinion well founded, the advices of sundry persons who have had an Opportunity of mixing & conversing with them on the march agreeing that such is the report. I have wrote to Govr Livingston upon the Subject requesting his utmost exertions to forward on every succour in his

power. The same I trust will be attended to in Pensylvania. Without a sufficient number of Men & Arms, their progress can not be checked; At present our force is totally inadequate to any attempt.
Several Officers belonging to the Enemy who were Prisoners, have obtained permission to return. I have not yet sent in the names of those belonging to us, that are to be exchanged for ’em. By a Virginia Paper I perceive that Captn Morgan & Lieutt Heath who were taken Prisoners at Quebec & now on Parole are promoted in the late arrangement of Officers in that State; the former to a Regiment, the latter to a Majority: It would be well if they were released, but being Virginians and not knowing that any Gentlemen who were taken at the same time are so circumstanced, I have declined claiming their return without the Opinion of Congress lest I should incur the charge of partiality.
I have sent forward Colo. Humpton to collect proper boats & Craft at the Ferry for transporting our Troops and it will be of Infinite importance to have every other craft, besides what he takes for the above purpose, secured on the West side of Delaware, otherwise they may fall into the Enemy’s hands & facilitate their views. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. ½ after 1. OClock. P.M. The Enemy are fast advancing; some of ’em are now in sight. All the men of the Jersey flying Camp under Genl Herd being applied to, have refused to continue longer in service.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 1 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Decr 1st 1776 ½ after 7. P.M.

In a little time after I wrote you this Evening, the Enemy appeared in several parties on the Heights opposite Brunswic and were advancing in a large body towards the crossing place. We had a smart canonade whilst we were parading our Men but without any or but little loss on either side. It being impossible to oppose them with our present force with the least prospect of success, we shall retreat to the West side of Delaware & have advanced about Eight miles, where it is hoped we shall meet a reinforcement sufficient to check their Progress. I have sent Colo. Humpton forward to collect the necessary boats for our transportation and conceive it proper, that the Militia from Pensylvania should be ordered towards Trentton, that they may be ready to Join us and act as occasion may require. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go. Washington

P.S. I wish my Letters of Yesterday may arrive safe, being informed that the return Express who had ’em was idling his time & shewing ’em on the Road.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General William Howe, 1 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Brunswick [N.J.] Decemr 1st 1776

I am to acknowledge the honor of your favor of the 11th ulto and to thank you for your polite return of my Letter to Mrs Washington.
Agreeing to the Proposition you were pleased to make for the exchange of such Prisoners as can be conveniently collected, The Gentn whose names are specified in the inclosed List have permission to proceed immediately to New York. Others as soon as they arrive will

be allowed the same indulgence. At a proper season I shall require a return of the like number & of equal rank.
Having directions from Congress, to propose an exchange of Governor Franklyn for Brigadr Genl Thompson, I would take the liberty to submit the matter to your determination. and to request your Answer upon the Subject.
Besides the persons included in the enclosed List, Capt. Hesketh of the 7th Regt his Lady, 3 Children and two Servant Maids were permitted to go in a few days ago. I am Sir with due Respect Yr most obdt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Richard Humpton, 1 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Humpton, Richard (Colonel)

Sir
Brunswick [N.J.] Decemr 1. 1776.

You are to proceed to The Two ferry’s near Trentown and to see all the boats there put in the best Order with a sufficiency of Oars and poles and at the same time to Collect all the Additional Boats you [can] from both above and below and have them brought to those ferry’s and Secured for the purpose of Carrying over the Troops & Baggage in most expeditious Manner: & for this purpose you will get every Assistance in the power of the Quarter Master General & any person in his Department. you will particularly attend to the Durham Boats which are very proper for the purpose. The Baggage & Stores of the Army should be got over the River as soon as possible and placed at some Convenient place a little back from it. I am Sir Yr Most Obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Charles Lee, 1 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Charles

Dear Sir
Brunswic [N.J.] Decr 1st 1776

The Enemy are advanci[n]g & have got as far as Woodbridge and Amboy, and from information not to be doubted mean to push to Philadelphia. The force I have with me, is infinitely inferior in number and such as cannot give or promise the least successfull opposition. It is greatly reduced by the departure of the Maryland flying Camp men and Sundry other causes. I must entreat you to hasten your march as much as possible or your arrival may be too late to answer any valuable purpose. your Route nor the place to Join me I cannot particularize; in these Instances you must be governd by circumstances and the intelligence you receive—Let the former be secure—I hope to meet a considerable reinforcemt of Pensylva. Associators; it is said they seem spirited upon this occasion. I am Dr Sir Yrs.


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 1 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Dear Sir
Brunswic [N.J.] 1st Decemr 1776

I wrote to you yesterday, but as from every Information of the Motions of the Enemy, their Intent seems plainly directed thro this State, and then on to Philadelphia, I cannot help calling upon you in the most urgent Manner, and begging you to fall upon proper Means to draw forth the Strength of your province to my Support.
The Enemy’s advanced parties were last Night at Bonum Town four Miles on this Side Woodbridge. They are impressing Waggons and Horses, and collecting Cattle and Sheep, which is a further proof of their intent to march a considerable Distance. Unless my Force is speedily augmented, it will be impossible for me to make any Stand at this place, when the Enemy advance, as I have not, including General Williamsons Militia (say 1000) more than four thousand Men. The Militia from the Counties of Morris & Sussex turn out slowly and reluctantly, whether owing to the want of Officers of Spirit to encourage them, or your Summons not being regularly sent to them I cannot say, but I have reason to believe there has been a deficiency in both Cases. Designing Men have been purposely sent among them to influence some and intimidate others, and except Gentlemen of Spirit and Character will appear among them and rouse them, little can be expected. I wrote to Genl Williamson last Night and pressed him to exert himself, but I have reason to beleive he has not the Confidence of the People as much as could be wished. My Accounts of the Reinforcements to be expected from pennsylvania are very encouraging, but from the Distance and necessary delays attending a sudden March I cannot look for them under a Week or ten days, in which time the Enemy will have reached the Delaware at least, if not opposed by more than my present Numbers. Genl Lee is on his March down to join me, but if the Enemy should throw in a Body of Men between us, he will

be obliged to make a considerable circuit to avoid them. The Boats and Craft all along the Delaware Side should be secured, particularly the Durham Boats used for the Transportation of produce down the River, parties should be sent to all the landings to have them removed to the other Side, hauled up and put under proper Guards. One such Boat would transport a Regiment of Men.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 2 December 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Pecks-kill [N.Y.] Decr 2nd 1776

