Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 27 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

            Dear Marquis.
            Head Quarters White plains 27th July 1778

          This will be delivered you by Major General Greene, whose thorough knowlege of Rhode
            Island, of which he is a native, and the influence he will have with the people, put it
            in his power to be particularly useful in the expedition against that place; as well in
            providing necessaries for carrying it on, as in assisting to form and execute a plan of
            operations proper for the occasion. The honor and interest of the common cause are so
            deeply concerned in the success of this enterprise, that it appears to me of the
            greatest importance to omit no step which may conduce to it, and General Greene on
            several accounts will be able to render very essential services in the affair. These
            considerations have determined me to send him on the expedition, in which as he could
            not with propriety act, nor be equally useful merely on his official capacity of Quarter
            Master General, I have concluded to give him a command in the troops to be employed in
            the descent. I have therefore directed General Sullivan, to throw all the American
            troops both Continental State and Militia into two divisions making an equal
            distribution of each, to be under the immediate command of General Greene and
              yourself. The Continental troops being divided in
            this manner to the Militia, will serve to give them confidence, and probably make them
            act better than they would alone. Though this arrangement will
            diminish the number of Continental troops under you, yet this diminution will be more
            than compensated by the addition of militia; and I persu[a]de myself your command will
            not be less agreeable or less honorable, from this change in the disposition. I am with
            great esteem & affection Dear Marquis Your most Obedt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 27 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

            Sir
            Head Quarters [White Plains] 27 July
              1778

          I this morning recd yours of the 26th by Capt. Bicker.
            I shall be glad to receive a perfect Return of the State of the Works, and what will be
            necessary for their completion, as soon as possible. In the mean time I shall lay the
            Commissary’s return of provision before the Commy General and desire him to lay in what
            further supply may be necessary. The Qr Mr Genl has given orders to Colo. Hay respectg
            the supernumerary Waggons. If the commanding Officers
            of the two Continental Regiments will make out Returns of the Cloathing wanting and will
            apply to the Cloathier at Fishkill, he will supply them, if he has the Articles. If he
            has not, he must immediately order them from Boston or from Philada.
          Colo. Kosciusko was left at the Fort as acting Engineer and I have always understood is
            fully competent to the Business, I do not therefore see why another is necessary.
          By the 12th Article of the 14th section of the Articles of War you are empowered to
            hold Garrison Courts Martial. If any case occurs which
            affects life or the trial of a Commd Officer, I will, upon application, order a general
            Court Martial.
          I have no objection to the person you mention doing the duty of Major of Brigade. But I
            think the same person may very well perform both duties of Brigade Major and Adjt
            General, as the whole Garrison may be thrown into one Brigade.
          There certainly is reason in your demand of some thing extra for your Expences as
            Commandant of the Posts. I am therefore willing to allow you double your stated
            subsista⟨nce,⟩ but as this, if known, may be drawn into precedent where there is no
            right or real occasion, I would wish you to say nothing about the matter.
          I some time ago directed the German or Armands Regiment to be sent to Fort Arnold as
            the most proper place of security, they being chiefly deserters. But as the order has
            been neglected I now inclose a letter to Colo. Armand or the commanding Officer
            directing him to  repair thither. I
            cannot at present spare Grahams Regiment. A few days ago I sent up eight persons to Fort
            Arnold who were sent from Vermont. If they could be
            confined in any other place, I think it would be more proper, as, if they are really
            inimical, they may make themselves masters of the state of the Garrison, Works
            &ca. If you can see Govr Clinton, you may consult him upon a proper place. I am
            &ca.


Title: General Orders, 28 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters White Plains Tuesday July 28th 1778.
            Parole Gerrard—C. Signs Great—Good.

          The Commander in Chief desires that the Officers who did not compose part of the Grand
            Army last Winter and Spring and who may be unacquainted with the General Order relative
            to the duties of the Officers of the day as there pointed out will have recourse to one
            issued on the ninth day of June last at Valley-Forge and govern themselves thereby.
          The Commander in Chief also begs leave to inform such Officers as may be unacquainted
            therewith that it is His Wish and Desire that the Field Officers of the day when they
            are relieved from their tour of duty would dine with him at Head-Quarters, and where
            there is no particular Reason to prevent it he would take it as a favor from them to be
            punctual, as it enables him to invite Company accordingly.
          The Inspector and Brigade Major of the day are meant to be included in this Invitation,
            and the General further requests that the Chaplains would also dine with him in turn
            each coming with his Brigadier when of the day.


Title: From George Washington to John Brown, 28 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Brown, John

            Sir Head
            Quarters White plains 28 July 1778

          I had, a few days ago, the pleasure of receiving yours of the 9th instant. The Butt of
            Wine has not yet arrived, but I doubt not, when it does, that it will answer your
            recommendation. Permit me to return you my thanks for the generosity of your present,
            and to express my wishes, that Fortune may continue to be as indulgent to you as she has
            hitherto been. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 28 July 1778
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

            dear General
            lime over Say brook ferry [Conn.] the 28 july 1778

          I take the opportunity of an express going from General Sullivan to your Excellency for
            to let you know how far we are advanc’d and in which situation is the detachement you
            have intrusted to my Care—I am here with General glover’s brigade, and we have all
            cross’d the River—I hope we schall be at coventry the 31st of the present—General Varnum
            and his officers having Represented to me that on account of the Scarcity of flour, but
            principally on account of the ferrys which are very frequent and troublesome, it was
            much better to take the upper Road, I have had no objection to his going that way
            because he knows the Roads and theyr advantages much better than I do in this part of
            the Continent—it is true to Say that had we been together, we would have lost at least
            two days—our men are in good spirits, not much tired for making Such a march, and will
            not want a long Rest to be fit for action. if the men were too much fatigu’d to morrow I
            could halt one day at new london, because I do’nt believe General Varnum may be at Coventry before the 1st of next month—I have Sent to day to General
            Sullivan in order of knowing his directions when I’ll arrive at Coventry which is 18
            miles from providence.
          I am very uneasy on account of Clel hamilton as I understand he was not yet arriv’d a
            few days ago—I hope some of the gentlemen of your family will be so kind as to let me
            know if they have heard from him.
          it Seems to me that the british have a good mind to defend theyr ground, and I hope we
            will have a very interesting work to perform—with the highest respect, and most tender
            affection I have the honor to be My dear General Your most obedient Servant

            the Marquis de lafayette

            I beg leave to present my compliments to your family.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 28 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, John

            My dear Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 28th July 1778

          I recd yours from Lebanon and that from Point Judith.
            You have my warmest thanks for the great expedition of your Journey and for your
            exertions since your arrival at Rhode Island. I anxiously wait an account of the
            Admirals arrival, and of the effect which the appearance of the Fleet had. I wish you
            success and safety as I am My dear Sir sincerely and Affecty Yrs

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 28 July 1778
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            War Office [Philadelphia] July 28th 1778

          Col. Nicola complains that altho’ his Corps might be exceedingly useful in Garrison
            were he enabled by its Numbers to turn out sufficient Guards yet from the great
            Inattention of the Officers commanding Regiments or Corps in Camp who repeatedly give
            Discharges from the Service to Men very capable of Duty in the Invalid Regiment his
            Number is now very small. I am therefore to request your Excellency will be pleased to
            remind the Officers under your Command of the Regulations on which Col. Nicola’s Corps
            is established & to direct them to assist in
            encreasing its Numbers not only by not discharging Men fit for Garrison Duty but by
            taking proper Measures to have them conveyed to Philada there to join the invalid
              Regiment. Officers at Hospitals should be
            particularly attentive to this Matter. I have the Honour to be with great Respect Your
            very obedt Servt

            Richard Peters

            If Col. Nicola’s Regiment was full there would be no Necessity of detaining Troops in
              this Town for Garrison Duty who are capable of doing Service in the Field.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 28 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

            Sir
            Head Quarters White Plains 28th July 1778

          I was this morning honored with yours of the 25th. I think you need be under no
            apprehensions for the safety of your Coast, while the Count D’Estaings Squadron lays off
            the harbour of New port, as the Enemy will have sufficient upon their hands to prevent
            their carrying on a predatory War—I took the Liberty of suggesting to the Count, the
            advantage of sending a Ship of force down the Sound, to prevent the Enemy from
            reinforcing thro’ Hell-Gate; but whether he will
            incline to divide his Fleet in that manner, I cannot say.
          I am well aware of the inconveniency of drawing out the Militia at this time, but I am
            in hopes that the importance of the object, and I think I may say, the moral certainty
            of Success, if the enterprize is supported with spirit, will outweigh every other
            consideration. Besides, the time of service will probably be but short, as the
            expedition will either be immediately determined in our favour, or must be laid
              aside.
          It is impossible for me to spare larger detachments from this Army, than I have already
            done, as the Enemy in and about New-York are superior in force to our main Body. Should
            they reinforce Rhode Island, I shall do so of course.
          I sincerely condole with you on the death of your worthy Son Colo. Joseph Trumbull,
            whose exertions in the Cause of his Country, while he continued in a public character,
            will reflect honor upon his memory; and for whom, when living, I entertained a most
            cordial regard. I am, with the greatest Esteem Sir your most Obedient hble Servt

            Go. Washington


Title: General Orders, 29 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters White-Plains Wednesday July 29th 78.
            Parole Netherlands—C. Signs Nantz Natick.

