YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY niirmwiiTflffffiDEiaiBiiiBiifraSMgSBMB^ ^'i1 ^^^.f"^^^^^^^^^^^-"--1- ';"X! Eng. TayvAI3.DuTaiid_ from the full length Portrait "by Col.TrambuU. "belonging to"l!ale c°lLeg ©¦2K®m@]i wiissiESTc&E'crosrc Entered according to the a<_t of Congress in tie year 1834 "by James ITemngm the derW-, aflxv of the District Coun oflho SouQ\em District of New" Wk. o THE BLAND PAPERS : BEING A SELECTION FROM THE MANUSCRIPTS OF COLONEL THEODORICK BLAND, JR. OP PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY, VIRGINIA. TO WHICH ARE PREFIXED AN INTRODUCTION, , A MEMOIR OF COLONEL BLAND- Clarorum viiorum facta moresque posteris tradere.— Tacitdb. EDITED BY CHARLES CAMPBELL. IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. PETERSBURG : PRINTED BY EDMUND & JULIAN C. RUFFIN. 1840. 7.80 Enteeed, according to act of Congress, in the year 1839, by JOHN E. MEADE and CHARLES CAMPBELL, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of the Eastern District of Virginia. OU? *o CONTENTS OF VOL. I. Introduction, Memoir of Colonel Bland, The Bland Papers, Appendix, Page v - xi 1 145 HENRY ST. GEORGE TUCKER, ESQ. PRESIDENT OF THE COURT OF APPEALS OF VIRQINIA, THIS SELECTION FROM THE PAPERS OF HIS NEAR RELATIVE, COL OJYEL BLAND, IS MOST RESPECTFULLY INSCRIBED: ADVERTISEMENT. The second volume of this work is now ready for the press, and will appear at as early a day as practicable. INDEX TO THE BLAND PAPERS. PART FIRST. LETTERS WRITTEN BEFORE THE REVOLUTION. BY WHOM WRITTEN. PAGE Richard and John Bland, - . 1 Rev. John Tyler, - . 2 Richard Bland, - 3 Mary Lee, - 4 Ryland Randolph, - 5 Anonymous, 6, 22, 24 Richard Bland, Jr., - 6 Charles Goore, 7, 14 Robert Munford, - 9, 1 3 Abraham Maury, 1 1 Theodorick Bland, Jr., 16, 18, 23, 30, 33 S. Powel, 17 John Bland, - 20 Anna Bland, - - 1 1 Theodorick Bland, Sr., 21, 27 Thomas Smith, - - 23 Peyton Skipwith, 25 Arthur Lee, - - 28 PART SECOND. LETTERS WRITTEN DURING THE REVOLUTION. Cornstalk, (the Indian chief,) - 35 Richard Bland, - 36, 37 Richard Kidder Meade, 38, 53, 54 Benjamin Harrison, Jr. (of Berkley,) 39 Theodorick Bland, Jr., 40, 42, 47, 54, 62, 65, 73, 76, 103, 110, 1 16 121, 128 Paulus iEmilius Irving, - 45 Lord Stirling - 46, 60 John Banister, 50, 55, 70, 74, 84, 86, 96, 101, 102 Henry Lee - 51, 53 Cuthbert Harrison, - - 52 Tench Tilghman, - - 60 Alexander Hamilton - - - 61,70 Stephen Moylan - - r - - 6 1 H. Hollings worth, .... 62 9096 9799 INDEX TO THE BLAND PAPERS. PAGE BY WHOM WRITTEN. . no mr , n(~ General Washington 63, 67, 71, 72, 81, 83, 84, 95, 98, 102, 10^, 106, 108, 109, 140 John Page - go Cole Digges, 69 Count Pulaski, „~ on John Penn, - " ' o The Marquis de la Fayette, 1° Fleury, - ^',. Baylor Hill '' Benjamin Temple, 88' 1M' lfQ Richard Caswell, Anonymous, John Jameson, - Casimo Medice, M. De Francy, John White, - J "* Nathaniel Greene, - - j"' Anthony Wayne, " j0^ Arthur Lee, J J J, R. L. Hooper, ll° Richard Call, - 114 1 1 r George Rootes, iJ-' William Phillips, 117, 119, 125, 126, 130, 131, 133, 135, 141, 14o John Watts, 123 Baron de Riedesel, 1"° Patrick Henry, - 124,128 Ambrose Madison, - _ A. Edmonstone, - 127, 129 Zachariah Burnley, 131 John Hawkins, 1 32 Thomas Jefferson, 133,138 Major Irving - ' 36 William Henry, - - 1 38 Robert Dobson, 139 E. Theobald, I44 APPENDIX. Genealogy of the Blands, ...... 14<> Return of the second Virginia regiment, . . . . 1 50 Indian words, . ..... . 151 Gaming, .......... 152 Extract from Letters and Memoirs of Madame de Riedesel, . 152 Military orders, . . . . 1;",!"' General orders, .... . . 156 Memorandum of T. Bland, Jr. 156 Manufactories in Virginia, . . . 157 Regulations for the post at Charlottesville, . . 1 58 Parole of Can-H, . . . 159 General orders, . i . 159 INTRODUCTION Preliminary to this work, it may be proper to give some history of the original manuscripts from which these papers have been selected, and some particulars connected with their publication. To this is added a succinct chronological detail of some incidents in the life of Col. Theodorick Bland, such as are to be found scattered through the pages of this compilation. Several years since, perhaps in 1833, 1 chanced to hear, (from the landlord and a gentleman of the neighborhood chatting together in a tavern porch,) at City Point, mention made of the existence of cer tain old manuscripts of Colonel Bland. Learning on inquiry that Cawson's, the former seat of Colonel Bland, where these papers were said to be, was distant only a moderate walk from the Point, and being directed the way, I soon struck a footpath, winding along the verge of that elevated plateau which overlooks the fine wide sheet of water, where the " pleasant river of Apamatuck" empties into the James, and in a few minutes reached the house. The lady there, (with whom I had not then the pleasure of an acquaintance,) on coming to the door and learning the antiquarian purport of my visit, very obligingly reached down a bundle of letters of divers revolutionary worthies, from the interstices of the eaves of the porch, where they were nicely pigeon-holed. The shortness of my time allowed me merely to glance at this parcel, when a little mulatto boy, with a key in his hand, con ducted me to a small new-built out-house in one corner of the yard, wherein, on opening the door, was found a capacious wooden chest, full to the brim of manuscripts, lying topsy-turvy, " rudis indigestaque moles." One of the first my eye lit upon was a letter, on an ample sheet, from General Washington, dated at Cambridge, Mass. The manuscripts were (many of them) mouse-nibbled, rat-eaten, stained, torn and faded ; and they certainly breathed any thing but " Sabean odors from the spicy shore of Araby the blest." All this, however, only served to enhance their value, in an antiquarian point of view. I had barely time to thrust my hand among them, turn over a few, and sigh that I could not then explore their merits to the bottom. But " time and tide wait for no man," not even for an antiquary : the sound of the stage-horn suddenly interrupted my revolutionary reflections, and rendered it necessary for me to bid an abrupt adieu to the enchanted chest. It was my wish to revisit the place, and by the Vl INTRODUCTION courtesy of the proprietor there, inspect these literary relics more at my leisure ; but having left Virginia, shortly afterwards, for an absence of several years, I was deprived of that satisfaction. However, the sight of the chest had left so lively an impression on my memory, that from Alabama I wrote on the subject of the Cawson papers, to Edmund Ruffin, Esq., of Petersburg, and to the secretary of the Virginian Historical Society. Some time after the letter to Mr. Ruffin, a considerable number of the manuscripts, at his request, were sent to him. His numerous avocations, however, left him time to make but a slight examination of them, after which they continued for some time to repose quietly in the wicker-basket, in which they were brought to town. Having returned from the west with the leisure of indifferent health, I undertook the examination, and succeeded after a good deal of pains in educing something like order, out of the chaos. In 1837, at my so licitation, Mr. Ruffin consented to issue, on the cover of the Farmers' Register, a prospectus, proposing to publish a periodical work, to be entitled " The Repository of Historical Materials," in which it was in tended to bring out a selection from the Cawson papers. This pro spectus, however, happened to attract no attention whatever, except that, (in accordance with a suggestion it contained,) one gentleman was so obliging as to transmit for publication, a number of General Washington's letters in his own hand-writing. The old papers were now consigned to the drawer of an antiquated bureau, up three pairs of stairs, and there allowed to repose. Some time after, however, they were again opened to the daylight, and a part of them I took the trouble to transcribe. Upon inquiry, it turned out, that there was a still larger number of these manuscripts yet in preservation at Cawson's. I found there a mass of musty documents, old accounts, ship letters, and the rubbish of a clerk's office,* mixed up with papers of interest and value. I winnowed the wheat from the chaff as well as I was able. Those thus selected I transcribed, at broken intervals, in a desultory way, according to my humor. At length, when I had completed the transcripts, part of which are now published, they were submitted to the perusal of several gentlemen fully competent to judge of their merits ; in a highly favorable estimate of which they were unanimous. By the liberality of some half a dozen of these gentlemen, (whose names I should be pleased to feel at liberty to mention,) a sufficient sum of money was advanced to ensure their publication. To them, therefore, the production of this work is in a great measure to be accredited ; and to them I return my ac knowledgments for their patronage of this enterprise. Having thus given some account of the particular circumstances which led to this publication, it remains on this head to present some history of the manuscripts themselves. Colonel Theodorick Bland was (as is well known,) a man of emi nence in a military, as well as in a civil capacity. Accordingly, for many years, he held a correspondence whh a circle of the prominent * Col. Bland's father was clerk of the count}' of Prince Georo-e. INTRODUCTION. vii men of his day, and at his death left a large accumulation of papers, of which the following, found among them, is a general index. list of the manuscript papers of Colonel Bland, from the original found among them. Congress papers, No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11. Letters to and from General Washiugton, No. 1, 2. Letters to and from the governors of Virginia, No. 1. Letters to and from military general officers, No. 1, 2. Letters to and from Theodorick Bland, Sen., and Lady, No. 1. Letters to and from Theodorick Bland, Sen., and Col. Banister, No. 1 . Letters to and from Colonel Tucker, No. 1. Letters to and from Major General Phillips, No. 1, 2, 3. Letters on civil affairs, No. 1 . Letters, friendly, No. 1 . Letters to and from correspondents on civil and military affairs, No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Accounts with the United States and state of Virginia, No. 1, 2. Accounts, bills of exchange, &c, No. 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. Domestic affairs, No. 1, 2. Military papers, No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 1 1, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17. War office, No. 1. Miscellanies, No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Medical receipts and memoranda, No. 1. Essays, enigmas, &c. No. 1. Receipts for troops, dragoons, expenses, No. 1 . Receipts on civil and military affairs, No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. Capt. Theo. Munford's papers and accounts, No. 1. Obsolete regimental papers, No. 1. Cards, No. 1. Receipts for taxes, levies, &c, No. 1. [84 bundles.] From this index it appears, that his manuscripts (in the care of which he seems to have been very exact) consisted at the time it was made of eighty-four bundles ; the contents of which could not fail to be of interest and consequence, as being written by eminent hands,* * The following memorandum list of letters, written by Colonel Bland during the interim between the 17th of April and the 29th of October, 1782, may serve to afford some idea of his correspondence : To whom. Robert Goode James Hunter M. G. Rubsamen Mrs. Bland do.do.do. Colonel John Banister St. George Tucker When written. No. April 17th, 1782. 1 CC (I 1 (t it 1 " 2d, 1 " 17th, 2 " 24th, 3 a 4 " 23d, 1 May 17th, 2 viii INTRODUCTION the greater part of them during the revolution, and many of them on topics of the utmost dignity and moment. Unfortunately a large por tion of them, no doubt including a number most worthy of preserva tion, have perished. Time however in some degree alleviates her spoliations by proportionably enhancing the value of that remainder which she leaves untouched. Colonel Bland died in 1790, without issue; his widow married twice after his death, and finally ended her days (it is said) in a fo reign country, probably France. Upon her death the books and pa pers of the estate came into possession of a nephew of her second husband. While in his care they seem to have suffered utter neglect. The celebrated John Randolph of Roanoke is said to to have made To whom. Mrs. Bland St. George Tucker Mann Page, Esq. Colonel T. Bland, Sen. Colonel John Banister do. St. George Tucker Mrs. Bland James Hunter Rev. Mr. Andrews Colonel John Banister St. George Tucker Hon. Arthur Lee Hon. Edmund Randolph Arthur Lee, Esq. Jacob Rubsamen Hon. Edmund Randolph St. George Tucker do. Mann Page, Esq. Brigadier General Alexander Spotswood Colonel T. Bland, Sen. Colonel William Dangerfield St. George Tucker Colonel John Banister do. Colonel T. Bland, Sen. St. George Tucker Brigadier General Spotswood Hon. John Banister John Burwell Hon. Edmund Randolph Colonel T. Bland, Sen. Hon. Edmund Randolph St. George Tucker James Hunter Colonel T. Bland, Sen. From the above (if it is to be considered as a complete list of all the letters written during the time mentioned) it would appear that Colonel Bland, in the interval of about six months, wrote forty-six letters to fifteen several individuals, or at the rate of about ninety letters a year. Of what proportion of these he retained duplicate copies, it is impossible to form any estimate, nor is it of any eTb7neegTeectSande,aPs: oftme^ a "*' ""* °f MS ™P^ence ha* perish* When written. No. May 7th, 1782. 5 " 13th, 3 " 7th, 1 " 13th, 1 " 19th, 2 " 20th, 3 " 21st, 4 tt tt 6 " 28th, 2 '( CC 1 " " 8 " " 5 « tt 1 June 4th, 1 « « 2 tt tt 2 July 2d, 2 June 11th, 6 " 17th, 7 tt ft 2 July 23d, 1 " 24th, 3 tt tc 1 " (C 8 EC (f 4 " 30th, 5 « tt it ft 4 Aug. 6th, 92 I yet in my bondage remain'd, And no other Penates I knew, But those which near Mantua reigned. But soon as I visited Rome, There the godlike Augustus I saw, His helmet adorn'd with a plume, And like Sybil he uttered the law. No sooner I told him my case, How my fields were by his soldiers despoil'd, He bade me return to the place, And enjoy the fruits of my toil. * The following document will give some account of an association to which he belonged at this time : ARTICLES RELATING TO THE VIRGINIA CLUB. — 1761. 1st. That every constituent of this club shall be a Virginian born, and shall, up on his admission into it, give his honor strictly to adhere to the subsequent rules-.- KViii MEMOIR OF seems not to have monopolized his time so exclusively as to prevent him from falling into a love-affair, the object of which was a Miss: Anne Miller — a young lady from Virginia, who was then in Edinburgh, The scheme was strenuously opposed by his father, and his friend, Dr. Fothergill, and was shortly afterwards abandoned. Indeed young Bland himself in a letter disavows the affair, and sets it down as an unfounded surmise. There was in London John Bland, a quaker merchant, a relative of young Theodorick, who had visited him. This old gentleman, in a letter, dated July, 1762, observes to his cousin at Edinburgh: "I will write thy good father in regard to the report of thyself and Miss Mil ler ; and doubt not he will be relieved from the distress he suffered in consequence thereof. This matter shows thee how circumspect thou ought to be." And in reference to the negro boy mentioned before : " I shall be glad to hear Tom gets well down. He is a fine boy, but I fear will elope from thee ; and indeed I cannot but wish he had stayed in Virginia, where he might most probably have been a good ser- 2d. That as this institution is supposed to be solely for the improvement of its members in anatomy, (which is justly termed the basis of physic,) each member shall, at his own room, or at some other place appointed at least three days before, give a demonstration in anatomy, the subject of which shall be appointed and agreed on by the club on the night of the preceding meeting. 3d. That every member of this club shall make it his endeavor, if possible, for the honor of his profession, not to degrade it by hereafter mingling the trade of an apothecary or surgeon with it. 4th. That no person shall be admitted a member of this club, who does not de clare upon his honor his future intentions to take a degree in physic, at this or some other university. 5th. That every Virginian attending the colleges of physic here, provided it be with the unanimous consent of the club, and upon conforming to proposition 3d, shall be admitted a perpetual visiter ; but that no one who has not attended one course of anatomy at least shall be allowed to demonstrate to the club. 6th. That no member shall be absent upon the night of the demonstration if possibly to be avoided ; and no other excuse for absence be deemed sufficient but that of his declaring upon honor the necessity for such absence was indispensable. 7th. That the order in which the members are to demonstrate shall be such as is agreed on by the members, and to continue for the future without inter ruption. 8th. That if any member does not demonstrate regularly in his turn, the next in rotation shall resume both the subject and turn, which he shall lose till it comes round to him again ; except he is disabled by sickness, when the demon stration may be deferred for one week only, and then to proceed as usual. Signed, Theodorick Bland, THEODORICK BLAND. xix vant." The solicitude with which this worthy old gentleman seems to have apprehended the elopement of Tom, may excite a smile, when we consider how repugnant his sentiments on this subject were to those at the present day generally entertained by his peculiar sect. Theodorick Bland was among the first persons from Virginia that devoted themselves to the study of medicine. Five others from that colony are mentioned by him as members of the university at the same time with himself, (1761,) to wit: a Field, a Lee, a Blair, a Bankhead and a Gilmer.* Numerous medical notes, essays, theses, &c, in Latin and in English, found among the writings of Doctor Bland, attest the diligence with which he devoted himself to the study of his profession — a profession at that day in Virginia but little culti vated, and in the improvement of which he is entitled to the merit of having been one of the earliest pioneers. * The following is in the hand-writing of Theodorick Bland, and seems to have been written about the year 1761 : To the Honorable the Council of Virginia and House of Burgesses, the humble petition of the students of physic in the University of Edinburgh, from the colo ny of Virginia, showing : That we, your humble petitioners, being unanimously resolved to pursue our studies with such vigor and assiduity as shall most probably qualify us to prac tise with success the salutary art of healing, and entitle us to those honors in medicine, which are conferred on those only whose proficiency in the art appears to merit them ; and beholding with inexpressible concern the present unguarded state of physic in our native country, which lies open to the intrusion of every pretender to the medicinal art, who may there practise not less to the dishonor of medicine itself, than the destruction of mankind— are moved by these considera tions humbly to petition that the honorable the council of Virginia and house of burgesses, will, agreeably to their distinguished regard for the people's welfare, enact such wholesome laws as shall to their wisdom appear most proper to reme dy this public evil, and prevent any one for the future from professedly practising medicine who has not received a public testimony of his abilities, by being pro perly licensed and honored with a doctor's degree. Your petitioners humbly conceive that such laws will not only most effectually conduce to the preservation of the health, (a point of the most interesting, inesti mable and tender import to every individual,) but further be a public and highly laudable encouragement to those students from the colony of Virginia, who are now, and may be hereafter, engaged in the study of medicine, to pursue it with the perseverance, industry and address, which alone can entitle them to a pros pect of success. Such attention to the cultivation of each particular branch of science we humbly imagine to be eminently worthy of the regard of the fathers and protectors of our country. Thus sweet heaven shall bless our happy coun try, and breathe its kindly influence on her rulers, for which, as in duty bound, your petitioners will ever pray. xx M E M O I R 0 F In February, 1763, young Bland's father writes him: "I flatter my self with the hopes of seeing my dear and only son, (whom I have already been deprived of for near ten years,) at farthest in the spring of sixty-four." In the same year the son, in a letter to his father, mentions his expectation of leaving Edinburgh for London, about May or June; and, with the approbation of his father and Dr. Fother gill, proposes to visit Leyden and Paris, with the intention of return ing to Virginia in two years. In December, 1763, young Bland was at London. In 1764 or 1765 he at length, after a long absence, re turned home to Virginia. Here he now entered upon the practice of physic. Of his history from this period for a number cf the ensuing years scarcely any information is to be derived from his remaining papers. In the quiet sphere in which he lived during this interval, it is probable that his career afforded few incidents, the knowledge of which could be of any particular interest or consequence at the pre sent day. While in England he had not been an indifferent spectator of the political commotions of that day; and a letter from Arthur Lee, dated at London, 1770, evinces that at that early period he was (in common with his correspondent) a firm and ardent opposer of the encroach ments of Great Britain on the rights of the colonies.* In 1771, Dr. Bland entertained a scheme of retiring from the prac tice of medicine. This plan met with the decided disapprobation of his parents, which for a time overcast their intercourse with an un pleasant shade of reserve. Dr. Bland had now been for seven years engaged in the practice of physic. During this period he married Martha Dangerfield, a lady of one of the counties of the Northern Neck in Virginia. With a constitution from the cradle delicate and infirm, and with a strong natural bent towards a life of rural quiet and studious repose, he had for seven years undergone all the fatigues and anxieties of his profession. Yet he who, in 1771, was fondly meditating a life of peaceful seclusion, and sighing for some sequestered Abyssinian hap py valley, (that common phantasm of youthful imagination,) was des tined in a few years to take an active part in the revolution that en sued, and to be, from the commencement of the war to the close of * Arthur Lee was a frequent writer in the Public Advertiser during the years 1769, 1770, 1771, over the signature Junius Americanus. See WoodfalPs Junius, Vol. I, p. 102, where Dr. Lee is erroneously styled Dr. Charles Lee, and ib. p. 153, Junius observes : " My American namesake is plainly a man of abilities;" THEODORICKBLAND. xxi liis life, either in the military or civil department, almost continually occupied in the public service. December 1st, 1774, Dr. Bland, writing to a mercantile house at Bristol, England, employs the following language : " You will there fore excuse my not complying with your request to assist Captain Aselby in his loading. I should have vested the small proceeds in goods, but the present political disputes between these colonies and the mother country, which threaten us with a deprivation of our liber ties and every thing that is dear to us, forbid such a step, and induce us to exert every nerve to imitate the silk-worm, and spin from our own bowels, although the web should be our winding-sheet." The battle of Lexington, which ushered in the revolution, on the 19th of April, 1775, Dr. Bland made the subject of the following poetical effusion, rather distinguished for its patriotic than its poetical merit: When Britain once with glory fired The foes of freedom did assail, Her godlike sons to acts aspired, To which old Greece and Rome would vail. The tyrant-fiend beneath her power His [prostrate] crest submissive bowed — Hung round with trophies freedom's tower, In Britain's happy island stood. When haughty Philip held the rod O'er Belgia, sunk in deep despair, Hesperia's force, at Britain's nod, Like meteors vanished into air. When great Columbus trackless ways, To find our happy clime, explores, Britannia sent a sprig of bays, Which Raleigh planted on our shores. It grew, it flourished, [till] around And underneath the spreading shade The poet sung * * * * No tyrant dared his [peace] invade. ****** Benignant then she turned her eyes, And blessed the land with peaceful arts — MEMOIR OF Fair commerce then began to rise, And agriculture cheer'd our hearts. But, lo ! the ruthless tooth of time, By slow destruction, undermines The sacred plant, when in its prime, And all the arts of peace confines. Corruption foul the blest abode, By fortune's mazy paths, assays, And underneath her feet are trod The verdant laurel and the bays. Lo ! iron war stalks [forth] her train, Invades Columbia's peaceful shores, And sorrow, in a heart-felt strain, Mourns freedom lost and peace [deplores]. Can Britain's sons with hostile mien On Britain's sons the poniard draw T Plunge in then- breast the dagger keen, And overturn great nature's law 1 Shall all those rights for which ye fought, Which tyrants long assail' d in vain, Be ravish'd, [plunder'd,] pilfer'd, bought, And not [a wreck] of them remain 1 Shall [Britain's isle,] once so free, All nations' envy, nature's pride, Bow down her neck to slavery 1 Shall shackled slaves her fate decide? Shall Brunswick's line, exalted high, And freely placed on Britain's throne, See hapless freedom prostrate lie, And trampled on by Brunswick's son ? Ye nobles great, ye barons bold, Remember glorious Runnymede, Your ancestors, nor bought nor sold, Stood ready for their rights to bleed. THEODORICK BLAND. xxiii Then spurn the proffered bribe with scorn — The chartered rights your sires have won Purely transmit to those unborn — Let not the sire [enslave] the son. Your brothers free in distant climes, With noble ardor on you call, Prepared to meet tempestuous times, And prop the fabric ere it fall. On the 24th day of June, 1775, Dr. Bland was one of a party of twenty-four gentlemen, who, shortly after the hegira of Lord Dunmore, removed certain arms from the governor's palace, at Williamsburg.