I have to acknowledge the Receipt of yours of the 29th Ultimo—and am glad to hear of your Excellency’s safe Arrival at Brunswick, without the least interruption from the Enemy.
I am happy to find my honest Endeavours to do my Duty crowned with your Excellency’s Approbation—In addition to the Stores which I before mention’d to have been secured & bro’t off, a Quantity of Pearl-Ash, Bees-Wax, Oyl &c., & Two Brass Patterarous, which belong to the States, have been brought here, an Invoice thereof is enclosed[.] I have ordered them to Fish-Kill—I have also secured Ten Tons of Lead which is sent to the same place.
I am paying the utmost Attention to the plan for obstructing Hudson’s River, & have detached General George Clinton, with Two of his strongest Regiments, to push this most important Business; they serve for a Garrison for Fort Constitution at the same time that they are at this Duty.
General Scott’s Brigade, Col. Tash’s & Col. Snider’s Regiments are gone home, except about 100 of General Scott’s Brigade, that have

been prevailed upon to stay a little longer—The Convention of the State of New York, had sent them an Address & £1500 Currency as a Gratuity to encourage them to continue a month longer, I did all in my power to prevail upon them, & also transmitted to General Scott your Excellency’s Letter, urging the Expediency of their staying at this time—but all was in vain; home they must go, but many mean to inlist as they say after they have seen their Friends.
The Troops now at this post are but few and much Scattered which will put it out of our power to accomplish so much work, as I fear will be expected, but no endeavours of mine shall be wanting.
I have just received a number of Resolves from the Committee of Safety of the State of New York, which I take the Liberty to inclose, not knowing whether your Excellency has as yet received them.
General Lee is this day beginning to pass the River with his division, & numbers of the northern Army we are told, are on their march to join you, so that I hope soon to congratulate your Excellency on some signal Victory, over the Enemy unless upon the approach of the Reinforcements they should give you the Slip which I rather think will be the Case. I have the Honor to be with Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s most humble Servant

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from John Langdon, 2 December 1776
From: Langdon, John
To: Washington, George

Portsmouth [N.H.] 2 December 1776. Sends GW “about Sixty thousand flints” by order of the Continental Congress Secret Committee. “Our Privateers do great execution, and had we guns for our Continental

ships, they would give great Assistance to your Excellency’s Opperations, by Cuting off, the Supplies, of the British Army.”


Title: To George Washington from Pierre Van Cortlandt, 2 December 1776
From: Van Cortlandt, Pierre
To: Washington, George

[Fishkill, N.Y., c.2 December 1776]

Sir—Agreeable to the directions of the Committee of Safety, I do myself the honour to send your Excellency the enclosed resolutions, and to assure you that it is with extreme pain that they find themselves under the necessity of passing them. The singular wantonness and cruelty of the persons concerned in burning the public and private buildings at the White Plains, which even a barbarous enemy had left uninjured, has excited a general indignation, and made many careless about the event of our cause who may have reason to apprehend as great evils from the licentiousness of their friends, as from the hostilities of the enemy.
Other complaints have been offered against the rapine of the soldiers, who are accused of plundering a people, who from the unavoidable miseries of war would, when most tenderly treated, be objects of compassion.
The committee are too well satisfied of your Excellency’s benevolence and justice to think that any thing of this kind which comes to your knowledge, will escape the punishment which you are empowered to inflict, but which unhappily is, in many cases, far short of what the crime merits. To this they impute the frequency of offences, and have therefore troubled your Excellency with the request that you will be pleased to concur with them in representing to the Honourable the Congress, the necessity of making it capital for any officer or soldier to pillage the inhabitants, or without your Excellency’s command to ravage the country which they can with pleasure declare they have the highest reason to believe will never be given, but when the interest of the community should require it. To this they flatter themselves, their past resolutions have shown that they are not unwilling to venture every proper sacrifice—in the mean time, think it their duty to declare that the presence of the army does not supersede the laws of the country, and pray your Excellency’s assistance in enabling them to execute them upon those who are immediately under your command. I have the honr. to be, &c.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General William Howe, 3 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Head Quarters [Trenton] 3d Decemr 1776.

The Letter which accompanies this, was designed to have been sent by the Gentlemen whose names are in the List it incloses; but by some Accident or delay of my Messenger they had left Brunswick before it reached them. Since that time I have been informed, that a Number

of others both Officers and Soldiers are coming on from the State of Pennsylvania. I have directed Colo. Moylan to meet and to give them a safe Conduct to your out Posts, he will transmit you a List of their Number, Names & Ranks. And I shall as I mentioned in my former Letter, soon make a Requisition of the Like Number of equal Rank.


Title: From George Washington to Maj. Gen. Charles Lee, 3 December 1776 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Charles

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. Charles Lee, 3 Dec. 1776. GW wrote Lee on this date: “Having wrote you fully both Yesterday and to day of my situation, It is unnecessary for me to add much at this time.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Charles Lee, 3 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Charles

Dr Sir
Trenton Decr 3d 1776

I was just now favoured with your Letter of the 30th Ulto. Having wrote you fully both Yesterday and to day of my situation, It is unnecessary for me to add much at this time. You will readily agree that I have sufficient cause for my anxiety, and to wish for your arrival as early as possible. In respect to instructions or your Route, you must be governed by circumstances, this has been the language of All my Letters since I had occasion to call for your aid. the sooner you can join me with your Division, the sooner the service [will] be benifitted. As to bringing any of the Troops under Genl Heath, I cannot consent to it; The posts they are at & the passes through the Highlands being of the utmost importance, they must be guarded by good men. I would have you to give me frequent advices of your approach. Upon proper information in this instance much may depend. I am Dr Sir with great esteem Yr most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Caldwell, 4 December 1776 [letter not found]
From: Caldwell, James
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from James Caldwell, 4 Dec. 1776. In his letter to Hancock of 6 Dec., GW referred to “a Letter of the 4th Inst. from a Mr Caldwell.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 4 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Trenton December the 4th 1776

Since I had the honor of addressing you Yesterday, I received a Letter from Genl Lee. On the 30th Ulto he was at Peeks Kills, and expected to pass the River with his division two days after. From this intelligence you will readily conclude, that he will not be able to afford us any aid for several days. The report of Genl Sinclair’s having Joined him with Three or four Regiments, I believe to be altogether premature, as he mentions nothing of it. It has arisen, as I am informed, from the return of some of the Jersey & Pensylvania Troops from Ticonderoga, whose time or service is expired. They have reached Pluckemin where I have wrote to have ’em halted and kept together, if they can be prevailed on, till further orders.
The inclosed, is a copy of a Letter which came to hand last night from Major Clark, to which I beg leave to refer you for the intelligence it contains. The Number of the Enemy said to be embarked is supposed to be rather exaggerated. That there has been an embarkation is not to be doubted, it being confirmed through various Channels. By Colo. Griffin who went from Brunswic on Sunday Morning with a Captn Sims to pass him by our Guards, and who was detained by Lord Cornwallis till Monday Evening on account of his situation, the amount of Genl Clintons force from what he could collect from the Officers, was about Six Thousand, as to their destination, he could not obtain the least information. By him I also learn, the Enemy were in Brunswic, and that some of their advanced parties had proceeded two miles on this side. The Heavy rain that has fallen, has probably checked their progress, and may prevent their further movement for some time. I have the Honor to be with great esteem Sir Your Most Obedt St

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 4 December 1776
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada Decr 4th 1776.