          The Regimental Quarter Masters are to be pointedly exact in having Vaults sunk for
            necessaries and see that they are regularly covered every morning; They are also to pay
            strict attention to the Cleanliness of the Camp, seeing that all Offal, putrid flesh and
            bones are buried. Altho’ this is the particular duty of the Quarter Masters it is
            expected that the Commanding Officers of Corps will know that the duty is performed, as
            the sweetness of a Camp and the health of the men depend upon it.
          Particular attention agreeable to former orders is to
            be paid to the slaughtering Pens that no offensive smell may proceed from them.
          Coll Baldwin is appointed by the Quarter Mastr General to the command and
            superintendency of the Artificers belonging to the Army.
          All Officers commanding Companies of Artificers are therefore to make return to him
            forthwith of the number of men in their respective Companies, and for the future to make
            such weekly and other returns to him as he shall direct.
          In the monthly returns which are to be brought in to the Orderly-Office next saturday
            (and hereafter the last saturday of every month) particular attention must be paid to
            insert the monthly Alterations regimentally, distinguishing between those discharged by
            the Muster Master General or Surgeons and those whose terms of service are expired.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Stephen Moylan, 29 July 1778
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Hackensac [N.J.] 29th July 1778

          I had the honor to inform your Excellency by Mr Lott, that I intended coming with the
            Cavalry to this neighborhood, on my arrival I
            reconoitred the country and found a great majority disaffected, and taking every
            oppertunity of Supplying the enemy, yesterday I Sent a party of 80 horse to Bergen, with
            orders to drive up what Catle they Coud Collect, from that town, to the point, which they have effected by bringing with them near 300 head of
            horned Cattle 60 sheep Some horses mares & Colts, many of the first are milck
            Cows, and tho its certain that the milck & butter is for the chief part Sent to
            Newyork from that Quarter, there appears a great degree of cruelty in taking from a
            number of famillys, perhaps their only Support, I am teased by the women, and with  difficulty can prevail on my feelings, to Suspend my giving to them
            their Cows, until I have your Excellencys opinion and orders on this Subject—this
            manœvre has alarmed the City, Powles Hook & the encampment on Staten Island the
            Fort was mand, So was the Redout at Powleshook, and the army at Staten Island turned
            out, to the amount, as near as Coud be judged by Major Clough (who Commanded the party)
            of 3000, tho their encampment woud promise 5000.
          I have just Come in from Fort Lee, the heights from Harlem up to Kingsbridge are
            interspersd with Tents the chief encampment on york Island Seems to me to be at Fort
            Washington, those immediatly about the Fort are Hessians, there is a pretty large
            encampment on your Side of Spiten Devil Creek—and a redout with a magazine in its
            center—one ship pretty near on a line with Col. Morris⟨s⟩ house, another with three
            small craft near the entrance of the abovementiond Creek, are all the vessels in the
            North river that I Coud discover At 12 ôClock this day—a report prevails of a French
            & Spanish fleet being at the Hook, it is believd at Bergen, which your
            Excellency knows is but four Miles from Newyork. I have the honor to be with great
            affection Dear Sir Your most obligd H. St

            Stephen Moylan

            a party Supposed to be of Horse past Fort Washington towards Kingsbridge yesterday
              morning from Newyork—our Horses fare well, and will I hope be in good order, when your
              Excellency will please to Command us, I think one weekes rest, will make them fit for
              any thing—the Sooner I have your Excellencys orders, the more pleasure it will give
              Your assd H. St
            S. M.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Stark, 29 July 1778
From: Stark, John
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Albany July 29th 1778

          the fourth Pensylvenia Regt and a Detatchm. of the Rifle Corps Arrived here 27th Inst.
            but in a very deplorable Condition for want of Cloaths—I Inclose you a Return of what is
            Wanted by them for the  present and without which they will not be
            fit for Scouting which seems to be the duty they were sent for— Nevertheless I shall send them to the Frontiers Immediately to
            protect the Affrigted Inhabitants and whose fears are too well Grounded.
          I think we Never shall have peace in the Western Frontiers untill we march an Army into
            the Indian Country and drive those Nefarious Wretches from their Habitations Burn their
            Towns and Destroy their Crops & make proclemation that if Ever they Return they
            shall be serverd in Like manner.
          I have nothing from Fort Schuyler of Late from that I Judge they are in peace—I send
            this by Lieut. Randolph an officer from Colo. Butlers Regt who will wait for the
            Cloathing and Answer. I am Sir with Great Respect your Hunbl. Serv.

            John Stark


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 29 July 1778
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Lund Washington, 29 July 1778. On 15
            Aug., GW wrote Lund Washington: “Your Letter of the 29th Ulto, Inclosing a line from
            Captn Marshall to you came to my hands yesterday.”


Title: General Orders, 30 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters W. Plains Thursday July 30th 1778.
            Parole Palmyra—C. Signs Pitt Plymouth.

          The Guard at Terrytown is to be reinforced with a Captain 2 Subalterns, 3 Serjeants 3
            Corporals a Drummer and Fifer and fifty five Privates and to be commanded by a Field
            officer.
          The Guard at Burtisses is to be reinforced by a
            Serjeant, Corporal Drum and Fife and thirteen Privates and to be commanded by a Captain;
            and the Guard at Saw-Mill River Bridge is to be reinforced by a Captain 2 Subalterns—3
            Serjeants 3 Corporals and 40 Privates and be commanded by a Field Officer; From this
            Guard a Subaltern Serjeant and twenty Rank & File is to be detached to
              Pugsley’s—A detachment of Artillery to be sent to
            Terry-town.
          The Field Officers in performing their rounds are to examine whether the Guards upon
            the Communication between Dobbs’s-Ferry and Maroneck can afford a Chain of Centinels; if
            not they are to direct the Patroles to pass at such times and in such a manner as to
            secure the communication perfectly.
          One Light Dragoon is to be at each of the following Guards ’till Coll Moylan arrives,
            after which two are to be placed to each; namely Terrytown,
            Dobbs’s-Ferry, Saw-Mill River Bridge, Pugsley’s, Appleby’s, Burtiss’s, Tomkins’s 2 Miles, Cornell’s and Maroneck; The horse
            guard at Pugsley’s may be withdrawn and aid in this service.
          The Dragoons attending these Piquets are to keep their horses constantly saddled by
            night and ready to mount at a moments warning; In the day they may graze.
          After Orders July 30th—
          Captain Smith late Inspector in Genl Varnum’s Brigade is appointed to do that duty in
            General Parson’s Brigade and is to be respected accordingly.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 30 July 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Philadelphia 30th July 1778.

          I have had the honor since my last under the  Inst. of presenting Your Excellency’s Letter of 22d to Congress,
            whence it was committed to the Board of War & I received no order except to
            Issue a Commission for Capt. Caleb Gibbes to rank Major in the service of the United
            States. I shall transmit the Act of Congress upon that occasion to Major Gibbs &
            under the present Cover Your Excellency will receive the Commission.
          the 15th Inst. I signed by order a Brevet to the Marquis de Vienne Certifying his Rank,
            Colonel in the Army. Another Brevet is ordered for Monsr Noirmont Lanuville to Rank
            Major from the date of his appointment as Aid de Camp to Gen. Conway 28th Jany 1778—and
            another the 29th Inst. to Monsr Francis Joseph Smith to rank Ensign. I have the honor to be with the highest Esteem & Regard
            Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & humble servant

            Henry Laurens. President of Congress.


Title: From George Washington to Ensign James Lovell, Jr., 30 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lovell, James Jr.

