LIBRARY OF CONGRESS nil III 007 243 234 4 mo *(i'S' ilJcuiuMjaau i^iJjam^ E 203 .1431 Copy 1 Washington Papers JUNE, 1775 ON the 15 luiie, I775j Congress having resolved "That a general be appointed to com- mand all the continental forces raised or to be raised for the defence of American liberty," proceeded to a choice, and the ballots being taken, CJeorge Washington, esq., was unanimously elected. On the day following the president informed Mr. Washington that Congress had unani- mously made choice of him to be general ahd commander in chief of the American forces and requested he would accept that employment, to which Mr. W., standing in his place, answered : Mr. President, Though J am truly sensible of the high honor done me in this appointment, yet I feel great distress from a consciousness that my abilities and military experience may not be equal to the extensive and important trust. However, as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty and exert every power I possess in the service and for support of the glorious cause. I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testi- mony of their approbation. But lest some unlucky event should happen unfavourable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered by every gentleman in the room, that I this day de- clare with the utmost sincerity 1 do not think myself equal to the command I am honored with. As to })ay. Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress, that as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to accept this arduous employment at the expense of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to make any profit from it. I will keep an exact account of my expenses. Those I doubt not they will discharge, and that is all I desire." .\s soon as he could get himself in readiness he set out for Boston to take upon him the command of the army before that town. [MS. note of Charles Thompson prefixed to Vol. I of IFashiiigloii's Letters in the Records of the Continental Congress.)* *[ On June 15, 1775, Congress resolved to appoint a general to "command all the Continental forces, raised or to be raised, for the defence ot American liberty " and fixed his pay at 500 dollars per month. George Washington was unanimously elected general on the same day, and on the i6th formally accepted in the speech already given. R. H. Lee, E. Rutledge and John Adams were appointed a committee to draught a commission and instructions for the general, and it was from their report, rendered on the 17th, and debated in Congress that the commission — printed on the next page — was framed. The wording is somewhat differ- ent from that printed in y.\i& Journals of Congress, June 17, 1775. — W. C. F.] W. P. 1. \«, '■^" L. 2 O ^ WASHINGTON PAPERS. [June, 3tt OuottQress* Wl\c dch'OiUcs of tJie United Colonies of Ncw-HauipsJiire, MassacJuLsetts bay, Rhode island, Connecticut, N'eio-York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New Castle, Kent & Sussex on Dclaioare, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina To CSlJOtQe ^JtlashtngtOU Esquire ^IHc reposing especial trust and confidence in your patriot- ism, coudjict and fidelity Do by these presents constitute and appoint you to be CfJctturnl nti6 Comiu«iti6er in CfHlticf ofi the army of the United CoUmies and ofi all the fiorces raised or to be raised by them and of all others who shall voluntary ofifer their service and join the said army fior the defience ofi American Liberty and fior repelling every hostile invasion thereofi. And you are hereby vested witJi full pozuer and authority to act as you shall think for the good and welfare of the service. ^n6 Tve do Jiereby strictly cJiarge and require all ofificers and soldiers under your command to be obedient to your orders & diligent in the exercise ofi their several duties. ^11 i zve do also enjoin and require you to be carefiid in exe- cuting the great ti^itst reposed in you, by causing strict discipliiie and order to be observed in the army and that the soldiers are duly exercised and provided with all convenient necessaj'-ies. ^nd you are to regtilate your conduct in every respect by the I'ldes and discipline ofi zaar [as heretuith given you) and punctually to observe and fiollow such orders and directions fir om time to time as you shall receive firom this or a fiuture Congress ofi the said united colonics or a committee ofi Congress for that purpose appointed. This Commission to continue in fiorcc until revoked by this or a fiuture Congress. By order ofi the Congress Dated, PhUndclpIiia June igt/i ryjj. John Hancock President Attest Chas. Thomson Seer. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. Letters to Was/iutgton. Vol. 6. f. io6. FROM GENERAL GATES. Traveller's Rest 22th June 1775. Dear General Last night I was Honoured by the receipt of your Obliging Letter of 1 7th Instant. I shall Obey your Commands with all possible expedition, & hope to be in Philadelphia Thursday next, & wish earnestly to find you there. I must take the Liberty to entreat it of you, not to leave the Con- gress, until you are provided not only with all the Powers, but all the Means, their power can bestow, if it is indispensably necessary you should leave Philadelphia before I get there, I hope to find with Colonel Harrison, your positive, & particular Commands, in regard to any business you may leave unsettled behind you. the request for the Riffle Men was well received in this province, and in Maryland, Major Stevenson commands one of the Companys from hence, &: I believe Cap." Morgan the other, both excellent for the Service. Col Creasup told me on Monday morning that his Son had eighty Riffle Men ready to march, those go for one of the Companys from Maryland. Immediately upon the Arrival of your Express, I dis- patched your packets to your brother, & Col: Stephen, if their Answers don't come in half an hour, I will bring them with me. My Grateful! Thanks are most Respectfully due to the Congress, for the very Handsome manner in which they conferred their Commission. I will not intrude more upon that Time, which is now so precious to you, only to assure you I will not lose a moment in paying you my personal attendance, with the greatest respect for your Character, and the sincerest attachment to your person, I am Dear General, Your most Faithful, & Obedient Humble Servant, Horatio Gates. Letters to Washington. Vol. 89. /. 12. FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS DELEGATES IN CONGRESS.^ Phyladelphia, June 22, 1775. Sir In Complyance with your Request We have considered of what you pro- posed to us, and are obliged to give you our Sentiments, very briefly, and in great Haste. In general, Sir, there will be three Committees, either of a Congress, or of an House of Representatives, which are, and will be composed of our best Men ; such, whose Judgment and Integrity, may be most rely'd on; the Committee on the State of the Province, the Committee of Safety, and the Committee of Supplies. But least this should be too general. We beg leave to mention particu- larly Mess" Bowdoin, Teller, Dexter, Greenleaf, Derby, Pitts, Otis of the late •In MS. of John Adams. WASHINGTON PAPERS. [June, late Council, Hon. John Winthrop Esq. L.L.D., Joseph Hawley Esq"" of Northampton, James Warren Esq"" of Plymouth, Coll Palmer of Plraintree, Coll Orne and Elbridge Gerry Esq"" of Marblehead, Dr Warren, Church, Mr John Pitts all of Boston, Dr Langdon President of Harvard Colledge, and Dr Chauncey and Dr Cooper of Boston, Coll Forster of Brookfield. The Advice and Recommendations of these Gentlemen, and of some others whom they may introduce to your Acquaintance may be depended on. With great Sincerity, we wish you an agreable Journey and a glorious Campaign; and are with much esteem and Respect, Sir, your most obedient servants. , Samuel Adams John Hancock John Adams Thomas Gushing Rob Treat Paine Letlers of Wasliiiv^ton. Aliu-t'llaucoiis. Vol. i, /. I; Transcript A, No\. x, f. \ ; Conti- nc7ifal Coui^ress, No. 1^2, Vol. i, /. 3 ; No. i6g. Vol. i, /• I "• TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS. New York June 24"' [25] 1775. Gentlemen, The Rain on Friday afternoon and Saturday the advice of several Gentlemen of the Jerseys and this city, by no means to cross Hudsons River at the lower Ferry and some other occurrences too trivial to mention (which happened on the Road) prevented my arrival at this place until the afternoon of this day. In the morning, after giving General Schuyler such orders, as, from the result of my Inquiry into matters here, appear necessary, I shall set out on my Journey to the Camp at Boston and shall proceed with all the dispatch in my Power. Powder is so essential an Article that I cannot help again repeating the necessity of a supply. The Camp at Bos- ton, from the best accounts I can get from thence, is but very poorly supplied. At this place they have scarce any. how they are provided in General Wooster's Camp I have not been able yet to learn. Governor Tryon is arrived and General Schuyler directed to advise you of the line of conduct he moves in. I fear it will not be very favourable to the American cause. I have only to add that I am with the greatest respect and regard. I775-] WASHINGTON TAPERS. Co7itinc)}tal Cotigress, A\\ ij2. Vol. i, _/! 5 > ^^^- i(>9i Vol. i, /". 2. TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS. New York Sunday 24 [25] June 1775 5 o'Clock P M Sir Upon my Arrival here this Afternoon I was inform'd that an Express was in Town from the provincial Camp in Massa- chusets Bay, and having seen among other papers in his pos- session a Letter directed to you as president of the Congress I have taken the Liberty to open it. I was induced to take that Liberty by several Gentlemen of New York who were anxious to know the particulars of the Affair of the 17th Ins' and agreeable to the Orders of many members of the Congress who judged it necessary that I should avail myself of the best Information in the Course of my Jour- ney. You will find Sir by that Letter a great want of Powder in the provincial army ; which I sincerely hope the Congress will supply as speedily & as effectually as in their Power. One thousand pounds in W were sent to the Camp at Cambridge three days ago from this City ; which has left this Place almost destitute of that necessary article ; there being at this Time from the best Information not more than four Bbs of powder in the City of N York. I propose to sett off for the provincial Camp to morrow and will use all possible Dispatch to join the Forces there. Please to make my Compliments to the Gentlemen the Congress. Letters from Washington. JMiscellaneoits. Vol. i. /. 2. TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. New York, 25 June, 1775. Sir: You are to take upon you the command of all the troops destined for the New York department, and see that the orders of the Continental Congress are carried into execution, with as much precision and exactness as possible. For WASHINCxTON PAPERS. [June, For your better government therein, you are herewith fur- nished with a copy of the instructions given to me by that honorable body. Such parts as are within the Hne of your duty, you will please to pay particular attention to. Delay no time in occupying the several posts, recommended by the Pro- vincial Congress of this colony, and putting them in a fit posture to answer the end designed : neither delay any time in securing the stores, which are, or ought to have been, removed from this city by order of the Continental Congress. Keep a watchful eye upon Gov' Tryon, and, if you find him attempting directly or indirectly any measures inimical to the common cause, use every means in your power to frus- trate his designs. It is not in my power, at this time, to point out the mode by which this end is to be accomplished ; but if forcible measures are judged necessary, (respecting the person of the Governor,) I should have no difficulty in ordering of it if the Continental Congress was not sitting; but as this is the case, the seizing governors quite a new (?) thing, and of exceeding great importance, I must refer you to that body for direction. In case the Governor should make any move towards increasing the strength of the Tory party, or in arming them against the cause we are embarked in. In like manner, watch the movements of the Indian agent, (Colonel Guy Johnston,) and prevent, as far as you can, the effect of his influence to our prejudice with the Indians. Obtain the best information you can of the temper & disposition of these people, and also of the Canadians, that a proper line may be mark'd out to con- ciliate their good opinion, or facilitate any future operation. The posts on Lake Champlain &c you will please to have properly supplied with provisions & ammunition ; & this I am persuaded you will aim at doing on the best terms, to prevent our good cause from sinking under a heavy load of expense. You. will be pleased, also, to make regular returns to me, and to the Continental Congress, once a month, and oftener as occurrences may require, of the forces under your command, of your provisions, stores, &c. and give me the earliest advices of every piece of intelligence, which you shall 1 775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. shall judge of importance to be speedily known. Your own good sense must govern you in all matters not particularly pointed out, as I do not wish to circumscribe you within nar- row limits. Letters to Washingto)i. Vol. 89. /. 2. FROM THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Philadelphia June 25''^ 1775 Sir, By Direction of the Congress I now Transmitt you severall Resolutions pass'd yesterday by which you will observe they have Directed Major Gene- ral Schuyler to Examine into the State of the Forts at Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and of the Troops Stationed there, as also to Enquire into the Disposition of the Canadians and Indians, you will likewise find they have Directed him to Take or Destroy all Vessells, Boats or Floating Batte- ries prepar'd by Governor Carlton on or near the Waters of the Lakes, and to Take possession of St Johns &: Montreal if he finds it practicable, and not Disagreeable to the Canadians. The Alteration of the Sentiments of Congress since your Departure relative to making an Impression into Canada was occasion'd by a Letter they receiv'd from the Committee of Albany, a copy of which you have Inclos'd, they gave their Directions upon these important matters directly to Major General Schuyler, as he would be near the Forts above mention'd, and as their being sent to you would occasion such Delay as might prove Detrimental to the Service. I send you the remainder of the Commissions Signed, should you have occasion for more, please to acquaint me, & they shall be immediately Transmitted you. Brig"" Gen'. Gates not yet arrived in the City. I Expect him to morrow, and shall Deliver him his Commission, and promote his Joining you as soon as possible. Inclosed is a letter from him. With very best wishes for every personal happiness, and Success in all your undertakings, I have the Honor to be, Sir, Your most Obed Hum'^ Servt, John Hancock, President. WASHINGTON PAPERS. [June, [Enclosure No. i.] Letters to IVashington. Vol. 109. / i. albany committee to congress. Albany Committee Chamber, June 2ist, 1775. Gents Mr Dirik Swart a member of this board, who is just returned from Crown point, brings the following intelligence ; that one Mr Hay who lives about 40 miles up lake Champlain came down to Crown point, who told Coll. Arnold and others that he had been to Montreal for some flour ; that Govr. Carlton had him seized and confined for several days ; that by the interposition of the English Merchants of that place, he received liberty to return home, and that the merchants who procured him the pass from the Lieutenant Governour desired him to go down to Crown point and Ticonderoga with all speed and communicate to the commander of those fortresses that the French Caughnewagie indians had taken up the hatchet. But that they refused to go out upon any scouts until nine of their men who were then out, returned ; and that Governour Carlton was giving them presents daily. We are very sorry to inform you that from a number of corroborating circumstances, we have but too much reason to believe the above information to be true, and more especially as the troops which amount to about six hundred men, suffer no persons, coming up the lake to pass St. Johns if they can avoid it, where they are building floating batteries and boats ; Mr Swart also acquaint us that Mr Hay said, that Govr. Carlton had asked the English merchants to take up arms against the Yankees, to make use of his own phraseology, that the Merchants refused, upon which he told them he would set the town on fire; which the merchants said he was welcome to do, and added they could carry as much fire as himself — Mr Hay also desired Mr Swart, if he should happen to meet Mr. Price, he should request him not to proceed, as the English merchants in Canada conceived it unsafe for him. The foices above are in no proper state of defence principally owing to the scarcity of powder, of which article we have not yet been able to send up more ; with the supply we have received from New York, than three hundred and fifty pounds ; which quantity is altogether insufficient to answer the purposes intended and of little service in case of an attack^We can farther inform you, this city is not half supplied; nor have the frontier inhabitants either powder or arms; for which, applications have been, and daily are making to us — and as we have no prospect of any farther supply from New York, we beg to be assisted if possible from the lower Governments with all the dispatch possible. We should also desire that the command at the forts might be settled — Coll. Hinman we understood would have taken the command, but by his appointment from Govr Trumble, his orders are only to reinforce the Garrisons and command his regiment; upon which Coll. Arnold refused to resign ; We therefore conceived it highly necessary that a matter of such importance should be setled with all speed. The above we are also informed by Mr. Stewart, who was present and heard each read the others instmctions. We thought it our indispensible duty to acquaint you of these matters and therefore send them you 'J9 express — We are (Jent. "S'our very humble sers'ants By order of tlie Committee Saml Stringer, Chairman P T To THK .Mr.MBEKS OK THE CONTINENTAL C()N(;RESS. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. [ Enxlosure No. 2.] Letters to Washington. Vol. 89. /'. i. In Congress June 27. 1775. Resolved, That Major (leneral P. Schuyler be directed to repair as soon as conveniently he can to the posts of Ticonderoga and Crown point to examine into the slate thereof, and of the troops now stationed there & how they are supplied with provision and necessary stores — into the state also of the sloop and other navigation of the lakes — also to obtain the best intel- ligence he can of the disposition of the Canadians & Indians of Canada — That he confer with Coll. Hinman & Coll. Arnold on the subject of Coll. Arnolds letter to this Congress and report as soon as possible, the state of the whole as near as it can be ascertained to this Con- gress — And that he give orders for the necessary preparation of boats and stores for securing to the United Colonies the command of those waters adjacent to Crown point & Ticonderoga — Resolved, That as Govr Carlton is making preparations to invade these colonies & is instigating the Indian Nations to take up the Hatchet against them, Major Genel. Schuyler do exert his utmost power to destroy or take .all vessells, boats or floating batteries preparing by said Governor or by his order on or near the waters of the lakes Resolved, That if Genl. Schuyler finds it practicable and that it will not be disagreeable to the Canadians, he do immediately take possession of St Johns, Montreal and pursue any other measures in Canada, which may have a tendency to promote the peace and security of these colonies — Resolved, That if Genl Schuyler have occasion for a larger quantity of ready money & ammunition for carrying on such expedition, than he can in convenient time procure from the provincial convention of the colony of New York, he do in such case apply to the Govr. of Connecticut for such supplies, as may be necessary & can be furnished by that colony ; and that Governor Trumbull be desired to furnish such supplies and that this Congress will make provision for re-imburseing the same A true copy from the minutes Ch.\s Thomson sec Letters to Washington. Vol. 6. /. 1 14. FROM GENERAL SCHUYLER. Saturday, July i'^'. 1775. Sir I do myself the Honor to advise your Excellency that the Connecticut Troops, that arrived in this Colony under the Command of Brigadier Woos- ter are encamped within two miles of this Town. I have not yet had a Return of their numbers as soon as my Order for that Purpose is complied with I shall transmit it. Inclose You Sir a Copy of the Resolutions of the Hono: the Conti- nental Congress of the 27"' ult. I shall prepare with all possible Dispatch to carry into Execution their Views and propose leaving this for Albany in my way to Ticonderoga on Monday next. Eight Transports with Troops, that have been at Sandy Hook since Thursday last are to sail from thence to Day. Reports prevail that the men on Board have muntinied, that they refused to go to Boston, of this how- ever I have not been able to get any Certainty. Hand Bills have been introduced amongst them to encourage them to quit on the first favorable Opportunity a service which must render them odious to all honest Men. Governor Tryon's Conduct has hitherto been unexceptionable, and from the Information I have been able to procure, some of which I put great Confidence lO WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, Confidence in, I have reason to believe that the Line he has chalked out for himself is such as we would wish he should hold. I believe the Commissions for this Department were already forwarded to You before my Letter (In obedience to Your order) to the Congress on that Subject arrived. If they are to be sent back, I beg of You to order them to be directed to the President of the Provincial Convention here. No Preparation has as yet been made to occupy a Post in the Highlands, by what I can learn the Provincial Convention have Doubts about the Pro- priety (which they have or mean to state to Congress) arising from the Want of Ammunition, to maintain the Post after it shall be compleated. A ship from London in five weeks advises that the Remonstrance sent by the Assembly of this Colony to the House of Commons has been rejected by them as containing Sentiments derogatory to the Rights of Parliament. This manoevre has already had salutary effects, many whose Sentiments are friendly to America, but who differed as to the Mode of procuring Redress, now publickly declare that they will no longer sit idle Spectators of their Country's Wrongs. That Success and Happiness equal to the Merit & Virtue of my General may crown all his Operations is the Wish of every honest American by none more sincerely than me. I am Your Excellency's Most Obed' & Most Hum*^ Serv' Ph : Schuyler. Letters to Washms:ton. Vol. 6. / 122. FROM THE YORKTOWN COMMITTEE. ^ YoRKTowN I July 1775- Gentlemen. We had the honor of receiving your favor of the 15 inst. inclosing a Resolve of the Hon : Continental Congress of the 14th inst. We immediately summoned the committee of this county and laid before them your letter &c. The committee proceeded to the choice of officers fit to be recommended to the con- gress to command the company of Rifle men to be raised, and appointed six commissioners to provide necessaries for them. Every resolve past in committee with the greatest unanimity, and the gentleman of York town after the meeting dispersed themselves thro' the county and assisted the officers in recruiting. The spirit of the people on this occasion gave the committee infinite pleasure. The men seemed actuated with the greatest zeal and tho't themselves honored in having their names enrolled among the sons of Liberty who are to fight for their country and in defence of their dearest rights and privileges. The only uneasiness they feel is that they are not at this mo- ment at the scene of action. From the spirit of the soldiers we entertain the most flattering hopes that they will prove serviceable to the cause of Tiberty, and reflect honor on this country. The principal people here have caught the spirit of the Hon : Congress, and in their small circle have done every thing in their power to animate their neighbors to stand forth in this day of despotism, and resist the arbitrary and unjust measures of parliament with all the power which Heaven has given them. And we have the pleasure to inform you that tlieir labors 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. II labors have not been in vain, and that the county is ready to strain every nerve to put into execution any measures which the Congress may judge necessary to our common defence. The officers we take the liberty to recommend to you are Capt Michael Dowdle, Lieuts. Henry Miller, John Dill, John Watson. They are men whose courage we have the highest opinion of. The company including officers and soldiers are beyond the number fixed for this county, and as Genl Gates tho't it improper to discharge any we have sent them all. We request the favor of you that proper care be taken that none are draughted out of their company into another. This is the request of the inhabitants of this count)% many of them having their dearest friends engaged in the service, and would not by any means have them taken from their present officers. We hope no alteration will be made in the officers. The Capt. has behaved very well on this occasion, and has done all in his power by advancing money &c to forward the important common cause. Mr Miller is known to some of you gentlemen ; the other officers are men of worth and property. They have all wives and families and are entitled to the warmest thanks of their country. The commissioners appointed to provide necessaries for the men, will forward the accounts as soon as they possibly can. We are. Gentlemen, Yr most humble servs, Jas Smith Geo Irvin John Kean Joseph Donaldson Thos Hartley Michl Hahn The company began their march the nearest road to Boston this day. [ Order. ] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 3rd 1775 Parole, Lookout. Counter Sign, Sharp. The Colonels or commanding Officers of each Regt : are ordered forthwith, to make two Returns of the number of men in their respective Regiments, distinguishing such as are sick, wounded or absent on furlough : And also the quantity of ammunition each Regimt: now has. It appearing by the Report of Henry Woods, the Officer of the main guard, that one Wil- liam Alfred is confin'd for taking two horses, belonging to some Persons in Connecticut; but that he has made Satisfaction to the injured parties, who request that they may not be longer detain'd as witnesses: It is ordered that 'he be discharged, and after receiving a severe Rep- rimand, be turned out of camp. AFTER ORDERS. 