The Congress apprehending that, in the present State of the Army, and Situation of our Affairs, an Exchange of Governor Franklin might be prejudicial, and attended with some bad Consequences, have been induced to come to the above Resolution, which I transmit by their Directions. I have the Honour to be, with the utmost Esteem & Respect, Sir your most obed. Sert

John Hancock Prest

Your favr of 3d Inst. just came to hand.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 4 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters Trenton 4th Decemr 1776

Yours of the 28th last Month was delivered to me by the Brigadier Le Roche de Fermoy, who is now here, but unable to render me that Service, which I dare say from his Character, he would, was he better acquainted with our Language.
I yesterday recd a Letter, from you without a date, mentioning that the prisoners, from York Town, were directed to halt at Newtown for my Orders. On hearing they were there, I sent Colo. Moylan to conduct them and the prisoners from Reading, who arrived nearly at the same time, over towards Brunswic and deliver them in.
I hope you have not sent Capt. price, Lieut: Peacock and Major Campbell on to this place, as it is highly improper they should see and know the Situation of our Army here and at princetown. They had better be sent up under the Care of some person to Newtown or that Neighbourhood and there wait the Arrival of some larger party, who, I imagine will be soon forward from Lancaster, and go in with them.
Lieutenant Symes came over to me at Brunswic from Bethlehem without the least Guard or Escort, and a Lieutenant of the 7th Regiment went thro’ our whole Army, and was at last discovered by a mere Accident. He had a pass from the Council of Safety and that was all. Such an irregular Mode of suffering prisoners to go in alone, must be put a Stop to, or the Enemy will be as well acquainted with our Situation as we are ourselves, if they are left at Liberty to chuse their own Rout, they will always take that, thro’ our Army, for Reasons too obvious to mention. I am Sir yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

I have been obliged to send down a Number of our Sick to Philadelphia to make room for the Troops and to remove them out of the Way. Be pleased to have some Care taken to have them properly accommodated. I should think part of the House of Employment might be procured for that purpose. I have ordered down an Officer from each

Regiment and a Surgeons Mate if they can be spared. But I hope they will not want the Assistance of the visiting Physicians of the Hospital.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Dallam, 5 December 1776 [letter not found]
From: Dallam, Richard
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Richard Dallam, 5 Dec. 1776. On 5 Dec. GW wrote to Dallam: “I have yours of this Morning from Bristol.”


Title: From George Washington to Richard Dallam, 5 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Dallam, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters Trenton 5th Decemr 1776

I have yours of this Morning from Bristol. As the most considerable part of the Army is like to be in this Town and its Neighbourhood, I think you better remove the Treasury as near as possible on the pennsylvania Side of the River, when you have fixed upon a House, a proper Guard shall be appointed. It is very inconvenient for Officers to go for Money, which is wanted every Moment for one Purpose or other, even as far as Bristol.

Inclosed you have a Letter for Govr Livingston which desire Colo. Griffin to send over to Burlington by a trusty Messenger, if Govr Livingston should not be at Burlington, he will certainly be at Philada to which place Colo. Griffin (who lodges at preistleys) will be pleased to send it. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Be pleased to forward the inclosed for Colo. Reed also.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant General William Howe, 5 December 1776
From: Howe, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
New York 5th December 1776

The Persons mentioned in the inclosed List are sent in Exchange for the Officers and others against whom their Names are placed, being of equal rank & Station, altho’ this partial Mode of releasing a few at a Time upon Parole is by no Means the Mode of Exchange which from your Assurances I had a right to Expect, The Soldier has always a stronger Plea for this Justice than the Officer as his Sufferings & Wants from the Nature of his Situation must be felt in a higher degree, which I am sorry to own is too much the Case with those in my Possession from Causes that cannot be removed. The repeated Applications I have made on this Head, & the Indulgencies lately given to expedite an Exchange as far as possible need no Comment—Humanity still urges me to one more, and that it is in favor of your Sick & Wounded, who wanting Accomodation, Refreshments, & Attendance, which the Town or Country in its present situation do not afford, or the Surgeons

of the Kings Army can give, are Objects of real Compassion, At the same Time give me Leave to observe that every Measure in my Power has been taken to alleviate their Sufferings, and shall be continued, until you have had a reasonable Warning to provide more effectually for their Relief: The Consequences will of course be hurtful to every feeling Mind, but Necessity must justify the Measure, it is Sir, to you only that I can apply for a Performance of the Agreements you have entered into, and since your Honor & Humanity are equally concerned in this Compliance, I shall on that Account also be sorry to find my Expectations disappointed. With due Respect I am Sir, Your most Obet Servt

(Sign’d) W. Howe


Title: Memorandum for Colonel Richard Humpton, 5 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Humpton, Richard (Colonel)

[Trenton] Dec. 5th 1776.

To enquire into the situation of the troops under General Lee and let me know where they are—by what rout they march—& what Stages they will make—and other matters which may be necessary to know. Also to enquire into the State of the regiments from Ticonderoga where they are—the Situation they are in—and under whose command—whether their term of Service is expired—whether in that case, they will consent to continue a while longer in service, A fortnight for instance—and other matters which may be useful to know.
Moreover to enquire what Militia are with Gen. Williamson, belonging to the State of New Jersey, where any other of the militia of the said state are assembled, under what officers—how appointed &ca. In short I wish to know the whole force that is collected, where and what may be expected from them.
The Militia should be encouraged to turn out under proper officers—not in a confused and disorderly manner—and join the army or assemble in the vicinity of it enquire into the article of provisions &ca

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 6 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Trenton Decr 6th 1776

I have not received any intelligence of the Enemy’s movements since my Letter of Yesterday; from every information, they still remain at Brunswic, except some of their parties who are advanced a small distance on this side. to day I shall set out for Princeton myself, unless something should occur to prevent me, which I do not expect.
By a Letter of the 4th Inst. from a Mr Caldwell, a Clergyman & a Staunch friend to the Cause & who has fled from Eliz. Town & taken refuge in the Mountains about Ten miles from thence, I am inform’d that Genl or Lord Howe was expected in that Town to publish pardon & peace. His words are, “I have not seen his Proclamation, but can only say, he gives 60 days of Grace & Pardons from the Congress down to the Committee. No one man in the Continent is to be denied his Mercy.[”] In the language of this Good man, the Lord deliver us from his mercy.
Your Letter of the 3d by major Livingston was duly received. before it came to hand, I had wrote to Genl Howe about Govr Franklins exchange, but am not certain whether the Letter could not be recovered. I dispatched a messenger instantly for that purpose. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr Most Obedt St