* * List of arms, S[C. removed from the Palace. In the hand-writing of Theodorick Bland, Jr. Theodorick Bland, Jr. John Draper. Richard Kidder Meade. William Egglestone, Richmond Benjamin Harrison (of Berkley,) Jr. Ishmael Moody, York. George Nicholas, Williamsburg. Patrick Gait. John Archer. Thomas Smith. Philip Mazzei. John Brown. Henry Brown, James City. John Elliot, James City. Edward Conolly. Thomas Evans. James Monroe. David Donnan. Moore Wilson. Edward Travis. Robert Burton, Albemarle. Richard Egglestone. Granville Smith, Hanover. Harrison Randolph. No. 1. 96 j> 158 broad swords. 2. 75 > fire-locks. 134 small swords. 3. 59) — 292 230 Total. Total (301) delivered to th gazine ; this difference occasioned by mistake in counting. 18 pistols without locks. June 24th, 1775. — The above arms were taken from the palace, in open day light, and conveyed under guard through the street, and lodged safely in the ma gazine without the least injury or insult offered to the person or property of any one, and at the expense of the persons set down in the list. Cart, No. 1., carried 96. Guards — Benj. Harrison, Thomas Smith, Patrick Gait, John Archer. George Nicholas, counter, [appointed to count the arms.] Cart, No. 2., 75. — The same guards, the same counter. xxiv MEMOIR OF The arms were lodged in the magazine of which Dr. Bland had the charge.* In December, of the same year, he wrote, apparently for publication, certain philippics, (subscribed Cassius,) inveighing against the Earl of Dunmore. In these he depicts his lordship's character in the darkest colors, as one whose political corruption was surpassed only by his private profligacy. About this time Dr. Bland made known his desire to enter the army; in reference to which, Benjamin Harrison, Jr., of Berkley, in a letter, although he deprecates his entrance into military life, because he could be of infinite service to his country in the civil department, yet pro mises, should he still insist upon that step, to give him his vote, in pre ference to any man in the colony, who had as little military experience. No. 3.-59 fire-locks. 18 pistols without locks. 50 broad swords, best kind. 49 do. with iron hilts. 134 small swords. 54 broad swords with iron hilts. 54 do. with do. 3 small. Guards — Messrs. Jameson, H. Randolph, John Brown, Henry Brown. [On the 6th of June, Lord Dunmore took refuge on board the Fowey man-of-war. Shortly afterward the assembly requested him to order the arms, which he had left in the palace, to be removed to the public magazine. This request he refused to comply with. Whereupon, on the 24th, they were removed without his authority, as above stated. See Wirt's Patrick Henry, pp. 150, 154. — Editor.] * Receipt of arms. The subscribers hereto acknowledge the receipt of a stand of arms each, from the public magazine ; which we do oblige ourselves to return to Doctor Theodorick Bland, or order, when demanded. June 26th, 1775. Richard Kidder Meade. R. Kidder Meade, for H. Raines. John Carter Littletage. John Randle. Francis Irwin. Thomas Smith. * * * * [On the adjournment of the assembly, nightly watches were established in Wil liamsburg, and a guard, to protect the city against any surprise from their ene mies. The neighboring counties lent their assistance by sending men for this purpose ; and it was with this view, probably, that arms were taken by the persons above-named. See Wirt's Patrick Henry, p. 157.— Editor.] THEODORICK BLAND. xxv June 13th, 1776, Dr. Bland was appointed by the convention at Wil liamsburg captain of the first troop of Virginia cavalry.* Of Captain Bland's career, from the time of his appointment during the remainder of that eventful year, (so little of his correspondence of that date is preserved,) no detail can be here presented. The six Vir ginia companies of horse were incorporated into one regiment under command of Lieutenant Colonel Bland, and in September, 1777, join ed the main army. Early in this year Colonel Bland was in New Jersey, in the division of Lord Stirling. In February he mentions, in a letter to his lady, that he had been in the field, had seen the enemy in battle array; and had been with a part of his regiment, and a body of troops under command of General Sullivan, on a foraging expe dition. Towards the close of the year 1777, it would appear from the ad dress of a letter, that Colonel Bland was a member of the senate of Virginia, at Williamsburg. It was perhaps at this period that he was attached to a literary association there, his active participation in the debates of which, is evinced by numerous notes, heads of speeches, &c, prepared for that purpose. The following paper contains the constitution of probably the same society — curious as being perhaps among the first of the sort in Virginia, and possibly ancillary to the developement of the faculties of some of the distinguished patriots of Virginia, whose names reflect so much lustre on her history. This document is taken from the original in the hand-writing of Colonel Bland, and is without date. ARTICLES OF THE VIRGINIA SOCIETY. Williamsburg, 20th November. It is thia day agreed at a meeting of the following persons that a * See Encyc. Amer. art. Lee — Henry, and Jour, of Convention of Virginia, June 13th, 1776. Henry Lee, Jr., afterwards so distinguished as soldier, orator and writer, was at the same time appointed to the command of one of the six companies of Virginia light-horse, and served for some time under Colonel Bland, to whom he was related in the degree of second cousin. The grandfather of General Lee ("Dragoon Harry,") was of the same name, Henry Lee; and his grandmother, Mary Bland, sister of Theodorick Bland, Sr. General Lee's father was also named Henry; and his mother was Lucy Grimes. General Lee left four sons : Henry, Cartpr, Sydney Smith and Robert ; and two daughters : Ann and Mildred. The parents of General L,ee were both of rather limited intellectual calibre ; and it is said that when asked, in reference to that circumstance, how he came to. be so clever? he replied, " Two negatives make an affirmative." D xxvi MEMOIR OF society shall be instituted, to be held at Williamsburg, the Monday after the 25th of * * * . 1st. This society shall be called, and known by the name of, "The Virginia Society for the promotion of useful knowledge ;'' and we, whose names are hereunto subscribed, do agree to meet at some con venient place in Williamsburg, for forming such regulations as may be thought necessary to establishing the said society at the said appoint ed time. 2d. That the subjects to be discussed in the said society shall be comprehended under the following heads, viz.: Geography, Natural History, Natural Philosophy, Agriculture, Practical Mathematics, Com merce, Physic and American History. 3d. That no member shall be admitted into the society after this time until he shall have petitioned by himself, or some one of the members now subscribing, and is admitted by a majority of the mem bers constituting this society, and subscribes the terms agreed to by the soefety. Theodorick Bland, Chairman. Dabney Carr. John Page of Rosewell. Mann Page, Jr., Mannsfield. George Muter. Nathaniel Bur-well, M. H.* John Walker. James McClurg. At the time when General Howe debarked the British army at the head of Elk river, Colonel Bland accompanied the American army to wards that place. The movements of the enemy threatened Philadel phia, and Colonel Bland with his cavalry was frequently employed in reconnoitring. September 1 1th he was present (probably in Pulaski's detachment) at the battle of Brandy wine. Before the commencement of the action he was occupied in reconnoitring the enemy with a party of horse, and at about one o'clock discovered General Howe's ad vanced guard near the spot, where a little after four o'clock the battle commenced. At two o'clock General Sullivan despatched a note from Colonel Bland conveying this intelligence, accompanied by another written by himself, (Sullivan,) to General Washington,! the result of which is described by General Henry Lee: " Washington was quickly * M. H., Member of the house of burgesses. t Writings of Washington, Vol. V., pp. 460, 461, in appendix. THEODORICK BLAND. xxvii informed of the separation of the enemy's columns, as he Was subse quently informed not only of its continuance, but that the left column was making a very circuitous sweep. Persuaded of the fact, he wise ly determined to pass the Brandy wine, with his whole force, and strike at Knyphausen. In the very act of giving his orders to this effect, Colonel Bland, of the Virginia horse, brought him intelligence, which very much obscured, if it did not. contradict, the previous informa tion ; and the original judicious decision was abandoned. Colonel Bland was noble, sensible, honorable and amiable, but never intended for the department of military intelligence." In reference to General Lee's opinion of Colonel Bland's inaptitude for the department of mili tary intelligence, it may be sufficient to observe, that in this depart ment he was employed by General Washington, whose confidence Colonel Bland had the happiness to enjoy, without abatement or inter ruption, during his whole life. October 1st, Colonel John Banister* mentions in a letter to Colonel * This gentleman's father was an eminent botanist, who settled in Virginia to wards the close of the 17th century, and devoted himself to the study of plants. In one of his botanical excursions, near the falls of Roanoke river, he fell from a rock and was killed. A plant of the decandrous class, in honor of his name, is called Banisteria. As a naturalist he was esteemed not inferior to Bartram. John Banister, the son, was educated in England, and bred to the law at the Temple in London. He was a man of imposing presence, energetic understand ing and accomplished education. Before the breaking out of the revolution he was a member of the Virginia house of burgesses, and early in the revolution a deputy in the convention which sat at Williamsburg. During the invasions to which Virginia was subjected, he was actively engaged in efforts to repel the enemy. Being proprietor of an extensive estate, he repeatedly suffered heavy losses from the depredations of the enemy. At one time he supplied a body of troops, then on their march to the southward, and suffering for want of clothing, with blankets at his own private expense. He was a delegate in congress from Virginia in 1778-9, and one of the framers of the confederation. In 1781 he was lieutenant colonel of horse under Brigadier General Lawson. The two other colonels in the same brigade were John Mer cer, afterwards governor of Maryland, and James Monroe, subsequently presi dent of the United Slates. Colonel Banister married twice : first Mary Bland, sister of Theodorick Bland, Jr. Of this union there were three children. This whole branch is now (1840) extinct. Colonel Banister's second wife was Anne Blair, sister of Judge Blair of the federal court. They had two children. Colonel Banister resided near Petersburg at Battersea, (called probably after a seat of that name in Surry, England,) which house he built. He died in the xxviii MEMOIR OF Bland, having with the utmost rapture met Mrs. Bland on the road, about eleven miles from Lancaster in Pennsylvania. A letter from General Washington, bearing date Nov. 8th, 1777, evinces that Colonel Bland had made application to him for a dis charge or leave of absence from the army. This request the com mander-in-chief declined acceding to at that time, preferring- to post pone his decision until the termination of the campaign then in pro gress. November 16th of the same year, the Colonel writes Mrs. Bland, from the camp at Whitemarsh, that he is as happy as he can be without her society. " It is just beginning to snow here ; have you any with you ? I am in a warm, comfortable (old quaker's) house." In January, 1778, his regiment of horse was quartered at Winches ter, Virginia. In March, General Washington, then at Valley Forge, appointed him and Colonel Baylor to purchase in Virginia and North Carolina six hundred cavalry horses for the continental service. In August he received orders from the commander-in-chief to repair to head-quarters with such horses and recruits as he had procured. Ac cordingly he proceeded northward to rejoin the army, visiting on his way Mount Vernon, where he found Mrs. Wasldngton, and passing through Alexandria and Baltimore. The British army, (under command of Burgoyne,) captured at Sa ratoga, were styled convention troops. These troops, after their sur render, were removed to Cambridge, near Boston, in Massachusetts, where, under various pretexts, they were detained for reasons of state, (that synonyme of injustice,) in violation of the articles of capitula tion. It is impossible to justify a breach of that " faith which holds the moral elements of the world together." In October, General Washington, in compliance with the commands of congress, ordered the removal of the convention troops of Sarato ga, then quartered at Cambridge, to Charlottesville, in the county of Albemarle, Virginia.* General Burgoyne sailed for England in May ; from which time upon General Phillips was devolved the command of year 1787, and lies buried in Dinwiddie county, at Hatcher's Run, a plantation which was formerly part of his estate. He was in private life amiable and upright ; in public, patriotic and enlighten ed. As a writer— always clear, correct and easy, sometimes vigorous and elo quent — he may be ranked among the first of his day. Of him there is (it is said) no likeness extant, except a miniature (formerly worn in a lady's bracelet) preserved at Osmore, in the county of Amelia, Virginia. * Writings of Washington, Vol. VI., pp. 93, 94, 96, 106, 122. THEODORICK BLAND. xxix the British troops of convention. To superintend their march to Vir ginia Colonel Bland was appointed by the commander-in-chief, who, on the 5th of November, despatched orders to the colonel, at Bedford, to repair to head-quarters, for the purpose of assuming the command of the escort detailed to conduct the prisoners of war to Virginia. He was ordered at the same time to put his regiment on the march to winter quarters. On the 22d of November, at Sharon, in Connecti cut, he received orders to put in motion the first division of the con vention troops. The route of their march lay by way of New Wind sor, to Sussex court house, Hackett's town, Sherrard's Ferry, by Pitt's Town, White Horse on the Lancaster road to Lancaster, thence to York, Pennsylvania, Frederick Town, Maryland, and Leesburg, Vir ginia, to Charlottesville, the place of destination. Of the march of the troops of convention upon this occasion a particular description may be found- in the " Travels of Anburey in the interior of North America,'' and in the " Memoirs of Madame de Riedesel."* By a letter, dated February 28th, 1779, General Washington again appointed Colonel Bland to superintend the troops of convention, and to take command of the post at Charlottesville.! These duties he ac cordingly assumed, April 16th. His correspondence with General Phillips was characterised by ur banity and prudence ; and in his conduct of the affairs of the con vention troops he united a faithful discharge of duty with a generous humanity to those under his control.} His general orders, and other documents of that kind, display a careful attention to the details of discipline and economy. In May, Mrs. Bland rejoined her husband at Charlottesville, and there remained, relieving with her society the tedious inaction of a camp life. In September, 1779, General Phillips, being at length exchanged, left Charlottesville for New York. After which the command of the army of convention was devolved upon General Hamilton. In November, Colonel Bland received from the commander-in-chief permission to retire from his station, and was succeeded by Colonel James Wood. * For an extract from this lady's memoirs see appendix to this volume. f See Writings of Washington, Vol. VI., p. 177. } "Another circumstance tended to ensure the comfort of the troops of con vention at Charlottesville. The sensible, amiable and humane Colonel Theodo rick Bland commanded the guard placed over them." — Burk's Hist, of Virginia, Vol. IV., p. 328. xxx MEMOIR OF In 1780, Colonel Bland was appointed by the assembly of Virginia a delegate in congress, of which he continued to be a member for three years, the term limited by the articles of confederation. In April, 1781, his place of residence in Virginia, Farmingdell* was plundered by the British troops ; his furniture broken to pieces ; china ware pounded up ; tobacco, corn and stock destroyed ; and a number of negroes taken off. These losses seriously impaired his fortune, and made his return to Virginia necessary. A number of congressional notes, heads of speeches, reports, &c. manifest his spirit and industry in the public cause. On the depart ment of finance in particular he bestowed a great deal of labor. The Marquis of Chastellux, in his travels, makes mention of Colonel Bland at Philadelphia, in 1781, as follows: "I quitted Mr. [Samuel] Adams with regret, but with a full intention of seeing him again ; and my evening terminated by a visit to Colonel Bland, one of the dele gates of Carolina [Virginia]. He is a tall, handsome man, who has been in the West Indies, where he acquired French. He is said to be a good soldier, but at present serves his country, and serves it well, in congress. The southern delegates in fact have great credit, they are incessantly laboring to draw the attention of the government to wards them, and to avert every idea of purchasing peace on their account." ******* " I was invited to drink tea at Col. Bland's, that is to say, to attend a sort of assembly, pretty much like the conversazzioni of Italy; for tea here, is the substitute for the rinfresca. Mr. Howley, governor of Georgia, Mr. Izard, Mr. Arthur Lee, (the two last lately arrived from Europe,) M. de la Fayette, M. de Noailles, M. de Damas, &c, were of * Farmingdale or Kippax was settled by Robert Boiling, whose first wife was a grand-daughter of Pocahontas. The subjoined epitaph is copied from his tomb stone there. " Here lyeth interred, in hope of a joyful resurrection, the body of Robert Bolling, the son of John and Mary Bolling, of Alhallows, Barkin Parish, Tower Street, London. He was born the 26th of December, in the year 1646, and came to Virginia, October the 2d, 1660, and departed this life the 17th day of July, 1709, aged sixty-two years, six months, and twenty-one dayes." The following history of the name of this place is taken from a manuscript let ter of John Randolph, of Roanoke, written in 1832, " The letter which I had previously received from you, bore date at or near Cawsons ; and then P was living at Kippax, alias Farmingdale or Farmingdell, (as the romantic Mrs. Blodget— Corran named it,) alias Smoky or Smoaky Lane, (as my grand-father used to call it;) but the true name is Kippax, called after the village of Kippax and Kippax-Park adjacent thereto, the seat of my maternal ancestors the Blands, in the West Riding of York." [In some old letters it is styled Smoaky Hall.] THEODORICK BLAND. xxxi the party."* Colonel Bland continued to be a member of congress until the year 1783. In 1785, he was appointed by Patrick Henry, governor, lieutenant of the county of Prince George, f He was sub sequently a member of the convention of Virginia convened to con sult upon the adoption of the federal constitution. He was in the mi nority that voted against the ratification of that instrument, believing it to be repugnant to the interests of his country. On its adoption, however, he acquiesced in the will of the majority, and was elected to represent his district in the first congress held under the constitution. While serving in that capacity, he died at New York, June 1st, 1790, aged 48. In person Colonel Bland was tall (in his latter days corpulent) and of a noble countenance. His manners were marked by ease, dignity and well-bred repose. In character he was virtuous and enlightened, of exemplary purity of manners and integrity of conduct, estimable for his private worth and respectable for his public services. His career was distinguished rather by the usefulness of plain, practical qualifications, than by any extraordinary exhibitions of genius. Ani mated from his childhood by a profound love of country, with him patriotism was not an impulse, but a principle. In style, he is fluent and correct, and if sometimes too florid or diffuse, he is at others wanting neither in energy of thought, nor in elegance of diction. Moderation and good temper pervade his correspondence, and it is no where sullied by profanity or indelicacy. May the following pages reflect new honor upon him and his illustrious contemporaries ! » " Travels in North America in the years 1780, '81, '82, by the Marquis de Chastellux." t Subjoined is a copy of the commission : The commonwealth of Virginia. To Theodorick Bland, Esq., Greeting. Know you, that from the special trust and confidence which are reposed in your fidelity, courage, activity, and good conduct, our governor, with the advice of the council of state, doth appoint you, the said Theodorick Bland, county lieutenant of the county of Prince George, to take rank as such, agreeably to the No. of this commission. In testimony whereof, these our letters are made patent. Witness, his Excel lency, Patrick Henry, Esquire, our said Governor, at Richmond, this 21st day of April, 1785. P. Henry. (Registered.) Thos. Meriwether. No. 78. rseal.] THE BLAND PAPERS, WRITTEN BEFORE AND DURING THE REVOLUTION. THE BLAND PAPERS. PART FIRST. LETTERS WRITTEN BEFORE THE REVOLUTION. LETTER I. Richard and John Bland, to Theodrick Bland, Appomattox River, in Prince George County, Virginia, received October 9, 1745. Scarborough [England], 5th March, 1744-5. Dear Coz, I know not how to excuse myself for omitting to write at my arrival here, and more for neglecting it on the receipt of thy acceptable letter, of July 11th, 1743, which brought the agreeable news of all your healths, which hope you at present enjoy, as through mercy all here do. We were very sorry to hear of Coz. Beverley's losing their son John, who as he was so promising a child, is the more to be regretted. I return a thousand thanks to self, and spouse, and Coz. Munford, for the many kind favours I received, which my not having done before, I hope your good nature will forgive, and shall endeavour to make amends by writing the oftener. We had a difficult passage home, generally cold, and squally ; about one-third over, in a dark night, lost sight of five ships of our company, but next day found one again of equal force with us, viz., 14 guns, and spoke with none, but a French Brigantine, for Q,uebeck, and the Bridgewater Man of War, for Newfoundland, till we got to the eastward of the Lewiss Islands, in Scotland. We were put past Scarbro', and I went ashore at Yarmouth, where stay'd about a week, before I could meet with a ship ; which when I had done, and just going to saile, we 1 2 THE BLAND PAPERS. had a certain account that a Dunkirk privateer, with a Spanish com-- mission, had taken a rich prize that evening, so resolv'd to send my cloths by sea, and go myself by land, home, where at my arrival, I found my father very ill, and not long after my mother got a hurt which seem'd to have been of bad consequence. Of late both have been pretty well, and give their loves to your family, and Coz. Mun- fords, as does my brother and sister ; he has not quitted his intentions of a Virginia trade, but is resolved to venture upon it, as soon as a convenient opportunity offers. His family has increased since my ar rival by two sons ; Thomas, born 26th December, 1 742, and Edward born 30th April, 1744. Have-not yet had time to make a fair copy of our genealogy. We have had only one ship taken by the Spanyards, and two by the French, belonging [to] this port ; a small number out of 200 saile, and as small in comparison of what were taken last war. Please to give my respects to Coz. Fanny, and Coz. Munfords, and to Col. R. Bolling, Mr. Ferguson, and * * * Clack, and accept of the same to self from thy real friend, and affectionate kinsman, &c. Richard Bland. Please to deliver the inclosed to Coz. Anna Munford. Dear Nefew, and Nees, I hope, these will find you and children [and] all relations, in good health, as prais the Lord through his' great mersey we are prity well in health ; as this goes with my son Richard's I only ad my prayers to God for his blessings on you, and your children, and all our relations. We shall alwaies be glad to hear from you. With my dear love to you, and children, and all relations,. am thy affectionate loveing vncle, John Bland. LETTER II. From John Tyler (no address, but probably to T. Bland, Senr.) July the 18r&, 1744. Respected Sir, I this day had the pleasure of receiving your letter, by which I un derstand you have according to my desire spoak to the vestry of Bath Parish, for which I am infinitely obliged to you. The worthy gentlemen (it seems) are desirous of seeing me, before they engage the parish to me and indeed \ h,aye a great inclination of seeing the said parish, but as my business at present will not permit me to come up, I am THE BLAND PAPERS. 