4 O'CLOCK P. M. It is order'd that Col Glovers Regiment be ready this evening, with all their Accoutrements, to march at a minutes warning to support General Folsam of the New Hampshire forces, in case his Lines should be attack'd. It is also order'd, that Col Prescott's Regiment equip themselves, march this evening and take Possession of the Woods leading to Leechmore's point, and in case of an Attack, then Col. Glover's Regiment to march immediately to their support. 12 • WASHINGTON PAPERS. [Jt'iA*, Letters to Washington. Vol. 6. /. 148. BROOK WATSON TO N. Y. PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Lake Champlain near S' Johns 4th July 1775 Sir By the general assistance which your Letter to the Officers in the Service of the Colonies procured me, I am now so near Mountreal that I expect to get there this Evening ; therefore embrace the opportunity of the returning Boats to make you my thanks for your kind attention to me and my friends, and I pray you Sir to make my warmest acknowledgements to your Provin- cial Congress for the oblidging Letter they kindly favoured me with, and for the pleasing expressions in my Regard which it contained ! a sincere friend to America and its rights I truly am, and as such cannot help expressing my uneasiness at the general Spirit which I have observed among the Colonic Troops quartered at Forts George, Ticonderoga, and Crown Point, they talk and act as if it was fully determined they should soon march into the Province of Quebec, surely my good Sir this cannot be the intention of the general Congress, if it is not immediate payns should be taken to sup- press the dangerous Idea, or it may soon produce the most dangerous conse- quence. Should the Colonies send their Troops into that Province, or should they go without Orders, the Canadians and the Indians their Friends, will naturally fall upon your back Settlements with Fire and Sword, then with the King's Troops on one side, and the Canadians and Indians on the other, what have the Colonists to expect but Slaughter. For God's sake exert every faculty to prevent so great an Evil. I know the Body of Gentlemen who have so properly chose you for their President, are greatly alarmed at the deplorable situation of affairs between Great Britain and her Colonies. America must look forward with the great- est Anxiety, and rejoyce in any prudent Plan for the restoring of Harmony and the security of property. I would to God I had a Head to contrive, and and a pen to persuade what might produce so desirable an Event, for the Credit and Comfort of all their future Moments depend upon it, but while Liberty or Slavery in their greatest extream is the alternative held out by the violent and designing on this side the water, and submission or destruction the language of the other, what hopes have the people but in the moderation. Wisdom and Justice of the general Congress: In their address to his Majesty of last Year they wisely declare " that they ask but for Peace Liberty and Safety; that they wished not a diminution of the prerogative, nor did they solicite for any new right in their favour, that his royal Authority over them, and their Connection with Great Britain they would always carefully and Zealously endeavour to support and maintain." This declaration breathed the Spirits of good subjects, valuing their just rights too much to abuse them, but these Sentiments were not constitutionally conveyed to the royal ear. That Government are ready to receive any fair propositions which may be constitutionally offered, cannot be doubted after we consider the Minis- ter's declaration in i)arliament, "That if the Dispute in which the Americans have engaged goes to the whole of their Authority, they can enter into no negotiation, they can meet no compromise, but if it be only as to the sus- pention of the exercise of their Rights, or as to the mode of laying or rais- ing taxes for a Contribution towards the common Defence it might be just and wise to meet any fair proposition which might come from any Province or Colony." This 1 775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. This declaration, I humbly conceive, clearly points out the line of Con- duct which the General Congress ought to pursue, as it must be the wish of that Assembly to carry matters to an extream, by which the whole Empire must suffer and America be drove to the last Distress, would they but state their real Crievances with Temper and Wisdom, their Desires with Modera- tion and Justice in a dutiful memorial to the King, to be transmitted by the Provincial Assemblies to their respective Agents in London, such Applica- tion could not fail to produce the most desirable Effects, but if on the other Hand the Congress should order or suffer the people to proceed to the ex- treams which I now much fear, nothing but the .Sword can determine the un- natural contest, and they would soon discover the fatal Truth of what hath been so emphatically expressed by the judicious M' Glover "that high sound- ing words produce no food for the hungry ho raiment for the naked." I am Sir Your Oblidged Hble Servant Brook Watson. P. S. — -I have rec'' the kindest treatment from Cap" Fisher, Col' Hinman aud Major Elmer. Letters to IVas/iin^-ton. Vol.6. /'. Ii8. FROM MESSRS. WARRKN AND HAWI.KV. AVatkriown July 4. 1775 Sir. As Pomroy is now Absent, and at the distance of an hundred miles from the Army, if it can be consistent with your Excellencys Trust & the Service to retain his Commission untill you shall recieve Advice from the Continental Congress, and we shall be able to prevail with Heath to make a concession Honourable to himself, and advantageous to the publick. ^^'e humbly conceive the way would be open to do Justice to Thomas. We have the Honour to be Your Excellencys Most Obedient HumbP Serv"" Jas. Warren Joseph Hawley [ Orders. ] Head Quarters, Cami;ridge, July 4th, 1775. Parole, Alnngtoii. Counter Sign, Bedford. P'xact returns to be made by the proper Officers of all the Provisions, Ordnance, Ordnance Stores, Powder, Lead, working Tools of all kinds, Tents, Camp Kettles, and all other Stores under their respective care, belonging to the Armies at Roxbury and Cambridge. The com- manding Officer of each Regiment to make a return of the number of blankets wanted to compleat every Man with one at least. The Hon: Artemus Ward, Charles Lee, Philip Schuyler, and Israel Putnam Esquires, are appointed Major Generals of the American Army, and due obedience is to be paid them as such. The Continental Congress not having compleated the appointments of the other officers in said army, nor had sufficient time to prepare and forward their Commissions; every Officer is to continue to do duty in the Rank and Station he at present holds, untill further orders. Thomas Mifflin Esqr: is appointed by the General one of his Aid-de-Camps. — Joseph Reed Esqr is in like manner appointed Secretary to the General, and they are in future to be considered and regarded as such. The Continental Congress having now taken all the Troops of the several Colonies, which have been raised, or which may be hereafter raised, for the support and defence of the Liber- ties 14 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, ties of America; into their Pay and Service : They are now the Troops of the United Provinces of North America; and it is hoped that all Distinctions of Colonies will be laid aside ; so that one and the same spirit may animate the whole, and the only Contest be, who shall render, on this great and trying occasion ; the most essential Service to the great and common cause in which we are all engaged. It is required and expected that exact discipline be observed, and due Subordination pre- vail thro' the whole Army, as a Failure in these most essential points must necessarily produce extreme Hazard, Disorder and Confusion ; and end in shameful disappointment and disgrace. The General most earnestly requires, and expects, a due observance of those articles of war, established for the Government of the army, which forbid profane cursing, swearing and drunkeness; And in like manner requires & expects, of all Officers, and Soldiers, not engaged on actual duty, a punctual attendance on divine Service, to implore the blessings of heaven upon the means used for our safety and defence. All Officers are required and expected to pay diligent Attention, to keep their Men neat and clean— to visit them often at their quarters, and inculcate upon them the necessity of cleanliness, as essential to their health and service. They are particularly to see, that they have Straw to lay on, if to be had, and to make it known if they are destitute of this article. They are also to take care that Necessarys be provided in the Camps and frequently filled up to prevent their being offensive and unhealthy. Proper Notice will be taken of such Officers and Men, as distinguish themselves Ijy their attention to these necessary duties. The commanding Officer of each Regiment is to take particular care that not more than two Men of a Company be absent on furlough at the same lime, unless in very extraordinary cases. Col Gardner is to be buried to morrow at 3, oClock, P. M. with the military Honors due to so brave and gallant an ( )fficer, who fought, bled and died in the Cause of his country and mankind. His own Regiment, except the company at Maiden, to attend on this mournful occasion. The places of those Companies in the Lines on Prospect Hill, to be supplied by Col Glovers regiment 'till the funeral is over. No Person is to be allowed to go to Fresh-water pond a fishing or on any other occasion as there may be danger of introducing the small pox into the army. It is strictly required and commanded that there be no firing of Cannon or small Arms from any of the Lines, or elsewhere, except in case of necessary, immediate defence, or special order given for that purpose. All Prisoners taken. Deserters coming in, Persons coming out of Boston, who can give any Intelligence; any Captures of any kind from the Enemy, are to be immediately reported and brought up to Head Quarters in Cambridge. Capt : Ciriffin is appointed Aid-de-Camp to General Lee and to be regarded as such. The Guard for the Security of the .Stores at Watertown, is to be increased to thirty men immediately. A Serjeant and six men to be set as a Guard to the Hospital, and are to apply to Doctor Rand. Complaint having been made against John White (Quarter Master of Col. Nixon's Regmt: for misdemeanors in drawing out Provisions for more ^Ien than the Regiment consisted of; A Court Martial consisting of one Captain and four Subalterns is ordered to be held on said White, who are to enquire, determine and report. AFTER ORDERS. lO o'ci-OCK. The General desires that some Carpenters be immediately set to work at Brattle's Stables, to fix up Stalls for eight Horses, and more if the Room will admit, with suitable racks, man- gers &c. Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 5th: 1775. Parole, Bedford. C Sign, Cambridge. Tlie Adjutant of each Regiment is required to take special care, that all general orders are communicated, as well to the private men, as to the officers — that there may be no Plea of Ignorance — they will be deemed answerable for all the consequences which may follow a neglect of this order. A General Court martial is ordered to sit to morrow at 10 oClock A. M. for the Trial of William Patten charged with "leaving his post on guard" David Wells and Gideon Cole for "sleeping on their posts as centinels " — John Scott for "insulting the Gentry and attempting to pass the guard at Boston " and James Foslie for "//^r/?" — When the Witnesses are to attend and the parlies charged, are to have notice this day that they may l)e prepared for their trials. The 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 15 The General most earnestly recommends & requires of all the Officers, that they be exceeding diligent and strict in preventing all Invasions and Abuse of private property in their quarters, or elsewhere he hopes, and indeed flatters himself, that every private Soldier will detest, and abhor such practices, when he considers, that it is for the preservation of his own Rights, Liijerty and Property, and those of his Fellow Countrymen, that he is now called into service: that it is unmanly and sully's the dignity of the great cause, in which we are all engaged, to violate that property, he is called to protect, and especially, that it is most cruel and inconsis- tant, thus to add to the Distresses of those of their countr}men, who are suffering under the Iron hand of oppression. The General again urges, a speedy and exact Return, of the Forces, Stores, Provisions iS:c ; as desired in the Orders already issued, and for the future, these Returns to- be made once a week, on Saturday Morning regularly. The General is much pleased with the expedition and care, which some Officers have already shewn in their obedience to this order. The Colonel or commanding Officer of each Regiment, is to direct an ( )fficer of each Com- pany, to call over the Rolls of their men, at six oClock every morning, and to make proper Inquiry after the absentees. [On July 5 President Hancock transmitted the articles passed by Congress for the govern- ment of the troops. Letters to JV' 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 1 9 / [ Order. ] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 9th 1775. Parole, Effingham. C Sign, Waterto-vn. The Continental Congress having been pleased to appoint Horatio Gates Esq'' Brigadier General, and Adjutant General of the Army; he is to be obeyed as such; and all (Jrders transmitted through him from the Commander in Chief, whether written, or verbal, are to be punctually, and immediately obey'd. All Soldiers, more than two a Company, who are at present absent on Furlough, and all ( )fficers, non Commissioned ( )fficers, and Soldiers, who have not join'd their respective Corps, to be ordered forthwith to Camp. The Commanding Officers of Corps to l)e answeralile to the tleneral, for an immediate obedience to this order. The General (or in his absence) The Commanding Officer at Roxbury, to send a report every day in writing, sealed up, to the Commander in Chief at Head (Quarters, in Cambridge, of all the material Occurrences of the preceeding day; mentioning particularly, all Arrivals of Ships and Vessels in the bay; and what changes and alterations are made, in the Stations of the Men of war, Transport's, and floating batteries iS:c : Letters of Washuigton. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,/, 4; Transcript A, Vol. i, /. 2 .■ Con- tinental Congress, A'^o. 132, f. 9 ; A'o. i6g, Vol. i,/. 385. TO THE PRESH)ENT OF CONGRESS. Camp at Cambridge July lo, 1775. Sir, I arrived safe at this Place on the 3*^ inst\ after a Journey attended with a good deal of Fatigue, & retarded by necessary Attentions to the successive Civilities which accompanied me in my whole Rout. Upon my arrival, I immediately visited the several Posts occupied by our Troops, & as soon as the Weather permitted, reconnoitred those of the Enemy. I found the latter strongly entrench'd on Bunker's Hill about a Mile from Charlestown. & advanced about half a Mile from the Place of the last Action, with their Centries extended about 1 50 Yards on this side of the narrowest Part of the Neck leading from this Place to Charlestown ; 3 floating Batteries lay in Mystick River, near their camp ; & one 20 Gun Ship below the Ferr)^ Place between Boston & Charlestown. They have also a Battery on Copse Hill, on the Boston side, which much annoyed our Troops in the late attack. Upon the Neck, they are also deeply entrenched & strongly fortified. Their advanced Guards 'till last Saturday morning, occupied Brown's Houses, about a mile from Roxbury Meeting House & 20 roods from their Lines : But at that Time a Party from General Thomas's Camp surprized the Guard, drove them in & burnt the houses. The Bulk of their Army commanded by Genl. Howe, lays 20 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [Ji'iy, lays on Bunker's Hill, & the Remainder on Roxbury Neck, except the Light Horse, & a few Men in the Town of Boston, On our side we have thrown up Intrenchments on Winter & Prospect Hills, the Enemies camp in full View at the Dis- tance of little more than a Mile. Such intermediate Points, as would admit a Landing, I have since my arrival taken care to strenofthen, down to Sewal's Farm, where a stronor Entrench- ment has been thrown up. At Roxbury General Thomas has thrown up a strong Work on the Hill, about 200 Yards above the Meetinor House which with the Broken-ness of the Ground & great Number of Rocks has made that Pass very secure. TheTroops raised in New Hampshire, with a Regiment from Rhode Island occupy Winter Hill. A Part of those from Connecticut under General Puttnam are on Prospect Hill, The Troops in this Town are intirely of the Massachusetts : The Remainder of the Rhode Island Men, are at Sewall's Farm: Two Regiments of Connecticut & 9 of the Massachusetts are at Roxbury. The Residue of the Army, to the Number of about 700, are posted in several small Towns along the Coast, to prevent the Depredations of the Enemy: Upon the whole, I think myself authorized to say, that considering the great Extent of Line, & the nature of the Ground we are as well secured as could be expected in so short a Time & under the Disadvantages we labour. These consist in a Want of Engineers to construct proper Works and direct the men, a Want of Tools, & a sufficient Number of Men to man the Works in Case of an attack. You will observe by the Pro- ceedings of the Council of War, which I have the Honour to enclose, that it is our unanimous Opinion to hold and defend these Works as long as possible. The Discouragement it would give the Men & its contrary Effects on the ministerial Troops, thus to abandon our Incampment in their Face, form'd with so much Labour, added to the certain Destruction of a con- siderable & valuable Extent of Country, and our Uncertainty of finding a Place in all Respects so capable of making a stand, are leadincr Reasons for this Determination: at the same Time we are very sensible of the Difficulties which attend the 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 21 the Defence of Lines of so great extent, and the Dangers which may ensue from such a Division of the Army. My earnest Wishes to comply with the Instructions of the Congress in making an early and complete Return of the State of the Army, has led into an involuntary Delay of addressing you, which has given me much Concern. Having given orders for this Purpose immediately on my Arrival, & unapprized of the imperfect Obedience which had been paid to those of the like Nature from General Ward, I was led from Day to Day to expect they would come in, & therefore detained the Messenger. They are not now so complete as I could wish, but much Allowance is to be made for Inexperience in I^orms, & a Liberty which had been taken (not given) on this subject. These Reasons I flatter myself will no longer exist, and of Consequence more Regularity & exactness in future prevail. This, with a necessary attention to the Lines, the Movements of the Ministerial Troops, & our immediate Security, must be my Apology, which I beg you lay before the Congress with the utmost Duty & Respect. We labour under great Disadvantages for Want of Tents, for tho' they have been help'd out by a Collection of now useless sails from the Sea Port Towns, the Number is yet far short of our Necessities. The Colleo-es & Houses of this Town are necessarily occupied by the Troops which affords another Reason for keeping our present Situation : But I most sincerely wish the whole Army was properly provided to take the Field, as I am well assured, that besides greater Expedition & Activity in case of Alarm, it would highly con- duce to Health & discipline. As Materials are not to be had here, I would beg leave to recommend the procuring a farther supply from Philadelphia as soon as possible. I should be extremely deficient in Gratitude, as well as Jus- tice, if I did not take the first opp'y to acknowledge the Readiness & Attention which the provincial Congress & different Committees have shewn to make every Thing as convenient & agreeable as possible : but there is a vital & inherent Principle of Delay incompatible with military service in 2 2 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [Ji'i-V, in transacting- Business thro' such numerous & different Channels. I esteem it therefore my Duty to represent the Inconvenience that must unavoidably ensue from a dependance on a Xumber of Persons for supplies. & submit it to the Consideration of the Congress whether the publick Service will not be best promoted by appointing a Commissary General for these purposes. We have a striking Instance of the Preference of such a Mode in the Establishment of Connecti- cut, as their Troops are extremely well provided under the Direction of M' Trumbull, & he has at different Times assisted others with various Articles; Should my Sentiments happily coincide with those of your Honours, on this subject, I beg leave to recommend M"". Trumbull as a very proper Person for this Department. In the Arrangement of Troops collected under such Circumstances, & upon the Spur of immediate Necessit}^ several Appointments are omitted, which appear to be indispensably necessary for the good Government of the Army, particularly a Quartermaster General, a Commissar)- of Musters & a Commissary of Artillery-. These I must Earnestly recommend to the Notice & Provision of the Con- gress. ' I find myself already much embarrassed for Want of a Military Chest; these embarrassments will increase every day : I must therefore request that Money may be forwarded as soon as Possible. The want of this most necessary Article, will I fear produce great Inconveniencies if not prev^ented by an early Attention. I find the Army in general, & the Troops raised in Massachusetts in particular, very deficient in neces- sary Cloathing. Upon Inquiry there appears no Probability of obtaining any supplies in this Quarter. And the best Consideration of this Matter I am able to form, I am of Opinion that a Xumber of huntino- Shirts not less than lo.ooo, would in a great Degree remove this Difficulty in the cheapest & quickest manner. I know nothing in a speculative View more trivial, yet if put in Practice would have a happier Tendency to unite the Men, & abolish those Provincial Distinctions which lead to