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 6 December 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peeks-Kill [N.Y.] Decr 6th 1776

I have Just received Intelligence that on the 4th Instant about Sun sit Seventy Sail of ships of war and Transport with Troops on Board Sailed with a fair Wind Down the Sound towards New England, Probably to Rhode Island.
I have Sent an Express to Governor Trumbull, and to Massachusetts Bay, and have Desired Governor Trumbull to Send an Express to Rhode Island, I have at this Post, Three Regiments of General Parsons’s Brigade and Three of General Clintons, and a number of Convalisents Lame and Rag[g]ed left By General Lee, General Clinton is pushing the obstructions in the River, any orders from your Excellency to move the Troops or any Part of them shall be Instantly obeyed, by him who has the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Humble Servt

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 6 December 1776
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sr
Lebanon [Conn.] Decr 6th 1776

It is sometime since we have had any Intelligence of your Situation in the Jerseys or of the Enemy in that quarter Indeed no certain account has arived here Since the Evacuation of Fort Lee and our Forces retireing to Hackensack.
We have to acquaint your Excellency, that we now apprehend it highly probable that a very Considerable part of Genal Hows Army Intend a descent on some parts of New England and finish this years Campaigne here, we have Intelligence that a Large Number, It is said some hundred of the Enemies Ships and Transports have passed thro’ Hell Gate into the Sound—a few Days Since Ten of the Enemy’s Capital Ships of Warr came round Montaug point came up the Sound just passed N. London where they are since joined by about Eighty Transports &c. This we have Certain Intelligence of & that they Lye off at present at Anchor there—It is Supposed waiting to be joined by Numbers

more—We are Collecting our Militia as fast as possible, but how far we Shall be able to repulse the Enemy by this Force you’ll judge and doubt not of your utmost attention & exertion whenever the Enemy demand the same, & must Submit to your Excellency to give Such orders as you may think proper on this occasion May it not be proper to Send us some General Officers previous to the Coming on of Continental Troops—if the Descent be on New London or Newport or both a Large body of them will be necessary, and of which there can be no doubt.
I am Concernd for the recruiting Service, wish it may [be] forwarded, & to be Informed how it goes on—four Battalions are raising here to Serve ’till the 15th of March next. I am with great Truth and Regard Sr your most Obedient Humble Servant

Jonth; Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to Colonel John Cadwalader, 7 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Cadwalader, John

Sir,
Trenton 7th Decr 1776.

As your Troops (from Philadelphia) can be better accomodated in this place than at Princeton, where Quarters are scarce, I would have you remain here till the whole of your Brigade comes up. In the meanwhile, keep me regularly advised of their arrival that I may endeavour to time other matters thereby.
If they are not already properly arranged no time should be lost in doing of it. nor in compleating them with Ammunition. keep them regularly supplied with three days Provisions ready Cooked—that they may be ready to March at a Moments warning.
The Marines—Sailors &ca from Philadelphia you will take under your care till a further disposition of them can be made, if necessary, letting me know in the meanwhile if they came out resolved to act upon Land or meant to confine their Services to the Water only.
Delay no time in advising me of your Strength. with sincere esteem and regard I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 7 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Sir
Trenton December 7. 1776

You are upon Receipt of this to cross the North River with the Troops under your Command in the Continental Service to wit Parsons’s Brigade & move on so as to give all possible Protection to the Country & Vigour to the Cause. If you could move on towards Morris Town in New Jersey it would be best, as by this Means a Junction may

be made if necessary & at all Events such a Movement would attract Attention. I am in Haste Your Obed. Hbble Serv.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 7–8 December 1776
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Lebanon [Conn.] 7–8 December 1776. “The Genll Assembly of this State sensible of the vast Importance of supporting the great Cause in which You are so nobly strugling, Have at their Session of the 19th of Novr last, made Provision for raising by Inlistment four Battalions to serve under Your Command untill the 15th of March next, before which Time I have strong Hopes our Quota of the Continental Army will be compleated. and I Do earnestly recomend it to the brave Officers & Soldiers of this State now in your Army, freely & chearfully to undertake in Defence of so great, so just & so good a Cause.. . . P.S. 8 Decr since writing the above, the Enemys Fleet have quitted N. London Harbor, without attacking that Place, & were yesterday above 100 Sail, between the Island of Cononnicut & the Main steering directly to Providence, & about 30 Sail going into Newport Harbor, & have doubtless attacked Them before this & our Militia are turned that way, & We expect an Army must be established in N. England also.”


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Matthias Williamson, 7 December 1776 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Williamson, Matthias

Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Matthias Williamson, 7 Dec. 1776. On 8 Dec. Williamson wrote to GW: “I had the honour of receiving your Excellency’s two Letters of the fifth & seventh inst.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 8 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Mr Berkley’s Sommerseat Decr 8th 1776

Colo. Reed would inform you of the Intelligence which I first met with on the Road from Trenton to Princeton Yesterday. Before I got to the latter, I received a Second express informing me, that as the Enemy were advancing by different Routs and attempting by One to get in the rear of our Troops which were there & whose numbers were small and the place by no means defensible, they had judged it prudent to retreat to Trenton—The retreat was accordingly made, and since to this side of the River.
This information I thought it my duty to communicate as soon as possible, as there is not a moments time to be lost in assembling such force as can be collected and as the object of the Enemy cannot now be doubted in the smallest degree. Indeed I shall be out in my conjecture (for it is only conjecture), if the late imbarkation at New York, is not for Delaware river, to cooperate with the Army under the immediate command of Genl Howe, who I am informed from good authority is with the British Troops and his whole force upon this Route.
I have no certain intelligence of Genl Lee, although I have sent frequent Expresses to him and lately a Colo. Humpton to bring me some accurate Accounts of his situation. I last night dispatched another Gentn to him—Major Hoops, desiring he would hasten his march to the Delaware in which I would provide Boats near a place called Alexandria for the transportation of his Troops. I can not account for the slowness of his March.
In the disordered & moving state of the Army I cannot get returns, but from the best accounts we had between Three thousand & 3500 Men before the Philadelphia Militia and German Batallion arrived, they amount to about Two thousand. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 8 December 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peeks-Kill [N.Y.] Decr 8th 1776