            Sir
            [White Plains, 30 July 1778]

          The recruits under your command belonging to Colo. Lee’s Regiment, who were either
            Prisoners or Deserters from the Enemy, you will immediately deliver to Colo. Malcom at
            West Point, who will until further orders put them to such employment as he thinks fit.
            Given &c. 30 July 78.
          Copy

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from John Beatty, 31 July 1778
From: Beatty, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Prince Town [N.J.] July 31st 1778

          I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your Favor of the 27th Instant which has just
            come to hand and am to Inform you, that I have already complied with part of the
            Instructions therein contained: In a Letter from the Marine Committe of Congress, I was
            Authorized to Inform Admiral Gambier that his proposition relative to the Exchange of
            Marine Prisoners was Acceeded to by Congress—binding themselves to return a like number
            in our possession with as little delay as possible—I have wrote to Admiral Gambier
            Yesterday acquainting him that I shall attend at Elizabeth-Town Tomorrow there to
            receive and give him Credit for whatever number of Prisoners he shall deliver
            over—Pledging the Public Faith of these States for an equal return. in my Answer to the Committe I informed them of my having no
            particular instructions respecting Marines, mentioning particularly the case of the
            French men. I now wait their Orders on that head.
          I am just returned from Philadelphia where I have in as pointed a manner as I was
            capable of laid before Congress the distressed Situation of their Prisoners,
            representing at the same time the Accounts already  contracted and
            the Impractibility as well as Impropriety of discharging those debts in the Manner
            heretofore adopted, begging they would furnish me only with as much Hard Money as would
            answer the present demand and put Mr Pintard upon a more reputable Footing whose private
            Credit is already engaged for more than he can ever pay and who is in danger of being
            throw’d into a Provost unless some measures are speedily taken to relieve him. Congress
            have not paid that attention to it I thought the Urgency of the Case Demanded and after
            waiting a number of Days for an Answer, was dismised without any other, then that they
            would resume the Consideration of it.
          I shall endeavour always to administer a sufficient supply of Provision to the
            Prisoners in New York and shall strictly comply with your orders with regard to
            Individuals.
          I fear I shall be detained longer from Head Quarters than I at first immagined
            Occasioned by the very slow returns of the Prisoners from the different places they have
            been confined in As well as this last order from Congress respecting the Exchange of
            Marines.
          I shall however at all times wait your Excellencys Commands and will be found by
            Directing your letters to me at Prince Town, if not there they always know where to send
            to me I am Your Excellencys Most Obedient and Very Humble Servant

            Jno. Beatty. Com: Gen: Prisr


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Clinton, 31 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

            Sir,
            [White Plains, 31 July 1778]

          With the Detachment under your command, which is to comprehend the Corps now advanced
            with Colo. Morgan, you are to move towards Kings Bridge & the Enemys lines
              thereabouts.

          The principal objects in view are, to cover the Engineers & Surveyors, while
            they reconnoitre & as far as time will permit, survey the Ground & roads
            in your rear, & in front of this Camp—to countenance and
            encourage that spirit of desertion which seems so prevalent at present—to discover, if
            possible, those unfriendly, and ill disposed Inhabitants who make a practice of
            apprehending, & conveying within the Enemy’s line such deserters from their Army
            as happen to fall into their hands & with such
            witnesses as are necessary to ilucidate the facts send them to the Head Quarters of this
            Army—And lastly to try what effect this detachment’s approach may have upon the
            Enemy.
          I do not mean, or wish, that you should Incamp very near the Enemy of nights; but
            wherever you do Incamp, that you do it in proper order of Battle, so that your officers
            & men may rise at once upon the Ground they are to defend. Your flanks &
            front should be well secured by Patroles of Horse & foot, sufficiently advanced
            upon every possible approach; always remembering how disgraceful a thing it is for an
            officer to be surprized, & believing, that if the Enemy are in force at the
            Bridge, they will certainly attempt it.
          When I speak of your flanks, I have an Eye particularly to the North river, as the
            Enemy can, with facility move with both secrecy & dispatch by water, if they are
            provided with Boats at, or near the Bridge, or even at the City, so as to be upon your
            right flank & even rear, without much difficulty, or notice.
          Have your Evening’s position well reconnoitred before hand, & unless there are
            good reasons to the contrary, I would advise against kindling fires at Night, as the
            weather is warm, & your position woul⟨d⟩ be discovered, & advantages
            taken from the knowledge of it.
          You may continue out with this detachment two, or three days, & nights,
            according to the state of your provisions & other circumstances, & when
            you return, leave an officer & sixteen Dragoons of Colo. Sheldons Regiment, with
            Colo. Morgan who with the Detachment under his immediate command is to remain till
            further orders.
          As the Grounds on the West side of the Brunx River are much stronger, than those, on
            the East, it may possibly be more eligible to go down on that side, & return on
            the other, in case any attempts should be made to harrass your rear.
          You will give me the earliest, and fullest intelligence of all occurrences worthy
            notice. Given at Head Quarters at the White Plains this 31st day of July 1778.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Captain Lieutenant Abraham Hargis, 31 July 1778
From: Hargis, Abraham
To: Washington, George

            May it Please your Excellency
            [White Plains] [c.31 July 1778]

          Having suffered greatly by the Enemy in Philadelphia and am informed the Savages are
            Murdering &Ca and destroying my Property in the Back parts of Pennsylvania—I am
            Anxious and desirous to engage in the Expedition now carrying on
            against them it being my Natural Home.
          I therefore beg leave to resign my Commission of Captain Lieutenant in the Tenth
            Pennsylvania Regiment—And Pray your Excellency will accept of this as my Resignation. I
            am with the greatest respect your Excellencies most obedient Humble Servant

            Abraham Hargis Capt. Lieut. 10th Pennsylvania Regiment


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 31 July 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            [Philadelphia] 31st July [1778]

          I Am this minute favor’d with Your Excellency’s very obliging Letter of the 24th.
          The British Commissioners, for, in the Act of one, there is good ground for charging
            the whole, having by various means attempted to bribe Congress and thereby offer’d the highest possible affront to the
            Representatives of a virtuous, Independent People, are in my humble opinion rendered
            wholly unworthy of the further regard of Congress in their Ambassadorial character.
          Viewing them in this light I have been from the first reading of their last Address under that kind of anxiety which had possessed my Mind
            when there was some cause for apprehending that General Burgoyne and his Troops would
            have slipt thro’ our fingers into New York or Philadelphia, an anxiety to which I am a
            stranger, except in such momentous concerns.
          I have for several days past urged my friends to move Congress for a Resolve that they
            will hold no conference with such Men, assigning reasons in
            ample, decent terms—to transmit the Act by a flag to the Commissioners, and make them
            the bearers of their own indictment; they will not dare to withhold the Resolve of
            Congress from their Court. Thence it will soon descend to the Public at large, and
            expose themselves and their Prompters to the just resentment of a deluded and much
            injured Nation, whose deplorable circumstances I must confess deeply affects my heart.
            These Commissioners will be also held up in scorn at every Court in Europe, and finally
            be transmitted to Posterity in Characters which will mark their Memory with Infamy.
          An immediate display of the intended bargain and sale will discourage the impudent,
            polemic Writers on American Affairs in London, or,  invalidate their
            bold assertions and give force to the declarations of Congress.
          If we leave the story to be related after Governor Johnstone’s departure from this
            Continent, he will confidently deny the fact and how few in the World will be
            thenceforward well informed? Attack him Letters in hand upon the spot, his guilt will be
            fix’d from his own confession, for he cannot deny.
          I am not commonly tenacious of my own Ideas, but in the present, as in the former case,
            I feel as if I clearly perceived many good effects which will be produced by a proper
            Act on our part—justice is due to our own Characters, to the present age of America and
            future Generations will with much satisfaction dwell in history upon the transactions of
            Congress with these corrupt insidious Emissaries.
          If a predilection to my fellow Citizens when standing in competition with strangers, of
            no more than equal merit, be criminal, I must own myself not free from guilt.
          From habit I am disposed to give countenance to strangers, and I have besides,
            endeavoured, for obvious reasons, to be civil to such French Gentlemen as have called
            upon me, hence my conduct had been mistaken, and I discover’d at a certain time that my
            friends had expressed doubts whether my courtesy had not been carried to excess—I had
            the happiness soon to convince them that good manners and plain dealing were not
            incompatible—upon this occasion I intreat Your Excellency will excuse the freedom which
            I take of sending with this, extracts of Letters written by me in answer to applications
            from foreign Gentlemen for employment and promotion in the Army; the same sentiments have always governed my replies in private
            oral importunities, I have carefully avoided amusing or flattering any of them.
          I have often regretted the hesitation and indecision of our Representatives; on some
            occasions, and perhaps as often, their precipitancy on others respecting foreign
            Officers—as a free Citizen I hold myself warranted to speak with decent freedom of the
            conduct of those whom I have appointed my Attornies, respectful animadversion tends to
            produce reformation.
          From the fluctuations which I allude to, have sprung, to speak in the mildest terms,
            many inconveniencies, Your Excellency’s experience may call them Evils. The dilemma to
            which we are now reduced in the case of the elder Lanuville, is one instance; if
            encouragements, tantamount to promises are of any weight, this Gentleman must receive a
            Brevet to rank Brigadier General the middle of next Month—at his first arrival he
            presented a Memorial in which was set forth the vast expence which had attended his
            voyage and journey to York Town. He solicited the grade above
            mentioned or an immediate negative; intimating that in the latter case he would return
            to his own Country—a direct Answer was not return’d, he was amused from time to time: an
            increase of expence and the plea of flattering hopes strengthned his claim. At length he
            was put into a state of probation. Certificates which
            he produced of his abilities and assiduities in the character of “Inspector of the Northern Army” were expressed in terms somewhat higher than
            merely favorable—I eyed the paper signed by General Parsons with some degree of jealousy
            as I read it, but it did not become me to paraphrase, and it passed unnoticed by every
            body else. On this ground I have said, he must obtain the Brevet in a few days; you would smile Sir, if I were to repeat the principle
            upon which the delay is founded. This Gentleman is now gone with an intention to act as
            a Volunteer in the suite of Marquis de la Fayette, and if I understand him, he means
            soon to return to France.
          The Younger de lanuville your Excellency is informed has obtained a Brevet to rank
            Major, what title had he to this promotion? Were I to draw the Gentleman into comparison
            with Major Gibbs and many other worthy Officers, I should answer, none. But he has only
            a Brevet. Your Excellency is appriz’d of the restrictions on that kind of Commission by
            an Act of Congress of the 30th of April and I trust the good sense of my Countrymen will
            lead them to reflect and distinguish properly, and to make some allowances.
          Your Excellency will discover in one or more of the extracts the strong desire of
            French Gentlemen for printed Commissions. I dont know what peculiar advantage they might
            have had in view, but in opposition to them and even to some attempts here, I have
            always confin’d myself to the mode of a simple Certificate in pursuance of the Resolve
            of Congress referr’d to in each case.
          In the first conversation I had the honor of holding with Monsr Girard; with a view of
            learning what reception those French Gentlemen had met, who had return’d some 8 or 9
            months ago, murmuring and dissatisfied to France; I took occasion to signify my concern
            for the disappointment which some of them had suffer’d, and in honor of Congress made
            brief recitals of Commissions granted to many French Officers now in the Army, observing
            that it had been impossible to gratify the wishes of every one for promotion. Mr Girard
            reply’d, His Court had seen with pain so many Frenchmen applying for permission to
            resort to the American Army, and that very few had receiv’d encouragements; the Court
            were sensible that crowds of foreigners pressing for Commissions would tend to embarrass
            Congress, that since his arrival at Philada he had been solicited in many instances for
            recommendations, every one of which, he had refused to listen to, and  added, I might rest satisfied, Congress would never be troubled with Petitions under
            his auspices. In this sensible declaration methinks I
            discern sound Policy, be that as it may it will in some measure relieve Congress—I most
            earnestly wish our noble friend the Marquis could be persuaded to adopt the
            determinations of Monsr Girard.
          Very soon after I shall have the pleasure of conversing with Baron Stüben, his pursuits
            in the journey to Court will be known to me. I shall be equally explicit on my part, and
            your Excellency shall be as candidly informed, if it shall appear to be necessary.
          On Thursday the sixth of August Congress will receive Monsr Girard in his public
            character. Your Excellency will find within, copies of the intended Address of the
            Minister and Answer of the Representatives of the thirteen United States of
            America—speaking as a Citizen I cannot forbear disclosing to you, Sir, that there is a
            reluctance in my Mind to acknowledgments of obligation or of generosity where benefits
            have been, to say the least, reciprocal—this opinion has not been form’d since I read
            the Address and Answer, as I am warranted to say from the Extract of a Letter to Monsr
            Du Portail.
          After hours of disputation shall be exausted the point will remain moot.
          Among other papers I take the liberty of inclosing copy of a curious performance of Mr
            Maduit which is believed to be genuine. If he is not
            delirious in the present time, his friends must conclude that he was raving from 1774 to
            the commencment of the present Year, time employed by him in dinning the Coffee houses
            with his cries against the Inhabitants of these States and against their Claims, down
            with America! I will not further presume on Your Excellency’s moments but to repeat that
            I continue with the most sincere and respectful attachment and the highest Esteem. Sir
            Your Excellency’s &c.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel David Mason, 31 July 1778
From: Mason, David
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Wburg [Va.] July 31st 1778