3 under no apprehension of it's being requisite or necessary, for if they are desirous of knowing my temper, or way of living, or, in short, any thing that appertains to my character, let them apply sto the Commis sary, or the other Reverent Gentlemen of the College, whose care I have been under these nine or ten years, for they, I imagine, are the best judges of what I am, and how I have behaved. I will come up if possable in the fall, though I'll make no promise, for fear of a disap pointment ; and will give myself the pleasure of calling at your house, without fail, (if I do come up,) when I hope to find you, your lady, and good family in health. I shall take it as a singular favour, if you will give yourself the trouble of answering this letter, and let me know how far this parish is from your settlement, for I am in hopes if I get the parish, that we shall be neighbours ; I shall be glad likewise to know whether there is a gleeb, and what buildings there are upon it, and how far it is from Col. Robert Boiling's. If you can -have an opportunity of sending a letter in September or October to town, and commit it to the care of Col. John Grymes, esq., (with whom I now live, and shall till next fall, at which itime God spairing me life, I shall leave the country,) or to Mr. Benjamin Grymes, at the college, it will get safe, and speedy passage to, sir, your -most devoted, most obliged, and very humble servant, &c; P. S. Pray give my service to your lady, and Mr. Richard Eppes, iwhom I imagine is often on your side of the river now. I am yours, &c. LETTER III. Trom Col. Richard Bxand to Theodrick Bland, Sr. at Belvidere, Jordans,* February 20, 1745. .'Dear Brother, It is always a sensible satisfaction to me, whenever I can enjoy the pleasure of your company, and I've often purposed to see you, at your own house, but my business has prevented me so much of late, from going any whither, that I really can say that I have scarce had one day which I could call my own ; if I was to follow my own inclina tions, I should always be in your company, but that, in this troublesome world, is not to be done ; you may depend I will visit you as soon as possible. Our election is to be on Thursday, the 27, of this month, * On James River, in Prince George County. 4 THE BLAND PAPERS, which is this day week. I shall be glad to see you at it, and if I am sent, I propose going down Friday morning, early. I hope I have given no occasion to the county, to refuse me at this time, and I shall always act to the utmost of my capacity, for the good of my electors, whose interest and my own, in a great measure, are inseparable. Our loves to my sister, and the rest of your family. I am your affectionate brother, &c. I hear you intend to remove into your old house, for which I am sorry, though I can believe it. LETTER IV. From Mrs. Mary Lfe ' to her brother Major Theodrick Bland, at Kippax, j in Prince George County. March the 1st, 1747-8. It was with great satisfaction, that I received my dear brother's let ter, and am much obliged to you, for your kind concern for my health. I have been extremely ill, but now I thank God, am much esier, though very weake. I should be very glad to see you here with my sister and cousins. The death of my dear Mr. Lee, who was one of the best and tenderest of husbands, is so great an affliction to me, that I han't words to express it, and to add to my affliction, Mrs. has endeavour'd in a publick maner, to darken his careecter, and to yous [use] her unkle's memory with great ingratitude. I know it is my duty as a christian, to bear paciently whatever happens to me, by the alotment of divine providence, and I humbly beseech Almighty God, to grant me his grace, that I may be enabled to submit patiently, to whatever trialls it may please him to lay on me, (who doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men,) but that I may bear them as a good christian, with courage and resolution, with calmness and re signation, and that I may resign this life with joy and cumfurt, when it pleaseth God to remove me, and may have a well-grounded hope in his mercy through the merits and interseshun of our dear Saviour and merciful Redeemer. * "Mary Bland, eldest daughter of Richard Bland of Jordans, Gent., was born 21 August, 1704, and married Col. Henry Lee of Westmoreland, and by him has four children, viz. John, Richard, Lettice, and Henry." See genealogy of the Elands, Part IV of this work, No. 1. t Now Farmingdell. THE BLAND PAPERS. 5 I thank God, my children are pretty well, and the greatest cumfurts I have ; my son Richard lives with me ; my daughter is now here, she has a daughter, and has call'd it Mary. My love to my sisters and cousins, and I am, my dear brother, your most affectionate, And ever loving sister, &c. My daughter gives her duty to you, and her aunt, and love to her cousins. LETTER V. From Ryland Randolph. Coggeshall, July 23rd, 1752. Dear Brother, Your not writing to me by Capt. Hylton, has almost made me con clude you are determin'd to renounce my correspondence for the future, though indeed I can't so much wonder at it, when I consider how very remiss I have been in my duty to have returned you my hearty thanks long since for your good advice ; but was extreamly concern'd you should construe my silence in so bad a light, as that your kind letters of advice gave me the least displeasure ; for I am well convinc'd you could have no other views but the entire regard you had for my interest and welfare in life, and hope I shall always have gratitude enough to acknowledge how much I am obliged to you for it ; and in regard to my not writing, as you were not singular in that respect, I dare say you'l excuse me. I wrote to my mother for her consent to be inoculated for the small pox, but since see that she thinks it a piece of presumption ; when you favour me with a line pray let me have your opinion of it. My love to my sister, I am not so happy [as] to know, and your little daughter, concludes me, dear Sir, your truly affectionate, and loving brother, &c* * This letter was sent under cover, and in consequence it does not appear to whom it was addressed, except that it was to a brother. Q THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER VI. The following letter is so badly mutilated by the rat?, that the name of the writer cannot be made out : the only letters remaining entire are the initials, which seem to be T. P. It is addressed to William Beverly, Esq. York, February 27, 1754. Sir, I am favoured with a letter from Master Fairfax, in which I am desired to give you Mr. Wilkinson's character, for [the satis] faction of his parishioners. I can asure them they have got [in him an] inoffensive, quiet, good man, that will never create any [trouble] or difference amongst them : but on the contrary, wil endeavour to the utmost of his power, to cultivate friendship, good neighbourhood, and unanimity, amongst his flock, and if they be a reasonable people, the more and longer they know him, the more and [more they will esteem] him. He is very far from being the busy, meddlesome, troublesome creature, that many of 'em are in a neighborhood. I told you, when you was last at Burley, how cruelly the poor man had been treated by a base confederacy, of an attorney, and another infernal wretch [who] * * * * or persuaded a * * * * * but in that affair, I can assure you, he acquitted himself with the greatest honour, and to the entire satisfaction of the court, where it was tried, which were Very numerous on that occasion, * * * * The justices, gentlemen, and clergy in all [that part of the] country were, and are, perfectly satisfied of his innocence. The holiest, and the best man breathing might have lost his reputation by such * * a diabolical piece of wickedness, but his enemies notwithstanding all their impudence, were entirely confounded. You wil give me leave to send fof Mr. Fairfax at Whitsontide. Billy tells me you are going to London ; I therefore wish you a good journey, and a [safe return.] My wife joins with me, in compliments to you and your lady. Dear Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. LETTER VII. From Richard Bland, Jr. July 2nd, 1756. Dear Uncle, I should be obliged to you, if you would spare me about three hun dred pounds of transfer tobacco, to pay my levies for the year 1755. I am, D. U. yours, most affectionately, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. 7 LETTER VIII. From Charles Goore to Col. Theodrick Bland, on James River. Per the Otway, Capt. Salisbury. Liverpool, March 14th, 1758. Sir, I wrote you the 30th of November, and 27th of December, by the Everton, which I hope are with you by this tune. I've waited long to hear from Wakefield,* what became of Mr. [Clark,] and by this post received a letter from Mr. Milne of the school as followeth. " You shoud have had an answer to your letter before now, and sent to talk with Mr. Harrox for that purpose, but he was gone off for Cambridge, in order to qualify himself as a proper candidate to suc ceed Mr. Clarke,! in the school, by taking up his degree as Master of * Richard Henry Lee was also at school at Wakefield, which is in Yorkshire county, whence the progenitor of General Washington came to Virginia, and has been rendered a classic spot by the inimitable novel of Goldsmith . The present vicar is said to be very unlike Goldsmith's, being chiefly distinguished for his fox hunting propensities. t The following bill of this teacher may amuse the curious reader. Mr. Clark's half-year's charge for Master Bland, Writing master to September 1st 1756, J a year, French master do. do. Mr. Clark, board and school 'g J a year £10 10 Weekly allow 'e and lent - 18 Apothecary's bill Linnen draper HatterBarber Taylor 10 Do. another 5 HosierMusic master Mending linen and stockings Shoe maker Bookseller Sugar Black shoe £1 1 0 2 2 0 11 8 0 1 10 3 1 13 2 12 0 1 1 7 15 9 19 6 1 3 7 1 1 2 4 19 6 12 9 4 0: £24 10 2 8 THE BLAWD PAPERS. Arts, you may perhaps have seen in the London papers relating to the school here, which is to be disposed of by the gentlemen governors, on the 22d of May, [next] to the person who shall appear to them out of the several candidates in all respects the best qualified for the place, without favour or partiality influencing where merit is wanting. You must attribute Mr. Clark's neglect of writing to you, to his infirmities and disturbed mind, or else poor man we believe he would not have been guilty of such a mistake. When Mr. Harrocks returns, shall have an opportunity of talking with him, and let you know our senti ments more at large on [the] subject. We have a very good opinion of this gentleman ; he is a good young man, and a good scholar, and I apprehend no objection can be made against his succeeding Mr. Clark but that his being very young, may prevent his having proper authority, which one of riper years would sooner command. The school has been some time on the decline, but if a good man be chose in lieu of Mr. Clark, no doubt it may again flourish, and when we find what is likely to be done, we will let you know, and give you our sentiments, in regard to the placing Mr. Bland ; he has spent this after noon with our R. M., where he will be always welcome as your friend, when ever he will favour us with his company, which I assure you he made agreeable both by behaviour and con [versation]. He has since sent the inclosed to be forwarded ;" so far Mr. Milne. By the same conveyance, I had a letter from your son, with one Mr. Clark's other half-year's charge for Master Bland. French master £2 2 0 Bookseller, 1 11 11 Mercer 6 0 2£ Sjockener, 1 4 11 Taylor, - 10 6 Hatter, 19 0 Shoemaker, 1 10 8 Washer woman 14 0 Mending linnen and making shirts, 7 2 Barber 17 10 Grocer 12. 6 Shoe cleaner, 4 0 Seat in the church, 5 0 Milliner, 19 6| 10 6 Writing master, Mending cloths, 7 7 Board, coals and candles, 10 10 0 Pocket money - 1 5 7 £31 2 10J THE BLAND PAPERS. 9 inclos'd for yourself, which is forwarded herein ; the purport of his letter to me is to know how he is to proceed when Mr. Clark leaves Wakefield, which will be at Whitsuntide. By this it appears, that the whole burthen of the school lyes [in] the care of the third master at present ; therefore I have advised your son to apply to his studies, under the instruction of such master as has the present care of the school, and when it's determined who succeeds Mr. Clark, I shall be advised further by Mr. Robert Milnes, who is a gentleman of great genius and learning, and fix your son accordingly. As your son hinted when with me your design of his studying physick, it is requisite that he should be a proficient in classical learning, and I doubt not the gov ernors of Wakefield school will use great care in the choice of the head master. Now it's proper that I should have your sentiments and directions concerning your son, in what manner, and where, he is to finish his education, which is high time to be considered, according to the employment you intend him for, and whatever directions you are pleased to give, I'll take care they are put in execution. The French being no longer able to hold their ground in Hanover &c, they have made a precipitate flight, [with] the loss of a great many men, artillery, ammunition, baggage, and magazines, leaving the [whole] behind ; yet I fear the ensuing [summer's] campaign, as so many powerfull princes are united against a crowned head of small dominions, assisted only by petty princes ; but as Providence has given him victory, I trust the protection of the Almighty will defend him. I am your most humble servant, &c. LETTER IX. From Robert Munford to Theodrick Bland Sr. Camp, near Fort Cumberland,* July 6th, 1758. Hon'd Sir, Had opportunities offered, as frequently as inclination wou'd have induced me to write to you, you might have read a letter from me every encampment. After being delay'd at Winchester, five or six weeks longer than expected, (in which time, I was ordered express to Williamsburg, and allowed but a day after my return to prepare,) we * Built in 1755, in the fork between Will's Creek, and north branch of the Poto mac, the remains of which are yet to be seen. It is about 55 miles north-west of Winchester, on the Maryland side of the Potomac. 2 10 THE BLAND PAPERS. push'd off into the wide ocean. I was permitted to walk every step* of the way to this humble fort, to eat little, and lay hard, over moun tain, thro' mud and water, yet as merry and hearty as ever. Our flankers and sentrys pretend they saw the enemy daily, but they never' approached us. A detachment is this moment ordered off, to clear a road thirty miles, and our companies to cover the working party. We are in fine scalping ground, I assure you ; the guns pop about us, and you may see the fellows prick up their ears like deer every moment. Our Col* is an example of fortitude in either danger or hardships, and by his easy, polite behaviour, has gain'd not only the regard but affection of both officers and soldiers. He has kindly invited me to his table for the campaign, offer'd me any sum of money I may have occasion for, without charging either principal or interest, and signified his approbation of my conduct hitherto in such a manner as is to me of advantage. In passing my recruiting account, I was allowed 18 [shillings] per man, you may judge how much I was loser, when several officers had 40s. ******* Col. Charles Carter Junr. has a horse of mine in keeping till my return, where he may remain if you think proper. The ball money and forage money allow'd me amounts to j666. In every thing possi ble I shall be upon the frugal scheme. You may depend upon hearing by all opportunities from, dear Dr., your truly affect, and ever Obliged nephew, &c. To Mrs. Bland. Hon'd Madam, Tho' I've hardly a moment at my own disposal, I can't omit sending a few words to my dear aunt. Employed from sun to sun, yet from light to night am I mindful of my dear distant friends. That you and yours may enjoy every blessing that Heaven can bestow, is the tribute of a heart sincerely yours, &c. P. S, My love to the lasses. '' George Washington. THE BLAND PAPERS. 11 LETTER X. From Abraham Maury to Col. Theodrick Bland Senior, in Prince George County. " By favor of the Rev. Mr. Fowlis." Halifax, July 17th, 1758. Dear Sir, As much through a desire of cultivating a correspondence with you, as in consequence of my promise, I shall do my endeavour to transmit you a summary account of the state of affairs on the frontiers, from the time of my arrival there to this date. Immediately after my return from Williamsburg, I took a tour to the forts, where I found every thing in confusion, the people all preparing to move ; however after I informed them what the Honorable the Pre sident* and Council had done, some of them were satisfied, but others immediately went off together with their familys, notwithstanding the plentiful supplys ordered to their assistance, and the many arguments I made use of to prevail on them to stay ; what I took to be the only reason of their removal, was, the lands they lived on belonged to gen tlemen below ; but those who had land of their own, freely embraced so fair an opportunity to defend their possessions, and readily agreed to associate and collect themselves together in small townships ; but when I went to fix upon the most convenient places to erect the said town ships, every person insisted that his own place was most convenient, whence arose many disputes ; however after letting them know the ill consequences of those disputesa mong themselves, by telling them,.in plain terms, that unless they would immediately agree, I would send them no men, they, after 9 or 10 ten days consideration, agreed to settle at any place I should appoint ; and I accordingly made choice of Mayo Fort, Hickey's, Black Water, and Snow Creek, as the most proper places for the said township. I have since my return heard that Blair township at Snow Creek is in great forwardness ; but the others are not yet begun, the people being yet too busy about tending their corn. In obedience to the president's instructions, I have demanded of Col. Read, the 80 men to garrison the said townships,. some of whom are already come, and others on their march to their respective stations. Capt. Wade has raised 60 volunteers, and twenty more shall be immediately draughted out of the militia to compleat his company of rangers ; he informs me his lieutenant is gone out to the Narrows, with 39 men, to way lay the Indians as they pass. The Cherokee Indians, * John Blair who was acting governor in the absence of Gov. Dinwiddie, who had sailed for Europe in January, 1757. 12 THE BLAND PAPERS. on their way home from Winchester, still continue their robbery's, tho' not so openly as formerly, being awed by the number of militia now in actual service ; but by reason of their frequent desertions from our army, many people are apprehensive they are premeditating a blow on our frontiers, especially if General Forbes should be unsuccessful in his attempt .* The day after I left Blackwater Fort, a man was killed within three hundred yards of it, and Joseph Renfro's house attack'd by 33 Indians, but were bravely repulsed by the said Renfro and his brave wife, and a pity it is, she did not command the company at Blackwater, instead of Capt. Hawkins, whom I take to be the greatest coward of this age, as he had in his power to destroy most of those Indians, and would not. I last week heard the Indians had done some mischief in Bedford, but hope the report is false. We have a fine company of Bruns wick men now at Blackwater, under the command of Capt. Goodrich ; John Hicks, one of the said company, was killed, and scalped, and another man shot through the arm at Renfro's Spring, near the Fort, on Wednesday the 5th inst, in consequence of which, Lieutenant Macklin with 25 of the Brunswick men, went in pursuit of them, and after marching 25 miles, came up with, ingaged, and put them to flight. Nicholas Alley, one of our men, had his arm broke, and two balls shot through him, but is likely to recover ; one of the Indians was also very much wounded, but made his escape ; they took 7 packs with blan kets and other things, from the said Indians. I am told there is great sign of Indians about Blackwater, so that I daily expect to hear of some other ingagements thereabouts, which if worthy of notice, shall inform you by a line the first opportunity. The scarcity of grain is so great on the frontiers, that Col. Harris, our commissary of stores, is obliged to carry corn 50 or 60 miles, for the support of the militia now out ; and it is with great difficulty they are supply'd, the roads being very bad ; but provisions of other sorts are very plenty. Last Wednesday, Robert Wade, Junr. and Nathaniel T were (by a great majority) elected representatives for this county, but I expect we shall have another election, as I am certain Mr. T will not be allow'd to take a seat in the house, where none but gentlemen of character ought to be admitted. Since I live in so remote a part of the country, I should be much obliged to you, if you'd every opportunity communicate all the news * Upon Fort Du-Quesne. THE BLAND PAPERS. 13 you receive, both foreign and domestic, and in return (if the accounts of our petty affairs can be any satisfaction to you,) I shall do every thing in my power, to render a correspondence as agreeable as possi ble. Make a tender of my respectful compliments to your lady and family, and all friends in your parts. I am, sir, your most obedient and humble servant, &c. LETTER XI. Robert Munfoed's letter, from the army, to Col. Theodrick Bland Sr. Camp, near Fort Cumberland, August 4th, 1758. Hon'd Sir, If 'tis honorable to be in the service of one's country, 'tis a reputa tion gain'd by the most cruel hardships you can imagine, occasioned more by a real anxiety for its welfare, than by what the poor carcase suffers. Every officer seems discontented in camp, happy on com mand, so deep is the interest of our country implanted in the minds of all. Sometimes the army wears a gloomy, then a joyous aspect, just as the news either confirms our stay here, or immediate depar ture. The Genl.,* with the small-pox in one, the flux in the other division of our forces, and no provision ready, are indeed excuses for our being here at present ; yet all might have been prevented. A few hearty prayers are every moment offered up for those self-interested Pennsylvanians who endeavour to prevail on our Genl. to cut a road for their convenience, from Ray's Town to Fort Du-Quesne.f That a trifling good to particulars, shoud retard what wou'd conduce to the general welfare ! 