yesterday afternoon Lieut. Colonel Vose arrived Here from Albany, with Greatons, Bonds, & Porters Regiments, making in the whole between 5 & 600 men, on their way to Joyn your Excellency, I am Furnishing them with Tents Provisions &c. and not a moments Time shall be lost in facilitateing, their march—They do not disembarke here but fall Down to Haverstraw and will begin their march this Day.
Generals Gates and Arnold will be at Goshen this night with, Pattersons Starks Poors & Reads Regiments.
We have Information that besides the Ships which Sail’d through the Sound to the Eastward, Several Large ones (The Asia, Eagle &c.) Sailed Round Long-Island—It is Conjectured by many that they are Bound to Hallifax to Winter, and that Barracks for the reception of a Large Body of Troops have lately been Built There.
A number of Valluable Prises have been taken to the Eastward in Particular One with Arms Clothing &c.
General Spencer is removing to Crom Pond, where the Stores which were at North Castle are Deposited—The Heavy artillery Consisting of One Brass 24 pdr and Seven Iron 12 pdrs is at this Place.
General George Clinton is Pushing the obstructions in the River, I have ordered Colo. De Rousies Canadian Detachment to Joyn him—a great number of Convaliscents Left Here by General Lee (and others Collected from the Jersies north Castle—Stanford &c. many of whom Can never be of any Service but a Burden to the Publick) I think had better be Discharged return Home and recruit, after which many of them will Enlist.
I think the recruiting Service is pretty Successfull, should be glad to be informed, if the men belonging to One State, are to Enlist Under the officers belonging to another, as there is a diversity of Opinions on the matter, my own Opinion is that they ought not, but perhaps I am mistaken.
We are Impatient to Hear from your Excellency and to Know the Truth of things as many reports prevail Here, one Day that you are retreating, before the Enemy, the next that you have Obtained Some Signal Advantage, Killed Some Principal Officers &c.

By a Person who has Just made his Escape from the Enemy, I am Informed that they are Building Barracks in Fort Independence near Kingsbridge. I have the Honor to be with great respect your Excellencys most Hbble Servt

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General Charles Lee, 8 December 1776
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

Dr General
Morris Town [N.J.] Dec’r the 8th 1776

Colonel Hampton will give you a return of the Militia already assembled and of those (if it can be call’d a return) expected—the whole will as it is said make by tomorrow morning one thousand—my Corps that pass’d the N. River will amount (for We are considerably diminish’d) to seven and twenty hundred—in fact our Army may be estimated at four thoushand—If I was not taught to think that your Army was considerably reinforc’d I shoud immediately join you but as I am assurd you are very strong I shoud imagine We can make a better impression by hanging on their rear—for which purpos—a good Post at Chatham seems the best calculated—it is at a happy distance from Newark Elizabeth Town Woodbridge and Bounbrok—it will annoy distract and consequently weaken em—as to your Excellencies idea of surprizing Brunswick the post I propose taking offers the greatest probability of success—but We are so ill shod and destitute of L. Horse that this desultory War is hard upon the poor Soldiers—but I must do em the justice to say that They have noble spirits and will, I have no doubt, render great service to their Country. God bless you General—yours Most sincerely

Charles Lee


Title: To George Washington from Major General Charles Lee, 8 December 1776
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

Dr General
Chatham [N.J.] Dec’r the 8th 1776

Major Hoops has just deliver’d to me your Excellencys letter—I am extremely shock’d to hear that your force is so inadequate to the necessity of your situation—as I had been taught to think you had been considerably reenforc’d—your last letters proposing a plan of surprises and forc’d marches convincd me that there was no danger of your being oblig’d to pass the Delawar in consequence of which proposals I have put myself in a position the most convenient to cooperate with you by attacking their rear—I cannot perswade myself that Philadelphia is their object at present as it is almost certain that their whole Troops lately embark’d have directed their course to the Eastern Provinces—for Spencer writes me word that half of it has pass’d the Sound—and the other half turn’d the South Western end of Long Island and steer’d Eastward—I detach’d Colonel Warnum [Varnum] and Monss’r Malmadie to take the direction of the Rhode Island Troops—who are without even the figure of a General—it will be difficult I am afraid to join you but cannot I do you more service by attacking their rear? I shall look about me tomorrow and inform you further—I am Dr General, Yours

Charles Lee


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 8 December 1776
From: Massachusetts Council
To: Washington, George

Sir
Council Chamber Boston Decr 8th 1776

Immediately on receiving your Excellencies intimations that it was necessary your Army should be reinforced with Four thousand of the Militia from this State, Orders were issued to raise the men—And since that as our affairs grew more serious & Alarming, the Court have given orders to Augment the number to about Six Thousand—every measure hath been adopted to forward the Troops to you with dispatch—we can’t but indulge the pleasing hope that the intended reinforcement will arrive in season—and that they will afford every Assistance and Support that may justly be expected from them. They are Ordered to Rendezvous at Danbury in Connecticutt where General Lincoln, who is appointed to take the Command of them, will wait your

Excellencies Orders. The General Court of this State are determined, vigorously, to exert themselves in raising a New Army and render to your Excellency every support in their power. notwithstanding the alarm the Enemy are spreading by hovering round these Coasts with a large number of Ships of War & Transports, perhaps with a View to divert us from these designs—We congratulate you on the late happy success of our Arms and wish to be informed of the perticulars of the Battle near Hackensack River, and of every occurrence important to the United States which may take place. We are with great regard and Esteem your Excellencies Most Humle Servants.

In the name and by Order of Council
James Bowdoin Presidt


Title: To George Washington from William Shippen, Jr., 8 December 1776
From: Shippen, William Jr.
To: Washington, George

My dear & hon’d Sir
Bethelem [Pa.] 8 Decr 1776.

With much difficulty & a small Loss I have got all the sick, except 20 who were too ill to remove, to Easton, Bethelem & Allenstown, where in a few days I flatter myself they will be as happy as sick soldiers ever are. I must mention to your Excellency that the moving of Dr Morgans stores that have not been used these 3 months, have cost the continent I verily believe as much as their first cost—Would it not be well to have them opened here & the useful ones be employed for the many sick, who want them, & the remainder stored up? you know Sir how particular some folks are in doing Business. your order will be necessary. The Congress have explaind their resolve & order’d Dr Morgans Duty to lay entirely on the east of Hudsons River. As it is possible that an Action will happen between your & Genl Howes army—I have thought it necessary that some gentleman of eminence should be near your excellency & the army in case of extraordinary accidents—For which purpose I know of no one more proper or better qualified than the bearer Dr Cochran who will wait your Excellencys commands in this department. As soon as my great Family can be left with propriety I shall do myself the honor of waiting on you also, in the mean time I sincerely wish success to your army & am Dr & hon’d Sir Your affectionate & very humbe Servt

W. Shippen Jr


Title: To George Washington from General Matthias Williamson, 8 December 1776
From: Williamson, Matthias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Morris Town [N.J.] December 8th 1776

I had the honour of receiving your Excellency’s two Letters of the fifth & seventh inst.—I can declare to your Excellency with the greatest Truth, that with the utmost punctuality & dispatch on receiving Govr Livingston’s Orders, I wrote Letters to the commandg Officers of the Militia of this State, to draw out their Batallions, & join the Army under your immediate Command, or the Corps under my care, as most contiguous. I am sorry to say, that altho there was great necessity for them to exert themselves at this important Crisis, very few of the Counties of Essex or Bergen join’d my Command.
At this Time, I have no Influence in either of those Counties, but have it from good Intelligence, that many who bore the Character of warm Whigs have been foremost in seeking protection from Genl Howe and forsaking the American Cause.
Coll Thomas of Essex County is with us, but has no command of Men, I dont think he has more than fifty Men of his whole Battn.
Not above twenty Privates from Newark have joind us, not one from Acquacanunck—nor a field Officer from either Place.
Coll Fords Regiment makes up the principal Part of the Troops here, and it is chiefly owing to his zeal in the American Cause, as well as his great influence with the People, that the Appearance of Defence at this Post has been kept up.
Coll Simes of Sussex has join’d us, but his number of Privates is inconsiderable. I shou’d be glad to have made out a Return of the Brigade to your Excellency, but my Indisposition puts it out of my Power. Collo. Ford has had the Command, since we arrived here[.]