Jealousy & Dissatisfaction. In a former ?5-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. a former part of this Letter I mentioned the want of Engi- neers ; I can hardly express the Disappointment I hav-e experienced on this Subject. The Skill of those we have, being very imperfect & confined to the mere manual Exer- cise of Cannon : \\ hereas — the War in which we are en- gaged requires a Knowledge comprehending the Duties of the Field and Fortifications. If any Persons thus qualified are to be found in the Southern Colonies, it would be of ereat publick Service to forward them with all expedition. Upon the Article of Ammunition I must re-echo the former Com- plaints on this Subject: We are so exceedingly destitute, that our Artillery will be of little Use without a supply both large & seasonable: What we have must be reserved for the small Arms, & that managed with the utmost Frugality. I am sorry to observe that the Appointments of the Gen- eral Officers in the Province of Massachusetts Bay have by no Means corresponded with the Judgement & Wishes of either the civil or ^lilitary. The great Dissatisfaction expressed on this Subject & the apparent Danger of throwing the Army into the utmost Disorder, together with the strong Represen- tations of the Provincial Congress, have induced me to retain the Commissions in my Hands untill the Pleasure of the Con- gress should be farther known, (except General Puttnam's which was given the Day I came into Camp & before I was apprized of these Uneasinesses.) In such a Step I must beg the Congress will do me the Justice I believe, that I have been actuated solely by a Regard to the publick Good. I have not, nor could have any private Attachments ; every Gentleman in Appointment, was an intire Stranger to me but from Character. I must therefore rely upon the Candour of the Congress for their favourable Construction of my Conduct in this Particular. General Spencer was so much disgusted at the preference given to General Puttnam that he left the Army without visiting me, or making known his Intentions in any respect. General Pomroy had also retired before my Arrival, occasioned (as is said) by some Disappointment from the Provincial Congress. General Thomas is much esteemed & earnestly 24 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, & earnestly desired to continue in the service: and as far as my Opportunities have enabled me to judge I must join in the general opinion that he is an able good Ofificer & his Resignation would be a publick Loss. The postponing him to Pomroy & Heath whom he has commanded would make his Continuance very difficult, & probably operate on his Mind, as the like Circumstance has done on that of Spencer. The State of the Army you will find ascertained with toler- able Precision in the Returns which accompany this Letter. Upon finding the Number of men to fall so far short of the Establishment, & below all Expectation, I immediately called a Council of the general Officers, whose opinion as to the mode of filling up the Regiments, & providing for the present Exigency, I have the Honour of inclosing together with the best Judgment we are able to form of the ministerial Troops. From the Number of Boys, Deserters, «& Negroes which have been inlisted in the troops of this Province, I entertain some doubts whether the number required can be raised here; and all the General Officers agree that no Dependance can be put on the militia for a Continuance in Camp, or Regularity and Discipline during the short Time they may stay. This unhappy & devoted Province has been so long in a State of Anarchy, & the Yoke of ministerial Oppression been laid so heavily on it that great Allowances are to be made for Troops raised under such Circumstances: The Deficiency of Numbers, Dis- cipline & Stores can only lead to this Conclusion, that their Spirit has exceeded their Strength. But at the same Time I would humbly submit to the consideration of the Congress, the Propriety of making some farther Provision of Men from the other Colonies. If these Regiments should be completed to their Establishment, the Dismission of those unfit for Duty on account of their Age & Character would occasion a con- siderable Reduction, and at all events they have been inlisted upon such Terms, that they may be disbanded when other Troops arrive : But should my apprehensions be realized, & the Regiments here not filled up, the publick Cause would suffer by an absolute Dependance upon so doubtful an Event, unless 1 775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 25 unless some Provision is made against such a Disappoint- ment. It requires no military Skill to judge of the Difficulty of introducing proper Discipline & Subordination into an Army while we have the Enemy in View, & are in daily Expectation of an Attack, but it is of so much Importance that every Effort will be made which Time & Circumstance will admit. In the mean Time I have a sincere Pleasure in observing- that there are Materials for a good Army, a great number of able bodied, Men active zealous in the Cause & of unquestionable courage. I am now Sir, to acknowledge the Receipt of your Favour of the 28''' Inst, inclosing the Resolutions of the Congress of the 27'*" ult. & a Copy of a Letter from the Committee of Albany, to all which I shall pay due Attention. General Gates & Sullivan have both arrived in good Health. My best Abilities are at all Times devoted to the Service of my Country, but I feel the Weight Importance & variety of my present Duties too sensibly, not to wish a more immediate & frequent Communication with the Congress. I fear it may often happen in the Course of our present Opera- tions, that I shall need that Assistance & Direction from them which Time & Distance will not allow me to receive. Since writing the above, I have also to acknowledge your Favour of the 4'^ Inst, by Fessenden, and the Receipt of the Commission & Articles of War. The Former are yet 800 short of the number required, this deficiency you will please supply as soon as you conveniently can. Among the other Returns, I have also sent one of our killed, wounded & missing in the late Action, but have been able to procure no certain Account of the Loss of the ministerial Troops, my best Intel- ligence fixes it at about 500 killed and 6 or 700 wounded ; but it is no more than Conjecture, the utmost Pains being taken on their side to conceal it. P. S. Having ordered the commanding Officer to give me the earliest Intelligence of every Motion of the Enemy, by Land or Water, discoverable from the Heighths of his Camp, I this 26 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [Jii-V, I this inst., as I was closing my Letter received the enclosed from the Brigade Major.'^' The Design of this Manuoevre I know not, perhaps it may be to make a Descent some where along the Coast; it may be for New York, or it may be prac- tised as a Deception on Us. I thought it not improper how- ever to mention the matter to you. I have done the same to the commandinor Officer at New York, & I shall let it be known to the Committee of Safety here, so that the Intelli- gence may be communicated as they shall think best along the Sea Coast of this Government. Sent by Alexander who set out the 1 1"' July about 5 o Cloek P. M. [Read before Congress 19 July.] [ Enxlosure No. i. ] Letters, of Washington. F. Vol. \,f. I ; Continental Congress, N'o. 1^2, f. 21. COUNCIL OF WAR. At a Council of War held at Head Quarters, Cambridge July 9, 1775. Present Plis Excell>' General Washington Generals Ward Puttnam Heath Gates Lee Thomas Green The General laid before the Council a Letter from M'' Warren, President of the Congress of Massachusetts Bay inclosing a Letter from M"' Gerry at Marble Head, dated July 8, 1775. 1. A (Question was then proposed & considered viz. What is the supposed Number of the Enemy near & in Boston, including the Troops formerly & lately arrived & those expected hourly, the Tories who may take Arms, the Sailors who may be spared from the Fleet & the Negroes : Upon which it was agreed that from the best Intelligence the Force on the Side of the Enemy now amounts to Eleven thousand five hundred Men. 2. It was then proposed & considered Whether it is expedient to keep & defend the Posts at present occupied or to retire farther back in the country? Upon which it was unanimously determined that the publick Service requires the De- fence of the present Posts. 3. His Excell> then proposed to the Consideration of the Council What Number of Troops may be necessary for the present Service in & near Boston, to defend the Posts already occupied against the Force supposed to be employed , against Us ? Upon which it was agreed, that the Army for the above Purpose ought to consist of at least 22,000 Men. 4. As it appears by the Returns now made that the Number of effective Men is far short of the above Estimate a (Question was proposed, viz. In what Manner this Deficiency should be supplied? And it was unanimously agreed that it ought to be done by sending an Officer from each Company in the Forces raised in Massachusetts Bay to recruit the Regiments to which they respectively belong to the Establishment fixed by the Provincial Congress (the Colonies of *Marked tuissing in Continental Congress No. 169, y. 391. Rhode I775-] WASHINGTON TAPERS. 27 Rhode Island & Connecticut being already engaged in recruiting). And that in the mean Time his ExcelP' the General do apply to the Provincial Congress of this Province for their Assistance in procuring a temporary Re-inforcement subject to the same military Rules as the Army now raised: Inasmuch as the present Extent of Lines, & great Probability of an early Attack renders such Re-inforcement indispensably necessary. 5. As the Events of War are uncertain & a Want of a proper Rendezvous might in Case of any Misfortune occasion a Dissolution of the Army it was proposed to appoint a proper Place for this Purpose in Case our present Situation should not be tenable N. C. Agreed That the Welch jNIountains near Cambridge & in the Rear of Roxbury Lines was a suitable Place. 6. A Question was proposed whether it is expedient to take Possession of Dorchester Point or to oppose the Enemy if they should attempt to possess it. Unanimously agreed in the Negative as to both.* [ Enclosure No. 2. ] The Number of those killed woimded & Missing in the Engagement on Bunker llilL- Killed. Col° Frye's Regiment 10 Col" Littles Do 7 Col" Brewers Do 12 Col" Gridley Do o Col" Starks Do 15 Col" Woodbridges Do o Col" Scammans Do o Col" Bridges Do 17 Col" Whetcombs Do 5 Gen' Wards Do i Col" Gerrishes Do 3 Col" Reeds 3 Col" Prescot's Do 43 & Missing. -Col" Doolittle's Do 6 & Missing. Col" Gardners Do o Col" Patterson Do o Col" Nixon Do 3 & Missing. Col" Mansfield Do Conneticutt , 125 13 Wounded. 38 23 22 4 45 5 2 25 8 6 5 29 46 9 7 I Missing. 4 278 26 304 7 278 125 410 * In the draft of this report contained in Letters of Washington, F, Vol. i, f. i, occur the following addi- tional paragraphs ; — 7. That 10 Horses, with Bridles & Saddles, be provided in order to convey Intelligence from the Out Posts and Camps. S. That a Beacon be erected on Blue Hill. 28 WASHINGTON P.\PERS. [Jily. Ldtirs of IVashiH^em. MtsceHamcuj. Vol. i. /' 12. TO WARREN. Head Quarters Cambridge July lo. 1775 Sir. After much Ditticult}- & Delay I have procured such Re- turns of the State of the Army as will enable us to form a Judgment of its Strength. It is with great Concern I find it far inadequate to our general Expectations 6e the Duties which mav be required of it. The Xumber of Men fit for Dut}- on the Forces raised in this Province includinor all the Out Posts & Artiller\- does not amount to 9000. The Troops raised in the other Colonies are more complete but yet fall short of their Establishment. So that upon the whole I cannot estimate the present Army at more than 14.500 Men capable of Dut}-. I have the satisfaction to find the Troops both in Camp & Quarters ver\" healthy so that the Deficiency- must arise from the Regiments never having been filled up to the Establish- ment and the Xumber of Men on Furlow. But the former is by much the most considerable. Under all these circumstances I yesterday called a Council of \\ ar and enclosed I send you an Extract of our Determinations so far as they respect the Province of Massachusetts Bay. Your own Prudence will suggest the Xecessit)- of Secrecy on this Subject as we have the utmost Reason to believe the Enemy suppose our Xum- bers much oreater that thev are an Error which it is not our Interest to remove. The ereat Extent of our Lines & the Uncertainty- which may be the Point of Attack added to the Xecessit}- of imme- diate Support have induced me to order that Horses ready saddled should be kept at several Posts in order to bring the most earlv Intelligence of anv Movement of the Enemv. For this Purpose I should be glad that 10 Horses might be provided as soon as possible. As I am informed the Congress proposes to rise imme- diatelv I should be sflad to know what Committees are left or upon whom the executive Business devolves. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 29 Letters of Washington. ^liscellamaus. Vol. i. ''. I4. TO SCHUYLER. Cambridge July lo. 1775 Sir I received your Favour of the i" Insr by Express from New York ; but as I am exceedincrlv hurried in makino- out mv Despatches for the Hon. Congress at Philadelphia it is not in my Power to answer it in so full a Manner as I wish. Notwithstanding Gov. Tr\ons plausible Behaviour I recom- mend it to vou to watch him narrowlv & as anv unluckv Change of Affairs on our Part may produce a Change in him of his present unexceptionable conduct, I expect \ou will on the first Appearance of such a Change pursue the Advice given in my last Letter. The like Advice I give you respecting General Haldiman who is supposed by some to have gone to New York with a Desicm to counteract us in that Province. The Commissions which have been forwarded to me are not suffi- cient to answer the Demand I have for them there beine at least 1000 Officers in this Department & not more than 500 Commissions in my Possession. As you are so much nearer to Philadelphia than I am. I request you to apply to Congress for as many as you are like to want. The dispersing Hand Bills amongst the Troops at Xew York has my most heart\- Approbation & may have a good Effect here. Our Enemies have attempted nothing against us since my Arrival here — they are strongly posted on Bunkers Hill & are still busy in throwing up additional AVorks. We have thrown up several Lines & Redoubts between Mystick River & Dorchester Point to prevent their making Way into the Countr}- and in a few Days shall be well prepared to re- ceive them in Case a Sortiee is attempted. I sincerely thank you for your Attention to the Directions of the Congress and for your kind Wishes. P. S. I Herewith enclose a Report this Minute received from the Camp at Dorchester. The Design of this Manouvre I am at a Loss to know, but suppose it ma}' be intended as a Diversion to our Forces here. It however behooves you to keep a good Lookout to prevent any Surprize your Way. ;0 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [Jvly, [ Orders. ] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July loth 1775 Parole Frederick Counter-sign. Gloucester. The ( leneral Court Martial of which Col William Prescott was president, having tried WilUam Pattin of Col Gridley"s regiment, and found him guilty of " threatening and abusing a number of persons, when prisoner in the Quarter Guard:" The Court sentence the prisoner to ride the wooden Horse htteen minutes. The General approves the sentence, and orders it to be put in execution at the head of the regiment. David Wells Soldier in Col Gridley"s Regim' tried by the abovementioned General Court Martial for '' sleeping upon his post when sentn,," is acquitted by the court. No non Commissioned Officer, or Soldier, but such as are guilty of capital Offences : to be confin'd in the Main Guard ; All those guilty of crimes triable by a Regimental Court Martial, to be sent to the Quarter Guards of their respective Corps, to be tried by Regimental Court martial. The General Court Martial, whereof Col William Prescott is president, to set again this day at the usual hour: All Evidences and Persons concerned to attend the court. AMienever a General Court Martial is ordered, it is expected that the Evidences and persons by whom the prisoners are confin'd, do punctually attend to support the accusation, as they will answer the contrary at their peril. The Colonels of the Massachusets regiments, to order one subaltern from each Company in their respective Corps, forthwith upon the recruiting sersice ; proper Instructions will be given by the Adjutant General to the Officers ordered upon that service. They will therefore call at Head (Quarters, as soon as possible to receive their Instructions. The General recom- mends it to the Colonels to send active and vigilant ( Jfficers upon this ser\-ice, and those who are most in esteem with people in the District they are sent to recruit in. Head Quarters, Cambridge, July ii'*": 1775 Parole, Guilford. Counter-Sign, Hartford The Court Martial of which Col William Prescott was president is dissolved. A General Court Martial to be assembled at Cambridge, as soon as possible, to \.rs such prisoners as shall be brought before them : All Evidences, and persons concern'd to attend the court. The General understanding there is a bad Custom prevailing, of the Xon- Commissioned Officers and soldiers absenting themselves from Guard, under pretence of going for Provisions ; It is therefore orderid, that all Officers and Soldiers, bring their provision to the Guard they mount, and on no pretence quit their Guard, untill it is regularly dismissed. Notwithstanding the orders of the provincial Congress, some persons are so daring as to supply the .Soldiers with immoderate Quantities of Rum, and other spiritous Liquors ; any Sutler, Tavern-keeper, or licenced Innholder, who shall presume after the date of this order, to sell to any non-commissioned Officer, or Soldier, an.y spiritous liquor whatsoever, without an Order in writing, from the Captain of the company to which such non-Commissioned Officer and Soldier belongs; he ot they so offending, may expect to be severely punished. Lieu': Col Ward president of the Court Martial. Letters of Washington. B, Vol. i, /. -. FROM GENERAL GATE.S TO GENERAL THOM.\S. Head Qu.a.rters at Cambridge 12'^ July 1775. Sir I am commanded by the General in Chief to acquaint you, that he is ex- ceedingly desirous to draw the Body of the Troops posted at Roxbury, as near, and as Compactly together for the Defence of the several Works as the nature of the Ground and the Conveniency of covering them will admit; & to that End, the General wishes you would inform Him what Tents, sails, or Boards, may be wanted to cover the Men, and they shall be forthwith Sup- plied from hence. I have it also in command from the General, to recom- mend it to you, to have the Houses removed out of the Street at Roxbury, as 1775-1 WASHINGTON PAPERS. as they may Cover & Facilitate the Approach of the Enemy. The Gene- ral Further Directs me to desire that you will exert your utmost Vigilance to get your several Works Finish'd &: Compleated, your Lines closed, and par- ticularly the Abbati, and the platforms immediately lay'd. as we are much in want of Boats for Mystic and Cambridge Rivers, you will as soon as pos- sible send Two for each of these Rivers to the Head Quarters at Cambridge. With great esteem Sir I am, Your most Obedient Humble Servant Horatio Gates. Letters to Washington. Vol.6. /. 128. FROM NICHOLAS COOKE. Providen'Ce July 12'''. 1775 Sir, I beg Leave to congratulate your Excellency upon your being appointed General of the Armies of the L'nited Colonies ; which hath given sincere Pleasure to every Friend of America, and will I hope prove glorious to your- self, and be attended with essential Advantages to your Country. The General Assembly of this Colony have the deepest Sense of the Necessity of a strict Union, and the most vigorous Efforts, of the Colonies to preserve them from unlimited Servitude ; and their utmost Exertions in the common Cause may be depended upon. I also assure your Excellency that I shall give you every possible Assist- ance in my Power ; and that I am with very great Regard, Sir, Your Excellency's most obedient humble Servant, NicH"'^ Cooke. Letters to Washington. Vol.6. /'. 130. FROM EDMUND PENDLETON. Phila. July 12* 1775. Dear General My freind M^ George Baylor will be the bearer of this, who has caught such a Military Ardor as to travel to the Camp for instruction in that Art. I beg leave to recommend him to your Countenance & Favor, not only on Account of his worthy Father, but from my opinion of his own Merit. He is a Lieutan' in our independent Company & has gained great Applause there by his diligent attention to the duties of his Office «5c the bravery he has indicated ; Be so obliging as to make my compl^^ to Gen'. Lee, Gen'. Gates, Maj^ Mifflin & ]NP. Griffin t\: intreat their countenance and assistance to him also. We are hourly in Expectation of hearing from you ; We yesterday voted an additional C". of Rifflemen to go from this Province to gratifie one that was raised & impatient to come to you. we have also consented to employ a German Hussar who is to raise his 50 men & come to the Camp. We WASHINGTON PAPERS. [K'ly, We have heard you remain quiet, except some Cannon shot exchanged between Roxbury iS: Boston. You have my most cordial wishes for success in every undertaking, who have the Hon' to be with great esteem D' S' V mo. Ob' hble Serv' Edmd Pendleton [ Order. ] Head Qiarters, Cambridgr, July 12"': 1775 Parole, Falmouth. CSign, Worcester. The Adjutant General will deliver at orderly time, a certain number of printed returns, to the Adjutant of each regiment ; so that no excuse can for the future be admitted, for not mak- ing regular and exact Returns when demanded; as it is only filling up the Blanks, with the Numbers proper to be placed in them. The Commander in Chief will not for the future, admit of anv palliative for making a false return, and is resolved, to bring any Officer of what Rank soever, to a Court Martial who is found delinquent. \Mien any Trumpeter, or Flagg of Truce, is sent from Boston, or any Post occupied by the Enemy : they are to be stop'd by the first Sentr}- they are permitted to approach, who is to call for the Serjeant of the Guard, who will conduct them to the Officer of his guard, and such Trumpeter, or Flagg of Truce, is not to be allowed to stir one step beyond that Guard. The Officer commanding the Guard, will send any Letters or Messages brought from the enemy, immediately to the Commander in Chief, and no other person. A General Court Martial of the Line to sit at Head Quarters, in Cambridge, to morrow morning at Nine OClock, to xxs Col Scammons of the Massachusetts Forces accused of " Back- wardness in the execution of his dutj-, in the late Action upon Bunkers-hill" — The Adjutant of Col Scammons regiment, to warn all Evidences, and persons concem'd to attend the court. Col Nixon president of the above court. Letters to Washington. Vol.6. /• 131. FRO.M JONATHAN TRUMBULL. Lebanon 13"' July 1775. Sir. Suffer me to join in Congratulating you, on your appointment to be Gen- eral and Commander in Chief of the Troops raised or to be raised for the Defence of American Liberty. Men who have tasted of Freedom, and who have felt their personal Rights, are not easily taught to bear with encroachments on either, or brought to submit to oppression. Virtue ought always to be made the Object of Government ; Justice is firm and permanent. His Majesty's Ministers have artfully induced the Parliament to join in their Measures, to prosecute the dangerous and increasing Difference between Great Britain and these Colonies with Rigour and Military Force : whereby the latter are driven to an absolute necessity to defend their Rights and Properties by raising Forces for their Security. The Honorable Congress have proclaimed a Fast to be Observed by the Inhabitants of all the English Colonies on this Continent, to stand before the Lord in one Day, with public Humiliation, Fasting and Prayer, to deplore our many sins, to offer up our joint supplications to God, for forgiveness, and for His merciful Interposition for us in this Day of unnatural Darkness and Distress. They 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. T^^ They have with one united voice appointed you to the high station you possess. The supream Director of all Events hath caused a wonderful Union of Hearts and Counsells to subsist amongst us. Now therefore be strong and very courageous. May the God of the Armies of Israel, shower down the blessings of His Divine Providence on You, give you Wisdom and Fortitude, cover )our Head in the Day of Battle and Danger, add Success, convince our Enemies of their mistaken measures, and that all their attempts to deprive these Colonies of their inestimable constitutional Rights and Liberties are injurious and Vain. I am, with great Esteem &: Regard Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant ToN^" : Trumbull [ Order. ] He.