          It’s with the Greatest unease I am now Reduced to the Necessity of Accepting of Your
            Excellencys Permission to resign & imbrace this
            Oppertunity by Mr Thompson to Inclose You my Commission; I have Deferred this Until this Oppertunity, as well to collect all the draughts I
            ⟨p⟩ossably coud get as to Transact other Continental Matters within this State, by
            d[e]sire of the Govr and Council, By Mr Thompson I send to Head Quarters Eight or Ten
            Men which are all I can Collect, nor can I  give You the most Distant
            hope’s of those Yet Behind ever coming in as they Meet with every indulgence they can
            wish for Amongst the Inhabitants of this State, And am Sorry to Say the Militia Officers
            (a few only Excepted) are Exceedingly Remiss, Permit me Sir, to Suggest a Method ⟨t⟩o
            your Excellency, which Probably may Induce those Unhappy Men to Join their Regements,
            which is that if You were to Offer them Pardon & that they Shoud only Serve the
            time they originally were inlisted for or Draughted, this might Influence Many to give
            themselves up His Excellency the Govr & the Council with myself have conferrd on
            Something Proper to be done but we coud not Devise any Method that we thought Elligible
            as I had no Power from Your Excellency to make any Special Offer’s to the Deserters, I
            Shall be Exceedingly Happy When Hond with Your Excellencys Command in anything that I
            may be Able to Serve my Country in, in my Retirement I have only to Add My Sincere
            Wishes for Your Health & ⟨prosperity⟩ And have the Honr to be with the Greatest
            Regard Your Excellencys Mot Obedt Servt

            David Mason


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 31 July 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 31st July 1778

          I have been favd with yours of the 27th 10 Oclock A. M. Upon opening of it, I was much
            disappointed at not hearing of the Count D’Estaing’s arrival, who I hope will have made
            his appearance off the Harbour of Newport before this time, as a Reinforcement passed
            Maroneck the day before Yesterday Morning. I wish it had been in my power to have spared
            a larger detatchment of Continental Troops, but remember, I am left very near the Enemy,
            with a Force inferior to theirs upon New York and the adjacent Islands. I am much
            pleased with the  account of the readiness which you were in, to
            begin your operations, as soon as the Count, and the Marquis should arrive, and I
            flatter myself, that you will receive no small assistance from Genl Greene, in the
            department of Qr Mr Genl, as well as in the military line.
          As you have mentioned the matter of carrying the Enemy’s works by storm, and have
            submitted it to my consideration and advice, I will only say, that as I would not, on
            the one hand, wish to check the Ardor of our Troops, so I would not, upon the other, put
            them upon attempting what I thought they could not carry but with a moral certainty of
            success. You know the discipline of our Men and Officers very well, and I hope you, and
            the General Officers under your command, will weigh every desperate matter well before
            it is carried into execution A severe check may ruin the expedition, while regular and
            determined approaches may effect the work, tho’ perhaps they may take something longer
            time. Upon the whole, I will not undertake, at this distance, to give orders, I submit
            every thing to your prudence, and to the good advice of those about you. You have my
            sincere wishes for your success, as I am Yrs &c.
          P.S. By a letter from the Officer of the Maroneck Guard, he does not seem
            certain that the Vessels which went thro’ the sound the day before yesterday had troops
            on Board at least any considerable number.


Title: Speech to Oneida Indians, July–August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Oneida Indians

          Document not found: Speech to Oneida Indians [July-August 1778].
            This document, in James McHenry’s writing, was offered for sale in The
              Frank T. Siebert Library of the North American Indian and the American Frontier,
            Sotheby’s sale 7315, 21 May 1999, item 189. It is dated by the abstractor’s assertion
            that the speech mentions “the British evacuation of Philadelphia, the British defeat at
            Monmouth, and a French fleet at Rhode Island assisting Boston warriors.” One page
            reproduced in the catalog reads: “Brothers—We are going to take leave of each other. You
            have been with us a long time and behaved faithfully. But Before you go I have several
            things to say—I would confirm to you the good will of my heart towards all of your
            nation, the good Oneidas. And I would intrust you with a message to the Sachems and
            warriors of the Senecas who do not mind what is just nor do what is right—The Senecas
            have long done wrong—The have not acted like the Oneidas who are a brave and wise
            people.
          “Brothers—You have fought along with our warriors—you have helped them to take one
            large army and to recover two of our great Towns Boston and Philadelphia—you are now to
            go home—You will take the news to your nation that the swarms of warriors which the King
            of Engl⟨and⟩ (who keeps himself beyond the great water) are almost all cut off—They are
            now weak as little children—They fled from one of our great Towns that they boasted to
            keep as long as trees grow, leaving behind them very rich goods—you.”

          The abstractor quotes a later portion, which reads: “The Senecas are not like the
            Oneidas, but have lifted up the hatchet with our enemies, and destroyed our corn, and
            burned our houses, and drunk the blood of our harmless wives and little children. They
            have been very wicked and very cruel—and this has made our wise men angry, and kindled
            the fire of our warriors against them. … if they do not immediately bury the bloody
            hatchet under a big mountain, this army and all the great warriors in America will come
            up against them.”