I took so great a Cold on the late March, which fell into my Limbs, as has in a great Measure confined me to my Room, & disabled me from joining the Brigade.
I rode out Yesterday about four Miles to Passaick, our chief Post & taking fresh cold, am now entirely confined to my Room.
I feel sensible Pain at some Expressions in your Excellency’s last Letter, which imply that I had not done all in my power to assemble the Militia under my Command. Coud your Excellency be possest of a Knowledge of my Solicitousness and Endeavours to bring them out, I am sure, You woud conclude, that the Man who had informed, or insinuated otherwise, had used me very cruelly. I can declare, before God, I have worried myself to the Heart, in endeavouring to serve my Country to the extent of my Power. General Mercer is knowing to many Difficulties I laboured under to keep the Militia together, while he had the Command at Elizabeth Town. Upon the whole I am so entirely disabled from doing my Duty in the Brigade, by my Lameness, that I have wrote to Governor Livingstone, to request his Acceptance of my Resignation, and have ventured to recommend Colo. Ford as the properest to succeed in that Command. I am with the greatest Truth, Sir, Your most obedt & most hume Servant

Matthias Williamson

P.S. Enclosed is a Copy of the Orders I sent Colo. Ford, the Moment I recd Governor Livingstons Command to call out the Militia &c.—Similar to this was sent to all the commanding officers of the different Counties, in the Eastern Division of this State.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 9 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Quarters Trenton Falls 9th Decemr 1776

I did myself the honor of writing to you Yesterday, and informing you that I had removed the Troops to this Side of the Delaware, soon after, the Enemy made their Appearance, and their Van entered, just as our Rear Guard quitted.
We had removed all our Stores except a few Boards. From the best Information, they are in two Bodies, one, at and near Trenton, the other some Miles higher up, and inclining towards Delaware, but whether with intent to cross there, or throw themselves between Genl Lee and me is yet uncertain.
I have this Morning detatched Lord Stirling with his Brigade to take post at the different landing places, and prevent them from stealing a March upon us from above, for I am informed if they cross at Coriels Ferry or thereabouts, they are as near to Philadelphia as we are here. From several Accounts, I am led to think, that the Enemy are bringing Boats with them, if so, it will be impossible for our small Force to give them any considerable Opposition in the Passage of the River, indeed they make a Feint at one place, and by a sudden Removal carry their Boats higher or lower before we can bring our Cannon to play upon them.
Under these Circumstances, the Security of Philadelphia should be our next Object. From my own Remembrance, but more from Information (for I never viewed the Ground) I should think that a Communication of Lines and Redoubts might soon be formed from the Delaware to Schuylkill on the North Entrance of the City. The Lines to begin on the Schuylkill side about the Heights of Springatsbury and run Eastward to Delaware upon the most advantagious and commanding Grounds. If something of this kind is not done, the Enemy might, in Case any Misfortune should befall us; march directly in and take Possession. We have ever found that Lines, however slight are very formidable to them, they would at least give a Check till people could recover of the Fright and Consternation that naturally attends the first Appearance of an Enemy.

In the mean time every Step should be taken to collect Force not only from Pennsylvania but from the most neighbourly States, if we can keep the Enemy from entering Philadelphia and keep the Communication by Water open, for Supplies, we may yet make a Stand, if the Country will come to our Assistance, till our new Levies can be collected.
If the Measure of fortifying the City should be adopted, some Skillful person should immediately view the Grounds and begin to trace out the Lines and Works. I am informed there is a French Engineer of eminence in Philadelphia at this time. If so he will be the most proper. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I have just recd the inclosed from Genl Heath. Genl Mifflin is this Moment come up and tells me that all the Military Stores yet remain in Philadelphia. This makes the immediate fortifying of the City so necessary that I have desired Genl Mifflin to return to take Charge of the Stores, and have ordered Major Genl Putnam immediately down to superintend the Works and give the necessary Directions.

G. W—n


Title: From George Washington to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 9 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Pennsylvania Council of Safety

Gentlemen
Head Quarters near Trenton 9 Decr 1776

I am informed by Colo. Hart that the Colonels of the Bucks County Militia have been directed by you, to march their Battalions to Philadelphia, to assist in the defence and preservation of the City. I had however, previous to this information, wrote to the several Colonels, desiring they would without delay march their Men to this place, as I am convinced it will be attended with much advantage that they should join the Army here, where their Assistance is essentially necessary. If you approve of the Step I have taken you will please to signify it to the abovementioned Gentn that no difficulty may arise in consequence of the different Orders. I am with Respect Gentlemen Your very Humble servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 9 December 1776
From: Pennsylvania Council of Safety
To: Washington, George

In Council of Safety Philada 9th Decemr 1776 half past eight OClock P.M.
Sir

We have undoubted inteligence that a body of the Enemys Light horse was at a place called the Cross Roads about 9 Mile above Burlington and a report prevails that an advanced party are at Burlington, from circumstances it may be too true, we therefore wish to call your Excellencies attention to a ferry about 4 Miles below Burlington called Dunks ferry where the River is narrow and may afford the Enemy a better chance to pass and cut off the communication between this City and your Army than any other on the River—we intend to Order one (and the only one that is now here) of the Gallies up to that place to interrupt their passage if they should attempt it, we submit to your excellency the propriety of Ordering the Galleys down towards that pass, if you should approve it you will please to give Orders accordingly.