'Tis a set of dirty Dutchmen, they say, that keep us here ! It would be impertinent to condemn, yet I must [think] our leaders too deliberate at this important juncture, when all are warm for action, all breathing revenge against an enemy that have even dared to scalp our men before our eyes. The amusement we have in the mean time is only following the brave dogs over the mountains for some miles, and our sole satisfaction sufficient fatigue to make us sleep sound. An old scoundrel has intimated to the Genl. that the Virginians have bribed the guides, for that 'tis practicable to go the new road, contrary to their report. We have lost all our Indians by the assistance of a man, the [aforesaid] old dog, who interposed thro' some dirty views he has of superseding Mr. Atkin. Thus are our * General Forbes. t See Spark's writings of Washington, vol. 2. p. 302. 14 THE BLAND PAPERS. officers in a manner ruin'd by persons whose souls scorn a thought that tends not immediately to their own advantage. I'm sorry to live upon my country when I've so small a prospect of repaying her by any service. We shall march to Ray's Town shortly, thence to the Fort,* if permitted. I shall embrace the next opportunity of writing you our transactions, and am as always, dear sir, your most Aff'te nephew, &c. P. S. By express, we have an acc't that some of the enemy Indians have joined the Pennsylvanians. To Mrs. Bland. Hon'd Madm, I am well and lousie, but still your affect'e nephew, &c. LETTER XII. From Charles Goore to T. Bland Sr. Liverpool, Sept. 10, 1758. Sir, This is principally to answer your favour of the 5th of June, in relation to your son's further education, wherein I find both yours and his inclination is for him to study physick; and upon the receipt of your letter, I immediately communicated the purport of it to the Rev'd. Mr. Christopher Atkinson, who gave me for answer as followeth; (this Atkinson is the now head-master.) "I had the favour of your very agreeable letter, the rec't of which I woud have acknowledged sooner, but was willing to be as particular as I could in answering it. Master Bland is in my second class, and reads Zenophon and Horace with tolerable ease, so that I shoud hope he woud soon be very well qualified to be a member at Edinburgh, only I have this one difficiency to lament in all the boys, that they compose most wretchedly, particularly in their Latin exercises, and he labours under the same defect; but however I hope by application, and frequent exercise, he'll shortly be tolerably expert in this. I would not pretend to prescribe rules of action to you, or his father, in the management of his son's education, but I shoud think two or three years spent at Oxford, woud be of great service to him, whether we have a view to the profession he is intended for, or to his learning and morals, for there are all the advantages for the study of physick at Oxford, that we can. * Du-Quesne. THE BLAND PAPERS. 15 desire, as to its theory, I had almost said practice too, for there- was never a better sett of professors or physicians than now, and they are going to found a hospital purely to encourage the study of physick, and there cannot be nobler physick gardens than at Oxford; and admitting that Edinburgh or Leyden is more noted for this science than our University, yet still the morals of young gentlemen are more attended to, discipline being little regarded in those places, and Master Bland (for I will not flatter you,) seems to require discipline as much as any other young gentleman." Here you find Mr. Atkinson's sentiments, and as it appears that your son may spend a little more time usefully at Wakefield, there will be time for a reply from you to some things that I shall point out to you. My next neighbour, Dr. Robinson, is a very eminent physician, with whom I have consulted on your son's proceeding ; whereon he gave me a detail of his own education, prescribed by an uncle of his, that was an eminent apothecary, and the first step taken was to be very well qualifyed with classical learning, then he was put to a noted apothecary for two years, to learn the method of compounding medicines, and learning of pharmacy, and then he spent about a year and a half at St. Thomas' Hospital, and at different lectures of anatomy, &c, then he was sent to Oxford, where he diligently studied physic for about two years; this was the method he took, and What he strongly recommends, laying a geat stress upon the knowledge he gain'd while with his master the apothecary, as a foundation to the rest; and we find a good apothecary frequently makes no bad physician. Pardon me for pointing out methods, as I shall leave it to you and your son to follow that which you best approve of. You plainly see Mr. Atkinson prefers Oxford, where he was a student, yet I think the morals of a well disposed youth may be preserved at Edinburgh as well as at Oxford, and its a much cheaper place, besides there cannot be a Doctr. of Physic's degree obtained at Oxford under fourteen years, and indeed when obtained is no more than a feather in the capp, yet boasted of in England ; and I would give preference to Edinburgh, if you resolve upon your son's entering immediately from the school. I have writ fully to your son on this head, and when I have your answer, your directions shall be observed. I remain your most humble servant, &c. P. S. You have myne and my wives thanks, for your kind pre sent of hams, and peach brandy; both were very good. The red bird dyed. And forwarded the present to your son, 16 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER XIII. The following letter is without date, signature, or address. It seems to have been written by T. Bland Jr. to his father, from Edinburgh, where he was pursuing the study of medicine. [1761.] Most Honor'd Sir, Since my return from London, which was on the 1st of Novem ber last, my time has been so entirely engrossed in study that I am persuaded, had you been present, you would at once see the necessity I have been under of remitting for a short time all cor respondence, nay even of endeavouring to forget what is dearest to me of any thing on earth, my dear parents and friends, scarce having time to indulge those tender and involuntary thoughts which are constantly stealing in upon me, and agreeably interrupting me in my deepest studies. My usual hours of attending the colleges are at least seven daily, which scarce afford time for necessary refreshments ; add to these the night taken up in revising and recapitulating the work of the preceding day, and I am convinced you will not require an apology for my silence. Two or three days intermission, which the whole winter has scarce afforded us before, allows me at present to undertake what my inclination has long wished for, and my duty will not suffer me to dispense with when ever I have an opportunity. Allow me sir, most gratefully to acknowledge, the receipt of your two kind remembrances of me, the first by Capt. Rothery, and the last a few days ago by Capt. Morrison, and to thank you for your agreeable account of the occurrences of our country and family. I sincerely wish all the happiness imaginable to the new-married couple, to do which personally they may be assur'd would give me none of the smallest of pleasures. The married ladies whom Heaven has blest with an offspring, I hope will not disdain to partake in my humble and hearty offerings of congratulations. But with the unfortunate parent, husband and wife, I must only silently condole, and not dare to enrage that wound by impertinence, whose only balm is oblivion. If only literary* intelligence, dear sir, can, by bringing in my view the friends and companions of my early youth, and those scenes of which time and absence have left upon my mind but a slight impression, inspire me with the tenderest passions of love and friendship, what * He means " epistolary." THE BLAND PAPERS. 17 pleasure may I not promise myself, should Providence once more permit me to enjoy the realities ; that happy period I hope will soon begin to dawn. I flatter myself, that in four years, at farthest, by a diligent application, I shall be perfectly qualified to enter on that scene of action which I have so long been preparing for, and which, after a long series of absence and close application to my studies, I hope will yield the proposed advantages, honour and happiness to myself, my parents, and country. But this view, sir, however distant it may at present appear, I hope it may not be superfluous to begin to pre pare for ; and to that end I would beg leave to propose to you what appears to me at present practicable, and will be of no small advan tage to our country if rightly consider'd, and your advice as soon as is convenient would be in this, as in every other step of my life, the most acceptable, as I am determin'd to make that the rule of my con duct, which never ceases to consult and contrive for my welfare and happiness. 'Tis with the deepest concern that every one who has at heart the welfare of his country, and mankind in general, must reflect on the situation of the new world in general, and our colony in particular, with regard to the state of that profession of which I soon hope to have the honor of being a legal member. By the exactest information and best intelligence it appears very obvious that not above one or two who profess the healing art (and surely that class of people to whom the lives and health of every individual are trusted, cannot be of small importance) are such as by a proper education and applica tion, have obtained a degree, i. e. the sanction of the most eminent and approv'd physician for that purpose. * * * * LETTER XIV. From S. Powel, at London, to Theodrick Bland esq. " Care of Mr. Watson, Janitor of the University at Edinburgh." Dear Bland, You are in a serious mood, so am I, what will be the end of our se ty. You enjoin me * * of the muscles of my phiz. Why you might as well * * your fine sprightly grey mare gallop from Windsor, to Hampton Court, which you know was im possible. Are * * but I wont draw the consequence, that must be left to you, you are I suppose a logician. However if the meaning is obscure, go to the University, [and get] some of the 'brae' 18 THE BLAND PAPERS. youths to clear it up * * * figure ; they'll puzzle the cause for you. ******* But to be serious, my lad, your * * * so much of your time to me * * * presages of our future greatness in physic. Go on, and prosper, and may your success be adequate to your merits. Well Bland, joking apart, you have much to apply to. Oh not a ot too much, 'tis a pleasure to endeavour after excellence in one's [profession] and you know, 'nil tam difficile.' Stopi no more of your pedantry, Powell, I'll burn your letter, without reading it, if you go on at this rate, and suspend, or utterly abolish, all future corres pondence with you ; I submit. Well, now for last Monday. Aye, what of it 1 Why you whelp, don't you know, it was Lord Mayor's day 1 Aye, right, so it was. Well then, we had a grand shew, tho' not to compare to the [coronation] (1) Mr. Ld. Mayor came by, in the dark * * * made a most wretched * * * was the universal watch-word, to it they went, [tooth and] nail, the fury was immense, you might have [seen] the mangled limbs and joints, strewing the top of a * * * scaffold. What of all that ? I can neither be grave or serious * * first beg you, to present my comp's to all friends in the land of cakes, I shall write Morgan, * * * by this post. Is my letter long enough 1 No * * * Ise can (!) thee, i. e. write a longer * * follow the example. Can you read this, if you can't, come to town, and apply to the * * * Taylor, he'll not mind your eyes, * * tip * * * shiners. Adieu, &c. LETTER XV. From Theodrick Bland Jr., to his father. "Per favour of Dr. Field, alius Robert Beverly Esq., Dr. Field having [altered] his resolution, does not intend to set off till * * next." Edinburgh, March 8th, 1761. Hon'd Sir, The bearer of this is our countryman and near neighbor, Dr. Field, who is now on his return home, where he intends commencing phy sician ; I have had the pleasure of his acquaintance ever since I came to this place, and esteem him a very worthy and sensible young man. I believe he and I were the first of our own country who resolved on the study of physick, in which [branch] there are several here at THE BLAND PAPERS. 19 present educating, and I don't doubt but in a few years, we shall not only in that, but in many other professions, be able to supply the necessity of our country, and in some measure to extirpate those numerous troops of impostors* who daily pour in upon us, and who, I am told, profess what from their education they must be entirely ignorant of, or but meanly qualified for ; together with the profit and honour I hope to reap, and the pleasure of assisting my fellow crea tures, and particularly my friends and relations, are motives which have determined me to the more intense application, by which, and the advantages your paternal love and kindness have so liberally heaped upon me, I don't doubt in a few years, with the assistance oi the Almighty, of returning in some measure qualified for that impor tant trust I am [then] to assume. Mr. Field will acquaint you with several things [which are] too long to be inserted in the compass of a letter. I should [be glad] if you would by the next spring, send me a negro boy about 13 or 14 years [old], by the way of Glasgow, as 'tis the nearest port [whence] he may be got to Edinburgh ; the rea son of my making this [request] is that he will not only be of great use to me whilst * * * but will be very convenient in shaving, dressing, and making [fires, besides] several other things which I can have him taught. I heard the other day from my Cousin Rt. Beverley, [whom] you will I hope soon have in Virginia, as he [intends] going the 10th of next month with the fleet. 'Tis now a [great while] since I had the pleasure of a letter from you, [but I hear of a] prodigious number of vessels being taken * * * I had the agreeable satisfaction of hearing of the welfare [of my] relations and friends, by one Robinson of Whitehaven, who says he [met] very frequently with you in Octob'r last. Mr. Hugh Miller and his family arrived at Glasgow about 2 or 3 months ago * * * as I was * * * with, I wrote to him to know whether he had any letters from you, but to my great surprize he had not. He * The following is from a discourse of De Witt Clinton, May, 1814. " With this elevated idea of the medical character, how must we be mortified, to find the low state of the profession during the greater period of the colonial government. It was totally unregulated; and the apothecary, physician, and surgeon, were united in the same individual. ' Quacks,' said the colonial historian, ' abound like locusts in Egypt.' A periodical writer who published in 1752, estimated the number of families in this city [New- York] to be two thousand, and the number of physicians to be forty ; which would make one physician for every fifty fami lies ; and he further stated that he could shew by ' probable arguments that more lives are destroyed in this city by pretended physicians than by all other causes whatever.' " — Independent Reflector. 20 THEBLANDPAPERS. tells me he intends fixing his daughter Nancy at this place for some time, but is so infirm at present that he is uncertain when he shall be able to come here. Col. Phil. Lee's brother, Mr. Blair's, Mr. Bank- head's and Dr. Gilmer's sons are all here, with the same intention as myself. My best duty, love and comp'ts to all my dear friends, and relations, and accept dear father the most unfeigned duty, love and affection, from your son, &c. LETTER XVI. From John Bland to Doctr. Theodrick Bland, at Balfour's Coffee House, Edinburgh. London, 27th July, 1768. Mr. Theodrick Bland, Dear cousin, I had wrote sooner in answer to thy favour, but waited to send the enclosed receipts. I thank thee as much as if I had kept the hams, but I had rather add to than prevent the opportunitys of thy making retaliations to any who have shewn thee civility ; and sometimes little presents to our friends are received as tokens of a gratefull heart. I will write thy good father on account of the report of thyself and Miss Miller, and doubt not that he will be eased from the [distress] he suffered on acc't of that report. This matter shews thee how circumspect thou ought to be. I shall be glad to hear [Tom] gets well down ; he is a fine boy, but I fear will elope from thee, and indeed I can't but wish he had staid in Virginia, where he might most probably have been a good servant. I expect the Theod rick will sail in a fortnight. Shall be glad thou writes [by her]. We are all well, each join in dear love with thy affectionate cousin, &c. My comp'ts to Doctrs. Morgan and Lee. LETTER XVII. From Anna Bland to Mr. Theodrick Bland, London. "Per Capt. Hall." Dear Brother, I return you thanks, for your kind favours, by the Theodrick, which were verry acceptable. I intended to have work'd you a pair of ri * * Is, but have been so taken up at balls, and * * * that I really have not had time, but I [wiU] send a pair by the first safe THE BLAND PAPERS. 21 oppertunity. Captain Hall is full of news, [but] pray brother don't mind a word he says with regard to me. My sisters Jane and Fanny are not at home, or I don't doubt but they would have both wrote. My papa has sent for me a dress, and a pair of stays ; I should be glad if you will be peticular in the choice of them ; let the stays be very stiff bone, and much gor'd at the hips, and the dress of any other colour accept yellow. I am much rejoiced to hear by your letter, that you intend to keep up a correspondence with, your affec tionate sister, &c. LETTER XVIJI. From Theo'k Bland Sr. to Theo'k Bland his son. Addressed "Mr. Theod rick Bland, to the care of Mr. John Bland, merch't in London. Per the Theodrick, Capt. McNabb." Virginia, February 14th, 1763. Dear Theo', I received yours by way of Glasgow, under cover, from Mr. Andrew Ramsey, to whom you are obliged for his good opinion of you, as I am for giving me his sentiments in so kind and generous a manner, which I flatter myself are without disguise. Your Sister Anna was married the 19th of last month, to Mr. Thomas Eaton, a gentleman of North Carolina ; he has a good fortune and good character ; as it is a choice entirely of her own making, I hope it will be a happy match ; she (with your mother) this day took her departure from my house with a very heavy heart, and many fears at parting; therefore neither your mother nor herself could write, but desire all the love imaginable may be presented to you ; the rest of your sisters are well, and all desire their loves to you. I flatter myself with hopes of seeing my dear and only son (whom I have already been deprived of for near ten years*) at farthest in the spring sixty-four, more especially as we have the agreeable news of a peace, as I think by this time you must have made sufficient pro gress in your studies to appear in Virginia with credit to the country, and pleasure to your disconsolate parents ; pray advise me when I am to have the agreeable pleasure of your conversation ; and do not come upon us unawares, as your dear mother says she should not be able to stand the shock it would give her. I expect (by your last let- * From this it appears that young Bland left Virginia for England about the year 1753. 22 THE BLAND PAPERS. ter this will find you in London, and have sent for you, to the care of my Cousin John Bland, six hams of bacon, and seven bottles of peach brandy, with a small barrell of hominy ; when you dress the hominy, it is to he put into a pott with a good deal of water, and boyled with a very gentle fire, and as the water boyles away, you are to supply it with more boiling hot water, a small quantity at a time. When it is sufficiently done, serve it up, and season it according to your taste, with butter and salt, and if you choose it sugar, tho' Tom's mother says he can direct you in the boiling it. The season of the year pre vents the bacon being so well cured as it ought to be, therefore shall be glad to know how it turns out ; and pray omit no opportunity of writing, as that is the only satisfaction you can give me, till Providence pleases to favour us with a meeting. I am, with my sincere prayers for your happiness and welfare to the Supreme Director of all things, my dear son's most affectionate father, &c. LETTER XIX. To Theodrick Bland, " at Mr. John Bland's, in Lime Street, London." There is no signature to this letter, which is very imperfect, but it seems to be from an University student. Dear Bland, I am going into Lancashire to spend the remaining [part of the] vacation. I propose coming to London to see a play or two, and [will] go down in the coach. If you will give yourself the trouble to inquire what days the coach leaves London, you [will], do me a favour. As I am ignorant of town, I shou'd be glad if you will meet me at my arrival, or let me know where I must send for you. I shall come in the Fly.* I fear town is so full, I shan't be able to get where to lay my head. You must write immediately, as I can do nothing without it. Pray answer every particular, they being of moment. After having heard from you, I shall fix my day of being in town. All that I shall say [further] is what I have said above — write immediately. * The stage-coach. THE BLAND PAPERS. 23 LETTER XX. From Thomas Smith, student at Cambridge University, England, to Theo'k Bland esq. " at Mr. Bland's in Lime Street, London." Trin. Coll., Cam., June 8, 1763. Dear Bland, As expected, so it turned out, that the Bishop would not admit me on account of my age ; for which reason, it has not been in my power to pay you a visit in town, as I could have wisht to do. Let me hear as soon as possible how you go on in town. How does the lady, in I forgot what street, but her I mean to whom you introduced me? [How long] stay you in town 1 Have you seen Charles Fuller yet at the Turk's Head ? Cradock has not been very well. Thomas tells me you have a wig of most monstrous size. God bless you, adieu, write soon, &c. N. B. All letters sent to me at Cam. will find me in any part of the world. LETTER XXI. From Theo'k Bland to his father. Edinburgh, [1763]. Hon'd Sir, I received your last kind favour about three weeks ago, since which I have learn'd it came by the same vessel that Mr. Skipwith did, whose agreeable company I have enjoy'd for some days past, and who I hope will spend some time longer with us, at least I have con jectured so, as to all appearance there is an object in this place, who seems to engage his attention ; but lest I should be wrong in my opi nion, or premature in my intelligence, as happen'd to be the case lately with that convey'd with regard to myself, I shall be content with just having hinted it, as indeed I have no authority, nor sufficient appearance to do more ; however time will shew the event. The person by whom this goes I believe is named Shaw, but am uncertain ; he proposes to settle in Petersburg, in quality of a storekeeper to Mr. Spiers; I was only informed about two hours ago of this opportunity, and amidst the hurry of business, can just find time to convince you that no oppor tunity shall escape me of writing, however remiss my dear friends have imagined me, for this twelvemonth past, which is the accusation my dear father's last letter lays against me ; but be assured sir that hi 24 THEBLANDPAPERS. that time I wrote by every opportunity I could hear of, viz., two let ters by Glasgow, and either two or three by London, in one of which were enclosed letters for my dear mother and sisters, in answer to the last I had the pleasure to receive from them. I cannot by this opportunity acquaint you with half what I could wish to do, but shall shortly inform you that I expect to leave this place about May or June next, when I shall go to London immediately upon having taken my doctor's degree. From London, with your consent and the appro bation of Mr. Bland and Dr. Fothergill, I propose to proceed to Leyden, and should likewise be extremely glad, with the same sanction, to see Paris ; as I flatter myself with economy all this may be done with very little increase of expense, and at the same time with the greatest advantage to me in compleating that education on which my dear father has hitherto spared nothing that I could wish for. With the improvements I hope to derive from these steps, added to what I have already takenj_I promise myself the inexpressible pleasure of returning to my dear country and parents in two years at most, where you may depend upon my utmost endeavours to acquire that happiness to my dear parents, self, friends, and countrymen, that such an education and future application may entitle me at least to hope for.J Miss Miller who is in this town at present, and Mr. Peyton Skipwith, desire their best comp'ts to you and all their friends, and be pleased, dear sir, to accept the most sincere duty, love and affection, for your self, my dear mother and sisters, with their spouses, from your most dutiful son, &c. LETTER XXII. Fragment of an anonymous letter written from France. * * * the importunate and impudent nomenclator to pay a piece of 24 sous French, as he would'nt take less, and seem'd very ill content with [that ; one of] the most curious pieces, here, was a [steel] buckler, graved with a diamond, in a manner I have not yet seen, for tho' the [figures] were well done and plain, yet the steel is entirely smooth. Besides this, were the helmet, buckler, &c, of Charles the 5th, in * * * of very fine releive, and the arms of Montezuma, emperor of Peru,* in silk and whale-bone arrow-proof. V Dined this day with the same [company,] when not having found * Of Mexico. THEBLANDPAPERS. 