Title: General Orders, 1 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters White Plains saturday Augt 1st 1778.
            Parole Tuscany—C. Signs Truro—Tartary.

          At a Division General Court-Martial held at Peek’s-Kill July 16th 1778—Lieutenant Coll
            Hay President Lieutenant James Armstrong of the 3rd Pennsylvania Regiment was tried for
            behaving in a scandalous manner, beating a number of Persons, breaking Windows, and
            being guilty of other abusive treatment—After due consideration the Court are of opinion
            that Lieutenant Armstrong was guilty of beating Quarter Master Bradford but think the
            Provocation was in some degree equal to the Offence; that he was guilty of breaking
            Cellar Windows and of other abusive treatment—but upon the whole cannot pronounce his
            behaviour scandalous, tho’ unjustifiable and notwithstanding his good Character as an
            Officer and soldier do sentence him to be reprimanded in General Orders.
          At the same Court Captns Thomas Moore and James Christe of said Regiment were tried for
            the same Crime.
          The Court are of Opinion that they are not guilty of behaving in a scandalous manner,
            beating a number of Persons or of breaking Windows, but find them guilty of abusive
            treatment and sentence them to be reprimanded by the Commanding Officer of the
            Brigade.
          The Commander in Chief is sorry that he has Occasion to declare that Captains Christe
            and Moore and Lieutenant Armstrong were, thro’ the whole of this affair in Circumstances
            that did them very little Honor—He laments they should suffer themselves so far to
            deviate from that line of delicacy and decorum which they owe to their own Characters as
            to engage in a Riot and Tumult of so singular a Complexion, especially as it rather
            appears by their own defence that they left their Regiment without leave—Captns Moore
            & Christe and Lieutenant Armstrong are released from their Arrests.
          The Brigade Major and Adjutants of the day are to be very alert in telling off the
            guards so soon as they are assembled on Parade, that the  men may not
            be fatigued by long standing—They are also to see that the men stand firm with their
            heads erect and observe the strictest Silence while this is doing.
          A Chain of Centries is to be posted along the Front of the Parade at forty yards
            distance within which none but the General, Field and other Officers of the day are to
            be admitted.
          As there is something extremely awkward and unmilitary in Officers saluting at
            different times and in different manners the following general Direction is to be
            observed; The saluting Officer is to look full in the Face of the Officer saluted, his
            body upright and his step firm and to begin at such a distance as to finish the salute
            when opposite the Person for whom it is intended—The Motions of the Sword or Fusil
            & the Feet ought to be exactly in Concert; in order to which and for the
            graceful Performance of salutes it is expected Officers will spare no Trouble or Pains
            to perfect themselves and arrive at Dexterity and Uniformity as it is a matter which
            forms no unessential Part of their duty and will be highly ornamental to their military
            Appearance and Character.
          When the guards are ordered to march off the Brigade Major is to see that they all step
            off at the same instant with their left feet and the Officers of Platoons will be
            particularly attentive that the step is afterwards preserved: As the Platoons pass in
            Review before the Major General or Officer Commanding the Parade the men are to hold up
            their heads and look full in their Face.
          No Officer who has Regimentals is to mount guard in any other dress, and when men are
            warned for guard they are to be directed to come on with clean hands and faces hairs
            combed and powdered, and are to appear in all respects as decent and solderlike as
            circumstances will permit.
          Brigade Majors and Adjutants will recollect that it is an indispensible part of their
            duty to attend to this and see that the mens Arms Ammunition and Accoutrements are
            continually in the best order.
          The Major General of the day thro’ the Field Officers will have a careful Inspection
            made into these several matters and where there appears to be any deficiency will call
            the Brigade-Majors and Adjutants to account on the spot, and either reprimand arrest or
            acquit as circumstances shall warrant; These are to be considered as standing orders
            which it is expected all officers and soldiers will be made acquainted with &
            punctually observe.
          The whole Army to be under Arms tomorrow morning at five ôClock precisely with their
            Tents struck and rolled up and their Packs slung; further orders will then be given by
            the Adjutant General.
          The Troops of the whole line will exercise and manœuvre on the Principles heretofore
            established for the Main Army twice a day from  five to seven in the
            morning and from five to seven in the Evening—The Brigade Inspectors will perform the
            duties of their Office as heretofore directed by the order of the 15th of June last.
          Coll Davies will superintend the Right Wing and three Brigades on the Right of the
            second line. Lieutenant Colonel Brooks will superintend the Left Wing and two Brigades
            on the left of the second Line—conformable to the spirit of the same order.
          The Brigadiers and Commanding Officers of those Brigades who have no Brigade Inspectors
            appointed, will recommend to Head-Quarters proper Officers for that Purpose.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Erskine, 1 August 1778
From: Erskine, Robert
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Robert Erskine, 1 Aug. 1778. On 1 Aug.,
            GW’s aide-de-camp Alexander Hamilton wrote Brig. Gen. James Clinton: “The General has
            received a Letter written by Mr Erskine by your desire at half past Nine oClock this
            morning” (DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Malcom, 1 August 1778
From: Malcom, William
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Col. William Malcom, 1 Aug. 1778. On 4
            Aug., GW wrote Malcom: “Yours of the 1st instant inclosing the weekly return ⟨has⟩ been
            received.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Steuben, 1 August 1778
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Philadelphia [c.1] Augt 1778

          I cannot any longer defer acknowledging the many favors I have received from you
            & expressing my desire of your Excellencys continuing the same favorable
            sentiments towards me.
          Immediately after my arrival here Congress were pleased to appoint a Committee to hear
            my Proposals—the Committee consists of Gen. Reed Mrss. Boudinot & Chace,
            & meet for the first time on saturday 8th Inst.; in the mean time, I am preparing a plan for the establishment of an Inspection,
            & as it is my wish, it shall be my endeavour, to form it on such principles, as
            may be agreable to your Excellency & the Army in general, and at the same time
            comprehend all the essential duties of the Office.
          In preparing this Plan, the good of the Service is my only motive, all personal views
            will be laid aside, & the duties of Inspector General laid down &
            defined, not for myself, but for any person the Congress may think proper to appoint to
            that Office.
          The Plan being fixed & approved by Congress—I shall, before it receives their
            final ratification insist on its being sent to your Excellency for your opinion thereon,
            & I beg my dear General that laying aside any partiality in my favor you will
            freely make any observations on it you may think proper.
          Whatever may be the result of this Affair I beg you will believe me with the greatest
            respect & esteem Sir Your Excellencys most Obedt hum. Servt

            Steuben


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 1 August 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Head Qrs Providence August 1st 1778

          It is with pleasure I inform your Excellency that our preparations in this Department
            are as forward as Circumstances will admit, or Industry and application could make
            them.

          I submitt’d the Plan of Operations (sometime since communicated to your Excellency) to
            Admiral Count D. Estaign & was happy in its receiving his approbation &
              concurrence.
          Upon his proceeding to put part of them in Execution the greatest Consternation
            apparently prevail’d on the part of the Enemy—The Crews of the Kings Fisher &
            two of their Gallies (at the appearance of the French fleet) abandon’d & sat
            them on fire, after Charging their Cannon with Grape to prevent their being
            Extinguish’d—they were entirely consum’d.
          I wait with Impatience the arrival of the Marquiss & the different Corps
            order’d to this Station. Their Motions are by no means so rapid as I could wish, but
            your Excellency may rely that when collected I shall proceed without delay to put them
            into immediate Action.
          My Acknowledgments are due for your kind attention in sending Genl Green to my
            assistance & Council—I have the Honor likewise to acknowledge the receipt of
            your Commands of 27th & 28th last Month & promise your Excellency that I
            shall religiously observe the Recommendations they contain.
          From what past in my late Interview with Count D. Estaign I think I can venture to
            assure your Excellency that the greatest Harmony will subsist between us, with respect
            to command. I have the Honor to be with the utmost Attachment & respect Your
            Excellency’s Oblig’d & very Hble Servant

            sign’d Jno. Sullivan

            P.s. The Regiments on Conanecut abandon’d it on the coming up of the french
              ships & retir’d to Rhode Island My best accounts of the Enemy’s strength makes
              them not more than 5.200 which are better warrant’d than my former Accounts.
            Copy
            J.S.


Title: General Orders, 2 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters White-Plains Sabbath Augt 2nd 1778.
            Parole Ulster—C. Signs Virginia Wenham.