By order of Council
Tho. Wharton junr Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 10 December 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Pecks-kill [N.Y.] Decr 10th 1776

The last Evening about 8 O’Clock I received the honor of your’s of the 7th Instt, & immediately gave Orders for the Regiments of General Parsons’s Brigade which are on this Side of Hudson’s River, to pass over which they will do this day—I shall also order Huntington’s & Tyler’s to join them, & pursue the effecting the purposes, which your Excellency has been pleased to point out.
This post will now be left in a very defenceless condition as to men; not a single Continental Regiment on this side of the River, & nearly all the Field Artillery gone over the River; the Enemy’s Fleet which sailed Eastward a few days since by the last Accounts lying off New London, Ninety one in Number—The Account in Gaine’s New-York paper of Decr 2nd is as follows.
“Thursday last several Transports full of Troops & Military Stores passed up the East River, into Connecticut Sound: at the same time Sr Peter Parker & Mr Hothan, with the Asia, Renown, & other Men or War, fell down to the Narrows, in order to join the above Transports, as ’tis suppos’d about the East End of Long-Island. Various conjectures are raised about their Destination.” I have the honor to be with great Respect Your Excellency’s most humble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Charles Lee, 10 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Charles

Dr Sir
Trenton Falls Decr 10th 1776

I last night received your favor by Colo. Humpton & were it not for the weak and feeble state of the force I have, I should highly approve of your hanging on the Rear of the Enemy and establishing the Post you mention; But when my situation is directly opposite to what you suppose it to be, and when Genl Howe is pressing forward with the whole of his Army except the Troops that were lately embarked & a few besides left at N. York, to possess himself of Philadelphia, I cannot but request and entreat you & this too by the advice of all the Genl Officers with me, to march and join me with your whole force with all possible expedition. The utmost exertions that can be made, will not be more than sufficient to save Philadelphia, without the aid of your force, I think there is but little if any prospect of doing it. I refer you to the Route Majr Hoops would inform you of. The Enemy are now extended along the Delaware at Several places. By a prisoner who was taken last night, I am told that at Penny Town there are two Battallions of Infantry—3 of Grenadiers, The Hessian Grenadiers, 42d of Highlanders & 2 Others—Their object doubtless is to pass the river above us or to prevent your joining me. I mention this that you may avail yourself of the information. do come on, your arrival may be happy & if it can be effected without delay may be the means of preservg a City whose loss must prove of the most fatal consequence to the Cause of America. I am &c.

pray exert your influence & bring with you All the Jersey Militia you possibly can, Let them not suppose their State is lost or in any danger because the Enemy are pushing thro it. if you think Genl Sinclair or Genl Maxwell would be of Service to command em I would send either.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Wharton, Jr., 10 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Wharton, Thomas Jr.

Sir
Head Quarters Trenton Falls 10th Decemr 1776

Yours of last Evening reached me at 4 OClock this Morning. I immediately sent Orders to Commodore Seymour to dispatch one of his Gallies down to Dunk’s Ferry, and I shall dispose of the Remainder in such Manner, and at such places as will be most likely, not only to annoy the Enemy in their passage, but to give the earliest Information of any Attempt of that kind. Parties of the Enemy have been reconnoitering both up and down the River, and I imagine it has been one of those parties that have appeared near Burlington, for as they have not found the least Opposition from the people of Jersey, they venture very far from their main Body, which from the best Information still lays about Trenton and above it.
I have desired Colo. Humpton, who is the bearer of this, to apply for a Party of Men, to go up Coopers and Ancocus Creeks, and bring down all the Craft he may find there, for it is in vain to cut down Bridges, if the Boats are left. They cannot be trusted to the Care of the Owners, for if an Enemy was to appear, such is their Fear, that they would deliver them up, upon the first demand.
I think that the Fort began at Billingsport should be attended to, if there is not a party already there, one should be sent under a good Officer, who would not too readily take the Alarm and come off, for you may depend that only small Bodies will be sent to that Distance. But I have always found that the Intelligence brought by people not used to see Men in Arms, has always magnifyed Numbers exceedingly, and on this Head the Officer should be guarded, not to trust to Report, but be well satisfyed himself, before he gives up his post.
Having sent down Major Genl Putnam to throw up necessary Works for the Defence of your City, I hope you will co operate with him, and give him every Assistance in your power to expedite so necessary an Operation. I have the Honour to be Sir yr.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel John Cadwalader, 11 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Cadwalader, John

Sir
Head Quarters Falls of Delaware 11th Decemr 1776

From the Movement of the Enemy downwards, I think it highly necessary that the Post at Dunks’s Ferry should be guarded. I therefore desire that one of the Battalions of your Brigade may immediately march, and take post at that place. If it is agreeable to you I would chuse—the 3d Battalion under the Command of Lt Colonel Nixon. The other two Battalions should be under Orders to march at a Moments Warning—I expect the pleasure of your Company at dinner, but if you cannot come, as soon after as is convenient. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 11 December 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Haverstraw [N.Y.] Decr 11th 1776

I received your Orders the night before last for the march of General Parsons’s Brigade, and yesterday noon the Three Regiments at Peeks-Kill began their march, making about 500 men which are now here—I have ordered Huntingtons and Tylers to Joyn me they may make about three Hundred men, after leaving a Captain & 50 men as a Guard at the Pass in the mountains Colonel Vose with Greatons Bonds & Porters is now Seven miles advanced I have Sent to him to Halt untill I come up Unless He Should have received orders for his Conduct either from your Excellency, General Lee or Gates—He has about 500 men which will make in the whole about 1300 men. I find the Inhabitants to be in the Utmost Distress, the Tories are Joyning the Enemy and Insulting and Disarming the Whigs, Striping them of their Cattle Effects &c. Complaints Petitions &c. are Continually presenting for releif and the Greatest Complaints are from Orange Town, Clerks Town and the neighbourhood of Hackensack—I cannot pass therefore without Securing this neighbourhood, I think therefore to move by the way of Orange Town and Paramus to Curb the Disaffected and if by any means it should appear that the Enemy have not a Body of Troops at fort Lee or E[nglish] Neighbourhood and But a Small Detachment at Hackensack, to Endeavour to Dislodge them, if it should be Possible, I should be glad to know your Excellencys further Pleasure.
On Saturday last a schooner with a Flagg Came up the River with The Revd Charls Inglis, and one Mr Moor on Board to Sollicit of the Convention their Families which are now at Fish-Kills or in that vicinity, I gave orders for the Flag to be treated with the Utmost Politeness & Respect and at the Same time with as great precaution, I have forbid their going up either by Land or water, and have Stoped the vessel Below the Ferry I sent the Letters to the Convention after Examination,

And have wrote to them that I shall not Consent to either of the Persons going to Fish-Kills or to their Families being Permitted to be Sent to the City, as it appears to me that the Cause may receive Injury thereby Distrust is the mother of Security—The Flag waits an answer from Convention, But my Consent shall not be given Unless directed by your Excellency—I have ordered the Gally to lye near the Schooner and to Keep her Boats Rowing Round her all night—The men of war have Sailed Down the River. I have the Honor ⟨to be⟩ with great respect your Excellencys most Humble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Charles Lee, 11 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Charles