0,5 me to be an [Englishman,] as I supposed, the conversation began with the politicks of Europe, [passing] to some reflections on England, which, and whose inhabitants, these * * * gentry spoke | pretty freely of, and did not fail to find out whatever was culpable in its laws, politicks, and constitution, and nothing was spoke so well of as the extravagance of the English gentry, which to the shame of our nation, is so well known throughout Europe, that 'tis become almost a proverb ; the conversation finish'd with some very just reflections of the bad custom of giving vails to servants, and of the insolence of the common people to strangers, which without apologising for England, I must say from experience here * * * is common to find in polish'd France. After having visited the Cathedral, which is adorned with more bad statues than good, and more good pictures than bad ones, the chief of which last are by Rubens, I took a walk almost round the town, upon the bulwarks, passed thro' * * * LETTER XXIII. From Peyton Skipwith* to Theodrick Bland, Jr. Monmouthshire, December 25th, [1763.] My dear Bland, For weeks I have been the most melancholy creature in the king dom; I have been scarce able to write, read or even think; a few days after I wrote you from Bath, I was taken with a violent cold, attended with a very disagreeable cough, insomuch that the physician inform'd me that without the greatest care I must inevitably go into a consumption. You may easily imagine the [state] a person of my lively disposition must have been in, at so [sad] a reflection, to think that after the [gay] fife I had [led] for twelve months past, without ever giving myself the least time for reflection, to be snatched away in the most expeditious manner, the thought was frightful I assure you ; * The writer of this letter, Peyton Skipwith, (afterwards Sir Peyton,) was son of Sir William Skipwith. From the tombstone of the latter, at Greencroft, on the Appomattox, near Petersburg, the subjoined inscription is copied. " Here lyeth the body of William Skipwith, baronet, who deceased the 25th of February, 1764, aged 56 years. He descended from Sir Henry Skipwith, of Prestwould, in Leicestershire ; created baronet by King James the 1st, was ho noured with King Charles the First's commission, for raising men against the usurp ing powers, and proved loyal to his king, so that he was deprived of his estate by the usurper, which occasioned his and his sons' deaths, except Sir Gray Skipwith, grandfather of the above-said Sir William Skipwith, who was obliged to come to Virginia for refuge, where the family has since continued." ° 4 25 THE BLAND PAPERS. however I was at length prevailed on by my good friend Mr. Han- burey Williams, to go with him to his seat in Wales, and there five regular, (which I cou'd not do at Bath,) drink ass's milk, and breathe the fresh air; from the first moment I landed in Wales, I perceived myself grow better, and have continued to mend until this moment. I have perfectly recover'd my spirits, and hope in a few days to be as well as I ever was in my lifetime. This gentleman was heir to the great Sir Charles H. Williams,* and lives like a prince in a most agreeable ^ house that was his, furnish'd in a more elegant manner than any house " I have ever been in ; it is situate at the foot of the great Welch moun tains, and the country about it is [better] cultivated, and more beauti ful than any country I have before seen. I am treated by this worthy gentleman more like a son, than the intire stranger, and own I never spent my time more agreeably, my state of health consider'd, than since I have been at this place ; our chief diversions are hunting, shooting, and sometimes a game of whist. I go to-morrow to Mr. Hanburey's, member of parliament for this county, where I am to reside for a fortnight or three weeks, so that I don't expect I shall have the pleasure of seeing you sooner than a month from this time. I shou'd be extremely glad to know when you think of going to North America ; for my part, I am pleased with the thoughts of going with you, and am determined [to make] your time of going mine. We [have no news in this] part of the world worth relating. I shall expect to hear from you by the first post, and as you are something of a politician, and in the midst of news, pray don't be so devilish concise and lazy, but write me all the news relative to Mr. Wilkes, Martin, the burning of the North Briton, &c. &c. Pray make my compt's to your cousin and his good family, Col. Ludwell and his, Mr. Dinwiddief and his, and all other acquaintances, not forgetting Mr. Burwell and his family. Pray, if you hear any Virginia news, don't forget to mention it, and must again desire to hear from you by the first post. And am, dear Bland, yours with the utmost sincerity, &c. N. B. I beg you'd let me know ingenuously how the affair goes on between you and Miss L — . — . N. B. Direct to me, to the care of George Hanburey Williams, Esq. at Coldbrooke, near Abergavenny, in Monmouthshire. • Charles Hanburey Williams, member for Monmouth in several parliaments ; 1744 installed knight of the Bath, and afterwards embassador to Prussia and Russia. He was also author of several poems. Died 2d November, 1759. Lem- priere's Biog. Die. t The Governor of Virginia. THE BLAND PAPERS. 27 LETTER XXIV. From Theodrick Bland, Sr. (No address.) June 27th, 1765. Sir, I rec'd your kind favour of the 19th instant, by Capt. , With eight very fine pine apples, for which you have the sincere thanks of my wife, Mrs. Banister, and myself. It gives me great pleasure to find that I am remembered by a person, in whose company I spent so many agreeable hours, and one who notwithstanding his youth, is capable of being so commu nicative as you are; and am only concerned, it was not in my power to entertain you hi such manner as I could wish to have done, but I hope you will accept of the will for the deed, and be assured I did not, neither could I, with justice, impute your silence to ingratitude, a crime which never could be suspected from a per son of your refined sentiments; you may perhaps imagine that what I say is intended as a compliment, but be assured, it is my real sentiment, and as a proof of my sincerity, I hope for the future our correspondence will be continued, and with that freedom which always accompanys friendship. ^ We have no news in this part of the country, except the old topic of the stamp duty, and the dissatisfaction which prevails with you, is equal if not greater with every individual in these parts, and I doubt forebodes many fatal consequences, one of which seems to be at least a cessation if not a total subversion of all civil government, the several magistrates in this part of the country, being at this time, determined not to act in their judicial capacity, by which they will avoid the many penalties, which the act of parliament subjects themselves and other civil officers to. In short, the present times are such as ought, and I dare say do, make every friend to his country shudder, to think of; how it will end, God only knows, but enough of this disagreeable subject. p, / Our friend, Mr. Banister, has been very much ingaged ever since the dissolution of the assembly, in swilling the planters with bumbo,* and I dare say from the present prospect, will be elected a burgess, at least he has this satisfaction, that every man of the least distinc tion in the county is in his interest. As you are so kind to offer your services, I shall, whenever I have Occasion, get the favour of you, to act for me in procuring what I *Rum. 28 THE BLAND PAPERS. may at any time want from your town, one of which favours I must now ask, to wit, when Capt. Hall went last from this, I desired him to procure me abarrell of good sugar, which he has since wrote me, he had directed Mr. Neil Jameson to send, if that gent has not already sent one, I shall be much obliged in your sending one of between two and three hundred weight that is good, either from Mr. Jameson, or any other gentleman you think proper, and also a bar- rell of good old rum, provided the price does not exceed five shillings per gallon, and I hope whenever you may have occasion of any thing transacted in this part of the country, you will with freedom command, and be assured I will with diligence execute those com mands. Mrs. Banister who has received your kind present, Mrs. Bland, Miss .Taney, and Fanny join in their best compliments and wishes for your prosperity, with your most obedient servant, &c. LETTER XXV. From Arthur Lee to Dr. Theodorick Fland, Virginia. London, August 21st, 1770. My Dear Friend, Indebted to me as you are, [I would] not [write] but just to let you know, I remember you, with unaltered affection. Indeed I have hardly spirits to write, so severely do I feel the fatal news which has just reached us, of the treachery of New York in basely desert ing the common cause of liberty. Much am I afraid the evil will spread, and the servile spirits of which there are but too many in every colony, will be animated by the example of that province, so as to renew the attempt of reducing the whole to slavery. I be gin to despair ; and the fears, I have long entertained, that there was not virtue enough in America to sustain her liberties, over whelm me now with affliction. We must be the contempt of the present, the odium of future time. We must bear the humiliating reflection, that we knowingly resigned our liberties, because we had not fortitude to maintain them. The Association* in Virginia Soes not console me ; from the best intelligence that can be gained * By which the subscribers bound themselves to abstain from certain arti cles of foreign growth and manufacture. Among the papers of Col. Bland there is a printed form of this association, with the names of subscribers in the county of Prince George THE BLAND PAPEKS. 29 from the merchants here, they did not keep one article of it before, and why shou'd I hope that the honour they have already violated, will bind them now 1 The Association of last year, was as solemnly entered as this, yet it is constantly, and confidently declared here, that the exports to Virginia, of the prohibited articles, was never more considerable. Certain it is, that there are no complaints of the Association having in the least degree, operated to distress the manufactures ; which had it been observed, must infallibly have happened. " Sed quid ego hcec nequicqua.m ingrata revolvo ? * " it is in vain to lament that corruption which no human power can pre vent or repair. We must now comfort ourselves, my dear friend, with hoping that there is truth in this observation of Rousseau : " La Liberte n'est dans aucune forme de gouvernement, elle est dans le cceur de I'homme libre ; il la porte partout avec lui. L'homme vil porte par- tout la servitude. L'un seroit esclave, a Geneve, et Vautre libre, a Paris.''] Shou'd our countrymen therefore determine [to submit to the] bondage that is prepared for them, we may at least pre [serve . our] hands unfetter'd. The study of the law, to which I am now applying, admits of little attention to philosophy. However, in the course of the year, we have had before the society, some experiments of Mr. Hewson, in which he has very full discovered the lymphatic system, in a variety of fish, and in some of the amphibii, as in the turtle. He finds too, from experiment and observation, that a sizy crust or buff takes place in blood, when the coagulable lymph has the least tenacity, and is least disposed to coagulate ; whence the red globules having time to sink through, collect at the bottom, and leave the coagulable lymph so copiously at top, as to exhibit this appearance. That, there fore it is in truth a sign of the tenuity, not of the tenacity of the blood. Another writer has shewn us by experiments, that fixable air added to water, enables it to dissolve iron ; from whence he concludes this to be the menstruum, by which iron is dissolved, in those mineral waters, where there is no appearance of an acid. Mr. Cavendish had before prov'n that the addition of fixable air communicated to wa ter the same power of dissolving absorbent earths ; which discovery is extended as above. In politics, we are tolerably quiet here; it is expected, Yorkshire * "But why do I vainly dwell upon these unpleasant reflections?" f "Liberty does not consist in any form of government, it exists in the heart of a free man ; he bears it every where with him ; a base man bears every where servitude. The one will be a slave at Geneva, and the other a free man at Paris." 30 THE BLAND PAPER-S. will remonstrate soon, a meeting being summon'd for that purpose j and probably other counties will follow the example. But nothing will shake an administration that has the merit of subduing America. The study of the law pleases me much, but where I shall prac tise, when I have obtain'd a gown, God knows. Remember me to Mrs. Bland, your father, uncle, and all our friends. If Farley is yet among you, I beg you will make my respects to him. Adieu, &c. LETTER XXVI. Letter from Theo'k Bland, Jr., endorsed by his father, "Dr. Bland's letter; his plan for living retired, much disapproved of by T. B." Blandford,* January 12th, 1771. Hon'd Sir, The disapprobation which you and my mother have shewn of the plan I have laid down for my future manner of life, together with that reserve I have for some time passed remark'd in your conduct to-. wards me, almost entirely withholding any communication of your sentiments from me, [with regard to] matters relating to my ihture welfare, gives me reason to think that my conduct has been displeas ing to you ; and my duty points out to me, the necessity of abating if possible that displeasure, by a free and unreserved communication of the reasons for my having taken the steps I have lately done. This I should by no means have thought of doing in an epistolary way, had your advice, enquiry, or any other circumstance afforded me an opportunity of representing to you the situation which has compelled me to a step that I am sorry to find is so disagreeable to you and my mother, however incompatible a contrary plan with my life, health or happiness. * The town of Petersburg stands at the point of junction of three counties, Dinwiddie, Chesterfield and Prince George. Petersburg proper is in Dinwiddie ; Pocahontas, on the opposite bank of the river Appomattox, is in Chesterfield ; and Blandford, another suburban village, is in Prince George, separated from Petersburg only by a ravine and morass. Theodrick Bland, Sr. appears to have been proprietor of a tobacco warehouse there, and it is probable the place took its name from that family. Blandford has gone very much to decay, and is chiefly remarkable for the melancholy charm of a ruinous, ivy-embroidered, moss-velveted, ante-revolutionary church, (whose yard is the Petersburg cemetery,) at present in the most picturesque phasis of dilapidation. THE BLAND PAPERS, 31 I am fully sensible [of,] sir, and with the most sincere gratitude acknowledge the great obligations, which I am under to both my much-beloved parents, for my support, and all their parental regards, cares, and anxieties, shewn me, as well when I was incapable of thinking or judging of any thing, as at the time of life when instruc tion was to lay the foundation for my future prospects of wealth, [honor,] or happiness, and these obligations, be assured, sir, shall never cease to excite in me the most [sincere] and lively sense of duty, respect, love, and affection, for the objects from whence they flow'd. Of the opportunities afforded me, I can with truth and confi dence assert, I made every advantage in my power, with a fix'd pur pose of becoming one day or other useful to my fellow creatures, and of supporting a station in life, that should give my parents no reason to repent of what they had done for me. My inexperience in the nature and situation of my native country, and the mode of practising physic therein, would not suffer me to foresee the immense fatigue, labor, toil, and trouble which I was to undergo, in the practice, at the time I made choice (through your indulgence) of a profession which afforded the most agreeable prospect of amusement for the mind, and of providing for myself on my return, without continuing to be bur densome to my parents, and by that means curtailing them of those calm and peaceable enjoyments which old age and infirmity require. These, sir, were my sentiments at a time when from similar objects about me, from whence I drew hasty conclusions, I was misled with regard to my notions and ideas of the practice of physic in this country. However on my return I determined to encounter every difficulty and to obviate every inconveniency that presented itself to me, that I might fulfill the purpose for which I was so long absent. With a con stitution weak and infirm, from my cradle, I buffetted the winds, and faced the weather in all its extremes, from the severest cold to the most intense and scorching heat ; I exposed myself to every incle mency both by night and by day ; and have for near seven years* undergone all the distresses, cares and anxieties, which are the con stant and unremitting attendants of a conscientious practitioner of physic, and all this in direct opposition to my leading and strongest inclinations to a calm, quiet, and philosophical life, in a rural situation, and with the loss of every social and domestic enjoyment ; for what enjoyment of time can a man have who is subject to perpetual alarms 1 The consequence of this kind of life, sir, has been the additional loss • He commenced the practice, it appears from this, about the year 1764. 32 THE BLAND PAPERS. of that which no earthly enjoyment can afford an adequate compen sation for ; and which, I am well convinced, from impartial reasons and the most sensible feelings, is irreparable, but by rest of body and tranquillity of mind, which I doubt not of obtaining by that retirement I have planned out for myself. I now hope, sir, that by this time, you and my mother are well con vinced, that my resolution to renounce the practice of physic, is not the effect of whim or caprice, but of absolute and cogent necessity. If not, I would beg leave to assure you, that I have for two years past, fore told the precise situation to which I should be reduced, and in which I actually was a few months ago ; and I fear that I can with too much certainty affirm, that one or two years more would put a period to my existence, were I to continue the practice. Would it then be more pleasing to my parents to see me a lifeless carcass in one or two years, than that I shoidd forego the scanty dependent emolument resulting from that employment, every part of which is attended with bitterness and pain in the acquiring 1 Thus much, sir, for my own personal rea sons, for quitting the practice of a profession, whose utility I acknow ledge, and the study [of] which I admire above every other, but when * * * troubles, &c, my constitution is inadequate to * * * But cogent as they appear to me to be, they are not the only ones. In this precarious state of health, sir, is it not incumbent on me as a good husband, nay, as a reasonable man, to make some provision in case of my death, for a wife whom I have married, and made partaker of all my fortunes whether good or ill, a wife whom I love, and on whose welfare my greatest felicity depends t To this end, sir, I have laid a plan for purchasing a tract of land, (with what little remains after the paying of my debts,) and of fixing ourselves, in a peaceable retirement, where a genial nature will supply us while I live with the necessaries of life, and where divested of ambition and avarice, and and cloathed with content, I hope the luxuries thereof will be altoge ther needless ; and then, sir, when it pleases God to put a period to my being, I hope I shall with cheerfulness resign my present state, con scious of having discharged every relative duty, that lay in my power, particularly to her, who is more immediately dependent on me for pro tection, and to those to whom I owe my existence, who may be assured that I am, and ever shall remain, their dutifull and affectionate son, &c. P. S.' The shortness of the time, I hope will excuse all [errors.] I hope no apology to a parent, for any error in judgment, (when he is assured, that the heart is full of duty and respect,) is necessary. THE BLAND PAPERS, LETTER XXVII. From Theod'k Bland to Messrs. 'Farrel 8c Jones,' merchants, at Bristol, England. Farmingdell, Dec. 1st, 1774. Messrs. Farrel & Jones, This acknowledges the receipt of your favour of the 10th of Aug't, by the Virginian, Capt. J. Aselby, in which was inclosed my account current; nett proceeds £8, 11, 2, for two hhds. tobacco, for which sum, with the interest thereon, (at 60 days,) amounting to £4, 4, 1 , have drawn a bill in favour of Mr. Charles Duncan, amounting to £8, 16, 6, which I doubt not will be duly honour'd. I must confess the low price I have got for my tob'o, does not afford me great encour agement to try the port of Bristol, as a market for that commodity ; especially when I consider that part of the same crop, and what was deem'd rather inferior in quality, netted me seven pounds twelve and six pence, from Liverpool. My intention was to increase my commis sion to your port ; but I think no man can be expected to run upon his ruin with his eyes open. You will, therefore, excuse my not com plying with your request, to assist Captain Aselby in his loading. I should have vested the small proceeds in goods, but the present political disputes, between these colonies and the mother country, which threaten us with a deprivation of our liberties, and every thing that is dear to us, forbid such a step, and induce us to exert every nerve to imitate the silk-worm, and spin from our own bowels, although the webb should be our winding-sheet. This is the deter mined resolution of every American, as far as I can hear, from Nova ( Scotia to Georgia ; nor would any consideration induce a Virginian, at this time, to ship one hhd. of tob'o, were it not to pay those debts, as nearly as possible, before the arrival of the 1 0th day of Sept'r next, at which time the non-exportation takes place, and will be, I believe, religiously adhered to, unless our grievances are fully redressed before that time. What will be the consequence, should the corrupt aristo cracy which at present rules the British councils, persevere in their arbi trary measures, with respect to America, God only knows ; this part of the continent, though ardently desirous of a constitutional recon ciliation, is, to a man, determined that that day which deprives them of' their liberties, shall also deprive them of their existence. 34 THE BLAND PAPERS. I should not have troubled you with so long an epistle, had I not thought it a duty I owed my country, to apprize every person in Eng land, with whom I was in the slightest manner connected, of the senti ments of the people of this country, which may perhaps be well known before this reaches you, from many publick acts. You will therefore, I hope, excuse this intrusion, and believe me to be your very humble servant, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. ' PART SECOND. LETTERS WRITTEN DURING THE REVOLUTION. N. B. To the reader. — In all cases where the name of the person to whom a letter is addressed is not specified, it is to be considered as addressed to Colonel Bland, Jr., unless otherwise stated. LETTER I. Cornstalk's* letter to Captain William Russel, at Fort- Shawneetown, June 15th, 1775. Brothers the Bigg-knife,! I was with you a few days ago, and you desir'd to know what my people had concluded on; now we have concluded to inform you, that your younger brothers, the Shawnees, is allways willing to com ply with any resonable request the Bigg-knife shall ask. You desire me to send you the negro wench and children, but I have only sent you the wench, as my people will not agree to give up the children, as they say they are thear own flesh and blood, and can't think of parting with them, therefore hopes you wont ask for them no more, as we are brothers and good friends; and as for your horse-creatures, I think we have give up all we took, or has of the white people's in our nation ; I hope, brothers, you don't think that we took all the horses * Cornstalk, the celebrated Indian chief, king of the Shawnees, who com manded at the battle of Point Pleasant, October, 1774. This letter was no doubt penned by a white, (the word " confairmed" seems to indicate that he was a Scotchman,) but dictated by Cornstalk ; it is written in red, a beautiful vivid ver milion, such as is used by Indians in painting their bodies. t Big-knife, i. e. Virginian, so called from the use of the sword. 