          A Return as usual of the sick in Camp to be made to the surgeon General tomorrow
            morning 9 ôClock and every succeding Monday at the Post-Office near the Artillery-Park,
            where attendance will be given to receive them—When the Surgeon is absent the Surgeon
            attending the Regiment will make the Return.
          Return of Arms, Ammunition and Accoutrements good bad and wanting in the several
            Brigades to be made and delivered to the Orderly-Office by the Brigade Quarter-Master,
            tomorrow morning at Guard mounting.
          A like Return of Cloathing and Necessaries to be delivered in at the same time by the
            Majors of Brigade.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 2 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

            sir
            Head Quarters White plains 2d August 1778

          I have just received the inclosed from the board of war—I beg of you to inform me what steps have been taken in consequence of the resolves
            of the 11th of June last—What troops you had in contemplation for the expedition into
            the country of the Senecas—What number you conceive adequate to the service—What were
            your prospects of supplying them with provisions—stores and other necessaries—And with
            what convenience and readiness the means of transportation can be provided—In a word, I
            wish for every information that can enlighten my own judgement and enable me to carry
            the views of Congress into execution, with all possible and practicable dispatch, as the
            time appointed for the co-operation of General McIntosh is near at hand.
          When you have read the inclosed papers you will please to return them under cover, with
            your sentiments on the above matters. I am Sir yr most Obt hble servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Dummer Powell, 2 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Powell, Jeremiah Dummer

            Sir
            Head Qrs [White Plains] Augt 2d 1778

          As General Glover’s brigade has been detached to Rhode Island—and is intended to form a
            part of the Troops—which are to operate in that Quarter, I take the liberty to request,
            that such of the recruits of your State as have not actually marched, may proceed and
            join him. This will not only place them in a way of rendering immediate service; but
            will prevent them the trouble of a long and fatiguing march at this season. Your
            recruits now here will join the Massachussets Brigades—which compose a part of this
            Army. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Sir Yr Most
            Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 3 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters White-Plains Monday Augt 3rd 1778.
            Parole Alexandria—C. Signs Boxford. Cambridge.

          The Connecticutt Militia Light-Horse commanded by Captain Skinner are discharged and
            have his Excellency’s thanks for their good Services.
          At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Stewart was President July 29th 1778—Lieutenant
            Coll Regnier tried 1st—For leaving his Regiment when alarmed by the firing of the
            Patroles upon the lines on the morning of the 29th of June last and not joining it again
            ’till the Alarm was over—2ndly For purchasing a horse from a soldier which properly
            belonged to the Continent—3rd for treating Adjt Sackett in an unofficer and
            ungentlemanlike manner. The Court having considered the
            Charges and the Evidence are unanimously of opinion that Lieutt Coll Regnier is not
            guilty of either of the Charges exhibited against him, and are farther of opinion, that
            they are groundless, vexatious and dictated by private Pique & Malice; They do
            acquit him with honor.
          At the same Court Martial July 31st Captn Silleron acting as a Volunteer in the 4th
            New-York Regiment was tried 1st—For calling Adjutant Sackett a Liar and drawing his
            sword on him when unarmed—2ndly for insinuating that he was a Coward and challenging him
            to fight a Duel—The Court having considered the first Charge and Evidence are of Opinion
            that Captn Silleron is guilty thereof, but as the Abuse was reciprocal and as Captain
            Silleron could not mean by drawing his sword to take Advantage of Mr Sackett’s being
            unarmed—The Court think the Punishment of lying in Arrest (a punishment pointed out in
            the Articles of War of which his Crime is a breach and which Captn Silleron has already
            suffered) is adequate to the fault he has committed; They are likewise of opinion that
            Captain Silleron is guilty of the second Charge exhibited against him, but as the
            Challenge was given by him immediately, as it proceeded from the instantaneous
            Resentment of an incensed Gentleman and was not sent on cool reflection; the Court are
            of opinion that Captain Silleron has not been guilty of a breach of the Article of War
            which prohibits sending challenges and do determine that he does not merit Censure.
          Likewise Lieutenant Norton of the 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment tried for entering the
            Encampment of the 3rd Pennsylvania Regiment in Company with several others in a riotous
            and mutinous manner and for attempting to enter Coll Craige’s house between the hours of
            twelve and one in the morning of the 4th of June with a drawn sword &
            unanimously acquitted of the Charge exhibited against him.

          His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the sentences. Coll David Hall is
            appointed President of the Court-Martial now sitting, vice, Coll
            Stewart.
          Major Oliver is appointed Inspector in General Nixon’s Brigade & is to be
            respected accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benedict Arnold, 3 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

            Dear sir.
            Head Quarters White plains 3 August 1778

          Your two agreeable favors of the 19 and 22 Ulto came to hand, which I now have to
            acknowledge.
          I am very happy to learn that your wounds are less painful and in so fair a way of
            doing well—the only drawback in the pleasure [I]
            receive is that the condition of your wounds is ⟨s⟩till such as not to admit of your
            active services this campaign.
          You will rest assured that I wish to see you in a situation where you can be of the
            greatest advantage, and where abilities like yours may not be lost to the public; but I
            confess myself no competent judge in marine matters to offer advice on a subject so far
            out of my line—beleive me tho’ that it is my desire that you may determine, in this
            case, in a manner most conducive to your health honor and Interest. I am Dr Sir
            &c. &c. &c.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel George Baylor, 3 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Baylor, George

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters White plains 3d Augt 1778

          I am favd with yours of the 13th ulto. As you seem to have proceeded as far as you can
            in the purchase of Horses without indulging the exorbitant  demands
            of the holders, I would have you desist, and come immediately to Camp with all the
            Officers, Men and Horses. If you have any Arms or Accoutrements unfinished, or any Men
            and Horses unfit to come forward when this order reaches you, I would have you leave an
            Officer, upon whose diligence you can depend, to bring them on when they are ready.
          Lieut. Baylor under arrest for gaming, is to come on with you.
          I have written to Colo. Bland and desired him to give over purchasing, and to come on
            to Camp also, as it is my intent to draw as strong a Body of Cavalry as possible
            together, that we may keep the Enemy from foraging or drawing other supplies from this
            part of the Country. I am Dear Sir Your most obt
            Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 3 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

            Gentlemen,
            Head Quarters White Plains Aug. 3d 1778

          I had the honor of receiving your favour of the 27th Ulto on the 1st instant, inclosing
            sundry resolves of Congress and other papers respecting two expeditions meditated into
            the Indian Country one from the Southward and the other from the Northward. I have since
            the receipt of it been endeavouring to collect the
            necessary information concerning the means already provided, or to be provided towards
            prosecuting the latter; and I sincerely wish our prospects were more agreeable to the
            views of Congress than they are; but after exammining the matter [from] every point of light, I am sorry to say an entreprise of this
            nature at the present time under our present circumstances appears to me liable to
            obstacles not easily to be surmounted.
          On receiving your letter I wrote to General Gates, copies of mine to him and of his
            answer to me are inclosed. I do not find that any
            preparations have been made for the intended expedition; If the project should be
            continued almost every thing is still to be done. The Board will perceive that General
            Gates imagined it was laid aside.
          Govr Clinton happening to be in Camp, I took occasion to consult him and General Gates
            jointly on the affair. They both concurred fully  in opinion, that a
            serious attempt to penetrate the seneca settlements at this advanced season &
            under present appearances was by no means
            adviseable—would be attended with many certain difficulties and inconveniences, and must
            be of precarious success. The reasons for this opinion are in my judgment
            conclusive.
          Supposing enemys force is fifteen or sixteen hundred men according to the estimate made
            by the Board (Accts make it larger)—to carry the war into the interior part of their country, with
            that probability of succeeding, which woud justify the undertaking would require not
            less than three thousand men. And if the attempt is made it ought to be made with Such a
            force as will in a manner insure the event; for a failure could not but have the most
            pernicious tendency. From inquiries I have made, not more than about twelve hundred
            militia from the frontier counties could be seasonably engaged for a sufficient length
            of time to answer the purpose of the expedition; little or no assistance can be looked
            for from the people of the Grants, who are said to be under great alarm for their own
            security, which they think is every moment in danger of being disturbed by way of
              Choas. The deficiency must be made u⟨p in⟩
            Continental troops; and as there are only four or five hundred already in that quarter
            who might be made use of on the occasion, the residue must go immediately from this
            army. The making so considerable a detachment at this time, is I conceive a measure that
            could not be hazarded, without doing essential injury to our affairs here.
          Of this the Board will be fully sensible, when they are informed, that the enemy’s
            strength at New York and its dependencies is at a moderate computation 14000 men [and
              our] strength on the present ground less than
              13,000 Besides this number only a bare sufficiency
            has been left in the Highlands to garrison the forts there. We have been lately reduced
            by a large detachment to Rhode Island, and it is possible a further detachmt may become
            necessary. Should we weaken ourselves still more by an entreprise against the Indians,
            we leave ourselves in some degree at the mercy of the enemy, and should either choice or
            necessity induce them to move against us, the consequences may be disagreeable. Though
            there is great reason to suppose the enemy may wish to withdraw their force from these
            states, if they can do it with safety; yet if they find their departure obstructed by a
            superior maritime force, it may become a matter of necessity to take the field, and
            endeavour at all hazards, to open a communication with the country in order to draw
            supplies from it and protract their ruin; this they will of course effect, if we have
            not an equal or superior army in the field to oppose them with—We should endeavour to
            keep ourselves so respectable as to be proof against contingencies.