Dr Sir
Trenton Falls Decr 11th 1776

Your favor of the 8 Inst. by the Light Horseman reached me last night. Having wrote you fully respecting my situation just before it came to hand, it is unnecess[ar]y to add much now; I shall only say that Philadelphia beyond all question is the Object of the Enemy’s movements and that nothing less than our utmost exertions will be sufficient to prevent Genl Howe from possessing it. The force I have is weak and entirely incompetent to that end. I must therefore entreat you to push on with every possible succour you can bring. Your aid may give a more favourable complexion to our Affairs. You know the importance of the City of Philadelphia and the fatal consequences that must attend the loss of it. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt St.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Charles Lee, 11 December 1776
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

Morris Town [N.J.] Dec’r the 11th 1776

We have three thoushand Men here at present but They are so ill shod that We have been oblig’d to halt these two days for want of shoes—seven Regiments of Gates’s Corps are on their march but where They actually are is not certain—General Lee has sent two Officers this day—one to inform him where the Delawaer can be cross’d above Trenton—the other to examine the road towards Burlington as General Lee thinks He can without great risk cross the great Brunswick Post road and by a forc’d nights March make his way to the ferry below Burlington. Boats shou’d be sent up from Philadelphia to receive him—but this scheme He only proposes if the head of the Enemy’s Column actually pass the River—the Militia in this part of the Province seem sanguine—if They cou’d be sure of an Army remaining amongst em—I beleive They wou’d raise a very considerable number.


Title: From George Washington to Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 11 December 1776 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 11 Dec. 1776. On 12 Dec. Putnam wrote to GW: “Your Favor of Yesterday I have received.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Thompson, 11 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Thompson, William

Dr Sir
Trenton Falls Decemr 11th 1776

Being desirous of effecting an Exchange of Prisoners as far as circumstances will admit of, I shall be much obliged by your transmitting to me by the earliest Opportunity, the Names and Ranks of the Officers who were released on parole by Genl Carleton. I presume you have a List in which they are specified, and without which, I cannot point out to Genl Howe, the Officers who should be discharged from their Paroles in lieu of those who have been & will be sent in by us. I am Dr Sir with great respect Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Your Exchange for Govr Franklyn, has been proposed to Genl Howe, who has returned no Answer as yet.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Thomson, 11 December 1776
From: Thomson, Charles
To: Washington, George

Sir,
[Philadelphia, 11 December 1776]

The president being necessarily engaged with his family, I have the honour to inform you that your letter of the 10th was duly received & laid before Congress, and to transmit you a resolution of Congress passed this day. I am Sir Your obedient humble Servant

Chas Thomson


Title: General Orders, 12 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Trenton Falls Decb. 12. 1776

The Army is to be arranged as follows Generals Lord Stirlings, Mercers, Stevens’s & La Roche de Fermoy’s Brigades are to take post at and below Corells and McConkeys Ferry—Lord Sterlings Brigade to Continue at and near where his Head Quarters are—General Stevens next below it General Mercers below Stevens’s[.] General de Formoy’s Brigade and General Ewings Brigade to continue at this Post and guard the River from Burdenton up towards Yearlies Ferry. Redoubts to be erected at the Fords at Trenton Falls and near Yearlies ferry[.] Colo. Cadwallader’s Brigade to take post at Bristol and Guard the River up to the Marshey Grounds between Bristol and Burdenton ferry[.] Genl Dickerson’s Brigade to take post at Yearlies Ferry & act in Conjunction with Genl Ewing to Guard the River from Trenton Falls up to Yearlies ferry[.] Colo. Knox to arrange the Artillery to the Divisions, The Commanding Officers of Brigades to send forward their Quarter Masters & Commissary’s to Provide Quarters & Provisions for the Troops[.] The Commanding Officers of Brigades to give orders to their Brigades to March to Morrow morning to take Post agreable to the Arrangement.


Title: Orders to Colonel John Cadwalader, 12 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Cadwalader, John

Head Quarters—Trenton Falls Decemb. 12 1776

You are to post your Brigade at and near Bristol—Col. Nixons Regiment to continue where it is at Dunkes ferry—but if you find from Reconnoitering the ground or from any movements of the Enemy that any other disposition is necessary youl make it accordingly without waiting to hear from me, but to acquaint me of the alterations and the reasons for it as soon as possible. Youl establish the Necessary Guards—and throw up some little Redoubts at Dunkes ferry, and the different passes in the Meshanome—Pay particular attention to Dunkes ferry as its not improbable something may be Attempted there—Spare no pains or expence to get intelligence of the Enemies motions and intentions—Any promises made or sums Advanced shall be fully complied with & discharg’d—Keep proper Patroles going from Guard to Guard—Every piece of intelligence you Obtain worthy Notice send it forward by express—If the Enemy Attempt a landing on this side, youl give them all the Opposition in your power—Should they land between Trenton falls and Bordentown ferry—or anywhere above Bristol and you find your force quite unequal to their force—give them what Opposition you can at Meshannemay ferry & fords—In a word you are to give them all the Opposition you can without hazzarding the loss of your Brigade[.] Keep a good Guard over such Boats as are not Scuttled or renderd unfit for use—Keep a good lookout for Spies—endeavor to magnify your Numbers as much as possible.
Let the Troops always have three days provision cookt before hand—Indeavor to keep your Troops as much together as possible Night & Day—that they may be ever in readiness to March upon the shortest Notice—Youl consult with the Comodore of the Gallies and endeavor to form such an Arrangement as will most effectually Guard the River—To your discretion and prudence I submit any further regulations and recommend the greatest degree of Vigilance.
If you should find yourself unable to defend the pass[e]s on the Meshaname or the Enemy should rout you from your Post, you are to repair to the Strong ground near Germaintown unless you have Orders from me or some other General Officer to the contrary.

Be particularly Attentive to the Boats & Vessels and suffer no person to pass over to the Jerseys without a permit. Given at Head Quarters Trenton Falls—the 12 day of December 1776.

Go: Washington


Title: Orders to Brigadier General Philemon Dickinson, 12 December 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

Head Quarters Trenton Falls Decemb. 12. 1776

You will post your Troops at Yearleys ferry or some where near it—find out the fording place there and have a Redoubt thrown up immediatly[.] You and General Ewing must divide the Ground between Trenton falls and your post and establish the Proper Guards and Patrols to watch the Enemy motions, You will Spare no pains or Expence to Obtain inteligence—all promises made or monies Advanced shall be fully complyed with and discharged[.] Every peice of Inteligence worthy notice you Obtain forward it to me by Express—Let the troops always have three Days provision Cook’d before hand and keep them together as much as possible Night and Day—that they may be in readiness in the Shortest notice to make Head against the Enemy[.] Should they attempt to land on this Side you will give them all the Opposition in your power, Should you be routed from Your Post you are to repair to the Strong Grounds at Germain Town—unless you can posibly join the upper or lower division of the Army which if practicable you are to do—Be particularly attentive to the Boats & other Vessels, and Suffer no Person to pass over to the Jerseys here without a Permit. Given at Head Quarters at Trenton Falls this 12th day of Decr 1776.

G.W.