36 THE BLAND PAPERS. you lost, as thear wear sevral other nations of Indians took horses, as well as my people ; thearfore hopes you wont ensist for any more, as it is not worth while talking of our creatures allwayes, so we will drop that, and talk of nothing but peace and friendship. Brothers, we met last fall and concluded a peace, which we expect to abide by ; only we have to go to Fort Pitt,* to have the peace con- fairmed, [to] which we shall set off, in 6 or 8 dayes, as the Mingoes has started 3 days agoe. Brother Sucannai, you and I talked togeather last winter, that nary one of ns should mind foolish people, which I hope you * * * when that * * * done not blame the Shawnees for it, with out you no they did it. You no when the Chearykees did the mis chief this spring, your people thought it was the Shawnees. Airways when you and I talks togeather, and when ever you write to me, you allways say, we should not mind foolish people, which I wont, and hopes you wont, and if any of our young men should meat, and - should have wounds, let us not mind it, as we are head-men * * * peace is the * * * * * * * I Cornstock * * * going to the treaty of the Shawnees, Corn- stock and his brother Nimwhoughanaquatomma, and Cornstock's son. LETTER II. From Richard Bland-I July 25th, 1775. Dear Sir, Finding when I came to Richmond that the false and infamous reports propagated, as my friends informed me, and as I am convinced I shall be able to prove, by Mr. , had generally prevailed through the country, I was determined my innocence, and the vindication of my character, should be made equally publick. On the 23d instant, I made the information, and motion now inclosed you ; and although a great number of the members, indeed all who expressed their senti- * Fort Du-Quesne, Fort Pitt, now Pittsburg. t Richard Bland was pronounced by Mr. Jefferson, "the wisest man south of the James river." From his profound knowledge of the history of the colony, he was styled " the Virginia antiquary." He resided at Jordans, Prince George county, where his portrait may be still seen, mutilated by the bayonets of a party of British soldiers, at the same time when that of his wife was decapitated. THE BLAND PAPERS. 37 ments, declare they considered the reports as utterly groundless, and were warmed with a just indignation against the authors of them, yet I prevailed with the Convention to have the matter publickly inquired into, for I find they have travelled as far as Philadelphia, whither I intend [to go] as soon as the inquiry is over, chiefly on this account. By a scurrilous and very abusive piece in this week's paper, you will find he denies that he propagated the reports my friends informed me on my return home had prevailed to my prejudice ; what I want to prove is, that such reports did prevail, and that th. me from him; for this purpose I beg you will attend the exam ion, and bring with you any persons of credit, who may have heard them. This is a matter of too much importance to me to be passed over, and I doubt not that this consideration will to you at least render any apology for the trouble I give you unnecessary. Pray be at Mr. Goode's on Thursday evening; he will be glad to see you. Your affectionate, &c. The Convention yesterday came to a resolution, to [prohibit] the exportation of grain and provisions, after the 5th of next month. Be so good as to send the letter to Mr. Baird immediately. LETTER IJI. From Richard Bland to 'Doctor Bland, in Prince George.' Wmsburg, October 29th, 1775. Dear Sir, Can you believe it ! be assured it is true ; Mat Phrip has deserted the cause of liberty, and gone over to Lord Dunmore. The man in whom we [all most] implicitly confided, from Ms warm and repeated declarations against tyranny, is become a traitor to his country, and a supporter of that very cause he declaimed against. He was a de ceiver from the beginning, and I hope will, in the end, receive his jusi chastisement ; but enough of him. We want to know if Mr. Banister* will pursue his design of turning his saw, into a powder, mill ; he may get partners ; we have, in pros pect of his doing this, order'd salt-petre and sulphur to him. Will nobody undertake to make salt-petre at Appomattox warehouses?! Strange negligence ! I fear supineness possesseth all ranks among us ; * John Banister. t At Petersburg. 38 THE BLAND PAPERS. why do we talk, and not act ! I myself will give £20, or 30, towards this useful work, if you and other able persons will join with me. You will have all the news in the papers. I am your aff'ly, &c. LETTER IV. From Richard Kidder Meade.* Norfolk, Town Camp, Dec. 18th, 1775. Dear Sir, The sight of H. & D. Bonner did me good, more especially when I received a letter from a friend I love, inclosing a very essential article. The sum I paid was £13, 5, so give me yet credit by 5s., and charge me with the most I ought to contribute, which shall be hereafter paid. As fortune has favor'd us, and I now have a little leisure, I will give you the circumstances of the battle.f A servant lad, without cause, deserted from our minutej officers, and fell in with the enemy, who questioned him as to our numbers, &c. ; he said, not exceeding 300. The governor, pleas'd with this account, and sure of success, muster'd his whole force, who march'd in the night to the fort, with orders to force our breastworks early next morning, or die in the attempt. He taught his troops to believe that we shou'd not stand more than one fire, and from report, that shou'd we conquer, no quarter wou'd be given ; before [the men] were out of our tents, the firing began ; at first it pass'd as our usual sport — an exchange of a few morning guns ; but the alarm soon took, and as they advanc'd the bullets whistled on every side ; it is impossible by letter to give you a full description ; but their advance was along a causeway six abreast ; a small guard com [manded] at our breastwork began the fire, who were soon rein- forc'd, tho' then inferior in numbers ; at this .time, (tho' for the smoak I did not see it,) the enemy fell back a little, but soon rally'd, by the vast bravery of Capt. Fordyce, who march'd with many bullets through him, within twenty yards of the breast-work, before he fell, when the few remains of his noble followers retreated, falling as they went, by the management of Colonel Stevens, who flank'd them with * Father of the Right Reverend William Meade. t Of the Great-Bridge, for an account of which, see Burk's Hist, of Va., vol. 4, page 85. | Officers of minute men. THE BLAND PAPERS. 39 a hand-full of riflemen ; in short, the like is not to be equall'd in his tory; they fought, bled, and died, like Englishmen, and, I have the pleasure to say, were treated as such. The scene, when the dead and wounded were bro't off, was too much ; I then saw the horrors of war in perfection, worse than can be imagin'd ; 10 and 12 bullets thro' many ; limbs broke in 2 or 3 places ; brains turning out. Good God, what a sight ! what will satisfy the governor 1 You know my feelings ; 'and my determination really is now fixed. I'll see this present matter at an end, or die, and then but from necessity, if ever I experience the like again, may I give the Di * * * and * * * I wou'd say much more, but the guard is parading; thus much I believe that of the enemy about 100 were kill'd and wounded. A wound in the finger, on our side only ; the Scotchmen are worse than I thought them ; many negroes have been sent off to the islands, and reports say that the governor intends to send the rest, except perhaps such as may [be] usefull pilots, or the like. I am, my good friend, yours sincerely, &c. Four officers killed, one wounded, in our possession. Apologise to all those who had a right to expect letters from me ; I have been on guard 6 nights out of 7. But, thank God, well. LETTER V. From Benjamin Harrison, Jr. Lower Ferry, Chicahomony River, Xmas [Christmas] day, in the morning, [Dec. 25th, 1775.] Compliments of the season to you, dear doctor, and your good lady ; and now for business. I happen'd here last night from Wil liamsburg, and found the bearer of this, and I have but this moment discover'd that he is the person* sent here by our delegates at Con gress, to make salt-petre,-)- (I don't even now know his name) ; and on this account I have taken him under convoy to Berkley, from whence I shall set him over the river the nearest way to your house. My father writes me he wants to be dabbling in the salt-petre way, and gives me some directions how to begin such a work, but on reading * Probably from Jacob Rubsamen. See letter from him in part 2d, dated Aug, 2d, 1782'. t For the manufacture of gunpowder. 40 THE BLAND PAPERS. them to this gent'n he finds them very erroneous. I shall therefore be much obliged to you to transmit me an account how to proceed as you find most advantageous. I want much to see you, but it is impos sible I can now. I have leave of absence from the Convention only for 3 days, to give some necessary orders at home, and take a peep at Sukey ; I have not seen her for 3 weeks * * * * * Colo. Banister told me of your desire to be in the army ; I wish to God you would decline it ; you can do your country infinite service in this way ; however, write me which post you want, if you still determine on it, and you shall have my vote, sooner than any man in the colony, who has as little military experience ; you see how freely I write to you; I do so to none but those I love ; on this account you will excuse it. I am, dear doct'r, your very affectionate, &c. To Doct'r Bland, Farminedell. LETTER VI. Addressed to Lord Dunmore by Theo'k Bland, Jr. [Dec'r, 1775.] My Lord, Is it not strange, that on the very night that Cassius was warning you against your fate, your lordship's evil genius should be hurrying you on, with such hasty steps, to your rum ? is it not wonderful, my lord, that a servant allured by [your] proclamation to desert his master's service, should be the instrument of your lordship's undoing? Is the heart of Pharaoh yet harden'd, and will nothing less than the conver sion of rivers into blood, convince your lordship of your error ? And was it not enough, my lord, to endeavor to incense the savage hostages, by telling them they would be murther'd by us when you left them, un less they fled and raised their tribes ; but were civilized men, Britons and brave soldiers and officers, to be led on to slaughter, with the same sentiments of this people, inculcated into them by your lordship's most solemn assurances and repeated asseverations ? When will the measure of your lordship's iniquity be full ? And cannot your lordship, nor the renown'd Capt. Squire ,* live then in this mild climate, without wood and water, those superfluous luxuries? Will not exercise, or the * Matthew Squire, of his majesty's sloop Otter, engaged about this time in pre datory expeditions on James and York rivers. See Wirt's Life of Patrick Henry, p. 160. THE BLAND PAPERS. 41 burning a few houses compensate for the loss of the one, or the pillage of the cellars of Norfolk, be a substitute for the other ? Nay, my lord, be not, I beseech you, so modest ; perhaps if your lordship would vouchsafe to be an eye-witness, as you were in a late expedition against the types, your presence might soften the hearts of the brave riflemen, and a few of your body-guards might succeed in bringing off a few barrels of water. The experiment is worth trying. Who could be certain that your lordship would share the fate of the brave, the manly and the heroic Fordyce ? Here let me drop a tear, and ask par don of his magnanimous shade, for mentioning him with your lord ship. I promised you, my lord, to address you on another subject ; but your lordship's character is so fertile of matter, and every week produces something in it so striking and new, that the pen of the satirist, were it (like the mouth of fame) indued with an hundred-fold faculty of utterance, would be too tardy in reciting your lordship's achievements ; besides, my lord, the festivity of the season* for the present withdraws my attention to objects somewhat more agreeable than your lordship. I must therefore conclude this paper, with a quo tation from a Roman author, and leave your lordship to reflect on the moral to be drawn from it, and at y'r leisure make the application. "Furius Camillus, military tribune, with consular power, having served as dictator in a former war, against the Veii, (a people of Italy,) and by his prudence and courage subdued that people, and taken their city, which had been ten years besieged, was now sat down with his army before Falere, to revenge a wanton attack the Falisci, who in habited that city, had made on his army when he was besieging Veii. At a time when this great general almost despaired of success, a schoolmaster who had the care of the children of the principal nobility of the place, took measures to carry them out of the town, and, as he thought, to deliver the grateful prize into the hands of the Roman general, Furius Camillus, telling him, "that by delivering into his hands, those boys whose fathers had the principal authority in Falere, he had in effect put him in possession of the city." Camillus, says the historian, heard him to the end, and then replied, (no doubt as your lordship would have done on a similar occasion,) "Wretch! thou hast not come with thy impious present to a people or general like thyself We have not indeed alliance with the [Falisci] * * * * * * established still subsists, and shall subsist between us. War has its rights as well as peace ; and we have learned to carry it " Christmas. 42 THEBLANDPAPERS. on, with no less justice than bravery. We are in arms, but will not use them against an age which is spared even at sacking of cities, but against armed men, those very men who, without any injury or pro vocation from us, attacked the Roman camp at Veii. Thou, as far as lay in thy power, hast outdone them in an unprecedented act of vil- lany ; but I will conquer as I did at Veii, by art united to the Roman valor, military works and arms." * * * [Cassius.] LETTER VH. Addressed to Lord Dunmore by Theo'k Bland, Jr. My Lord, I think it is now high time to take a retrospect of your conduct, and show you the miry and filthy paths through which you have plunged, while the sun has been shedding his benign influence on this conti nent, and performing his annual circuit. About this time last year your lordship returned from your Indian expedition, with your brows encircled with unmerited laurels ; for, however ready and willing this gratefull and loyal country was to crown you with her applause, she has too well learnt since your lordship's motives for undertaking that expedition, and your lordship's sinister practices with those you were pleased to denominate a barbarous and savage enemy ; and too well does she know what secret compunctions your lordship felt at the noble exertions of that brave handfull of men whose prowess, contrary to your expectations, and unexpected by your lordship's valor, in one day* put a period to what your lordship hoped might prove a long, bloody, and expensive Indian war. Can we doubt your lordship's humanity, when we reflect that, while the laurel was yet green on your noble brow, we saw the arts practised with the Indian hostages, to incense them against the inhabitants of this colony, which your lordship then governed, as your proud masters' representative ; when we remember that you artfully delayed to ratify, and wantonly broke, a treaty enter'd into with that people, as far as your lordship's cunning reach'd, that they might still have a color for renewing hostilities with us, or our neighboring colonies ? But, my lord, lest you should hug yourself in the security, that your Machiavellian plans have been so 'Battle of Point Pleasant. THE BLAND PAPERS. 43 dexterously laid, that no person has taken note of them, I must beg leave to expose your profound duplicity in another instance or two, in your publick life, before I descend into the horrid abyss of your private character. You cannot forget, my lord, with what a secret pleasure you issued your vice-royal edict to sow dissensions between this colony and Pennsylvania, and, in your vice-royal person, pro claimed war against that province, after haughtily rejecting terms of accommodation offer'd by that province, and this, by-the-by, is a small specimen of y'r favorite kinsman's ruling maxim, "divide et impera." And here let me ask you, my lord, was this the mode your masters' predecessors in administration pursued heretofore, when colony boun daries were disputed, and before the demon of absolute rule had intoxicated the royal head, and that of his abandon'd ministry ? So black and numerous is your lordship's catalogue of crimes against the state, against reason, law, common sense, and common honesty, that I fain would hold my hand, nor rake further into the filthy mass. Could I hope to find one virtue, witness, heaven! what a pleasure 'twould afford me to extract it, and set it in a conspicuous point of view. Your lordship's next exploit, as if you scorn'd the idea of an unfin ished character, show'd you at once the publick betrayer of a people, by robbing them of the means of their defence, and the dark and mean assassin ; shall I add further, that your lordship was so lost to every sense of honor, that you openly prostituted that sacred word to cover your black purpose, and sullied that jewel of the British peerage to give currency to a lye. My lord, I deal not in slander ; I appeal to your own words, in your answer given to the address of the corpo ration of Williamsburgh, when they waited on you concerning the powder your lordship stole. I must now beg leave to remind your lordship of your conduct, with respect to a poor unhappy set of beings, whose lot draws compassion from every good man: I mean the negroes. We cannot forget with what avidity your lordship soon after your ar rival here purchased a considerable number of these unfortunate people, nor have they forgot with what rigidity your lordship treated those which fell into your hands, until your lordship first entertained the happy thought of making them subservient to your lust of power and passion ; 'twas then your excellency began to relax your rigid disci pline, and instead of making those apartments their prisons, (which your lordship also recommended to numbers of the inhabitants of W'msburgh,) that your lordship entertain'd them with convivial ban quets, and held your lewd and nightly orgies within the walls of your 44 THE BLAND PAPERS". palace, and soon after, that your lordship declared your firm intention of emancipating them, and of arming them against their masters. Here, my lord, had you not most shamefully and meanly prevaricated, when tax'd with this declaration, we might have discovered in your words and actions a gleam of consistency, nay, of truth. But is it not a pity, my lord, that truth should never appear to be a part of your lordship's character, but when she is robed in blood and treach ery; and that innocence itself cannot remain under the same roof with your lordship, without being made a partaker of your guilt ; has your lordship forgot the artfull insinuations with which you poison'd the minds of your amiable partner, and innocent family; or have you ceased to remember with how little remorse you blasted the character of a hopefull and innocent young lady? was not the conduct of Nero and Verres a sufficient exemplar for your lordship, without emulating that of Tarquin ? And now, my noble lord, [let me seriously ask,] do you imagine that the title you bear, the * * * power with which your masters have clothed you, which is limited to doing little petty larceny acts, on a few defenceless inhabitants on the bor ders of our rivers, and committing a few pilfering depredations on our hogs, sheep, and poultry, can exalt your lordship in the page of his tory, or smooth and soften your deathbed pillow? But as these are not objects of pursuit to minds such as your lordship's, I will, as a good citizen, demand of you, whether you think they impress the people of this continent with any idea of the lenity and mildness of what you are pleased to term our excellent constitution, or of your excellency's mild and virtuous administration? And whether even the poor deluded negroes your lordship (contrary to the oath your lordship took on your entrance on your government, to govern according to the laws of the colony,) has inveigled from their masters' service, will not shudder at, when your lordship's motives for declaring them free comes to be explained to them. No, my lord, I must beg leave to inform you, notwithstanding your edict, or, if you please, proclamation, that it is not in your power, nor that of your master, to fulfill the promise you have made them. The laws of our country, those very laws your royal master has given his assent to, ren der such an attempt felony in any person whatever to attempt, and I know not, my lord, how it would fare with your lordship, were you to be tried by that very act of assembly, on which, if I mistake not, you some time ago signed the death warrant of a poor, unhappy culprit, yourself; that man, my lord, was hanged for harmlessly stealing a slave ; how aggravated, and complicated, must be the crime of him, who not only does that, but stirs up the servant to be the assassin of THE BLAND PAPERS. 45 his master, in the bosom of domestick quiet and confidence. But, my lord, beware lest the pit you have digged for others, you fall not into yourself. If I do not err in my conjecture, your lordship's ruling maxim is, that all things are lawful in a state of war. Savage maxim, indeed ! but it is also an approved one, and has been for many ages, that "fas est ah hoste doceri." With this hint, my lord, I shall take my leave of you at present ; but as there are some things in your charac ter, to which I am no stranger, that are yet untouched, shall visit you again, and, in the interim, would advise you to " beware the ides of March." Cassius. P. S. I cannot conclude without congratulating your lordship on our late success of the ministerial arms in Canada,, and of the suc cessful expedition of your emissaries, Conolly, &c. LETTER VHI. From Paulus ^EmiliUs Irving, Major 17th Regiment. Valley-Forge, December 12th, 1776. Sir, Captain Langsdale, to whom I found it necessary to apply for a halting day, informs me it is out of his power to grant my request, as your orders to him are so positive. I am persuaded, when you are informed that not half my division are arrived, nor, I believe, any of the baggage, you will join me in opinion, that a halt of one day is un avoidable ; and if we are to pay any attention, either to the health or comfort of the officers, as well as men, a second becomes absolutely requisite, to wash linen, and other necessary purposes. We have had no halt since we left Sussex, and that was so uncertain, we could hot receive any benefit from it. The officers are without their bed ding; part of the baggage arrived this morning at North Wales ; there we were to change our waggons, which delay'd us until one o'clock, at which hour we march'd, and about a mile from our quarters, we were stop't by a provincial guard, by order of Major Correll, who was not to be found till near 3 o'clock, at which time we were forc'd to march to this place, a distance of fifteen or sixteen miles. I think it necessary to acquaint you of this matter, to enable you to prevent such disagreeable mistakes in future. I have the honor to be, sir, your most ob't, humble servant, &c, 46 THEBLANDPAPERS. LETTER IX. Marching orders of Lord Stirling. To Major Bland, of the Virginia Horse. "Rec'd Wednesday, January 22d, half past 7 o'clock." Philadelphia, January 22d, 1777. Dear Sir, In consequence of orders I have just received from General Wash ington, I must request that you will hold your two remaining squad rons of horse in readyness to march by 9 o'clock to-morrow morn ing. I lmow it is impossible for them by that time to be equipped with fusees and pistols, nor is there any probability of their being properly equipped with these * * * but then you will be pleased to leave a proper officer to get the arms and accoutrements ready, and to follow you to such place as you will hereafter direct him. Stirling.* LETTER X. Lord Stirling's marching orders. To Major Bland, at Ringold's. Flemming Town, January 26th, 1777, 11 o'clock, P. M. Dear Sir, Upon enquiry, I find it will cut your march four miles shorter, give you a better road, and a better ford of the south branch of Rariton river, if you take the road right forward, instead of the left hand road, about a mile on this [side] of Ringoe's, to Seabring's ford, and proceed to Reading's * * meeting-house, where I will meet you; the bearer will conduct you, and you will order your baggage waggons to take the same route. I am yours, &c. * William Alexander, born in New York. He laid claim to the Scottish earl dom of Stirling, which he was believed to have legally established, but the deci sion of the House of Lords was unfavorable. By courtesy, however, the title was always afterwards granted to him. Writings of Washington, Vol. 3, p. 235, in note. THE BLAND PAPERS. 