\d QiARTERs, Cambridge, July 13"" 1775 Parole, Geoi-gia. Counter Sign, HmitingJon. As the Army will be forthwith formed into Brigades : The Adjutant General will at r)rderly Time this day, deliver to the Adjutant of each Regiment, a number of printed Returns, one of which, must be immediately fill'd up, and signed by the Commanding Officer of each regi- ment, and sent as soon as possible, to the Adjutant General by the Adjutant of each Regiment; on the Back of the Return, it will be necessary to mention ; where and in what manner, the regiment is at present posted. The Commanding Officer at Chelsea, is as soon as possible, after the receipt of this order, to direct, all the Cattle, upon puUein point, Shirley f>oint, and the intermediate space between powder horn-hill and the Sea, to be driven off; and it is recommended to the Commissar)- General to endeavour to agree with the Owners of the said Cattle, and to purchase them for the use of the Armv. Letters of Washington. Miscellaiieous. Vol. 1, f. 15; Transcript A. Wol. i, /'I2; Con- tinental Congress, Xo. ij2, f. 27 ; A''o. i6g, f. 4. TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Camp Cambridge July 14 1775. Sir Since I did myself the Honour of addressing you the lo'^ inst' nothing material has happened in the Camp. From some authentick & later Advices of the State of the Ministerial Troops & the great Inconvenience of calling in the Militia in the midst of harvest. I have been induced for the present to waive it ; but in the mean Time recruitino- Parties have been sent throughout this Province to till up the Regiments to the Establishment of the Provincial Congress. At the same Time that I received these Advices, I also obtained a List of the Officers of the Enemy killed and wounded in the late Battle at w. p. 3. 34 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [Jri.Y, at Charles Town which I take this Opportunity to inclose. The great Scarcity of fresh Provisions in their Army has led me to take every Precaution to prevent a Supply, for this Pur- pose I have ordered all the Cattle & Sheep to be drove from the low Grounds & Parms within their Reach. A Detach- ment from General Thomas's Camp on Wednesday Night went over to Long Island & brought from thence 20 Cattle & a number of Sheep with about 15 Labourers who had been put on by a M"^ Ray Thomas, to cut the Hay &'' By some Accident they omitted burning the Hay & returned the next Day at noon to complete it ; which they effected amidst the Firing of the Shipping with the Loss of one man killed & another Wounded. Last Evening also a Party of the Connecticut men stroll'd down on the Marsh at Roxbury & fired upon a centry, which drew on a heavy Fire from the Enemy's Lines & Floating Batteries, but attended with no other Effect than the Loss of one killed by a Shot from the Enemy's Lines. In the mean Time we are on both sides continuino- our Works, but there has been no other movement, than what I have noticed above. I shall endeavour to give a regular & particular Account of all Transactions as they occur, which you will please to lay before the Hon' Congress. Senf bv Mr. liassenclever. [ Enclosuke. ] Roxbury July ii*'^ 1775. A true Account of the Officers of the Ministerial Troops killed & wounded at the Battle of Charlestown June 17. 1775 Capt Fitzgerald W Parsons W I ,ieut Pettigrue W Hamilton W Verner (since dead) K Lieut Bruce K Ensign I leskctt W Richardson W Col" Lieut' Ambacrumby K Capt ISIackney W Lieut Cockran .' W Beck with W Lenthall W 35th Reg 4**' Regt Capt Balfour W 10 R' West W Lieut Barm W Brown W 5 Reg Maj'' Mitchell W Capt Dovvnes K 14 Reg Jackson W Manden W 1 8 Reg Lieut Crocker W Clintock W Ensign Charlton W Balaguire W I775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 35 35 Reg Capt Lyon K Drew (since dead) K Lieut Campbell W Bard K Messey W 38 Reg Maj-- Brull W Capt Boyd W Cocker W Lieut Button K Cherystie W Capt House W Lieut Myers W Lewney W Maj'' Shork died of ye wound... K Quarter Af Mitchell W Ensign Mitchell W 43 f^^g Ju^y <^'sd Maj'' Spendlowe K Capt McKenzie K Lieut Roberttain W Dalrymple W 47 Reg Maj'' Smith W England W Craigie W Alcock W Lieut Gold W Willard K Lieut England W Helyer K 52 Reg Maj'' Williams K Maj'' Maddison K Smith K Willson W Lieut Thompson W Crawford W Higgins W^ Ensign Cletwignd W Grami (since dead) K Maj^ Capt Sg"* Reg Lieut Haynes W 62'i Rt Capt Horsford W FoUier W Lieut Dalrymple K 65 Reg Capt Hudgeon K Sinclair W Lieut Paxton W Smith W Haler W 67 Reg Capt Shamoin Aid de Camp to General Howe K Maj'' Pitcairn K Capt Campbell K Ellis K Logan W Chudligh W Johnson W Lieut Pitcairn W Fenneg K Gardner K Shea K Brisbai n W Avennie W ' Rag W Dyer W ARTILLERY. Capt Leomine W Huddleston W Lieut Shutelsworth W Campbell W Kill'd & wounded 92 Most of those Officers are mortally wounded, in the whole of the Field Officers — 3 killed & 4 wounded. Captains 8 killed & 25 wounded. Lieut Jordan of the Navy died of his Wound. A Gentleman who got out of Boston Monday July 10"' says that the Inhabitants were numbered & amounted to 6573 The Soldiers — women & Children, to 13600 — 300 Tories are chosen to Patrole the streets, 49 of a night — Very Sickley from 10 to 30 funerals in a day, & no Bells allow'd to Toll, Master Lovell taken up & put in Goal, which being in conse- quence of some Letters found in Docf Warren's pockets ; — & Master Leach also. Released out of Goal. M'' Hunt saying that he wish'd the Americans might kill them all was confin'd in Goal. 1 1 dead of y*^ wounded prisoners at Charlestown. Coll" Parker dead, he having declared at his last hour, if he got well he would do y*^ same. The Officers saying Damn the Rebells that they wou'd not flinch. A Great number of floating batteries are building & 5 Transports & 3 Sloops are sail'd for Hay ^; Wood to the Eastward. This Gentleman also says that the Officers and Soldiers Triumph Very much at the Death of Docf Warren saying it is Better to them than five hundred Men. 36 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, 9 I Order. ] Head Quarters, Camhridge, July 14"' 1775 Parole, Ilallifax. Counter Sign, Inverness. As the Health of an Army principally depends upon Cleanliness; it is recommended in the strongest manner, to the Commanding ( )fficer of Corps, Posts and Detachments, to be strictly diligent, in ordering the Necessarys to be filled up once a Week, and new ones dug; the streets of the encampments and Lines to be swept daily, and all ( )flal and Carrion, near the camp, to be immediately buried: The Officers commanding in Barracks, or (Quarters, to be answerable that they are swept every morning, and all Filth & l)irt removed from about the houses: Next to Cleanliness, nothing is more conducive to a Soldiers health, than dressing his provisions in a decent and proper manner: The Officers commanding Companies, should therefore daily inspect the Camp Kitchens, and see the Men dress their Food in a wholesome way. The Commanding Officers in those parts o^ the Lines and Redoubts, where the Pikes are placed, will order the (Quarter Masters of Corps to see the pikes greas'd twice a week; they are to be answerable also that the pikes are kept clean, and always ready and fit for service. The General ol)serving great remissness, and neglect, in the several Guards in and about the Camp, orders the Officers commanding any Guard to turn out his Cniard immediately upon the near approach of The Commander in Chief or any of the General ( )fficers, and upon passing the Guard; The Commander in Chief is to be received with rested Arms; the()fficer to salute and the Drums to beat a march. The Majors General with rested Arms, the Officer to salute and the Drums to beat two Ruffles. The P]rigadiers General with rested Arms, the Officer to salute and the I )rums to beat one Ruffle. — There being something awkward, as well as improper, in the (General Officers being stopp'd at the out-posts; ask'd for passes by the Sentries, and obliged often to send for the Officer of the (iuard (who it sometimes happens is as much unacquainted with the Persons of the Generals, as the private men) before they can pass in or out : It is recommended to both Officers and Men, to make themselves acquainted with the persons of all the Officers in General Command, and in the mean time to prevent mistakes : The General Officers and their Aids-de-Camp, will be distinguished in the following manner. The Commander in Chief by a light blue Ribband, wore across his breast, between his Coat and Waistcoat. . The Majors and Brigadiers General, by a Pink Ribband wore in the like manner. The Aids-de-Camp by a green ribband. The Court martial of which Col Ward is Pres'^'. is dissolved. Daniel Carmicle, Soldier in Col Pattersons Regiment, tried for " Disobedience of orders, for reinlisting and taking advance Money twice over, and for Drunkenness" is found guilty of the several Charges and ordered to be whipt on the bare back, with 39 Lashes, and discharged from the arm}'. The General approves the Sentence and orders it to be executed to morrow Morning, at the head of the Regiment he belongs to. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, /. 133. FROM GENERAL SCHUYLER. Saratoga Jtily 15"', 1775. Dear Sir Since I did myself the Honor to write Your Excellency from New York nothing very material occurred until Yesterday, when I received the Inclosed Letters, the Accounts contained in that marked Number i * are truly alarm- ing in the present defenceless State of the Counties of Tryon and Albany, and Especially as the Assistance I can afford them either of Men or Money is next to nothing, the few Troops at Ticonderoga &c being at too great a Distance and not more than sufficient to guard the Posts they occupy. I should have been at Ticonderoga this Day had not the Information from Tryon County arrived, which may make my Presence there absolutely neces- * Printed as Enclosure No. 2. necessary. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. T^J sary. If it should be confirmed, I therefore propose remaining here untill to-Morrow, when I hope to be farther informed. I wish I may be able to proceed to Ticonderoga as I am very much wanted there, the Greatest Con- fusion having taken Place in the Controversy between the Officers claiming the Command in that Quarter, some have taken the Liberty to disband Troops. Others refused to serve unless this or that particular Person Com- manded. The Sloop is left without either Captain or Pilot, both of which are dismissed or come away, much Provision wasted or embezzled, and on the Seventh instant only one Barrel of Flour at Ticonderoga. I shall have an Augean stable to clean there. I do Myself the Honor to inclose a Return of the Forces in this Colony. It is doubtless imperfect as I have been under a Necessity of forming it out of Returns which were evidently so. I hope soon to send you a more com- pleat one. Be assured my General that I shall use my best Endeavors to establish Order and Discipline in the Troops under my Command. I wish I could add that I had a prospect of much success in that way. It is extreamly diffi- cult to introduce a proper Subordination amongst a People where so little Distinction is kept up. Our Accounts of the Disposition of the Canadians and Canada Indians continue to be favorable, tho' the Intelligence is not very authentic. I am Your Excellency's Most Obed' & most Humble Serv' Ph : Schuyler Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, / 139. [ Enclosure No. i. ] FROM THE ALBANY COMMITTEE TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Albany Committee Chamber July 14"' 1775 Sir. You have inclosed copy of a Letter from the Committee of Tryon County to the Committees of Schenectady and Albany the contents whereof are very alarming and the more so as the people of that County are not provided with ammunition to defend themselves we shall forward the Letter to the Provincial Congress and would beg leave to suggest to you whether it will not be advisable to let the Company of Cap' Van Dyck (which we find you have ordered up to Lake George) March up the Mohawk river towards their Relief — x\nd as that Company has no ammunition (and we have here about three hundred weight) whether you will think it proper to furnish them from the store here and whether you will not think it necessary to send up some of the Remainder to furnish the Inhabitants As it is not possible to know how far this may be a Fact we would think it advisable to take some steps so as to keep up the spirits of the people of Tryon County In WASHINGTON PAPERS. ' [Jlly, In answer to your Letter of yesterday we inform you that we shall en- deavor to get the Carpenters as soon as possible We are Sir Your very Hum'' Servants By order of the Committee (Signed) Abm Yates Jun Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, /. 137. [ Enclositse Xo. 2. ] > C. D. YATES TO THE COMMITTEES OF SCHENECTADY AND ALBANY. Canotohary July 13"" 1775 Gentlemen M'' Ebenezer Cox informed this board that M' Peter S. Dygert told this informant that he was informed by a person who we have reason to think has it from good authority that Coll Johnson was ready with eight or nine hundred Indians to make an invasion of this county that the same Indians were to be under the Command of Joseph Brandt and Walter Butler and that they were to fall on the inhabitants below the little falls in order to divide the people in two parts — and were to march yesterday or the day before. Cap' Jacob Klock informed this Board that this morning about an hour before day three Indians of Fort Hunter came to his House from Oswego in their way home that he was informed by a free negro man a ser\ant ol him that they each had a bag of powder on their horses that they staid about an hour and then went off in great haste — From these and other concomitant circumstances we have but too much reason to think it is true and that all our enemies in this county will appear in arms against us as soon as the Indians are nigh to us which from the above information we must expect in a few days. We have sent off a part)' of people by way of a scout to find out if possible the Rout of the Indians and to give us early intelligence. Our ammunition is so scant that we cannot furnish three hundred men so as to be able to make a stand against so great a number — In these deplorable circumstances we look up to you for Assistance both in men and ammunition to save this Country from slaughter and deso- lation which we beg you will not be backward to afford us as soon as possible. We have ordered some of our Companies up towards the little Falls who are to keep scoutintT parties out — And we intend to keep sitting untill such time as we can be convinced of our safetj. This is the more alarming to us as we shall be obliged in a few days to begin with our Harvests men are therefore absolutely necessary. We beg of you to forward this by express to Albany and Copies from there to the provin- cial Congress and to General Schuyler. M"^ Deygert was obliged to promise not to disclose the person's name who informed him of the above but be assured that the person is well acquainted with the Indians and therefore if found out is in great Danger. We are Gent \our most (Jbed' and verj- Hble Servants By order Chris D. Vates A true Copy (Signed) John Bay Seer' P. T. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 39 [ Enxlosure No. 3. ] A getieral nionthlv Return of the Army of the Associated Colonies in the Colony of Neiu York under the Command of Major General Philip Schuyler. OFFICERS PRESENT. Commissioned Xon- commis- sioned. Rank & FUe. Regiments. V i 3 ^3 '5" "a a c = 3 "a. a 3 ■r. V t/1 £ •5 u d s a. '•J 5c 3 s 1 I I I I I I I I 5 7 2 2 1 I I 4 I II 18 10 6 2 I 6 10 S 3 I I I 3 26 50 24 14 5 4 2 12 I 16 9 9 14 9 3 2 12 18 481 789 406 254 80 95 36 89 23 166 9 24 15 4 6 15 576 Colonel David Waterburj-'s Colonel Benjamin Hinman's Ditto 929 478 293 98 Ditto Massachusetts Baj- Forces 104 4 I 8 109 25 4 8 203 Total 3 3 2 27 I 61 30 154 54 30 2419 58 15 2857 •6 X a cs •d ^> •2. 2 STAFF. Where Stationed. Regiments. ■6 a Total. Major General. Brigadier Generals. Brigade Majors. Aides de Camp. J 7: ■5 0. a 3 en u a c 5 20 7 I I 28 10 10 I I 582 2 I 1 2 I " 7 586 Xew York. I I 2 982 Ditto. 495 Ticonderoga. 405 ' . .. 303 Crow-npoint. 3 102 Landing. * 104 Fort George. 40 Ticonderoga. 109 Crownpoint. 25 Fort George. 205 Ditto. 25 Total 1 1 4 35 2 49 2947 I ^ I 2 I I I 1 2 295S Brigadier Generals, Richard Montgomery-, David Wooster, Esq"" Brigade Major, Dimon. Aids de Camp, John Macpherson, James Van Rensselaei. Secretarj-, Richard Varick. JlLV 15'h, 1775, Ph: Schl"vler 40 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July [Orders.] Head Quarters Cambridge, July 15'^ i775- Parole, Virginia. Counter Sign, Maryland. The Colnmanding Officers of each Regiment to report the Names of such Men in their respective Corps as are most expert in the management of whale boats. - When any Commission'd or non Commission'd Officer is sent upon any Detachment or Duty of f loner, or Fatigue, or to see the execution of any particular work : He is, so soon as the Service is performed to make a Report thereof to his commanding officer. It bemg found advantageous to the puV)lic Service, to lemove sundry horn'd Cattle and Sheep, from the Ground upon which they were grazing near Chelsea, (to prevent their falling into the Enemy's hands) it is earnestly recommended to the several Commissaries, to purchase, such of them, as are fit for Slaughter, of the Owners, in Order that they may suffer the least loss possible, from the unavoidable necessity of removing them, from the rapacious claws of our enemies. Col Gridley, Chief Engineer, is desired to report what chevaux-de-Frise are made, and what forwardness those are in, that are now making — It is necessary those upon hand are compleated without delay. Notwithstanding the Orders aheady given, the (ieneral hears with astonishment, that not only Soldiers, but Officers unauthorized, are continually conversing with the Officers and Sentrys of the Enemy any Officer Non Commissioned Officer or Soldier, or any Person what- soever, who is detected holding any Conversation, or carrying on any Correspondence with any of the Officers or Sentrys of the advanc'd posts of the enemy, will be immediately brought before a (general Coirrt Martial, and punished with the utmost severity. The General is alone to judge of the propriety of any intercourse with the enemy and no one else is to presume to interfere. The Chief Engineer, Col Gridley, to order an Engineer and a Field Officer of Artillery, to go round the Lines and Redoubts, to examine if the Guns are placed properly in the Em- brassures; and if the Embrassures are properly made, and properly sloped towards the country. The Engineer and Artillery Officer, to report to the Commander in Chief, as soon as they have obeyed this order. Head Qu.'Vrters, Cambridge, July 16"': 1775 Parole, Carolina. Counter sign, Springfield. The Continental Congress having earnestly recommended, that " Thursday next the 20"' Instant, be observed by the Inhabitants of all the english Colonies upon this Continent; as a Day of public Humiliation, Fasting and Prayer; that they may with united Hearts & Voice, unfeinedly confess their Sins before God, and supplicate the all wise and merciful disposer of events, to avert the Desolation and Calamities of an unnatural War:" The General orders, that Day to be religiously observed by the Forces under his Command, exactly in manner directed by the proclamation of the Continental Congress : It is therefore strictly enjoin'd on all Officeis and Soldiers, (not upon duty) to attend Divine Service, at the accustomed places of worship, as well in the Dines, as the Encampments and Quarters; and it is expected, that all those who go to worship, do take their Arms, Ammunition and Accoutrements, & are prepared for immediate Action if called upon. If in the Judgment of the Officers, the Works should appear to be in such forwardness as the utmost security of the Camp requires, they will command their men to abstain from all Labour upon that solemn day, It was with much surprise and concern that the General in passing along the New Hamp- shire Lines yesterday, observed a most wanton, mischevious, and unprofitable Abuse of prop- erty, in the Destruction of many valuable Trees, which were standing along the side of the road, out of the way of our works or guns, he therefore orders, that an effective stop be put to such practices for the future, or severe punishment will fall upon the Transgressors of this order. William Palfrey F'sri' is appointed Aid-de-Camp to Major General I-ee, all Orders whether, written, or verbal, coming from General Lee, and delivered by Cap' Palfrey, are to be punc- tually obeyed. A particular Return to be deliver'd to the Adjutant General to morrow, at Orderly time, of the Regiment of Artillery, distinguishing how every man and Officer, in that Corps, is at present employed, and where posted. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 4 1 Letters of IVashingtoit. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,y. 17- • COL. REED TO GENERAL THOMAS. Head Quarters July 17. 1775. Sir. Col. Palmer yesterday waited on the General with an Information that a small Sloop or Schooner lay down below your Incampment in such a Situa- tion as to make an Attack upon her practicable. I am directed by his Excell^ to request you would particularly inform yourself of her Circum- stances, & if upon the whole you judge it likely to be attended with Success & the Risque not too great you would attempt her — In this your own Prudence & good Judgment must govern — Should it succeed you will please to give very particular Orders about any Powder that may be on Board as you are not unacquainted with our Necessities in this particular — I understand from his Excell^' that he expects Col. Palmer will wait on you with an Account of what Particulars have come to his Knowledge. I am &c By his Excels command. [This Letter was not sent in consequence of subseq' Information.] J. Reed. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, f. 144. FROM JONATHAN TRUMBULL. Lebanon 17"" July 1775. Sir. On the first Instant I met the Hon''''^ Assembly of this Colony to delib- erate on the Request and pressing Reasons sent us from the Massachusetts for an imediate Augmentation of Troops from this Colony Our Assembly agreed to augment with two Regiments of 700 Men each, who are now rais- ing to join the Continental Army It was wished that we could have had the Advice & Direction of the Congress or your Excellency before we took this Step, but thought the present critical Scituation of our affairs would not admit the Delay of obtaining it Since your Arrival at Camp before Boston, View and Consideration, of their Scituation &: Circumstances, shall gladly be advised & shall attend your Request for the hastening and Marching the Men. There are 1391 Barrels of Flour come to the Care of Col° Jed*" Hunt- ington at Norwich for the Use of the Army which I have ordered forward the busy Season with the Farmers renders its speedy Transportation difficult, please to advise of the Need of Hurry, & where it shall be ordered to be de- livered. Our Assembly supplied Maj' General Schuyler with ^15,000 in Cash and 40 half Bbs of another Necessary Article. Accounts from the Northward are favourable The Brig Nancy, Thomas Daviss Master, which arrived at Stonington 42 WASHIXGTOX PAPERS. [JvLY, Stonington with Molasses is removed to Norwich, she hath on Board 1 8, or 19,000 Gall-, the Comittee of Inspection &: Correspondence. I trust, will take proper Care respecting both Vessell «jc Cargoe. The Road by my Door being the nearest for Post Riding from Cambridge to Philadelphia, shall be obliged, whenever your Excellency has Occasion to send to that City, if the Rider may be directed this Way & to call on me, for the Convenience of any Dispatches I may have Occasion to forsvard by him Fesserufen has passed this Way more than once. I am, with great Esteem and Regard, Sir Your obedient, and most humble Servant, Jox™: Trumbull [Answered July 21.] Letters to IVashinoton. Vol. 109, /■ ~9- FROM THE COMMITTEE OF PORTSMOUTH. Committee Hall Portsm' X Hamp^ July 17''' 1775. Mav it Please Your Excellency I am directed by the Committee of Safet\" for this Town to Inclose your Excellency an authenticated copy* of a vote pass'd by them for Preventing the admission of our Inhabitants into the Camp, upon speculation, without a recommendation or pass first had and obtained from them, Their Induce- ment to this measure arises from Fears that some may be too freely and in- cautiously admitted who are suspected of a want of that attachment & cor- diality to our Cause, that we have a right to expect from those who are indulged with ever}" priviledge in common with us all. We flatter ourselves Your Excellency will give such Orders as you may judge most Expedient or conducive to answer the purposes of this Yote. But we cannot take leave of your Excellency, without presuming to present our Complements of congratulation, on Your appointment to the Chief Command of the United American Army. We therefore beg leave to be indulged in our Expressions of the most unfeigned gratitude for your acceptance of that important Trust, a Trust the more Honourable because committed to you by the Suffrages of a Free People, for the Defence of their Sacred Rights &: Priviledges, and Yoxir acceptance must be the more pleasing to Us, because by that We are able to discern your Love for America, when we see you hazarding your life in the Field, unmindfull and regardless of ever}- danger you are exposed to in our unnatural Contest with the British ministr}- ; when we consider ourselves as the Objects of your attention, and the Alacrity with which you have as it were flown to our relief, to protect us from the relentless ravages of a Merciless Enemy; We are filled with the deepest sense of Gratitude for this extraordinary Instance of your Regard, but above all, when We consider your Excellency's Great Military Skill, * Missing. together 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 43 together with your many Virtues, that justly characterizes you an accom- plish'd Gentleman, We cannot but pride ourselves in seeing Our Friends who compose the American Army under the Command of so Great a General. Give us leave to add our Wishes that Your Excellency may be so happy as to Obtain the blessings of Divine Providence in all your Movements, & that those respectable Gentlemen, who are imployed vrith you in the same honourable Service, may reap the Laurels of Victory here, and hereafter Crowns of Glory that fade not away. I am in behalf of the Committee . Your Excellencys Most Obed' Hble Ser\-^ H. Wextworth Chairman. [Order.] Hvuld quarters, Cambridge, July 17* 1775 Parole Bostou Counter Sign, Salem. There is reason to apprehend, that the General orders are not regularly publi3hed, to the Xon Commissioned Officers A; Soldiers of the army; as pleading Ignorance of Orders, will not for the future be admitted in excuse of any delinquency : It is once more ordered, that the Adjutants of the several Corps, will be exact in seeing the Orders, read ever}- evening to the Men off duty, of their respective Corps, as they may depend upon answering, before a Court Martial, for any neglect in obeying this order. The General Court Martial whereof Col John Nixon is president, to sit again to morrow morning at eight oClock, to try such prisoners, as shall be brought before them ; all E^^dences, and persons concern'd to attend the court. There being a great Neglect in sending in the Returns to the Adjutant General, as directed by the General Orders of Friday last: (especiallj- firom the Regiments posted in, and near Roxbun,). The General assures Commanding Officers of Corps, from whom the Returns are expected, that he will not for the future, pass over the slightest Neglect, in sending Returns to Head Quarters, at the Time directed by the General Orders; if there is any remissness in the Adjutants, the Colonels will confine the Transgressors. AFTER ORDERS. Cap' Benjamin Perkins of Col Little's Regiment, confined by Col Doolittle, for assisting and abetting Soldiers to mutiny, in rescuing a prisoner from the Quarter Guard of Col Doo- littles Regiment, is to be tried to morrow morning, by the Court Martial whereof Col. Nixon is President; all Evidences and Persons concern'd, to attend the court. Letters of Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,/ iS. TO GOV. TRUMBULL. Camb. July 1 8, 1775. Sir It is with no small Concern that I hnd the Arrano-em' of General Officers made by the Hon. Continental Congress has produced much Dissatisfaction. As the Army is upon a General Establishment their Right to supersede & controul a provincial 44 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, a provincial one must be unquestionable, & in such a Cause I should hope every Post would be deemed honourable which gave a Man Opp^' to serve his Country. A Representation from the Congress of this Province with such remarks as occur'd to me on this Subject is now before the continental Conoress. In the mean Time I bepf Leave to assure you that unbyassed by any private Attach- ments I shall studiously endeavour to reconcile their Preten- cions to their Duty, & so dispose them as to prevent as far as possible any Inconvenience to the publick Service from this Competition. Letters to IVas/iins^^foit. Vol. 89,/ 8. [In Congress.*] Thursday July 17. 1775 Resolved That for the Establishment of an Hospital for an Army consisting of 20,000 Men, the following Officers and other Attendants be appointed, with the following Allowance & pay. I Director General & Chief Physician, his pay 4 Dollars p"' Day. 4 Surgeons, p"' day each 1 1^ D" I Apothecary ij^ D" 20 Mates, each p' Day % D° 1 Clerk...., 2/3 D" 2 Storekeepers 4 Dollars p'' month I Nurse to every 10 Sick 1-15 of a dollar p"" day, or 2 dollars per month Labourers occasionally. THE DUTY OF THE ABOVE OFFICERS, VIZ Director & Chief Physician to furnish Medicines, bedding & all other necessaries, to pay for the same, superintend the whole, & to make his report to, & receive orders from the com- mander in chief. Surgeons, Apothecaries & Mates, To visit & attend the Sick, & the Mates to obey the orders of the Physician, Surgeons & Apothecary. Matron to superintend the Nurses, Bedding &c. Nurses, to attend the Sick and obey the Matrons orders. Clerk to belong to the Director. & Store Keeper. Store keeper to receive and deliver the bedding & other necessaries by order of the director. Extract from the Minutes. Cha^ Thomson Sec'"^ -' Resolved that the Appointment of the four Surgeons & Apothecary be left to the Director General & Chief Physician. That the Mates be appointed by the Surgeons, & that the Number do not exceed twenty; & that the Number be not kept in constant pay, unless the sick & wounded should be so numerous, as to require the attendance of twenty, and to be diminished as Circumstances will admit, for which purpose the pay is fixed by the day, that they may only receive pay for actual Service. That the Clerk, Store Keepers, & Nurses be appointed by the Director. Extract from the Minutes. Cii* Thomson Sec^y By Order of the Congress John Hancock Presid' *I am in some doubt about this MS. The date is probably wrong, being intended for Thursday July 27 ; Xhe Journals showing that these resolutions in a somewhat different form were adopted by Congress on that day. As both the MS. and its endorsement give July 17, I have inserted it in this place. — W. C. F. 1775] .WASHINGTON PAPERS. 45 Letters to Washington, Vol. 6, /. 146. FROM GENERAL SCHUYLER. TicoNDEROGA July 18* 1775 Dear Sir I do myself the Honor to inform Your Excellency of my Arrival at this Place early this Morning ; and, as a Person is just going to Hartford, I sit down to give you the little Information I have procured. A Canadian, who twelve days ago left S' Johns, advises me that General Carlton has about four hundred men at that place ; that he has thrown up a strong intrenchment, covered with Cheveaux de Frise", picketted the ditch, and secured it with an Abbati ; that he has an advanced post of fifty men, intrenched a league on this side; that there are many Indians in Canada; but believes neither they or the Canadians will join him ; the latter he is sure will not unless compelled by force. You will expect that I should say something about this place and the troops here. Not one earthly thing for offence or defence has been done ; the Coiimianding officer had no orders, he only came to reinforce the garrison, and he expected the General: But this, my dear General, as well as what follows in this paragraph I pray may be entre noiis, for reasons I need not suggest. About ten last night I arrived at the Landing place the north end of Lake George, a post occupied by a Captain and 100 men. A Centinel on being informed I was in the boat quitted his post to go and awake the guard, consisting of three men, in which he had no success. I walked up and came to another, a Serjeant's Guard. Here the centinel challenged, but suffered me to come up to him, the whole guard, like the first, in the sound- est sleep. With a penknife only I could have cut off both guards, and then have set fire to the blockhouse, destroyed the stores, and starved the people here. At this post I have pointedly recommended vigilance and Care ; as all the stores from Fort George must necessarily be landed there. But I hope to get the better of this inattention. The officers and men are all good looking people, and decent in their deportment, and I really believe will make good soldiers as soon as I can get the better of this non-chalance of theirs. Bravery I believe they are far from wanting. As soon as I am a little settled, I shall do myself the Honor to send you a return of my strength both on land and water. Inclose your Excellency a Copy of a letter from Col. Johnson, with Copy of an Examination of a person lately from Canada contradictory of the ac- count I gave you in my last from Saratoga.* You will perceive that he is gone to Canada. I hope Carlton, if he should be able to procure a body of Indians, will not be in a hurry to pay us a visit. I wish to be a little more decently prepared to receive him in doing which be assured I shall lose no time. [* The enclosure first mentioned cannot be found. — W. C. F.] I have 46 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, I have no way of sending you any letters, with a probable hope of their coming to hand, unless by express, or by the circuitous rout of Hartford ; by which only I can expect to be favored with a line from you. Generals Lee and Gates share with you in my warmest wishes. I shall devote the first hour I can call my own to do myself the honor to write them. I am Most Sincerely, Your Excellency's Obedient, and Humble Servant, Ph : Schuyler. Permit me. Sir, thro you to enquire the health of Cols. Read, Major Mifflin and M"^ Griffin. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, /. 139. [ Enclosure. ] The Examination of Gerrit Roseboom of the City of Albany before the Sub committee of the said City and County of Albany the 15"' Day of July 1775 : 1. Says that he left Montreal on or about the 26"' June last. 2. That in Canada the utmost Means were used to induce the Indians to side with the Regulars, especially by M''. S'. Luke Le Corn, but that among the Indians where this Exam- inant has been particularly, Cannsadaga, Esqiiseesita, Oswegatie, and Canazvagas, they de- cline taking up the Hatchet against the Bostonians [a Term by which the general Opposition is distinguished]. 3. That the Canawagas particularly, are active in preventing the Incursions of the other Indian Nations, for which Purpose they have stationed about a Dozen of their Tribe at S*^. John's with Horses with Directions that if their Endeavours should prove ineffectual to give immediate Notice to the Tribe, who in that Case are resolved to prevent them by Force. 4. That while this Examinant was at Montreal he saw about 22 Indians of the Messesa- goes Tribe who were in their War Dress and Accoutrements set of to S'. John's on a .Scalping Party towards the Fort on the Lake in our Possession. But that this Examinant believes they will be stopped by the Means above mentioned. 5. That this Examinant on his Arrival at Oswego about 8 Days ago, found Col: Guy Johnson there who had with him about 300 Indians and about 500 Squaas and Children. 6. That this Examinant was present at a Congress he held with the Indians, but does not know the subject of their Deliberation, but that he afterwards understood from those Indians that the Communication on the Mohawk River was to remain open. That on the Day when this Examinant left Oswego the Indians were to receive his Presents, Except the Rum which was to be Delivered them the next Day at the Oswego Falls, to each Nation or Tribe one Barrel. That from there Guy Johnson was to proceed to Oswegatie. Some of them were to go with him from each Tribe and the Rest to return home, that this Examinant heard before he came to Oswego, that there was to be a General Congress at Oswegatie with the Canadean Indians. 7. That the Indians at Oswego assured this examinant that they did not intend to fight against us But that Considering the Fickleness of their Disposition and probably the Over Persuasion of our Enemies no great Dependance can be made on their Assurance. 8. That Endeavours were used in Canada to enlist Men in the Service of the Crown, but that the Canadians were extreamly averse to enter into the .Service. — That a Report prevailed there that Governor Carleton had threatned to fire the City in Case the Merchants and Others did not join. 9. That he has seen a few straglers and of the lowest Class of the People who were inlisted.- — That Mons'' S' Luke had proposed as an Expedient to the Governor to hang half a Dozen, which would intimidate the Survivors into a Compliance. — That he has been informed there that they were buisy in Building Batteaus at .S' Johns, for the Purpose of transporting Troops across the Lake to attack the Possessions at Crown Point & Ticonderoga. A true Copy from the Minutes. (Signed) John Bay Secr^ 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 47 [Orders.] Head Quarters before Boston, July i8''', 1775. . Parole, IVilniiugton. Counter Sign, Chester. . As the Chevaux-de-Frise are not in readiness; The Officers commanding the different Lines and Redoubts are, as speedily as possible, to provide a sufficient number of Gabions, which are to lay empty at the Entrances of their respective posts, in order to be filled up as occasion may require. Gen : Putnam will forthwith order his post to be furnished with a large quantity of Fascines. The Officers commanding the different Posts, to send an exact Return to Head Quarters, this afternoon, of all the intrenching Tools in their possession: viz: Spades, pick- Axes, wheel- Barrows, Hand-Barrows, Axes and Crow-Barrs; and to mention the number and quality of any of these Implements, that are still wanting to carry on their respective works. Six Captains, twelve Subalterns, twelve Serjeants and three hundred Rank & file, to parade to morrow morning, immediately after divine service, from the Regiments now station'd in Cambridge, as a working party to assist in raising the New Hampshire lines. Col James Scammons of the Massachusetts bay Forces, tried by the General Court Martial of which Col John Nixon was president, for "Disobedience of orders, and Backwardness in the execution of his duty" The Court after duly examining the Evidence, for and against the prisoner, together with what the prisoner had to say in his defence; are of opinion that Col Scammons is not guilty of the Crimes wherewith he was accused, and therefore do acquit the prisoner — Col Scammons to be immediately released from his arrest. If after what has happened, the Enemy in Revenge of their late Loss, should dare to attempt forcing our Lines, The Army may be assured, that nothing but their own Indolence and Remissness, can give the least hope of success to so rash an Enterprise: It is therefore strongly recommended to the Commanding Officers of Corps, Guards and Detachments; that they be assiduously alert in parading their Men, at their several posts, half an hour before day break, and remain there, untill the Commanding (Officers think proper to dismiss them: The General hears with Astonishment, the very frequent Ap})lications, that are made to him, as well by Officers as Soldiers for Furloughs: Brave Men, who are engaged in the noble Cause of Liberty; should never think of removing from their Camp, while the Enemy is in sight, and anxious to take every Advantage, any Indiscretion on our side may give them : The General doubts not, but the Commanding Officers of Corps will anticipate his wishes, and discourage those under them, from disgracefully desiring to go home, untill the Campaign is ended. Head Quarters, Camisridce, July 19"' 1775. Parole, Derby. Counter Sign; Marblchcad. [In Conc;ress.] July 20 1775 Resolved, That Gen' P. Schuyler be empowered to dispose of and employ all the troops in the New-York department in such manner as he may think best for the protection & defence of these colonies, the tribes of Indians in friendship & amity with us, and most effectually to promote the general Interest, Still pursuing, if in his power, the former Orders from this Con- gress, & Subject to the future Orders of the commander in chief A true copy Cha'' Thomson Sec''-*' [Order. ] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 20* 1775. Parole, Aihanv. Countersign, Ticonderoga. Certain Drums in, and near Cambridge, very improperly beat the Revellie this morning before day ; Although the Troops are ordered to be under Arms, half an hour before day light ; it does not follow the drums are to beat at that time. The Reveille is to beat when a Gentry can see clearly one thousand Yards around him, and not before. All 48 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, All Aids de-Camp, and Majors of Brigade, are to keep regularly entered in a book; all the General Orders of the army, as well as those of the Brigades they belong to : As the Gen- eral in Chief, will not for the future, admit as an Excuse for the Breach of Orders ; the plea of not knowing them. Samuel Osgood and Joseph Ward Esq''' being appointed Aids-de-Camp, to Major General Ward, they are to be obeyed as such ; and all orders coming fr6m Aids-de Camp, are to be consider'd, as the Orders of their respective Generals, and whether written or verbal, to be forthwith obeyed : It may be necessary once more to repeat to the Army, that every Aid-de- Camp and Major of Brigades will be distinguished by a green ribband. Certain Corps, having been dilatory in delivering last Saturday, their weekly Returns, as positively directed by former orders ; The General is determin'd for the future, not to excuse any neglect in sending the Returns every Saturday, to the Adjutant General. As the Com- manding Officers of Regiments, are to be answerable for the due observance of this Order, it is expected they are exact in obliging their respective Adjutants, to fullfill their duty. Letters of Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,y"l9; Transcript A, Wo\. i, f. I ^■, Con- tinental Congress, .Vo. ij2, f. 35 ; ^0. i6g, f. 39 1. TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Camp at Cambridge July 21 1775. Sir. Since I did myself the Honour of addressing you die 14'^ inst' I have received Advice from Gov' Trumbull, that the Assembly of Connecticut had voted, & that they are now raising two Regiments of 700 Men each, in Consequence of an Application from the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts Bay. The Rhode Island Assembly has also made an Aug- mentation for this purpose; these Reinforcements with the RifHe Men who are daily expected, & such Recruits as may come in; to fill up the Regiments here, will I apprehend compose an Army sufficiently strong, to oppose any Force which may be brought against us at present. I am very sensible, that the heavy expence necessarily attendant upon this Campaign, will call for the utmost- Frugality & Care, & would therefore if possible avoid inlisting one unnecessary Man. As this is the first certain Account of the Destination of these new raised Troops, I thought proper to communicate my Sentiments as early as possible ; least the Congress should act upon my Letter of the 10''', and raise Troops in the South- ern Colonies, which in my present Judgment may be dispens'd with. In these 8 Days past there have been no movements in either Camp of any consequence. On our side, we have con- tinued the Works without any Intermission, & they are now so 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 49 SO far advanced, as to leave us Htde to apprehend on that Score. On the side of the Enemy, they have also been very industrious in finishing their Lines both on Bunker's Hill, & Roxbury Neck. In this Interval also their Transports have arrived from New York, and they have been employed in landing & sta- tioning their Men I have been able to collect no certain Ac- count of the Numbers arrived, but the inclosed Letter,* wrote (tho' not signed) by AL Sheriff Lee, & delivered me by Cap' Darby, (who went Express with an Account of the Lexington Battle,) will enable us to form a pretty accurate Judgment. The Increase of Tents & Men in the Town of Boston, is very obvious, but all my Accounts from thence agree, that there is a great Mortality occasioned by the Want of Vegetables & fresh Meat: & that their Loss in the late Battle at Charles Town (from the few Recoveries of their Wounded) is greater than at first supposed. The Condition of the Inhabitants detained in Boston is very distressing, they are equally destitute of the Comfort of fresh Provisions, & many of them are so reduced in their Circumstances, as to be unable to supply themselves with salt: Such Fish as the Soldiery leave, is their principal support. Added to all this, such Suspicion & Jealousy pre- vails, that they can scarcely speak, or even look, without ex- posing themselves to some Species of military Execution. I have not been able from any Intelligence I have received, to form any certain Judgment of the future Operations of the Enemy. Some Times I have suspected an Intention of de- taching a part of their Army to some Part of the Coast; as they have been building a Number of flat bottom'd Boats capable of holding 200 Men each. But from their Works, & the Language held at Boston, there is Reason to think, they expect the Attack from us, & are principally engaged in pre- paring themselves against it. I have ordered all the Whale Boats along the Coast to be collected, & some of them are employed every Night to watch the Motions of the Enemy by Water, so as to guard as much ^s possible against any surprize. * Missing. Upon \V. p. — 4 50 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, Upon my Arrival & since, some Complaints have been preferr'd against Officers for Cowardice in the late Action on Bunkers Hill. Thouo-h there were several strono- Circum- stances & a very general Opinion against them, none have been condemn'd, except a Capt" Callender of the Artillery, who was immediately cashier'd. I have been sorry to find it an uncontradicted Fact, that the principal failure of Duty that day was in the Officers, tho' many of them distinguish'd them- selves by their gallant Behaviour. The Soldiers generally shew'd great Spirit and Resolution. Next to the more immediate & pressing Duties of putting our Lines in as secure a State as possible, attending to the Movements of the Enemy, & gaining Intelligence, my great Concern is to establish Order, Regularity & Discipline: with- out which, our numbers would embarass us, & in case of Action general Confusion must infallibly ensue In order to this, I propose to divide the Army into three Divisions at the Head of each will be a General Officer — these Divisions to be again subdivided into Brigades, under their respective Briga- diers ; but the Difficulty arising from the Arrangement of the General Officers, & waiting the farther Proceedings of the Congress on this Subject, has much retarded my Progress in this most necessary Work. I should be very happy to receive their final Commands, as any Determination \vould enable me to proceed in my Plan. General Spencer returned to the Camp two Days ago, & has consented to serve under Puttnam, rather than leave the Army intirely. I have heard nothing from General Pomroy, should he wholly retire, I apprehend it will be necessary to supply his Place as soon as possible. General Folsom pro- poses also to retire. In Addition to the Officers mentioned in mine of the lo. Inst', I would humbly propose that some Pro- vision should be made for a Judge Advocate, & Provost Mar- shal — the Necessity of the first Appointment was so great, that I was obliged to nominate a M' Tudor who was well recommended to me, & now executes the Office, under an Expectation of receiving Captains Pay; an Allowance, in my Opinion, 1775-1 WASHINGTON PAPERS. 