          The event of the Rhode Island expedition is still depending; if it should fail we shall
            probably lose a number of men in the attempt—To renew it, if practicable, we should be
            obliged to send reinforcements from this army, which could very ill be spared with its
            present strength; but would be impossible, if it were diminished by a detachment for the
            Indian expedition. And then should the enemy unite their force, they would possess so
            decisive a superiority as might involve us in very embarrasing circumstances. If on the
            contrary we succeed at Rhode Island a variety of probable cases may be supposed with
            reference to Europ: affairs which may make it extremely interesting to the common cause,
            that we should have it in our power to operate with vigor against the enemy in this
            quarter; to do which, if it can be done at all will at least require our whole
            force.
          These considerations sufficient[l]y evince, that we cannot detach from this army the
            force requisite for the expedition proposed, without material detriment to our affairs
            here. And comparing the importance of the objects here with the importance of the
            objects of that expedition, it can hardly be thought eligible to persue the latter at
            the expence of the former. The depredations of the savages on our frontiers and the
            cruelties exercised on the defenceless inhabitants are certainly evils much to be
            deplored, and ought to be guarded against, as far as may be done consistent with proper
            attention to matters of higher moment; but they are evils of a partial nature which do
            not directly affect the general security, & consequently can only claim a
            secondary attention. It would be impolitic to weaken
            our operations here, or hazard the success of them to prevent temporary inconveniences
            elsewhere.
          But there are other objections to the measure of almost equal weigh—The season is too
            far advanced for the entreprise—To raise and collect the troops to lay up competent
            magazines, and to make the needful preparations and then to march to the Seneca
            settlements and back again would exhaust at least five months from this time; and the
            rivers would be impract⟨icable⟩ before it could be effected. This time will not be
            thought too long, if it is considered, that the preparations of every kind are yet to be
            begun; and that when completed an extent of more than three hundred miles, is to be
            traversed, through a country wild and unexplored, the greater part hostile and full of
            natural impediments—The rivers too at this time of the year are more shallow than at
            others, which would be an additional source of difficulty and delay. I shall say little
            on the subject of pr[o]visions, though it is a serious question, whether our resources
            are so far equal to our demands, that we can well spare so extensive supplies, as this
            expedition will consume—Besides feeding our own troops, we shall probably soon have to
            victual the French fleet which is said to have twelve thousand men on board.

          Notwithstanding the opinion I entertain of this matter founded upon a knowlege of many
            circumstances which Congress could not be fully apprized of—in obedience to their
            orders, I shall without delay take measures for forming magazines at Albany &
            upon the Mohawk River and for preparing every thing
            else for the expedition, except calling out the Militia; and shall be glad of the
            further directions of Congress, as speedily as possible. If it is their pleasure that it
            should still go on, I shall apply for an aid of Militia and can soon march the
            detachment of troops which must be sent from this army.
          I take the liberty however to offer it as my opinion, that the plan for subduing the
            unfriendly indians ought to be deferred till a moment of greater leisure. We have a
            prospect that the British army will ere long be necessity⟨ated⟩ either to abandon the
            possessions they now hold and quit these states, or perhaps to do something still more
            disgraceful—If either these should arrive, the most effectual way to chastise the
            Indians, and disarm them for future mischief, will be to make an expedition into Canada.
            By penetratring as far as Mo[nt]real, they fall of course, destitute of supplies for
            continuing their hostilities, and of support to stimulate their enmity. This would strike at once at the root, the other would only
            lop off a few branches, which would soon spead out anew nourished and sustained by the
            remaining trunk.
          Instead of the expedition resolved upon, it might be adviseable to establish a well
            furnished Garrison of about three hundred continental troops some where near the head of
            the Susquehanna, at Unidilla, or in the vicinity of that place. And at the same time to
            establish a good post at Wyoming, with some small intermediate post. These posts would
            be a great security to the frontiers; and would not only serve as barriers against the
            irruptions of the savages, but with the occasional aid of the militia would be
            convenient for making little inroads upon their nearest settlements; and might
            facilitate a more serious entreprise, when it shall be judged expedient. I shall be glad
            of the sentiments of Congress on this proposition.


Title: To George Washington from Major John Clark, Jr., 3 August 1778
From: Clark, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Maj. John Clark, Jr., 3 Aug. 1778. On 14
            Aug., GW’s secretary Robert Hanson Harrison wrote Clark: “The multiplicity of business
            in which his Excellency has been engaged, would not permit him to take the subject of
            your Letter of the 3d Inst. into consideration before to day. It seems but reasonable
            that the public should have the emoluments arising from desertion or the death of
            Soldiers in preference to Officers; yet there is no Article of War or Resolution of
            Congress known here that will directly authorize the order you request. The General is
            desirous to give the Auditors every countenance in his power to promote the purposes of
            their appointment & when Opportunity will admit of your absence, he requests you
            to call at Head Qrs, that you & I may talk more fully upon the matter you have
            in view” (DLC:GW).


Title: From George Washington to John Parke Custis, 3 August 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Custis, John Parke

            Dear Custis,
            White plains Augt 3d 1778.

          Your Letter of the 15th Ulto from New Kent came to my hands by the last Post, and gave
            me the pleasure of hearing that you, Nelly, & the little ones were well.
          You should not delay recording my Deed to you, because you cannot, I am told, make a
            proper conveyance to Henry till this happens the postponing of it therefore may not be a
            pleasing circumstance to him. As you seemed so desirous of living in Fairfax—as I know
            it will be an agreeble measure to your Mother—and a pleasing one to me, I am very glad
            to find that you have purchased Robt & Gerrd Alexanders Lands as they are
            pleasantly situated, and capable of great improvement—These two Gentn not only knew how
            to take advantage of the times but resolved to profit by them and here, early, &
            in time—as a friend & one who has your welfare at heart—let me entreat you to
            consider the consequences of paying compound Interest—Your having 24 Yrs to pay Mr Robt
            Alexander, without his having it in his power to call upon you for any part of  the principal or Interest is in my judgment an unfortunate
            circumstance for you—a Dun, now and then might serve as a Monitor, to remind you of the
            evil tendency of paying compound Interest, and the fatal consequence which may result
            from letting a matter of this sort Sleep without it, you may be plunged into a most
            enormous debt without thinking of it, or giving that timely attention, which the
            importance of is requisite I presume you are not unacquainted with the fact of £12,000
            at compound Interest amounting to upwards of £48,000 in twenty four years—Reason
            therefore must convince you that unless you avert the evil by a deposit of the like Sum
            in the loan Office—and there hold it sacred to the purpose of accumulating Interest in
            the proportion you pay, that you will have abundant cause to repent it—No Virginia
            Estate (except a very few under the best of management) can stand simple Interest how
            then can they bear compound Interest—You may be led away with Ideal profits—you may
            figure great matters to yourself to arise from this, that, or t’other Scheme, but depend
            upon it they will only exist in the imagination, and that year after year will produce
            nothing but disappointment and new hopes—these will waste time, whilst your Interest is
            accumg and the period approaches when you will be called upon unprepared perhaps to
            advance 4 times the original purchase money—Remember therefore, that as a friend, I call
            upon you with my advice to shun this rock by depositing the Sum you are to pay
            Alexander, in the loan Officer—let it be considered as alexanders money, &
            sacred to that use and that only. for if you shd be of opinion that pay day being a
            great way off will give you time enough to provide for it & consequently to
            apply your present Cash to other uses it does not require the gift of prophecy to
            predict the Sale of the purchased Estate or some other to pay for it.
          After this dissertation upon a subject which perhaps you may think I have no business
              now to intermeddle in I shall approve your proposal for selling
            the Lands mentioned in your Letter to me provided you can get an adequate price but one
            circumstance should not be forgotten by you in these transactions and that is that your Lands will go but a little way in the purchase of  others if you sell at three or four pounds an Acre and give twelve
            after this remark I shall only add that if Mrs Washington has no objections to you
            selling her thirds in your Lands about
            Williamsburg, or else where I have not—The loan Office Interest,
            of whatever Sum they fetch, I shall be content to receive whilst I have any concern in
            it and your Mother, if she should be the Survivor, consenting to do the same removes
            every impediment & difficulty to yr selling and places the matter in my opinion
            upon a fair, just, and equitable footing as you will have the principal if you choose it
            paying the Interest or may deposit it in the loan Office to raise the Interest there (if
               more desirable) during her life when the whole will revert to you
            as the Land would do.
          As you seem so well disposed to live in Fairfax and have now fixed the matter by your
            late purchases of the Alexanders, I should, were I in your place, extend my Ideas
            & views further than you have done. that is over & above the Sale of the
            Eastern shore, Williamsburg & Hanover Lands with the Lotts in the City I would sell, or exchange, the whole below—for depend upon it,
            that whilst you live in Fairfax you will get very little benefit from an Estate in New
            Kent or King William, unless you have much better luck than most who have Plantations at
            a distance.
          When I advise selling, I would no⟨t⟩ be understood to mean at all hazards—I would try
            in the first place, what I could get for my own Lands without bargaining for them unless
            it was conditionally. I would then see whether some large Tracts of Land (not leased
            out) could not be had in Fairfax, Loudoun, Fauquier, Berkeley, or Frederick—or, on the
            Maryland side of the Potomack and upon what terms they could be purchased you will then
            from a comparative view be a judge of the propriety of selling your own & buying
            others or holding fast what you have—among those who hold large Tracts in Fairfax are
            the Fitzhughs, Mr B. Fairfax, &ca—In Loudoun & Fauquier The Carters (who
            probably would be glad to exchange) the Lees, Turbervilles, Pag⟨es,⟩ Burwells,
            &ca—Most of these being low landers, I think it not improbable but that bargains
            may be had of them, either by purchase or exchange.
          With candour I have given you my opinion upon the several matters contained in your
            Letter. If it is faulty, it proceeds from error in judgment, not from the want of
            Attachment—Affection to you—or honest sincerety—and is open to correction.