47 LETTER XI. From Theodrick Bland, Jr., to his lady. [Feb'y, 1777.] My Dearest Patsy, I hereby acknowledge the receipt of your three letters, (besides one I received on the road, favored by Capt. Nelson,) the first dated the 1 Oth day of inoculation, the second the 3d day of February, and the last the 1st day of February. I am now set down with the serious intention of answering them, and of indulging myself after two or three days' marching and counter-marching, in a little chat with my angel, my Patsy. But, not like you, I have begun, and perhaps may end, with an account of myself Oh, Patsy, why do you not specu late always of yourself, of your state of health, of your thoughts, and your actions ; — of your thoughts I confess you do ; — but do not suffer them to run wild in the exuberance of your fertile, (for our situation,) too fertile imagination. Believe me, my dearest wife, that Providence, to whom you fervently pray, will hear your prayer, and shield your husband from harm. The horrors of war, I mean the dangers of the field, are fewer than your fears and feelings suggest to you. I have been in the field ; I have seen the enemy drawn up ; and am safely returned to a mansion, as peaceful, though not so pleas ant, as our little farm. We have this day been amused with a dis tant engagement, which we since learn was at a place called Quib ble Town, where there was an incessant fire of cannon and small arms for near three hours ; the particulars are not yet come to hand. I was two days ago with part of my regiment, and a body of troops under the command of General Shllivan, on a foraging party ; our plan was executed : one or two of the light horse fired a shot or two at a small party of the enemy ; a party of foot marched up to attack them, but they retreated and left us the field, without the least damage done on either side. We brought off five or six hundred cattle, and about as many sheep, belonging to tories, who had joined and were about to join the enemy. Colonel Scott, of Virginia, had an engagement six or eight days ago, in which the enemy are said to have lost thirty men killed, and about sixty wounded ; but, from a tardiness in another officer, was obliged to retreat, leaving eight men killed, and ten or twelve wounded. The enemy were near treble his number, and he behaved gallantly. But oh ! my dear. 48 THE BLAND PAPERS. shall I tell you of the disgrace of our countryman, . It will fly soon enough ; I shall therefore say no more : a court martial has been this day held on him, and the best that can happen to him, will be to be broke with infamy. But what are these things to my Patsy? They are the common talk of the camp, and I thought I would give it to you. In your letter of February 1st, you tell me you have been (exceedingly) ill for five days ; but think, my dear, how cruelly you have stopped : you do not tell me you are now well, nor can I know, but by the have been, and inferring from your hand writing, and your going to the glass. You do not know, my dear, what doubts I have had with myself, and what altercations in my own mind, whether you went to the glass, or the glass came to you. Such things as these, are easily cleared up. Do not, my dear, torture me at a distance, with " but enough of myself." Of whom else is it I wish to hear 1 For God's sake, my dear, when you are writing, write of nothing but yourself, or at least exhaust that dear, ever dear subject, before you make a transition to another ; tell me of your going to bed, of your rising, of the hour you breakfast, dine, sup, visit, tell me of any thing, but leave me not in doubt about your health. You began well, * * * * * * * but then you abruptly break off, and say, " but my fate cannot yet be determined." Has the doctor said so, or do I mistake the idea ? Heaven grant I may. Plow cruel is this, my dearest girl, to leave me in suspense? Why, my dearest girl, will you torment yourself, in your letter of the third, by anticipating evil to your self and me, and by a comparison of your situation with those who are apparently happier? Consider, my Patsy, you are a philoso pher — you are a heroine — your feelings I love, but why turn them to your torture, or my anguish ? You dive not, my dearest, into the dreary mansions, and lonely retreats of those who pass your window, with cheerful faces, and hasty steps. You feel not their woes — you see not their troubles ; they may have husbands pining in dungeons, children ready to devour the scanty morsels that hard labor and fru gal industry may have scarcely earned, unknowing where the next morsel is to come from. They may have their nearest connections swallowed up at sea, or devoured by the horrid engines of destruc tion — they may not have a pillow whereon to rest their weary heads. From these, I thank my God, my Patsy is yet secure. Could you be hold the distress that ravaging war has occasioned, in this once de lightful spot, this garden of the world, you would say 'twere wise to keep it from our doors at all events. What is the sacrifice of a few THE BLAND PAPERS. 49 years to the good of the human species ? what heart can behold the outrages committed here, and sit with inactive silence, and look on with obdurate apathy? Fear not, my Patsy — yes, "you will again feel your husband's lips flowing with love and affectionate warmth." Heaven never means to separate two who love so well, so soon ; and if it does, with what transport shall we meet in heaven ? And does poor Dido sympathise with her dear mistress ? Take care of her for her master's sake ; but let not any accident that may befall her, add one atom to my dear's distress. Are you not an artful slut ? — I too could, nay, almost had, made a blot. Did you not know the eloquence of that black spot in your letter ? Why was the ink fighter colored than the writing ? Was it not diluted with a precious drop from my dearest Patsy's eyes. I thought it was, and kissed it : henceforth I shall think a blot the most elegant writing. Not one letter. Yes, my dear, I have stolen from the silent night two hours about a week ago, and sent my heart to you in a sheet of paper. Have you not received it ? I left it at head-quarters, and will inquire after it to-morrow — no, I cannot. To-morrow I shall go to Brunswick, if nothing hap pens to prevent it, by order of the general, with a flag of truce. It will be, I believe, a pleasant expedition. Perhaps I may meet some of my old acquaintances. You say, my love, you must see me for a very particular reason. As soon as it can be done with honor, my Patsy shall be gratified ; but that, alas, (is now) impossible. I will not flatter, my dear; but why sit down in silent melancholy? Why make yourself, and me too, unhappy ? No, my dearest girl, let me hear that you are easy, sprightly, gay and cheerful. It will not retard our happy meeting, nor sour our separation. Why, when the cup is bitter, will you add gall to it ? Your prudence has suggested to me what I did not think of What gold and silver you can conveniently spare, you may leave with Mr. Powell. Render him and his lady my best thanks for their kind regard and civility to my Patsy, and apologise for my not waiting on them before I left Philadelphia, You may give * * * a kiss for his kindness to you, and that will pay the ***** well enough. I know I value it at above one hundred pounds. Tell him I will pay him money for inoculating the negroes, as much as he asks. His man is good for nothing ; I have cursed him ten thousand times. His kindness is nevertheless in letting me have him. If Isaac can be conveniently spared, after being well smoked, washed, and dried, send him to me, and take Kit ; if not, send Kit, after a thorough cleansing — it would be bad to communicate the small pox. Captain 7 gfy THE BLAND PAPERS'. John Nelson, of my regiment, will accompany you to Virginia, if you go soon ; but I will write another letter in a day or two. God bless you — my paper is out, and my candle burnt down, &c. LETTER XII. From John Banister, to Col. Bland in Jersey, " favored by Capt. Hopkins." March 27th, 1777. Dear Sir, I wrote you by Captain Smith every thing I thought could be at all interesting, and am sorry you have not answered that part of the letter, at least, relative to your own affairs. Though you wrote Col. Benjamin Harrison to sell the negroes, I thought it necessary to give you what reasons had occurred to me in opposition to that opinion. To them I refer you, and wait with solicitude your answer and far ther directions, together with full powers to your attorneys to act, with which you may rely on the strictest compliance, so far as I am concerned. We have heard of Mrs. Bland's recovery from the small-pox, for which there could be no great doubt, considering her health, and good constitution. There is a young man in the army, of the name of Baker Pe- gram, who is a well-behaved, promising young soldier, and at the earnest request of his friends, I am to beg you will supply him with any thing he wants, on my account ; this you will be always able to do, as I have lodged, through Mr. Braxton, a letter of un limited credit for you, with Messrs. Willing and Morris. Baker Pegram was enlisted by T. Ruffin, and I think he belongs to the sixth regiment. Pray transmit an account, once a month, of the moneys you may think proper to receive of Willing and Morris; as at the end of each of the three succeeding months, I am to re ceive a considerable sum of money of Mr. Braxton on their ac counts, and it will be expected that what you receive will be de ducted. If Baker Pegram inclines to be inoculated for the small pox, his father will gladly pay the expense. Theodorick Munford's papers were delivered Col. Munford, to whom I have paid £918, and interest up to the 17th instant, and propose in a few days to reduce the whole debt to £800. I beg you would write me the proceedings of the army, and of your regiment in particular; with THE BLAND PAPERS. 51 what prospect of opposing the progress of Howe's army, we are like to open this campaign. I consider them conquered, if they can't proceed farther next, than they have the last. You no doubt have heard of Dr. Franklyn's arrival in France, and that the vessel he was in took two prizes in the Bay of Biscay. Some of the counties have completed their new levies, and most of them have recruited in considerable parts of companies, so that I hope two-thirds of our fifteen battalions will be early in service. Several Dutch and French vessels have lately arrived, one of the latter with 30,000 weight of gunpowder, and 1500 stand of arms, she is from Martinique. I would continue this letter open a day or two longer, but Captain Hopkins is impatient to be gone. My affectionate compliments to Mrs. Bland, and profound respects and best wishes to our great general. I am your affectionate friend, and servant, &c. Your sisters desire to be remembered to you. LETTER XIII. From Henry Lee,* to Col. Bland at Morristown. Boundbrook, April 18th, 1777. Dear Colonel, Your favor, by Lt. Peyton, I received yesterday ; am much obliged •to you for your favorable sentiments of me and mine. I find my sta tion is Chatham ; you require that I march thro' Morristown. How happy would I be, if it was possible for my men to be furnished with caps and boots, prior to my appearance at head quarters. You know, dear colonel, that, justly, an officer's reputation depends not only on the discipline, but appearance of his men. Could the articles men tioned be allowed my troop, their 'entrance into Morris would secure me from the imputation of carelessness, as their captain, and I have vanity to hope would assist in procuring some little credit to their ¦colonel and regiment. Pardon my solicitations on any head, respect ing the condition of my troop ; my sole object is the credit of the re giment. Yours, affec't, &c. * Afterwards commander of the legion, author of Memoirs of the Southern Campaigns, &c. 52 THE BLAND PAPERS LETTER XIV. From Cuthbert Harrison, to Colonel Bland, first regiment light horse, at Morristown. Roundbrook, 24th April, 1777. Dear Sir, Yours of yesterday, I received at this place, where I have been, since you ordered me to relieve Captain Dandridge, then at Baskin- ridge ; when I got there, he was down here, with what part of the 4th he had, (in consequence of the enemy attacking this station, Sun day, 1 3th instant,) General Green then ordered me down to take the command. [I received] yours by Mr. Yancy, acquainting me that those of my troops, left in the inoculating lines, were at Baskinridge, to relieve the 4th then here, I let him have them agreeably to your order, made no doubt that General Lincoln, as I was here with com mand, wou'd let me return to my own troops, but he desired I should stay awhile longer with Captain Lee, unless I had orders otherwise. Captain Lee was relieved by Captain Belfield, I again applied to the general to let me return, with three men I have here ; he requested I would stay at least 3 or 4 days longer, until Captain Belfield got ac quainted with the ground near the enemies' lines, which I have had an opportunity, what time I have been there, to make myself acquaint ed with. There's nothing new here, sir, to acquaint you with ; the enemy appear to be at a loss what steps to take ; I have had the plea sure to be within their lines with a flag. They treated me very gen teelly, as well I believe as the officer (being a Hessian captain of light horse) knew how ; ask'd few questions, my name, rank, and if I was from Virginia, and if we did not want to make peace. [To] the last of which I gave him for answer, " We are like all other just men, wish to do it on honorable terms." Your orders I have written to Mr. Hill, at Baskinridge, to be very strict and diligent in executing, and send the necessary returns you wrote to me for. Until I can have the pleasure to join my troops, I am, sir, with due respect, your obed't, humble servant, &c. Pray sir, excuse the bad paper, the best we can get. l'HE BLAND PAPERS. 53 LETTER XV. From Henry Lee. Round Brook, April 25th, 1777. Dear Col. I cannot but blush when your letter to Captain Harrison reminds me of my neglect in [not] sending up the pay-roll of my troop for the present month. I have no excuse to plead, but the incessant duty with which I have been occupied, by order of General Lincoln. It is inclosed in this letter. As it will arrive at the paymaster's quarters before Captain Dandridge's possibly can, the real damage will be none ; but the example is injurious to order, and unpardonable. On receiving the late regimental orders, by which my troop was ordered to Chatham, I acquainted General Lincoln of my removal. He required me to tarry a day or two till he could hear from Col. Bland, to whom he intended to write. The purport of his letter was to request my detention with him. I thanked the general for his politeness, though did not require his intercession with you on that head, fearing lest I might be accused of local partiality, which I con ceive improper in any officer. On your answer's coming to hand, I set out my quarter master sergeant, with his supernumeraries, this morning, expecting to follow this day with my troop. The general still detains me. His reason, I believe, is an attempt meditated against the Hessian picquet. It will be executed on Saturday night. On Sunday I hope to arrive at my station. I have mentioned these matters to you, that you may know the , real cause of my tarrying here, and not be induced to judge me as acting with impropriety. Your most ob't servant and affectionate friend. LETTER XVI. From Richard K. Meade, (A. D. C.)* Head Quarters, Middle Brook, May, 1777. Sir, His excellency desires me to inform you, that when any party of horse is ordered to be furnished by you, that he by no means intends * Aid-de-camp, 54 THEBLANDPAPERS. they shall be furnished from your regiment only, but from the detach ments of other regiments that are here, and sends to you as command ing officer of the whole. The party sent for last, as an escort to the French general, as far as Corryell'sf Ferry, was likewise intended to be detached from the whole. Youf most ob't servant, &c. LETTER XVn. From Richard K. Meade, (A. D. C.) Head Quarters, 7th May, 1777. Dear Sir, His excellency desires me to request that you send him an exact return of your regiment, and that for the future he may have one •punctually every Monday morning, as he has a fixed day of trans mitting a general return to congress. As there seems to be impro priety or mistake in the additional pay of sergeants, it is the general's wish that you stop that much until further orders. I am, with good wishes for self and woman, your affectionate serv't, •&c. To Col. Bland. LETTER XVLTI. ¦From Col. T. Bland, Jr. [Imperfect and without address.] 1777. * * * But, as if American virtue was to be tried to the utmost, a new obstacle arose, which had the most hideous appearance. The small-pox, which had been carefully guarded against in the southern and eastern states, from whence the greatest supply of troops was expected to come, began to rage in the camp, with some violence, by means of the few troops, which joined the army during the winter, having passed through Philadelphia and the other states where it had been customary to inoculate the inhabitants without restraint. The * Con-yell's Ferry, on the Delaware River, about thirty-three miles above the city. THEBLANDPAPERS. 55 levies were immediately ordered to be inoculated, by which they were again retarded some weeks; and had not the enemy, through a strange infatuation or weakness, lain still in their quarters about this time, the main army might have been at their mercy, whenever they had chosen to have attacked it. They however contented themselves, at a time when the whole force that could have been drawn into the field would not have [exceeded] fifteen hundred, with sending out foraging [parties,] with which skirmishes generally ensued [within] our posts, which were planted every where near their lines, in most which the American army were successful as to the number killed and wounded; although overpowered by numbers they were gene rally obliged to retreat, and abandon for a short time their posts, where nothing was to be seen but that they had been there, and which they generally reoccupied before the setting sun. The most memorable of these foraging skirmishes was one the enemy undertook [from] Amboy, when they marched out as far as Woodbridge, with a force supposed to be between two and three thousand, having carried every thing before them, and driven back the American pickets and party stationed there, not amounting to more than two or three hun dred, the men at the adjacent post of Westfield, Samp (?) Town, and Quibble Town, were ordered to reinforce them, when a warm action ensued, near a place called Ash Swamp, when the enemy were driven back in turn with a considerable loss. In this action ten or twelve were taken prisoners, and as many found dead on the field by the Americans, who were led on by General Maxwell. Soon after this, in the month of * * * Major-general Lincoln, who commanded a post at Round Brook ********* LETTER XIX. From Col. John Banister. Williamsburg, June ldth, 1777. Dear Sir, I am much pleased to hear, by your letter of last month, that the army was getting through the small-pox, and in general becoming healthy ; but should be still more so, if our numbers were such as to enable our glorious general to act with decision. Your regiment, I am glad to find, are well equipped, and promise to do you credit, of 56 THE BLAND PAPERS. which I had entertained no doubt, after they had been familiarized to danger, and gained a knowledge in their profession. Col. Baylor's light dragoons want one hundred and thirty of their completion, and were they filled would be a fine regiment. The assembly have voted an augmentation of our force with the general, of one of the state's battalions complete, to march immediately ; and are now considering in what manner to fill the six, and supply the deficiencies in the nine, battalions. Among various expedients proposed for avoiding a draft, the following seem to be most approved, and, indeed, are most likely to interest the community at large, in raising the recruits. In the first place, the adoption of the following mode, recommended by the gene ral and congress: That every two militia men who shall raise a recruit to serve three years, or during the war, to be exempt from military duty as long as the service of the soldier shall continue ; to this, however, great opposition has been made, but it has passed in a committee of the whole house, as one of the resolutions upon which to draw the bill. The other plan stands thus : A general muster of the people is to be made, at which the whole body are to be divided into as many portions as the deficiency in the number of men may amount to. Each of these parts or divisions of the militia is to find a man, which if they fail to do in three daies, then the four field officers, and the three first civil magistrates not being of the militia, having first taken an oath to secrecy and impartiality, are to point out one man, from each division, who being nominated shall be deemed a soldier in all respects as if he had enlisted voluntarily. The two first expedients, you see, are calculated to supersede the necessity of a draft, which must and ought to be the last resource. How the people may conduct themselves on such an occasion, I know not ; but, if necessity impels, the experiment must be made at every hazard. An army once raised, capable of acting with advantage against the enemy, would be a means of confirming the minds of the common people, who always judge by events, and inspiring them with such spirits, as to render the keeping up or augmentation of the forces no difficult matter. It is not a glorious retreat, or the heroism of saving a country at the brink of destruction, by the finest dispositions of defensive war, but the eclat of victories, that strikes the gross of mankind. If we can keep in the field a superior army to that of the enemy, and be able to harass them by repeated skirmishes, it will soon give reputation to our arms, increase our adherents at home, and procure us allies abroad. Hitherto we have been without an army, and our preservation has been miraculous. I am much pleased THEBLANDPAPERS. 