5 1 Opinion, scarcely adequate to the Service in new raised Troops, when there are Court Martials every Day. However as that is the Proportion in the regular Army, and he is contented, there will be no Necessity of an Addition. I must also renew my Request as to Money, & the Appoint- ment of a Paymaster: I have forbore urging- Matters of this Nature from my Knowledge of the many important Concerns which engage the Attention of the Congress ; but as I find my Difficulties thicken every Day, I make no Doubt suitable Re- gard will be paid to a Necessity of this Kind. The Incon- venience of borrowing such Sums as are constantly requisite must be too plain for me to enlarge upon, & is a Situation, from which I should be very happy to be relieved. Upon the Experience I have had, & the best Consideration of the Appointment of the several Offices of Commissary Gen', Muster master Gen', Quarter Master Gen', Paymaster Gen' & Commissary of Artillery, I am clearly of Opinion that they not only conduce to Order, Despatch & Discipline, but that it is a Measure of Oeconomy. The Delay, the Waste, & unpunish- able Neglect of Duty arising from these Offices being in Com- mission, in several Hands, evidently show that the publick Expence must be finally enhanced. I have experienced the Want of these Officers, in completing the Returns of Men, Ammunition, & Stores, the latter are yet imperfect, from the Number of Hands in which they are dispers'd. I have inclosed* the last weekly Return which is more accurate than the former, & hope in a little Time we shall be perfectly regular in this, as well as several other necessary Branches of Duty.. I have made Inquiry into the Establishment of the Hospital, & find it in a very unsettled Condition. There is no principal Director, or any Subordination among the Surgeons, of Con- sequence, Disputes & Contention have arisen, & must con- tinue, untill it is reduced to some system. I could wish it was immediately taken into Consideration, as the Lives & Health of both Officers & Men, so much depend upon a due Regula- tion of this Department. I have been particularly attentive * Not with the letter. to 52 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [Ji'i-V, to the least Symptoms of the small Pox and hitherto we have been so fortunate, as to have every Person removed so soon, as not only to prevent any Communication, but any Alarm or Apprehension it might give in the Camp. We shall continue the utmost Vigilance against this most dangerous Enemy. In an Army properly organized, there are sundry Offices of an Inferiour kind, such as Waggon Master, Master Car- penter, &c, but I doubt whether my Powers are sufficiently extensive for such Appointments: If it is thought proper to repose such a Trust in me, I shall be governed in the Discharge of it, by a strict Regard to Oeconomy, & the publick Interest. My Instructions from the Hon Congress directs that no Troops are to be disbanded without their express Direction, nor to be recruited to more than double the Number of the Enemy. Upon this Subject, I beg Leave to represent, that unless the Regiments in this Province, are more successful in recruiting than I have Reason to expect, a Reduction of some of them, will be highly necessary ; as the Publick is put to the whole Expense of an Establishment of Officers, while the real Strength of the Regiment, which consists in the Rank & file, is defective. In Case of such a Reduction doubtless some of the Privates, and all the Officers would return Home ; but many of the former, would go into the remaining Regiments, & having had some Experience would fill them up with useful Men. I so plainly perceive the Expence of this Campaign, will exceed any Calculation hitherto made, that I am particu- larly anxious to strike off every unnecessary Charge. You will therefore. Sir, be pleased to favour me with explicit Directions from the Congrress on the Mode of this Reduction, if it shall appear necessary, that no Time may be lost when such Necessity appears. Yesterday we had an Account that the Light House was on Fire — by whom, & under what Orders, I have not yet learned. But we have Reason to believe, it has been done by some of our Irregulars. You will please to present me to the Congress with the utmost Duty, & Respect. P. S. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 53 P. S. Capt. Darby's Stay in England was so short, that he brings no other Information than what the inclosed Letter,* & the News Papers which will accompany this, contain — Gen- eral Gage's Dispatches had not arrived, & the Ministry affected to disbelieve the whole Account — treating^ it as a Fiction or at most an Affair of little Consequence. The Fall of Stocks was very inconsiderable. [Sent by Fessenden Express.] Cambridge Camp July 21. 1775 5 o'Clock. P. M. Sir Since closing the Letters which accompany this I have re- ceived an Account of the Destruction of the Light House, a Copy of which I have the Honour to inclose, f P. S. I have also received a more authentick Account of the Loss of the Enemy in the late Battle than any yet received. Doctor Winship who lodged in the same House with an Officer of the Marines assures me they had exactly 1043 killed & wounded, of whom 300 fell on the Field or died within a few Hours. Many of the wounded are since dead. [Sent by Fessenden Express.] Washington and Hancock. [" I must beg the favour you will Reserve some birth for me, in such Department as you may Judge most proper, for I am Determin'd to act under you, if it be to take the firelock & Join the Ranks as a volunteer. . . . All military matters are suspended until your state arrives — Jno Hancock July lo. 1775. Letters to Washington. Vol. 89. " I am particularly to acknowledge that Part of your Favour of the io"> Inst' wherein you do me the Honour of determining to join the Army under my Command. I need certainly make no professions of the Pleasure I shall have in seeing you. At the same Time I have to regret that so little is in my Power to offer equal to Col. Hancocks merits — Washington to //ancoch, ]n\y 21, ijy^. Letters 0/ Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,y; 26.] [ Okdek. ] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 21"' 1775 Parole, JMaddin. Counter sign, Chelsea. ♦Missing. f See Appendix. 54 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, Letters to Washington. Vol. 6. / 152. [ Intelligence. ] Chelsea July y'^ 22"' 1775 To his Exelencey the jenral Sir thes are the Remarcks tackin on sULL. July [27 or 28] Sir I am to acknowledge your Favour of the ly'*" Inst\ inform- ing me of the Destination of the Troops raising in your Colony : As the Season is now advanced & the Enemy considerably reinforced we have the utmost Reason to believe expect any Attack that may be made will not be much longer delayed : I should therefore think it highly necessary the new raised Troops should join the Army with all possible Expedition. Upon Inquiry with Respect to the Flower I do not find our Neces- sities to be such as to require an immediate Transportation durinof the Harvest, but as soon as it can be sent with Con- venience you will please to give Directions for that Purpose. Col. Trumbull will advise you to what Place it is to be addressed and to whose care. Agreeable 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 65 Agreeable to your Intimation I have ordered the Express to wait on you & shall do so in future. We have had no Occurrence In the Camp of any material Consequence. On both sides we are strengthning- our Lines in full view of each other. [Sent by Fessenden, the Express.] Letters to Washington. Vol. 89, f. 14. [In Congress.] Phi LAD'' July 27. 1775 Resolved That the Sum of Twenty -five Thousand Dollars be paid by the Continental Treasurers to Reese Meredith, George Clymer, Samuel Meredith, & Samuel Mififlin Merchants in Philadelphia, and that the like Sum of Twenty-five Thousand Dollars be paid by the said Treasurers to Philip Livingston, John Alsop, & Francis Lewis Merch'^ at New York, to be by them applied to the Purpose of importing Gun Powder for the Continental Armies, and that they be AUow'd out of the same. Five per Centum for their Trouble and Expences therein, that they keep all their proceedings as much as possible a Secret, from every other person, but the Congress and the General of the Continental Forces for the Time being, that they keep up a Correspondence with the said General, and make such Dispositions of the Powder they may import as he shall order. By order of the Congress John Hancock President [Order.] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 27"' 1775 Parole, Bciiford. Counter sign, Guilford. John Trumbull Esq"' being appointed Aid': D : Camp to his Excellency the Commander in Chief; He is to be obeyed as such. A Court of enquiry to sit to morrow Morning at eight oClock, in the Tutor's Chamber (M'' Hall) Lo examine into a Complaint exhibited upon Oath, in the pul)lic news papers against AP Benjamin Whiting, now a prisoner in the College; All Evidences and Persons concern'd to attend the Court. For the future when any Deserters come to any of the out Guards, they are with the least delay to be sent by a Corporals Guard, to the next Guard in the Lines, who is mimediately to escort them in the same manner to the Major General commanding that division of the Army, who as soon as he has examined ihem will forthwith send them under a proper Escort from his guard to the head quarters : Some Deserters being made drunk, who came last night from the Enemy, before they reached Head Quarters ; It will be considered as a Breach of orders in any person, who gives Rum to Deserters, before they are examined by the General. A Subaltern Officer's guard to be mounted to morrow morning, at eight oClock, at a cer- tain distance from the small pox Hospital ; the Officer to come this evennig, at six, oClock, to the Adjutant General for orders. Letters oj Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,/] 33. TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. July 28, 1775. Dear Sir I wrote you yesterday by Way of New York & in 2 Hours afterwards was favoured with yours of the 15. & 18*. Ins'. with their respective Inclosures. I was extremely glad to find your first Apprehensions of an Incursion by the Indians in w. p. 5. 66 WASHINCxTON PAPERS. [July, in some Degree removed by the later Advices : At the same Time I think it is evident from the spirit & Tenor of Col. Johnsons Letter that no Art or Influence will be left untried by him to engage them in such enterprize. Should he once prevail upon them to dip their Hands in Blood mutual Hos- tilities will most probably ensue & they may be led to take a more decisive Part. All Act^ I think agree that the Canadians are very averse to engage in this unnatural Contest. But I am persuaded you will not abate in the least your Vigilance to expedite every Movement in that Quarter notwithstanding their present pacifick Appearances. I am much easier with Respect to the publick Interest since your Arrival at Ticonde- roga, as I am persuaded those Abilities & that Zeal for the common Welfare which has led your Country to repose such Confidence in you will be fully exerted. From my own Ex- perience I can easily judge of your Difficulties to introduce Order & Discipline into Troops who have from their Infancy imbibed Ideas of the most contrary kind. It would be far beyond the Compass of a Letter for me to describe the Situation of Things here on my Arrival : perhaps you will only be able to judge of it from my assuring you that mine must be a Portrait at full Length of what you have had in Miniature. Confusion & Disorder reigned in every Depart- ment which in a little Time must have ended either in the Separation of the Army or fatal Contests with one another. The better Genius of America has prevailed & most happily the ministerial Troops have not availed themselves of their advantages till I trust the Opp^ is in a great Measure past over. The Arrangement of the General Officers in Massa- chusetts & Connecticut; has been very unpopular — indeed I may say injudicious: It is returned to the Congress for farther Consideration & has much retarded my Plan of Discipline. However we mend every Day & I flatter myself that in a little Time we shall work up these raw Materials into good Stuff. I must recommend to you what I endeavour to practice myself Patience and Perseverance. As to your Operations my dear Sir, I can suggest nothing which your own good Judgment will 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 67 will not either anticipate or controul from your immediate View of Things & the Instructions of the continental Congress. The express from hence to England with the Ace' of the Commencement of Hostilities at Lexington has returned. It was far from making the Impression generally expected here — Stocks fell but lyi ^. O. Gen. Gages Ace'' had not arrived & the Ministry affected to treat it as a Fiction — Parliam' had been prorogued two Days but it was reported it would be immediately recalled, — Our Enemy continues strongly posted about a Mile from us, both at Bunkers Hill & Roxbury: But we are not able to get any Information of Their future Inten- tions — Part of the Riffle men are come in & the rest daily ex- pected. I did not expect your Returns would be very compleat at first but I must beg your attention to reforming them as soon as possible. And I beg leave to add that I would have you scrutinize with Exactness into the Application of Provisions & Stores I have the utmost Reason to suspect Irregularities and Impositions here. You will be fortunate if the Contagion does not reach you. Gen* Lee has removed ab' 4 miles from me, but I will take the first Opp^' to make your kind Wishes known to him — Col. R. & Major M. Join me in the best Wishes for your Health & Success. Letters of Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,/ 31. COL. REED TO COLONEL BALDWIN. Headquarters, July 28. 1775. Sir In full Confidence of your prudence & Secrecy as a Soldier, a Man of Honour & a Friend to your Country, the General has directed me to com- municate to you a Scheme he is about to put in Execution to obtain constant & authentick Intelligence from Boston. The Plan is this. The inclosed Letter will be delivered by you to one Dewksbury who lives about 4 Miles from you towards Shirly Point — He will deliver it to a Waterman whom he can depend on who will convey it to one John Carnes a Grocer in the South Part of Boston. The Answers & such Intelligence as he can procure will be be forwarded to you thro the same Channell : which you are to transmit to his 68 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, his Excell^' by Express immed^' — As the Success of the Project & the life of the Man in Boston may depend upon your Conduct let it not escape you to the nearest Friend on Earth & for fear of Accident destroy this Letter as soon as you are sufficiently Master of its Contents — When you see Dewks- bury give him the above Caution in the strongest Terms: And so to pass from him to the other — Your good Conduct & Discretion in this Matter will not fail to be duly noticed. I, am Sir, Your most obed J Reed Seer [Enclosing letter from D'' Church.] Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, /'. 159. FROM PEREZ MORTON. Council Chamber Watertown July 28"' 1775 Sir. Your Letter of the 21^' Instant, to the Speaker of the Honb'" House of Representatives, was by them referred to this Board; who are of Opinion, that gaols of Worcester, Springfield & Northampton, are the most suitable places for securing the Prisoners, and therefore recommend that they be sent to one or more of these Places. I am Sir your most obedient Humble Servant Perez Morton Secr^ pro temp: Letters to Washington. Vol. 6,/ 158. [ Intelligence.] Chelsea July 28"' 1775 h^lf ^^^r 4 o Clock May it Please your Excellency Agreable to your order I send the following oliservations taken by the Centry posted upon Powder Horn Hill. From about 7 oClock A. M. to 2 oC"' P. M. one Ship gone out, three Ships & two Tenders Coming in. about 12 Boats pass'* from Boston to Charlestown Light Loaded, or almost Emty. three Boats pass'^ from Charlestown to Boston Very heavy loaded with Men. I would beg leave to ask your Excellency whether it was the intent & meaning of your Orders to Send an Express to Headquarters every day when there is nothing more occurs than has for two days pass*^. These from your Excellency's most Obediant Servant Leammi Baldwin Lieu Coin. [Order. ] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 28"', 1775. Parole, Ciiuiberland. Counter sign, Brookline. The Surgeons of Learnerds, Heath, Little, Phinney and Parsons Regiments, having neglected to deliver in the Returns of the sick of their respective Regiments, to the Adjutant General, these Returns to be delivered forthwith, and the Surgeons of those Corps, are to be more exact in their obedience to orders. 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 69 Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, /'. 160 & 166. [ Intelligence. 1 Chelsea July 29"' 1775 2 oClock P M May it please your Excellency About twelve oClock this day we were all alarmed by the approach of a Boat to Winni- simmit Ferry & by a Signal soon found them to be friends who Landed with their Houshold good there ware several of my Intimate acquaintance I have taken the names of all the Passengers and stop"* the Letters which I now Send for your Inspection & Beg your Excel- lency would Send them Back to me again as soon as possable as the Bairers are some of them in weighting and others are to Call again tomorrow for theirs Please to Keep the Inclosed Letters in their Respective Covers. I would Beg your Excellency would Send me some Assistance as the Boats are to Con- tinue passing ( That is if zue can believe General Gage) and Somthing may Escape for want of Proper assistance that may turn to our disadvantag Our officers are very sick here I have much upon my hands & mind, sienc I Rec'd M"" Reed Letter last Night. Hope & Earnestly Expect some assistance and your Excellencies Orders as soon as the necessity of the mater Requires I great hast I am Sir your Excellences most Obedient Humb^ Servn' LoAMMi Baldwin Liu Colo P. S. Should be much Oblig'' to your Excellency if you would vSend down a few Sheets of Paper & Wafers as I cannot Procure any about here and am out. Pray Sir Excuse the Imperfections in this leter July y'^ 2e acknowledged and obey'd as such. The Drummers & Fifers of the Regiment in and about Cambridge, are to be order'd constantly to attend the Drum and Fife Major, at the usual hours for instruction. Contmoital Congi-ess, No. 1^2, Vol. i, /". 79; No. i6g, Vol. i, f. 22. TO GENERAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY. Camp at Cambridge July 31^' i775 Sir I have Considerd the AppHcation'^' made me yesterday, from the General Court, with all the attention due to the situation of the People in whose Behalf it is made, & the Respect due to such a Recommendation. Upon referring- to my Instructions and Consulting with those Members of Congress who are present as well as the General Officers ; they all agree that it would not be consistent with my duty to detach any Part of the Army now here on any Particular Provincial Service. It has been debated in Con- gress and Settled that the Militia or other Internal Strength of each Province is to be applied for Defence against those Small and Particular Depredations which were to be expected, & to which they were supposed to be Competent. This will appear the more proper, when it is Consider'd that every Town & indeed every Part of our Sea Coast which is exposed to these Depredations would have an equal Claim upon this Army: It is the misfortune of our situation which exposes us to these Ravages, against which in my Judgment no such Temporary relief would possibly secure us. The great Ad- vantage the Enemy has of Transporting Troops by being Masters* of the Sea will enable them to harrass us by Diver- sions of this kind ; and should we be tempted to pursue them upon every Alarm, The Army must either be so weaken'd as *In House of Representatives July 29^11, 1775 — Resolved, that Doct' Church, M^ Woodbridge and Mr Sewall, with such as the Honb'e Board shall join, be a Committee to wait on his Excellency General Washington, & inform him of the distress'd Situation of the Inhabitants of the Eastern pans of the Colony ; aud know of him, if he can, Consistent with his Instructions, and the General Service, order a Detachment there, to prevent the Enemy from Ravaging the Country, and plundering the Inhabitants of their Cattle, Sheep, Wood &c ; to Supply — themselves. to I775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 7 1 to Expose it to Destruction or a great Part of the Coast be still left unprotected: Nor indeed does it appear to me that such a Pursuit would be attended with the least Effect : The first notice of such an Incursion would be its actual Execution ; and long before any Troops could reach the Scene of Action. The Enemy would have an Opportunity to Accomplish their Purpose & retire. It would give me great Pleasure to have it in my Power to extend Protection and Safety to every Individual, but the Wis- dom of the General Court will Anticipate me in the Necessity of Conducting our Operations on a General and Impartial Scale, so as to exclude any first Cause of Complaint and Jealousy. I beg Sir you will do me the Honour to Communicate these Sentiments to the General Court and to Apologize for my Involuntary Delay: As we were alarm'd this Morning by the Enemy & my Time taken up with giving the Necessary Directions. I shall be happy in every Opportunity of shewing my very great Respect and Regard for the General Court of Massa- chusetts Bay. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, f. 163. FROM NICHOLAS COOKE. Providence July 31='. 1775 Sir I am favored with your Excellency's Letter of the 26* instant ; having just before the Receipt of it had Accounts by a private Hand of the Sailing of a Number of Men of War and Transports from Boston ; which I conjec- tured were designed to supply the Enemy with fresh Provisions. I immedi- ately sent the Intelligence to Block Island together with a Quantity of Pow- der, Ball and Flint to enable them to defend their Property, and gave them Assurances of further Assistance if necessary. We have no Accounts of this Fleet from any Part of our Coast ; so that I think it probable they were destined to the Eastward. I desire your Excellency to oblige me with a Return of the Army ; and when any Thing of Importance occurs I shall esteem an early Communica- tion of it a Favour. I am with great Truth and Regard, Sir Your Excellency's Most humble and most obedient Servant NiCHO CoOKE. 72 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, f. 169. FROM GENERAL SCHUYLER. TicoNDEROGA July 31*' 1775 Dear General Since my last I have been most assiduously employed in preparing Mate- rials for building boats to Convey me across the Lake the progress has hitherto been slow as with few hands I had all the Timber to Cut, Mills to repair to Saw the plank, and my draught Cattle extrearaly weak for want of feed the drought having Scorched up Every kind of Herbage. I have now one boat on Stocks which I hope will carry near three hundred men. an- other is putting up to day. provisions of the Bread kind are scarce with me and therefore I have not dared to order up a thousand men that are at Albany least we should starve here. I have had no Intelligence from Canada since my last to you. Major Brown has been gone nine days and I expect him back if all is well by Sat- urday next. August 2^ I have not had a return from General Wooster since my Arrival I am therefore under the necessity of making you a return of the troops here only. Inclose your Excellency Copy of two affidavits made by persons from Canada. I have transmitted other Copy's to the Congress. I am extreamly anxious to hear from your part of the world, reports prevail that a body of troops have left Boston and are gone to Canada. If so I fear we shall not be able to penetrate Into Canada, or even Attack S' Johns with Success, tho at all Events I am ordered to go there. I am Your Excellency's Most Obedient & Most Hum*" Serv' Ph : Schuyler I wish I could make you a regular return even of the troops at this place and Crown point, but I have not yet got these people to be regular in any- thing and therefore beg you to dispence with the following state' — Fit for duty, I Colonel 3 Majors 9 Captains i Captain Lieutenant 21 Subalterns 34 Serjeants 18 Drums and fifes, 933 Rank and file i Chaplain 2 Adjutants I Quartermaster i Surgeon <& 2 Mates. Sick — i Lieutenant 4 Serjeants 2 Drums 103 Rank and file. [Answered August 15.] Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, / 167. FROM JONATHAN TRUMBULL. Lebanon 31^' July 1775. Sir. By the Resolve in Congress of the 19* instant, it is recommended to the New England Colonies to compleat the Deficiencies in the Regiments belong- ing to them respectively. I have 1 775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. J ^ I have not been informed of any Deficiency in the Number of Troops sent from Connecticut. It is recommended also to this Colony to compleat and send forward to the Camp before Boston as soon as possible the fourteen hundred men lately voted by our Assembly. The 25 instant I sent orders to the Colonels of the last raised Regiments, to march forthwith to the Camp before Boston, by subdivisions if all were not in readiness. Expect many of the Companies will begin their March this Day. And that the whole will move forward very soon. The Hon''''' President Hancock in his Favour of the 22"^^ instant informs That you had recomended, and the Congress have appointed M' Joseph Trumbull Commissary General of the American Army. I am also informed that you have taken M'' John Trumbull into your Service and Family. These instances of kindness shewn them justly claim my most grateful acknowl- edgements : A performance of their Duty answerable to your Expectation, will meet your approbation and continuance of Regard, and afford me pecu- liar satisfaction and Pleasure. The Rose, Swan, and King Fisher Ships of War. with a smal Tender the 26* instant came into the Harbour at New London, on the 27*. some men landed near the Light House, broke off the nutts and plugged up with old Files three or four Cannon they sailed out again on Friday last. It is re- ported M' Collector Stuart is packing up his effects, in Order to Leave that Port. I am, with great Truth and Regard Your Excellency's most obedient and humble Servant JONTH: Trumbull [Answered by Major Johnson.] Letters fo Washington. Vol. 6, /. 161-162. [ Intelligence.] Chelsea July 31^' 1775 May it Please your Excellency This covers the Observations of part of yesterday & today Should be glad to know in what manner I am to procceed with the people that come out of Boston, in order to prevent there going into Camp. two boats only have come with Passengers from Boston this Day. the first Brought Col" Ingersoll who Informed me that there was one Regular Officer & Several other persons badly wounded brought to Boston Just as he came away which was about Eight or Nine oClock A. M. and that there went from Boston in the Night meaning Last night a large number of Granedears & Light Infantry in larg flat bottom Boats for the Southward Shore it was suposd I should be glad to know your Excellencyes Pleasure with regard to all the letters that come out of Boston whether my Inspection should be sufficient to let any pass that I should think proper or whether you would chuse to see them all yourself There are People now waiting to know your Excellencys Answer that want to proceed into the Country Supose if they pass me as a number did before I had your Order they may if they are so dispos'' go into the Camps and I am now obliged to let them go about among the neighbour for suport as they Brought nothing of that nature with them I would Inform your Excelency that I was up and with my Men upon the Hills neighest our Enemy part of last night & this morning till the Sun 2 or 3 hours high and watch* them Very critically but could not discover any thing Worth troubling your Excelency about I am your Excellencys most Obedient Serv"' Laommi Baldwin Liu Colo I send the letters that I have stop'* today hop I shall Receive them by the hand of the Bairer with your directions July 74 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [July, July 31 A Return of the Observations of the Day At 3 oclock Yesterday one Ship went to Sea From Boston and at 4 13 r>oats went from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men and horses From 6 to 8 this Morning 2 Ships went to Sea and stood to the Eastward and 8 Boats from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men and a Bout 7 oclock an armed Ship went down to Long island and 6 Boats From Charlestown went over to Boston with whimen at 10 one Ship Bound out 4 Boats Coming from Long island to the Castel. At 1 1 oclock one Brig went to Sea From 12 to 2 oclock 40 Boats Laden with men went from Boston to Charlestown and the Sloop that went Down in the Morning is at Nantasket Road. [Okdek.] Head Quarters, Cambridge, July 31"', 1775. Parole, Falkland. Counter sign Eden f on. The Continental Congress having been pleased to appoint Joseph Trumbull Esq'' to be Commissary General to the army of the United Colonies : All Commissaries heretofore appointed by any of the distinct Colony Congresses, or by particular Authority of any particular district or colony, are forthwith to make an exact Return of the provisions, and all the different Species of provisions, they have in, or near the Camps, at Cambridge and Roxbury; thereupon Com- missary Clen' Trumbull being assured by the report of his Clerk, assistant, or from his own examination, that such Return is just and true, is to give his Receipt for the quantity deliver'd into his hands, which receipt will be a good Voucher, in the passing the accompt of the dif- ferent Colony Commissaries, heretofore appointed, and will be allowed as such. The Commissaries, at present appointed by the several Colonies; are forthwith to make up their Accounts unto the third of August inclusive; ready to be laid before the Commander in Chief, and by him transmitted to the Continental Congress; or to be adjusted and finally settled by him, as the Continental Congress shall think proper to direct. A Return signed by the Commanding Officers of regiments and Corps, to be delivered to the Adjutant General to morrow morning, at general orderly time, of the Names, Ranks & Dates of the Officer's Commissions, in their respective Regiments and Corps, mentioning also the Vacancies, and how occasioned. A General Court Martial to sit immediately, to try Captain Christopher Gardner, of Col Varnums Regiment for " Cowardice, abandoning his post and deserting his men." All Evi- dences and persons concern'd to attend the court. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, f. 173. FROM ELBRIDGE GERRY. Chamber of Supplies Watertown Aug' i. 1775 May It please your Excellency Mr. Cheever has applyed this afternoon for 200,000 small arm Cartridges in Consequence of an Application from y" Adjutant General, to answer y" Demand of Major General Lee. Mr. Cheever is able to furnish ab' 36000 It being y^ whole Quantity now made, & there remains but 36 barells in Store of y'' Quantity collected from y*" Towns in this Colony & reed from the others this side Maryland. there are also about two Tons of Lead & not any Flints in Store, of which We think it necessary to give immediate Information. We are in daily expectation of some Powder from y'' West Indies, but cannot say what success our plan will meet with ; indeed We have exerted ourselves to obtain It several Ways which may be communicated at a more convenient 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 75 convenient opportunity. With respect to Lead & Flints Col° porter was despatched sixteen Days since for New York for 2 hh'^ Flints and 10 Tons Lead but we have heard nothing from him since. We are ready to exert to y*" utmost to serve y^ Cause, provided y" Commissary General desires it for y*' present, the powder shall be sent immediately if ordered or be made into Cartridges as soon as may be. We are Sir respectfully your most ob Ser'^ Elbridge Gerry pres. Letters to Washington, Vol. 6, /! 175. FROM RICHARD HENRY LEE. Philadelphia i^' August 1775 Dear Sir, After the fatigue of many days, and of this in particular, I should not sit down at eleven oClock at night to write to a Gentleman of whose goodness of heart I have less doubt than I have of yours. But well knowing that you will pardon what flows from good intentions, I venture to say that my hopes are, you will find from what the Congress has already done, and from what I hope they will do tomorrow, that it has been a capital object with us to make your arduous business as easy to you as the nature of things will admit. The business immediately before us being finished, the approaching sickly season here, and the great importance of our presence in the Virg'' Convention, have determined a recess of a Month, it standing now, that the Congress shall meet here again on the 5"' of September. The capital object of pow- der wQ have attended to as far as we could by sending you the other day six Tons, and tomorrow we shall propose sending six or eight Tons more ; which, with the supplies you may get from Connecticut, -and such further ones from here, as future expected importations may furnish, will I hope enable you to do all that this powerful article can in good hands accomplish. We under- stand here, that Batteries may be constructed at the entrance of the Bay of Boston so as to prevent the egress & regress of any Ships whatever. If this be fact, would it not Sir be a signal stroke to secure the Fleet &: Army in and before Boston so as to compel a surrender at discretion. While I write this I assure you my heart is elated with the contemplation of so great an event. A decisive thing, that would at once end the War, and vindicate the injured liberties of America. But your judgement, and that of your brave Associates, will best determine the practicability of this business. I think we have taken the most effectual measures to secure the friendship of the Indians all along our extensive frontiers, and by what we learn of the Spirit of our Conven- tion, now sitting at Richmond, a Spirit prevails there very sufficient to secure us on that quarter. The particulars of their conduct I refer you to M'. Frazer for, who comes fresh from thence, & who goes to the Camp a Soldier of fortune — You know him better than I do, and I am sure you will provide for him as he deserves. We 76 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [August, We are here as much in the dark about news from England as you are, the London Ships having been detained long beyond the time they were ex- pected. The indistinct accounts we have, tell us of great confusion all over England, and a prodigious fall of the Stocks. I heartily wish it may be true, but if it is not so now, I have no doubt of its shortly being the case. I will not detain you longer from more important affairs, than to beg the favor of you, when your leisure permits, to oblige me with a line by Post, to let us know how you go on. There is nothing I wish so much as your success, happiness, and safe re- turn to your family and Country, because I am with perfect sincerity dear Sir Your alTectionate friend and countryman Richard Henry Lee Letters to IVasJiington . Vol. 89, /. 16. [In Congress. ] August i. 1775 — Philadelphia. Resolved That the Sum of Five hundred Thousand Dollars be immediately forwarded from the Continental Treasury to the Pay Master General to be Applied to the Use of the Army in Massachusetts Bay in such manner as General Washington, as the Commander in Chief for the Time being, by his Warrants shall Limit and Appoint — And if the above Sum shall be Expended before the next meeting of the Congress, then, that. General Washington be impower'd to Draw upon the Continental Treasury for the Sum of Two hundred Thousand Dollars in favour of the Pay Master General to be Applied for the Use & in the manner above mention'd. Onier'd, That the Delegates for Pensylvania be a Comittee to Receive & Count the above Sum of Five hundred Thousand Dollars & forward the same under the Care of the Delegates for the Massachusetts Bay, provided so much is now ready in the Treasury, if that is not the case, then to Receive Count & forward by the said Delegates what is Ready, and the Remain- der by the first Opportunity in the safest & best manner. By Order of the Congress. John Hancock President Letters to Washington. Vol. 89, / 22. STATE OF APPOINTMENTS & PAY ORDER'D BY THE CONGRESS. Dollars. I General & Commander in Chief allow"'^ p Month.. 500 4 Major Generals, each " " " 166 The Major General acting in separate Departm' " " " 332 8 Brigadiers General " " " 125 I Adjutant General " " " 125 I Deputy Adjutant General " " " 5° I Commissary General of Stores & provisions " " " 80 I Deputy Ditto " " " 60 I Quarter Master General " " " 80 1 Deputy Ditto " " '• 4° 2 Chief Engineers, each " " " 60 4 Assistants Ditto, each " " " 20 Aid DeCamp, each " " " ZT) 1 Secretary to the General " " " 66 1 D" to the Major General in separate Departm' " " " ZZ I Commissary General of the Musters " " " 4° I Deputy Ditto " " " 4° 5 Brigade Majors, Ditto " " " 'il I Commissary 1 775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. ^'] I Commissary of Artillery allow'^'^ ^ Month.. 30 I Judge Advocate " " " 20 Colonell " " " 50 Lieut Colonell " " " 40 ^^^o-" " " " i>yA Captain " '< " 20 Lieutenant " " " 13K p]nsign " " " 10 Serjeant " " " 8 Corporal " " '< 71/ Drummers & Fifers, each " " « yi/ Privates, each " " " 6^ Adjutant " " " \%y^ Quarter Master " " " igi^ Chaplain " " " 20 Light Infantry same pay as in the Regiment. Artillery, Viz' Captain " " " 26^ Captain Lieut' " " " 20 I"' Lieutenant " " " 183/ 2<* Ditto " " " 181^ Lieut' Fire Worker " " " '^zYi Serjeant " " " 8)^ Corporal " " " 7^^ Bombardier '< " " 7 Matrosses " '< " 6f That the Appointment of Provost Marshall, Waggon Master, & Master Carpenter be left to the Commander in Chief of the Army, & that their pay be left to the Commander in Chief of the x\rmy, and that the General have the Appointment of other necessary persons in inferior Stations, & that their pay be left to the General, he observing the same proportion, that the pay of the Officers in the Ministerial Army bears to the pay of our officers. Mt Michael Hillegras & M' George Clymer appointed Continental Treasurers. Colonell Thompson Commanding the Battalion of Rifle Men Rais'd in the province of Pensylvania has had an Advance of Five Thousand Dollars for the use of that Battalion, he to be Accountable to the General & the Pay Master, that the proper Stoppage be made. James Wan-en Esq"" Appointed Pay Master General Jon'' Trumbull Jun Esq"" Pay Mas' in York Departm' Benjamin Church Jun'' appointed Director & Chief Physician of the Hospitalls. By order of the Congress. John Hancock President. Letters of IVashhigtcm. Orders to Officers. B. Vol. i, No. 2, ORDERS FOR THE OFFICER COMMANDING THE DETACHMENTS GOING ON COM- MAND TO WORCESTER WITH PRISONERS TAKEN FROM THE ENEMY. You are to proceed with the Detachment under your Command to Worces- ter, taking under your care Two Serjeants, Two Corporals & Twenty One Private Soldiers of the Ministerial Army. And Twelve Torys, who have been aiding and abetting General Gage and his adherents ; you are to deliver them to the Chairman of the Committee, at Worcester who is hereby enjoin'd to Order a Detachment from the Militia of that Town, to Escort them to Spring- field. And deliver them to the Committee there ; where they are to be secur'd, so as to be forthcoming whenever an Exchange of prisoners, or a happy recon- ciliation between Great Britain and her Colonies shall take place. Given at Head Quarters at Cambridge this i^' day of August 1775. Horatio Gates, Adjutant General N. B. one of the Marines Left Wounded at Cambridge, which reduces that number to Twenty private. jS) WASHINGTON PAPERS. [August, Letters to IPashington. Vol. &, f. 17 1. FROM LAOMMI BALDWIN. Chelsea Augt. i. 1775 Sir, I am just informed that there was this forenoon about 1400 regulars paraded in Boston, and afterwards marched out in order to go over to Charlestown Heights as they call Bunker hill. Suppose they are all over be- fore this time. Another person told me there was not more than 1000 men, and that they were going to reinforce Bunker hill. Send the observations as usual. It gives me unspeakable satisfaction that my conduct is approved of by the General. Nothing that lies in my power to perform shall be wanting to render his Excellency's command easy and life happy. That success & victory may attend his endeavor, is the sincere wish of his & y' Honor's most humble serv', LoAMMi Baldwin Lt Col. P. S. I trust you will give the enclosed to the General. [ Intelligence. ] august i**^ A Return of the Observations of the Day From 3 oclock Yesterday to 8 7 Boats went from Boston to Charlestown with horses and Men. From 4 to 6 in the Morning 3 Boats from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men. at 8 oClock 9 Boats Laden with Men. From 8 to 12 one small Schooner Came in from Sea and 3 Boats from Long Island Came to Boston At I oclock a Boat Came from Boston with the inhabatance to the ferry here At 2 oclock 5 Boats from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men and horses and one Boat from Boston to Winnesimit ferry with the inhabitance Continental Congress, No. 152, Vol. I,/ 83; No. i6g, Vol. i,/. 24. FROM BELCHER NOYES TO NATHANIEL NOYES. Boston August i. 1775. My Dear Son Have received no Letter from you since May 27. which I duly Answ*' 3 June by M" Wail. I wrote you May 25. both which hope came safe to your hands. Since the Battle at Charles- town some conjecture the Destruction of this Town is intended, for what purpose can't deter- mine. We are now got to the Beginning of August and nothing turns up in favor of America. The General Talk now is that the English Troops are going to leave this Town, this seems evident from several things that are taking place; Vizt': General Gage's family are going to England : Mess''** Auchmuty, Sewall &c. & others of that Stamp are going some to England and else where. I am pretty Confident the Army can't be Supported in this Town the ensuing Winter. Provisions Scarce and bad, no fuel, nor Money. People are Jealous they will plun- der and demolish the Town when they go off. Last Week there was a Notification posted up, that all those who were desirous to leave the Town to give in their Names to James Ur- quhart Town Major. & in two days time upwards of 2000 entered their Names, & passes are now granted with this Adition to the former restriction — viz'. No Plate of any kind, nor more money than _;,^5 Sterling. The rout is by way of Winnisimmett, Several have gone off by which 1 775-] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 79 which means have an Opportunity of writing you. I have it in my mind to go to M'' Little's at Newhuiy in Case I can accomplish it. I shall place Somebody in the House in Order to Secure your Effects which I wish you had taken with you, or disposed of them before you went away. I have been Jealous they will be seized, for they have Served Several Persons that have left the Town after this Sort, this has given me great Anxiety. On the receipt of this endeavour to write me your Mind. M"" Welles the Mason lives at Chelsea by which means a Letter may be convey'd, be cautious what you write — this will facilitate my intentions & if you want any thing to be sent among our things it can be done. I shall depend on your Assistance and Advice, If I can go to Newbury thro' Andover will call and see you in our Way. Not knowing where Capt Little may be I write him & enclose you to forward which desire you to do with all Speed. The Dysentery has prevail'd in this Town & been very mortal especially among Children also among the Soldiers of whom near 30 are buried in a Week as the Sextons say. D"^ Byles Sen'' buried his Wife last Wednesday. No Bells are permitted to toll for any Funerals on Account of the Sickness and Mortality among the Soldiers. Out of Ninety Officers, wounded above half have died. Several persons of Figure and Character viz'. One Coll" and Three Majors. There is no harmony. Lately x\rrived a Vessell from New Providence by whom I heard of your Brother's Wel- fare, but no Letter, others inform me he is in a poor State of Health and inclined to a Con- sumption have •wrote him Several Letters by Vessells lately gone for Provisions for the Army and Navy. I am fearful what I shall hear from him. My determination depends on hearing from you which I desire may be as soon as possible. I intend to propose to M'' Keif or some other suitable Person to take the house in Case I leave Boston, shall take the Best Care I can of your Furniture but if the Town is to be demolished, it will be needless. The Custom of the Shop has been but trifling, some days Scarce a penny. The Light House was burnt as it is said by Order of ye Continental Congress, and in Return for that Compliment they are dis- mounting Castle William, I believe for want of Men to defend it. Since April 1 9. there have died of the Army including what were Slain in Battle June 17. near 2500, so that what Troops have arrived will not make good their Loss. But I dare not enlarge. Our Anxiety at times has been great for you as well as ourselves. We constantly bear you on our Minds and remem- ber you in Our Prayers to Almighty God and hope the best of Covenant Blessings will be the Portion for you and your Consort. We are your Affectionate p' N B. " A. Dyed in ye Town June 5. John Borland Esq'' 22 Eliakem Hutchinson Esq'' of ye Small Pox July 12 Phillip Cooke 14. John Cotton Esq"" D?" Secretary 23. Wife of Docf Byles Sen' Ruth Bulfinch — at 79 Andrew Fanuel Phillips P. S. Since I finished this Letter, Passes are deny'd to Alefi, without Special Leave Seal the enclosed and forward [Order. J Head Quarters, Cambridge, August i" 1775 Parole, Gibraller. Countersign, Fairfield. The General thanks Major Tupper, and the Officers and Soldiers under his Command, for their gallant and soldier-like behaviour, in possessing themselves of the enemy's post at the Light House, and for the Number of Prisoners they took there, and doubts not, but the Con- tinental Army, will be as famous for their mercy as for their valour. Two 8o WASHINGTON ' PAPERS. [August, Two Sub^ two Serjeants, one Drum and thirty Rank and File, to parade at Head Quarters at Noon; to escort the prisoners to Worcester. The Commanding Officer will receive his orders from the Adjutant General. For the satisfaction of all concerned ; The General directs the following Resolution of the Legislature of this Colony to be inserted in General Orders, viz: " IN HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. "Watertown 29* July 1775. " Whereas sundry Complaints have been made, by some of the Soldiers raised by this Colony, that they have not received the allowance pay of Forty Shillings, agreeable to the Resolution of Provincial Congress, therefore Resolved, that a Committee be appointed forth- with, to apply to the Colonels of the several Regiments, raised by the Colony, and to the Muster Masters and Pay Masters in the Camp, at Cambridge and Roxbury; and obtain of them a complete List of the Non Commissioned (Jfficers and Soldiers, in their respective regiments, distinguishing those that have been muster'd and paid; from those that have not, that such Methods may be pursued, as shall remove all just ground of Complaint — read and ordered, that Colonel Gushing and M"' Webster, with such as the Honorable Board shall join be a Committee for the purpose above mentioned. " Sent up for concurrence. "James Warren, Speaker. " In Council, read and concurred, and Col Lincoln is join'd. "Albt P: Morton, Secy." The Officers commanding Massachusetts Regiments, will pay all due Attention to the fore- going resolution. One Man a Company, to be appointed a Camp Colour man, from every Company in every Regiment in the Army, whose particular duty it must be to attend the Quarter Master and Quarter Master Serjeant, to sweep the streets of their respective encampments, to fill up the old Necessary Houses and dig new ones, to bury all Offal, Filth, and Nastiness, that may poison or infect the health of the Troops; and the Quarter Masters are to be answerable, to their Commanding ( )fficers for a strict observance of this order, and by persevering in the constant and unremitted Execution thereof, remove that odious reputation, which (with but too much reason) has stigmatised the Character of American Troops. The Colonels and Com- manding Officers of Regiments, are to be answerable to the General, for all due obedience to this order. The General finding it is not uncustomary, for Officers to take the Liberty, of absenting themselves from Camp without leave, and going home; for the future, any Officer found guilty of so glaring an offence, against all Order and Discipline, and setting so bad an' Example to the Non Commissioned Officers and Soldiers, under their Command; such Officer or Officers so offending,. may depend upon being punish'd with the utmost severity. Least the late successes against the Enemy, should occasion any relaxation in the Alert- ness of the Troops, the (jeneral recommends it in the strongest manner, to all the Officers and Soldiers of the Continental Army ; to be the more vigilant in their duty, and watchful of the enemy; as they certainly will take every advantage of any supiness on our part. Letters io Washington. Vol. 6, /. 181. FROM GENERAL SULLIVAN. Winter Hill August 2'' 1775 May it Please Your Excellency I have Examined into the State of the Ammunition in my Department & find Remaining in the Magazine of the Powder Supplied from New Hamp- shire 19 Barrels of 100 w' each, Scarcely any Ball, & no flint except what the Soldiers are possessed of: They are in General well Provided with amu- nition for one Ingagement we have 50 Rounds of Cartridges to Each Can- non that is mounted, which is all the Ammunition for the P]rigade assigned To Your Excel lencys most obed' Serv' Jn° Sullivan 1775-1 WASHINGTON PAPERS. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, f. 179. FROM ELBRIDGE GERRY. Chamber of Supplies Watertown August 2'' 1775 May it please your Excellency Col" parker is just arrived from New York & has so far succeeded in his Business that ab' So,ooo Flints & eight Tons of Lead are expected here Saturday next : It arrived at Hart- ford Sunday & Monday last. Col" Campbell y*^ Deputy Quartermaster informed Col" porter at New York that fifteen hogsheads of powder had arrived there & that he should give your Excellency immediate Notice thereof. I apprehend We can have half a Ton Lead cast into Ball a Day, being provided with Moulds sized from 16 to 32 Balls to y'^ pound, perhaps twice that Quantity on Emergency. Col" Burbeck reed 16 half barells powder this Morning, before y'^ Committee were ap- prized of it by y"^ Agent of Supplies; but we have given orders for stopping all y'' ammuni- tion unless expressly ordered by your Excellency. Col" porter is desired to wait on you this afternoon & We remain with great Respect sir your most ob^ Ser Elbridge Gerry pres. P. S. Orders are to go to the Qarm immediately for powder. P. S. The subject of a Letter last Evening was of such a Nature that M''. Cheever was not made acquainted therewith, which We mention to your Excellency that your Mind may be easy with respect to y^ Secrecy of it Letters to IVashin^toii. Vol. 109, f. 9. [In Council. ] August 2^ 1775 Ordered, that M"' Greenleaf, M'' Winthrop & M'' Palmer be a Committee, to wait on his Excellency, General Washington, and to request him to inform this Board of the Extent of the Powers, delegated to him by the Honourable Continental Congress, a True Copy, Att' Perez Morton Secr^ pro temp : Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, /. 177-178. [ Intelligence. ] Chelsea Aug. 1^. 1775 May it Please your Excellency Inclos'' are the Observations taken by the Sentinal posted upon Powder horn Hill and also two Letters in one Cover Directed to M'' Nath'. Noyes, Andover, which I thought Proper to Send for your Excellencies Perusal. Nothing Extraordinary has hapened sence yesterday Two Boats only have Come over Passengers from Boston this day I am your Excellencys most Obediant Humb'^ Servn'. LoAMMi Baldwin Liu' Col" Aug'. 2". 1775 A Return of the observations of the Day august y" 2'' From 2 to 4 yesterday 14 Boats past from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men and 6 Returning empty From 4 to 8 16 Boats went over to Charlestown Laden and saw one Ship standing in from Sea. At 6 this Morning a Ship and a Ikig Came in from Sea and 3 Boats went From Boston to Charlestown Neck Laden with Men. At w. P. — 6 82 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [August, At 9 one Schooner Came in from Sea at lo 3 Boats Laden with Men from Boston to Charlestown. At II oclock 9 Boats went from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men and 11 Returned to Boston Laden and Sat a bilding on fire at penny ferry At 2 oclock 2 Boats Came from Boston to the ferry with the inhabitance lo Boats from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men and at 4 oclock 9 Return to Boston with Men and one floting Battery Coming Down Cambridge River [Order.] Head Quarters, Cambridge, August 2"'' 1775 Parole, IlalUfax. Counter sign, Geneva. Cap' Oliver Parker of Col Prescotts Regiment, tried by a General Court Majtial whereof Col Glover was President, for " defrauding his men of their advance pay, and by false Returns, imposing upon the Commissary, and drawing more Rations than he had men in his company, and for selling the provisions he by that means obtained" is by the Court found guilty of the whole charge against him and sentenced to be cashiered, mulcted of all his pay and rendered incapable of future service. Cap' Christopher Gardner of Col Varnums regiment, in the Rhode Island Brigade, tried by a General Court martial, whereof Col Thomas Church was president, for " deserting his post," is found guilty of the Crime, and unanimously sentenced to be cashiered, as incapable of serving his country in any military capacity. The (General approves both the above Sentences, and orders the Commanding Officers of the Regiments, to see the prisoners dismissed the army. Letters to Washington. Vol. 109, f. 10. from the new YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. New York Aug' 3'^ 1775 Sir. We are informed in a Letter from the Continental Congress that the General would make out the Commissions for our Regiments to such Persons as this Congress should recommend; but are at a loss to know whether you, or General Schuyler are to issue the Commissions. We understand however that they have been transmitted to you. If this should be the the Case, and the Commissions are to be filled up by General Schuyler, We beg you will send them to him or us without Delay. If they are to be filled up by your Excellency, we submit it, whether, to prevent Delay, it would not be proper to send them in blank to General Schuy- ler, or to us, that the Names may be filled up agreeable to the Arrangement made by this Congress. The number of Commissions wanted will be about two hundred. We are with the greatest Respect Your Excellency's Most Obedient humble Servants By Order. P. V. B. Livingston President. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, f. 182. FROM MOSES BLOOMFIELD. WoODBRiDGE, New Jersey 3"^. August 1775 At a General Review of the Regiments of the Northern Division of the County of Mid- dlesex, under the Command of Colonel Nathaniel Heard at the Township of Woodbridge in said County, a certain George Hendrick Fisher, who it appears has no Family or fixed resi- dence in this Country was brought Prisoner under Guard of a body of Men from Piscataway, and 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. and who it appears has been Guilty of the charges contained in the enclosed Declaration ■* And at the request of Lieutenant Colonel Dun, Chairman of the Committee of Piscataway before whom said Fisher was yesterday examined, and convicted. A board was formed con- sisting of sundry Members of the Committee of Woodbridge, Perth Amboy and Piscataway, who having ordered the Prisoner before them to make his defence and take his Tryal, pro- ceeded to examine and try the Matter and it appearing upon a Candid and Impartial Enquiry that said Fisher is Guilty of the charges proved against him ; the united Committees aforesaid Unanimously adopted and confirmed the Opinion of the Committee of Piscataway ; and upon Mature deliberation, Order that the said George Hendrick Fisher be sent under a strong Guard to the Company of Rifle Men that left this Town this Morning and by them be care- fully escorted to the Camp at Boston, there to remain Prisoner, or to be otherwise dealt with at the discretion of the General Officers; And the said Fisher as a just reward for his insults was ordered into the Field and Drummed out before the Regiment. Signed by order of the United Committees Moses Bloomfield, Ch*. Attest : John Conway, Clerk. Letters of Washington. F. Vol. i. No. 2. COUNCIL OF WAR. At a Council held at Cambridge Head Quarters August 3** 1775- Present His ExcelP' General Washington Major Gen' Ward & Lee & Puttnam Brigadier Gen' Thomas Heath Spencer Sullivan Green Gates The General communicated sundry Letters respecting the State of the Ammunition which appears to be far short of the Return made some Time ago, & having explained in what Man- ner the Mistake had happened desired the Opinion & Advice of the Generals present on this Subject. Upon the Returns now made the whole Stock of the Anny at Roxbury & Cambridge & the adjacent Posts consists of 90 Bbbl^ or thereabouts. It was proposed to make an Attempt on the Magazine at Halifax where there is Reason to suppose there is a great Quantity of Powder. And upon the Question being severally put it was agreed to by a great Majority, & that the Detachment for this Enteiprize consist of 300 Men. Also to endeavour to collect a Supply from the neighbouring Provinces of New Hampshire, Rhode Island & Connecticut. Letters to Washington. Vol. 6, / 1 85-1 86. [ Intelligenxe. ] Chelsea August 3*. 1775 May it Please your Excellency This covers the observations of the day to this time Two ferry Boats Came on shore at the ferry ways about 12 last night with about 20 Passenger from Boston and the Signal upon Powder horn hill was Just Erected denoting more coming am just going down to the ferry Nothing Extraordinary Occur'd since I wrote last I would beg leave to ask your Excellency whether I might attemt to move the old wreck now on the ferry ways which greatly obstructs the Passenger in bringing up their good at Low water. I am your Excellencys Most Obedeant Humb Serv' LoAMMi Baldwin Liu Col A Return of the observations of the Day august 3"* From 4 to 8 yesterday one Ship and a Schooner Came in from Sea at 7 one Brig went to Sea and stood to the Eastward and 4 Boats went to Charlestown Laden with men at 3 this morning 3 Boats went from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men From 3 to lo *See Appendix. oclock 84 • WASHINGTON PAPERS. [August, oclock 14 Boats went to Charlestown Laden with Men and horses and 7 Returned to Boston with Men at 12 oclock II Boats went from Boston to Charlestown and 2 Ships standing in along from Sea and 2 small Schooners Coming in at 2 oclock 10 Boats from Boston to Charlestown Laden with Men and 2 Boats from Boston with the inhabitance to the Ferry [Order.] Head Quarters, Cambridge, Augiist 3'''* 1775- Parole, Ireland. Counter sign, Hartford. When any plunder is taken from the Enemy (not excepted by the Continental Articles of war) such plunder must be all surrender'd to the Commanding Officer, and as soon as con- venient after his arrival at Head Quarters, public Notice must be made, that an Auction will be held in the front of the Encampment for the sale thereof the next day at noon, and the money arising therefrom, is to be equally divided between the Officers and Men, that took it. This Order is not to be construed to extend, to permitting unlawful and irregular plundering; as any Officer, or Soldier, who shall be found guilty thereof, will be punished with the greatest severity. All the Armourers, belonging to any of the regiments in the three Brigades, posted in the Lines, or in Cambridge, and those employed in the Artillery ; to be at Head Quarters by eight oClock, to morrow morning, and none will be entitled to any pay hereafter, who does not attend at that time. Letters of Washington. JMiscellaneous. Vol. i, /'. 41 ; Transcript A, Vol. i, /. 23; Con- tinental Congress, iVo. ij2. Vol. i, /. 51 ; -^"c- ^69, Vol. i, /! 9. TO CONGRESS. Camp at Cambridge August 4* 1775 Sir I am to acknowledge the Receipt of your Favour of the 24''' July accompanied by 284 Commissions, which are yet much short of the necessary Number. I am much honoured by the Confidence reposed in me of appointing the several Officers recommended in mine of the 10'*" ult. ; and shall endeavour to select such Persons, as are best qualified to fill those important Posts. General Thomas has accepted his Commission & I have heard nothing of his Retirement since, so that I suppose he is satisfied. In the Renewal of those Commissions some Difficulties occur, in which I should be glad to know the Pleasure of the hon^'' Congress. The General Officers of the Massachusetts, have Regiments, those of Connecticut, have both Regiments, & Companies, & the other Field Officers have Companies each. From Rhode Island, the General Officer has no Reofim', but 1775- ] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 85 but the Field Officers have Companies. But I do not find they have, or expect Pay under more than one Commission. Should the Commissions now to be delivered supercede these different Establishments, there will be a Distinction between General & Field Officers of the same Rank. In Order to put New Hampshire, Massachusetts & Rhode Island upon a Line wilh Connecticut, it would be necessary to dismiss a Number of Officers in Possession of Commissions, without any Fault of theirs; on the other Hand, to bring the Connecticut Gen- erals, and Field Officers to the same Scale with the others, will add to the Number of Officers, & may be deemed incon- sistent with the Terms on which they entered into the Service, altho you add nothing to the Expence, except in the Article of Provisions. Upon the whole, it is a Case, which I would wish the Hon''' Congfress to consider and determine. Col. Gridley of this Province, who is at the Head of the Artillery has the Rank of Major Gen' from the Provincial Con- gress. Will it be proper to renew his Commission here in the same Manner? It is proper here to remark, that in this Case he will take Rank of all the Brigadiers General, & even the Majors General, whose Commissions are subsequent in Date, & can answer no good Purpose, but may be productive of many bad Consequences. These are Matters of some Importance, but I am embar- rassed with a Difficulty of a superiour kind. The Estimate made in Congress, supposed all the Regiments to be formed upon one Establishment, but they are different in different Provinces ; & even vary in the same Province, in some Par- ticulars. In Massachusetts, some Regiments have Ten Com- panies, others Eleven ; The Establishment of the former is 590 Men Officers included, of the latter 649. The Establishment of Rhode Island, & New Hampshire is 590 to a Regiment, Officers included. Connecticut has 1000 Men to a Regfiment. Should the Massachusetts Regiments be completed ; with the new Levies from Rhode Island & Connecticut and the Riffle Men, the Number will exceed 22,000. If they should not be completed, as each Regiment is fully officer'd, there will be a heavy 86 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [August, heavy Expense to the Pubhck without an adequate Service. The Reduction of some of them seems to be necessary & yet is a Matter of much Dehcacy, as we are situated. I most earnestly request it may be taken into immediate Considera- tion, & the Time & Mode of doing it, pointed out by the Hon''' Congress. By an Estimate I have made, from the Gen- eral Return, when the new Levies arrive, & the Regiments are completed there will be 24,450 Men on the Pay & Provi- sion of the united Colonies. Some of the recruiting Officers who have been out on that Service, have returned with very little Success, so that we may safely conclude, the Number of 2064 now wanting to complete will rather increase than diminish. There are the Regiment of Artillery consisting of 493 Men, & one under Col. Sergeant who has not received any Commission, altho he had Orders to raise a Regiment from the Provincial Congress here, which are not included in the above Estimate. This last Regiment consists of 234 Men by the last Return, but a Company has since joined. By adverting to the General Return, which I have the Honour of inclosing (No. i,"") it will be seen what Regiments are most deficient. If the Congress does not chuse to point out the particular Regiments, but the Provinces in which the Reduction is to be made, the several Congresses and Assemblies may be the proper Channell to conduct this Business : which I should also conceive the most adviseable, from their better Acquaintance with the Merits, Terms, & Time of Service of the respective Officers. Reducing some Regiments, & with the Privates thereof, filling up others would- certainly be the best Method ♦general RETUKN of the army of the united colonies commanded by his excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON ESQUIRE GENERAL AND COMMANDER IN CHIEF. Head Quarters at Cambridge, July 29''' 1775 Massachusetts Bay regiments 26. & 4 Independ' companies Connecticut regiments 3. New Hamshire regiments 3. Rhode Island regiments 3. Total of present commissioned officers, 30 Colonels 31. L' Colonels. 35 Majors. 289 Captains. 511. Lieuten- ants 73 Ensigns. Total of present Staff officers 14 Chaplains. 34. Adjutants. 35. 2- ^^'eek Vinegar 2 (iallons ^^ Company '^ Week Chocolate 6"' "fr^ Company 'jr) \Veek Sugar 3"' ^' Company ^ Week I Gill Rum 'p Man ; on fatigue days only Provission made for the Hospital at discretion of the Physicians and Surgeons The Rations, will Cost when Pork is Issued 11'' %^ diem; when fresh Beef 10''. * Congress had adjourned on August i to meet on September 5, but from the small attendance on that day, a further adjournment was made to September 13. [W. C. F.] [fThe other enclosures mentioned in General Washington's letter will be fiumd under their respective dates.— W. C. F.] 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 93 [ Enclosure No. 2.] [ In Provincial Congress. ] Watertown, June 10, 1775. Resolved, that each Soldier in the Massachusetts Army, shall have the following Allowance ^ Day, viz : Article i — One Pound of Bread. Article 2 — Haifa Pound of Beef, and half a Pound of Pork; and if Pork cannot be had, one pound and a quarter of Beef. And one Day in Seven, they shall have one Pound and one (Quarter of Salt Fish, instead of one Day's Allowance of Meat. Article 3 — One Pint of Milk, or if Milk cannot be had, one Gill of Rice. Article 4 — One Quart of Good Spruce or Malt Beer. Article 5 — One Gill of Pease or Beans, or other Sauce equivalent. Article 6 — Six Ounces of good Butter ^ Week. Article 7 — One pound of Good Common Soap, for Si.\ Men ^ Week. Ardcle 8 — Half a pint of Vinegar ^ Week, f)'' Man, if it can be had. Joseph Warren, President Attest Samuel Freeman Secry Letters of Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. i, f. 38. TO GOVERNOR COOKE. Camp at Cambridge Aug. 4. 1775 Sir I was yesterday favoiir'd with yours of the 31' July — We have yet no certain Account of the Fleet which sailed out of Boston the 25'^ but if our Conjecture & Information are just we may expect to hear of it every Hour. I am now Sir, in strict Confidence to acquaint you that our Necessities in the Article of Powder and Lead are so great as to require an immediate Supply : I must earnestly entreat you will fall upon some Measures to forward every Pound of each in the Colony which can possibly be spared : It is not within the Propriety or Safety of such a Correspondence to say what I might upon this Subject: It is sufficient that the Case calls loudly for the most strenuous Exertions of every Friend of his Country & does not admit of the least Delay — No Quantity however small is beneath Notice & should any arrive, I beg it may be forwarded as soon as possible : But a supply of this kind is so precarious not only from the Danger of the Enemy but the opp^' of purchasing that I have revolved in my Mind every other possible Chance & listened to every Proposition on the Subject 94 WASHINGTON PAPERS. [August, Subject which could give the smallest Hope. Among others I have had one mentioned which has some Weight with me as well as the General Officers to whom I have proposed it. One Harris is lately come from Bermuda where there is a very considerable Magazine of Powder in a remote Part of the Island and the Inhabitants well disposed not only to our cause in General but to assist in this Enterprise in particular. We understand there are two armed Vessels in your Province commanded by Men of known Activity & Spirit. One of which it Is proposed to despatch on this Errand with such other Assistance as may be requisite — Harris is to go along as the Conductor of the Enterprise & to avail ourselves of his Knowledge of the Island but without any Command. — I am very sensible that at first View the Prospect may appear hazardous & its success must depend on the Concurrence of many Cir- cumstances, but we are in a Situadon which requires us to run all Risques — No Danger is to be considered when put in Competition with the Magnitude of the Cause & the absolute Necessity we are under of increasing our Stock — Enterprizes which appear chimerical often prove successful from that very Circumstance. Common Sense & Prudence will suggest Vig- ilance & Care when the Danger is plain & obvious, but where little Danger is apprehended the more the Enemy is unpre- pared and consequently there is the faint Prospect of Success. M' Brown has been mentioned to me as a very proper Person to consult upon this Occasion you will judge of the Propriety of communicating it to him in Part or the whole. And as soon as possible favour me with your Sentiments & the steps you may have taken to forward it. If no immediate and safe Opp^ offers you will please to do it by Express. Should it be inconvenient to part with one of the armed Vessels, per- haps some other might be fitted out, or you could devise some other Mode of executing this Plan, so that in Case of a Disappointment the Vessel might proceed to some other Island to purchase. My last Letter from the Hon''' Continental Congress recommends my procuring from the Colonies of Connecticut & Rhode Island a Quantity of Tow Cloth for 1775] WASHINGTON PAPERS. 95 for the Purpose of making Indian or hunting Shirts for the Men many of whom are very destitute of Clothing. A Pattern will be sent you & I must request you to give the necessary Directions throughout your Governm' that all the Cloth of the above kind may be bought up for this Use & suitable Persons set to work to make it up. As soon as any Number is made worth the Conveyance you will please to direct them to be forwarded It is designed as a Species of Uniform both cheap & convenient. We have had no Transactions in either Camp since my last but what are in the publick Papers & related with tolerable Accuracy. The Enemy still continue to strengthen their Lines & we have Reason to believe intend to bombard ours, with the Hopes of forcing us out of them. Our Poverty in Ammunition prevents our making a suitable Return. Since writing the above Col : Porter has undertaken to assist in the Matter or to provide some suitable Person to accompany Harris to you who will communicate all Circum- stances to you. Letters to Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. 6, f. 55. to governor trumbull. Aug. 4'^ 1775 Sir I am favoured with yours of the 31'' July informing me that the new Levies are coming forward with all expedition : As the Enemy has lain much longer inactive than I expected I hope they will arrive in Time to give us their assistance. My last Letter from the Hon. Continental Congress recom- mends my procuring from the Colonies of Rhode Island & Connecticut a Quantity of Tow Cloth for the purpose of mak- ing Indian or hunting Shirts for the Men, many of whom are destitute of Cloathing. A Pattern is herewith sent you, & I must request you to give the necessary Directions throughout your Governm' That all the Cloth of the above kind may be bought up for this Use, & suitable Persons set to work to make it up : As 96 WASHINGTON PAPER LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 007 243 234 4 As soon as any Number is made worth the Conveyance, you will please to direct them to be forwarded. It is designed as a Species of Uniform both cheap & convenient. We have had no Transactions of any Consequence in either Camp since my last, but what are in the publick Papers & related with tolerable Accuracy I am now Sir, in strict Con- fidence to acquaint you that our Necessities in the Article of Powder & Lead are so great as to require an immediate Supply. I most earnestly intreat you to fall upon some Measures to forward to us every Ounce in the Province which can pos- sibly be spared. It is not within the Propriety of such a Correspondence to say what I might upon this subject: It is sufficient that the Case calls loudly for the warmest & most strenuous Exertions of every P'riend to his Country and does not admit the least delay. No Quantity however small is beneath Notice & should any arrive I beg it may be forwarde'd" to us as fast as possible. The Express having left his Horse at Hartford is under a Necessity of going that Way. Sent per Alexander the Express. Letters of Washington. Miscellaneous. Vol. i,/! 36. TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE. Camp at Cambridge, Aug 4. 1775 Gent'' Your publick Capacity & the Hope that you will be both able & willintr to eive us some Assistance has led me to make this Application. The Situation of the Army as to Ammuni- tion is by no Means what it ought to be. We have great Reason to expect the Enemy very soon intend to bombard our Lines, & our Stock of Powder is so small as in a great Degree to make our heavy Artillery useless I must therefore request you will exert yourselves to forward whatever can be spared from your Province as soon as possible The Necessity is great the Cause is of the last Importance. I am therefore perswaded HoUinger Corp. pH8.5