            Go: W——n.


Title: To George Washington from Vice Admiral d’Estaing, 3 August 1778
From: Estaing, Charles-Hector Théodat, comte d’
To: Washington, George

            At sea the 3. of August 1778.

          It is difficult to console ones self for the obstacles as numerous as insurmountable
            which stopped me at Sandy-Hook. The importance of  New York, the
            happiness of fighting the English fleet and the extreme satisfaction of acting directly
            with you made me desire with the greatest ardor the possibility of entring. I offered,
            to too little purpose, in an Assembly of your experienced pilots a recompense of fifty
            thousand crowns, to him who should find us a sufficiency of water. Tis only by action,
            that my regret can be diminished, and as yet we do nothing—your foresight and your
            orders have nevertheless, anticipated my wants and rendered my delays less long. The
            reinforcement you have so properly sent, will, as I am informed, arrive this evening;
            and it will most assuredly be on the part you have so wisely and expeditiously taken,
            that our success will depend.
          General Sullivan has done me the honor to come and see me and to communicate his views;
            I will second them with all my power. He is full of that spirit of activity and
            combination, with which you inspire all those, who have served under your orders—I
            believe him as fully persuaded as I am of the necessity of acting: The intrenchments
            that are visible above Conanicut increase dayly; they are numerous. The time I have been
            at sea begins to make me lose a number of men with the scurvy. The extreme difficulty of
            procuring water at Shrewsbury, and the tardiness with which it is collected here from
            different places, have long since obliged me to retrench our allowance The officers and
            men support this terrible privation with courage and patience; and we have acquired a
            virtue which has been hitherto refused us—the virtue of perseverance. We doub[t]less owe
            it to the flattering hope of being useful to allies whom our national taste had itself
            given us; before the orders of the king had prescribed it.
          The Gentlemen, your Generals, will acquit themselves better than I, of the duty, of
            rendering you an account of the certain state of the preparations going on, and of the
            small burning of three English vessels, which guarded the Eastern channel. I will confine myself to repeating to you, what I cannot well
            describe, the zeal and the infinite pains of Lieutenant Colonel Laurens. He is on the
            wing the four and twenty hours round, to procure us refreshments; and when this is done,
            remains on board during very long days with all the patience of an old sailor. We are
            indebted to him for a hospital established on shore and for disembarrasing us of our
            prisonners; which in our situation form two important articles.
          I desire much that the present expedition may be speedily terminated, to give me
            leisure to employ myself with purging the Sound of the English Vessels which now infest
            the navigation. I have received Col: Sears, with all the consideration and all the
            confidence, which those merit, whom you are pleased to send me, and when it shall be
            time for it, I will consult him with the greatest eagerness.

          Accept the homage of the attachment & respect with which I have the honor to
            be—Sir.

            P.S: Since writing my letter, I received that which you had the goodness to
              address me the 26 of July, by Major General Greene—I am going to look for him on
              shore, that he may not lose any of the present precious moments. The reputation of
              this General Officer made his arrival to be wished. His influence on his countrymen
              and his knowledge of the country will render him formidable to our common enemy. You
              know how to divine whatever we stand in need of; and from what I have seen, the
              discerning and employing men proper to the business in hand, seem to be one of the
              qualities which compose the illustrious character you bear. This is perhaps the most
              important part of the Great General.


Title: To George Washington from George William Fairfax, 3 August 1778
From: Fairfax, George William
To: Washington, George

            (Copy)My Dear Sir
            Bath [England] Augt 3d 1778

          By Genl Burgoynes great Politeness & kindness, I am not only made happy, by the
            fullest, and most Satisfactory Account I have had in three Years, of the Health and
            Situation of my Friends in Virginia, but also am enabled to make my acknowledgements for
            your kind Attention, under the apparent neglect of four years silence on my part. I recived your Letter informing me of your
              appointment, and as I know that it was impossible for
            you to attend to your own extensive affairs, I immediately wrote, to beg you would
            empower Mr R:C: Nicholas, or some other Person of integrity to transact my business, I
            also wrote to Mr Lund Washington in answer to one from him, covering some Bills of
              Exch. As the communication was then in some degree
            open, I am much surprized that those Letters should have miscarried, as I was careful
            not to touch upon any improper subject. I am sorry to hear that Belvoir is going to
            decay, but hope if the House is kept light and dry, it cant suffer much. I wish the few
            Pictures left in it had been removed to Mount Vernon. I am apprehensive my Interest has
            suffered greatly, and tho’ tis late, must now  intreat, that you’l do
            me the favor to Depute Mr Nicholas, Colo. Lewis of Fredericksburg, or some Gentn of
            Character to inspect the Manager & Stewards Accot and proceedings. your power is
            full & adiquate to what I desire, you know the impossibility of my appointing an
            Attorney, as Witnesses are always required to prove the Execution here to make it valid,
            this I hope will be my excuse for giving you the trouble of Deligating the Power you
              have. My situation here is truely pitiable, as the
            Chancery Suit that brought me over, is as far from a conclusion as ever, owing to the
            Villainy of my Sollicitor, who had taken up several thousands pounds, upon one of my
            Estates in Yorkshire while I was in America, which He had Mortgaged for Money applyed to
            his own use, while my Cause was suffered to be dismiss’d for want of proceeding in, the
            knowledge of this transaction is but lately discoverd, so that I’ve only just now
            obtained an Order from the Court of Chancery, to have my Papers, Title Deeds &c.
            deliverd up to me, in order to my renewing the Suit, which tis incumbent upon me to do,
            ⟨Or⟩ I shall not only loose one Moiety of my recoverd Estate at Reedness, but ⟨be⟩
            Saddled with the whole Costs of a Chancery Suit of twenty Years standing.
          Pardon my good Sir, my troubling you with the Minutie of my Affairs, it may be a matter
            of consequence, that my Friends should be informed, that I have good reason for my Stay
            in England, & this opportun⟨ity⟩ through the Channel of a Gentn of honor is not
            to be missed, & as a proff that tis’ not, be assured, that I’ve wrote more than
            ten Letters to You & Mr Nicholas relative to my business, and with all necessary
            caution, it was therefore wanton cruelty only, that could have occasioned their being
              stoped.
          Upon our finding ourselves absolutely Cut off from a remittance from V——a we thought it
            necessary to retrench Expences greatly; I was ordered, at the same time to drink these
            Waters, heither we came, without any intention of ⟨illegible⟩
            here, but finding the Place beautiful & convenient, we were induced to take and
            Furnish a small House in which we have resided since May was two years. This Spaw has
            contributed greatly to my Health, my poor Wives is so dreadfully bad that She has little
            enjoyment of life.
          Genl Burgoyne was so obliging as to find Us out in my Cott[age], and to deliver your
            favor into my hand. accept my hearty thanks for it, and the pleasing information it
            contained of Lord Fx Mr Carys and other Friends health. When opportunity offers, be
            pleas’d to present my Affect: respects to his Lordship, and all other Friends, as if I
            had named every individual, Mrs Fx joins me in Affect: regards to you, and amiable Lady,
            Mr & Mrs Custis, We lament their loss of Children. I am Dear Sir Your Affect: and Most Obedt Humble Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 3 August 1778
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Maj.Gen.Horatio Gates, c.3 Aug. 1778. On
            3 Aug., GW wrote the Board of War: “On receiving your letter I wrote to General Gates [2
            Aug.], copies of mine to him and of his answer to me are inclosed”; the answer has not
            been found.