57 that you deferred the sale of your negroes till your crop shall be finished, because your overseer has the plantation in good order, and besides the crop, the value of slaves will greatly increase; this will appear to your satisfaction from the enclosed return made by Mr. Hickman, after having seen and examined every thing on the plantation. You have no doubt heard of Mr. R. H. Lee's* having been super seded in his appointment to congress. This measure was adopted in an early part of the session, in his absence, which (though I am not very fond of that gentleman) I condemned as a most flagrant act of injustice, and as a precedent dangerous in its nature, and [which] might (if not guarded against in time) be carried to lengths the most unwarrantable, and in the end be destructive of every principle of rectitude and impartiality in the trial of offences. The accusation was that Mr. Lee had, in the year 1776, directed a change of his rents from money to tobacco, on a supposition that the large emissions of paper money (the inevitable consequence of an expensive war) would depreciate the one, and raise the other. To this charge was added another, of a more criminal nature, importing that Mr. Lee had engaged his tenants to pay, (in case they failed to make good their rent in tobacco,) during the continuance of their leases, in gold and silver money, at its value then, or as much paper as would purchase gold and silver, to the amount of the yearly rent reserved ; that this plan of agreement for the tenants to accede to was commu nicated to a Mr. Scott by letter, with a request that he would aid in the execution of it. Mr. Scott not being present, the last accusation was not made out ; but a gentleman of character, and a member of the house, who had seen the letter, declared he thought it contained the provision for a payment in the precious metals, if the tobacco was not delivered. The inference drawn from these charges was, that Mr. Lee, being in an eminent station, and one of the first guardians and trustees of the rights of America, charged with the affairs of the United States, and thereby bound to promote their interest in every respect, had, in violation of the trust reposed in him, depreciated the paper emissions of the states, and therefore ought not to be further entrusted with the high office he had been appointed to. This being the state of what was imputed to him as criminal, I leave you to form your own opinion of his conduct, and to determine whether the as sembly were right in his amotion from office. But if they were right * Richard Henry Lee. 58 THEBLANDPAPERS. in that, what will you say to their consistency and uniformity of opinion, when I tell you, that the very body of men who but a few days before had disgraced, have returned him the thanks of their house ? Certainly no defence was ever made with more graceful eloquence, more manly firmness, equalness of temper, serenity, calmness and judgment, than this very accomplished speaker displayed on this oc casion, and I am now of opinion he will be re-elected to his former station, instead of Mr. George Mason, who has resigned. We have completed the plan for a draft, of which I will, if time per mits, send you a copy before I seal this letter. From the tedious pro ceedings of this assembly, I am fully convinced the preparations for war and the great business of keeping up supplies of men cannot ad vantageously be carried on by a popular assembly ; for though the liberty and rights of a people are safely entrusted to men of their own electing, and the danger of having their constitution infringed is sufficiently by that institution guarded against, yet that form of go vernment, which in peace is their best security, in war exposes them to the utmost danger. Nay, so clear is it from daily experience, that the operations of war should be confided to a few, that I begin to think success is, without the adoption of such a measure, impossible. Our executive had this power between the last and this assembly, and I think should, under the plenitude of it, have had the men in the field early in the spring. Your father has had another fit of the gout, but as it affected him only in the knees, &c, he has pretty well recovered, and has returned to the assembly, where with great satisfaction he received your letter, of which I have had the perusal. You were certainly right in a com munication of your sentiments upon the old gentleman's matrimonial plan, and he was pleased that you did so. I believe, from the best information, he has laid aside all thoughts of that lady, for a very good reason — her having altered her mind. I have just seen in an Antigua paper the following return from General Howe of the killed, wounded and missing, in the two actions of Trenton and Prince Town, viz.: Of the seventeenth regiment, 13 killed, 53 wounded, 35 missing, = 101 Of the fortieth, 6 wounded, 88 missing, = 94 THE BLAND PAPERS. 59 Of the fifty-fifth, 5 kOled, 4 wounded, 12 missing, = 21 Total, 216 ° He adds in his letter that, from Sir Geo. Osborne's return of the Hessian troops after the 26th of December, the prisoners and missing amounted to 700 ; our accounts are exaggerated, or these are false. The bay is blocked up by four men-of-war, so that nothing gets out or in, except some New England men, who came here on continental service for provisions. I beg you to write soon, as I am very anxious to hear from head quarters. If at the fall you prefer selling your negroes together, and a satisfactory price can be fixed by yourself, Col. Bland and Col. Har rison, I propose, if I find I can easily command the money, to become a purchaser, and settle them on Hatcher's Run, where the best of my land is uncultivated for want of negroes. Col. Harrison offered Baker, the dentist, one hundred and twenty- five pounds, on your account, for a beautiful chestnut the other day, but he had the modesty to ask £150. Capt. Smith has a very fine horse four years old, which is the only one of size and figure suitable to your purpose I know of. I shall on my getting home see him, and if he is equal to my expectations, I will bring or send him to you. I propose visiting the camp, and from thence to travel through the upper part of York, and so to Connecticut and Boston, upon a sup position it will restore me to my former state of health and vigor. The fever and ague has at last quitted its hold, and left me without appetite or strength. I wish I may be able to put my plan in practice. Your sisters were well a few days past, and are anxious to hear from you, but do not admit the justice of your charge against them for not having written to you, as they allege your being in debt to them several letters. I have been in daily expectation of seeing Mrs. Bland, or I should have kept up a correspondence with her, for the best reasons on my side, a prospect of the same [from her.] * * * * The accusation brought against Mr. Lee, and the circumstances connected therewith, in this letter so amply and perspicuously exhibited, are only darkly alluded to by the continuator of Burk's History of Virginia, Girardin, who speaks of it as a matter of which he is unable to give any satisfactory account. " It appears that reports injurious to the reputation and ^public character of that gen tleman [Richard Henry Lee] had, in his absence, been alleged against him. 60 THEBLANDPAPERS. LETTER XX. Marching orders. From Lord Stirling. [1777.] Sir, You will proceed with the remaining squadrons of your regiment of horse, by Bristol to Trentown, and if I should not overtake you at the latter place to-morrow, you are to proceed by Penny-Town, Fle ming-Town, Chambers' Mill, Veal-Town, to Morris-Town ; and there take your further orders from his excellency, General Washington. I am your most humble servant, &c. LETTER XXI. From Tench Tilghman, A. D. C. To Col. Bland, at Round Brook. Head Quarters, Clove, 19th July, 1777. 9 o'clock, P. M. Dear sir, In consequence of advices received this day, the army is to march to-morrow morning to New Windsor. His excellency desires that you will follow immediately with your regiment. [Your route] will be first to Morris-Town and [thence by] the road which the army marched * * * through the Clove. You will be as expeditious as possible. I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c. Col. Bland's letter to be forwarded immediately. Col. Bland. What these reports were could not be precisely ascertained. A letter from R. H. Lee to Thomas Jefferson, dated, Philadelphia, Nov. 3d, 1776, contains the follow ing paragraph: 'I have been informed that very malignant and very scandalous hints and innuendoes concerning me have been uttered in the house. From the justice of the house I should expect they would not suffer the character of an absent person to be reviled, by any slanderous tongue whatever. When I am present, I shall be perfectly satisfied with the justice I shall be able to do myself. From your candor, sir, and knowledge of my political movements, I hope such misstatings as may happen in your presence will be rectified.' " — Burk's Hist, of Virginia, Vol. IV. p. 226, and note in Appendix to the same. Col. Banister's letter now published elucidates an important passage in the life of a great man. THE BLAND PAPERS. 61 LETTER XXII. From Col. Alexander Hamilton, A. D. C. Head Quarters, Galloway's in the Clove,* July 21st, 1777. Sir, The intelligence on which the order given you to join this army was founded proving not to be as was expected, his excellency desires you to return to your old station, and there remain till further orders. He thinks it not improbable the enemy may take it into their heads to make some incursion into the Jerseys, to plunder and distress the inhabitants ; or, perhaps, even to endeavor to destroy our stores at Morris-Town. This will be worthy of your attention ; and should it happen, you will give all the assistance in your power to the force which may be collected to oppose them. Use every expedient you can think of to gain the exactest intelli gence possible of the movements of the enemy. Our situation and theirs are such, that it is extremely difficult to know what they are about, and we are rather in the dark with respect to it. This occasions some embarrassment, and makes it necessary you should take the greatest pains to be well informed. I am, sir, your most humble servant, &c. LETTER XXIII. From Stephen MoYLAN.f Roundbrook, Saturday, 25th July, 1777. 4 o'clock, P. M. Sir, The inclosed letter came just now to hand. I suppose its contents are orders to march for Philadelphia. I will set out immediately after the troops can be collected together. My route will be through * " A narrow passage leading through the highlands, about eighteen miles from the [North] river."— Writings of Washington, Vol. V. p. 21. t For a particular account of this officer and his family, see " Travels of the Marquis of Chastellux." 62 THEBLANDPAPERS. Princeton, crossing the Delaware at Trenton ; yours will, I suppose, be to Corryell's Ferry, which will be the shortest if you move by Trenton. Let me know, and if I reach before you, the boats shall be in readiness to convey you aeross ; If you get before me, you will please do the same for me. I am, sir, your very humble servant, &c. Col. Bland. LETTER XXIV. From Col. Bland to Mrs. Bland, his wife, at Mrs. Feild's, White-Hill, near Bordentown, Jersey. Philadelphia, Aug. 24th, 1777. My dearest girl, I have just one minute to let you know that I am well ; that I shall leave Philadelphia in ten minutes from the date hereof; and to desire that you will come immediately here, and follow on, if the army marches towards Virginia, as fast as [possible] with conveniency to yourself and horses. [As regards] money, Mr. Morris will supply you with any quantity. Don't forget my sword. The picture is finished, and at Peale's. You may have it by sending or calling for it. God bless you, my dearest ; and believe me to be your ever affectionate, loving husband, &c. My best respects and most grateful acknowledgments to your friend and my dear Mrs. Feild. LETTER XXV. From H. Hollingswoth. Head of Elk, 27th [August, 1777, Y 12 at night. Dear Colo. The bearer, Major Strawbridge, is the gentleman posted by Gene ral Washington with Captain Hopkins as a guide; his intelligence * The month and year are wanting in the original. The contents, however, evince that it was written in August, 1777, about the time when the British army, THE BLAND PAPERS. 63 may be depended on as truth ; and in my opinion is worth forward ing to his excellency. If your honour is of the same opinion, you will forward him. Inclosed is a second letter from Mr. Baker, whom I sent to recointer yester morning, and by whos intelegence it appears that their heavy bagage is some of it landed. You pleas to forward it also, and that I have now hear under guard fore Hessian desarters, who say many more are waiting an opportunity to come off. You will pleas mount Major Strawbridge again, as his horse is broke down, and mine is gone on the waggon sarvice, for Colo. Biddle. I am, dear sir, your most humble servant, &c. Colo. Bland. LETTER XXVI. From General Washington.* Wilmington,] 30th August, 1777. Dear sir, I received the letters directed to Colonel Rumsey, and Major Par ker, and inclosed by you. Though I don't entertain a doubt of a strict attention being paid to the directions given you, respecting a diligent and constant watch being kept on the motions of the enemy, yet such is the importance of our having early notice of their beginning to [move, that I must] re peat to you the necessity there is of keeping small guards and con stant patrols, both of horse and foot, on the flanks and in front of the enemy} as near to them as prudence will permit, so that they cannot possibly move any way, without your having information of it. I shall expect to have immediate notice of every matter of importance which comes to your knowledge, and am your most obedient ser vant, &c. under General Howe, debarked near the head of Elk river.— See "Writings of Washington," Vol. V. p. 45. * See « Writings of Washington," Vol. V. p. 50. t Delaware. 64 THEBLANDPAPERS. LETTER XXVII. From Benjamin Harrison of Brandon, to Col. Theo'k Bland, of the Vir ginia regiment of light horse, Pennsylvania. Favored by Col. Banister. Brandon, September 8th, 1777. Dear sir, I am indebted for your two favors of 12th July and 5th August. The first should have been answered some time since, but no opportu nity offered except the post, to which I did not care to trust ; the last only came to hand a few days ago, so that I intend this of mine shall stand for both, and hereafter hope our correspondence may be put into a more regular channel, provided Sir William's* going up the bay does not cut off the communication. Inclosed you will please to receive the pedigree of young Aristotle. D. Rose informs me you sold him to great advantage. The good old gentleman intrusted Col. Banister and myself to purchase a horse for you. Many have been offered, though not one we thought would answer your purpose. Cannot you, by a well- timed attack upon the enemy's light horse, remount yourself? It is now high time for America to rouse herself, and by a strenuous ex ertion at once expel those enemies to human happiness from her bleeding bowels. We are told that the general now commands a numerous and well-appointed army ; that the militia of Jersey and Pennsylvania will to a man turn out ; that Maryland hath done so ; in Virginia we have four or five thousand in actual service, and may have thrice that number at short warning; the Carolinas ready to march whenever required. We are also told that the eastern states have at last taken the field, and that our prospect in the different quarters of Saratoga, Fort Schuyler, &c. seems rather to brighten up. Pray tell me, in your next, whether these things are true, and if they are, why those different bodies of men (I mean to the south of New York) cannot be drawn into the field, so as to com pose two formidable armies, one of which should act in the front, the other in the rear of the enemy, upon the Eastern Shore, whither it is said they are destined. Their numbers cannot be very considerable, and sure I am we might drive the plunderers back with shame and and disgrace to their native island. * Sir William Howe. THEBLANDPAPERS. 65 Our mutual friend, Col. Banister, will deliver you this, and give you every information relative to your private affairs, so that I shall not have occasion to trouble you on that head. D. Rose informs me, you sent by him a considerable sum of money to Virginia. I congratulate you upon your frugality and economy, who can in so expensive a country not only support yourself and family, but also lay up against a future day, and all this from the poor pittance of a colonel's pay. I am at a loss to account for these things, but fear you are not quite so rich as you thought yourself, and have sent to pay off in Virginia, what might well have been dispensed with there. I speak principally on my own account, who am, it seems, one of those to be paid, and should say, I hoped you would meet with no inconvenience in parting with so large a sum, had not Col. Banister assured me, you might draw for any sum you wanted on his friend, Mr. Morris. By this time you must be fatigued with reading, as I am with writing, shall therefore only request that you Will make my best re spects acceptable to Mrs. Bland, remember me in the warmest terms to R. Meade, Innis, Davis. &c. God bless them all, and you too, prays, my dear colonel, your affectionate friend and servant, &c. N. B. I entirely forgot to inquire after, my ward, Lt. Robt. Ran dolph. Pray, my dear sir, give me a just and full account of him in all your letters, and let me request that you will supply him with such necessaries as he may require. I have made the same request to Gen. Weedon, to whom present my love. LETTER XXVin. From Col. Bland to General Washington. Charles Evans', to the right of yesterday's encampment, about 3-4ths of a mile, [Sept. 1777.] Sir, According to your excellency's order, I this morning paraded the different regiments under my command, as soon as we could see from one end of the line to the other, and immediately despatched two parties, each consisting of captain, lieutenant, cornet and 30 privates ; the one to the right on the front, to patrol in three divisions, from thence extending along our right flank ; to reconnoitre all the roads 9 g6 THEBLANDPAPERS. and passes on that quarter, and if possible to get sight of the enemy's flank, should they be marching that way ; the other captain's com mand to the front, and on the other flank, (the left,) with similar orders ; besides which, from the horse, Captain Smith with 30 men was sent out last night, on our right flank, (as we are posted,) with nearly the same instructions; from him I have heard nothing yet. Captain Harrison with a party, sent out yesterday, returned last night with no other intelligence than what has already been conveyed to your excellency ; and Col. Parker, with a small party of six, is gone on the enemy's right flank, as they lay yesterday. Besides these parties, patrols and videts are kept in our front and on our flanks. These detachments have reduced our force here to about twenty men, which at present compose the main body of horse now here. We have heard considerable firing towards Wilmington, as we imagine, or in the rear and rather to the left of where we are (which is on the right of where our army were posted yesterday). I have sent out small parties wherever any firing has been heard, but without having as yet any account of the cause, except on our left, where we took up two or three militia. I have just heard that the firing above-mentioned is from Gen. Pot ter's brigade. The messenger waits on your excellency for such or ders for the horse as you may judge proper. I have ordered all the detachments that are gone out to send one express immediately to your excellency, and another to this post, that they may be certain not to miscarry, and shall convey the earliest account of any move ment or material occurrence. I am your excellency's most obedient servant, &c* * The above in the original is without date ; from the contents, however, it ap pears probably to have been written early in September, 1777, a few days before the battle of Brandywine, which occurred on the 11th of that month. THEBLANDPAPERS. 67 LETTER XXIX. From General Washington. Chadsford, 11th September,* 1777, 20 minutes after * * o'clock. Sir, I earnestly entreat a continuance of your vigilant attention to the movements of the enemy, and the earliest report, not only of their movements, but of their numbers and the course they are pursuing. In a particular manner I wish you to gain satisfactory information of a body confidently reported to have gone up to a ford, seven or eight miles above this. It is said the fact is certain. You will send up an intelligent, sensible officer, immediately, with a party to find out the truth, what number it consists of, and the road they are now on ; be particular in those matters. I am, sir, your humble servant, &c. To Col. Bland. * This day the battle of the Brandywine occurred. Col. Bland was employed before the commencement of the action, in reconnoitring the enemy with his horse. "At a quarter past one o'clock, Col. Bland saw his [Howe's] advanced guard about half a mile from the Birmingham meeting-house, very near the spot where the action commenced a little after four o'clock." — Spaik's Writings of Washington, Vol V. pp. 460 and 461, in Appendix, where the following notes appear : " At quarter past one o'clock. " Sir, " I have discovered a party of the enemy on the heights, just on the right of the two widow Davises', who live close together on the road called the Fork Road, about a half a mile to the right of the meeting-house (Birmingham). There is a higher hill in their front. Theodoric Bland." This note was enclosed to General Washington with another from General Sullivan. " Two o'clock, P. M. "Dear General, " Colonel Bland has this moment sent me word, that the enemy are in the rear of my right, about two miles, coming down. There are, he says, about two brigades of them. He also says he saw a dust back in the country for above an hour. I am, &c. John Sullivan," 68 THEBLANDPAPERS. LETTER XXX. {/ From John Page, of Rosewell, to Col. Bland, at Head-quarters. Rosewell* September the 11th, 1777. My dear Colonel, I have written to you several times since I received a line from you, and did all I could in my last to provoke you to write. Although I am preparing to set out to my poor sister Burwell's funeral, I have sat down to scribble you a few lines more, to show you how anxious I am to keep up our correspondence. I congratulate you a thousand times, on the laurels you have gathered ; may every day add a fresh wreath to your brows. I rejoice above measure at the glorious suc cess of our arms, in the northern department. From Burgoyne's con duct, and Howe's late wonderful manoeuvre, I am more than ever con vinced, that the Lord of hosts is with us, and the God and King of America is our support, and hath confounded the devices of our ene mies. May he continue to confound them, to bless and prosper his people, and rule alone over them through all ages ; and may he bless and protect you, and your illustrious leader, and all his army. I am yours sincerely, &c. LETTER XXXI. From Cole Digges, Cornet. " Favored by Col. Banister." Virginia, September 16th, 1777. Dear Sir, I have the pleasure to inform you that, after a tedious journey, I have at length arrived at my father's, which you may conceive is a great satisfaction in my condition. I assure you, sir, it gives me un easiness, my not being with you at this time, as it is likely there will be something decisive. • On York river, in the county of Gloucester. This fine old seat of ample dimensions, massive structure and curious finish, now somewhat decayed, is one of the most venerable monuments, of the former age, extant. See Farmers' Re gister, Vol. VI. p. 193. THEBLANDPAPERS. 69 My state of health is much [the same as when] I left you, and am afraid it [will be some time] before I recover. I am sometimes better, and at other times worse, which you know is the nature of my dis order. You mentioned, when I left you, something of sending me recruiting instructions as soon as I was able to recruit. I am far from being able at present. People here give to [the amount] of one hundred pounds for a man to enlist during the war, that they may be exempt from militia duty, which puts it out of the power of recruit ing officers to get men. I should be glad to hear from you, as it will in some measure alle viate my uneasmess in not being with you. My compliments to Mrs. Bland, and love to the officers of our regiment. Wishing you a victorious campaign, I remain your sincere friend, &c. LETTER XXXII. From Count Pulaski. Military orders. head quarter, Worcester township, 1st October, 1777. Sir, agreable to his excellencie's order, you would detach fyftyne good horse very early in the morning, to attend general Reed and Cad- walader, upon special business, they will find general Reed at his quarters, a mile or two to the right of Conner's house. besides major Jimpson* will select so many Light horses as he can, to be Ready to march with him to-morrow, twelve of clock, to the same hour, all your Regiment, shall joigne, at my quarter, the other Regimens of my brigade. Pulaski, B. G.\ of Cavalry. to Colonel Bland. * Major Jameson. t Brigadier General. 70 THEBLANDPAPERS. LETTER XXXIH. From John Banister. Reading, Tuesday, October 1st, 1777. My dear sir, I take the opportunity of Col. Baylor's going to camp to inclose your father's letter, which Mrs. Bland opened. I met her yesterday, with the utmost rapture, on the road, about eleven miles from Lan caster. I wish she had stayed, that I might have enjoyed her agreeable company on the road home, which I had always flattered myself with. My full intention was to have accompanied Col. Baylor, this day, to camp ; but, unfortunately, my best horse got lamed by a kick, which compels me to stay until he is better. On Thursday I intend dining at the White Horse ; and the next day to camp. I send you a high bred horse, Janus and Silver-eye, for whom I gave £125 the day I left home ; supposing, from Mr. Digges' account, you are much in need of him. My intention in going to camp is to pass a few days with you, and the rest of my friends there. Another object is change of air, and change of place. I am very impatient to see you, and shall not lose a moment's time in repairing to your quarters. I often flatter myself that the remnant of our family will have, in the course of this winter, once more, an opportunity of being happy together ; but what are all our prospects? Adieu, my dear friend, and believe me always yours, &c. Potsgrove is the place I dine at on Thursday. The White Horse, they say, will not do. LETTER XXXIV. From Alexander Hamilton to General Pulaski. You will order to the men of my guard that I have send before you, to the same place, where you are, to follow you, and joigne me in the army .* * The above is just as it stands in the original. General Washington, by his Aid THEBLANDPAPERS. 71 P. S. As soon as you meet the encampment, you will send me a orderly light horse, to warn me of your poste. Peter Wentz, Worcester township, October 2d, 1777. Monsieur, Son excellence vous desire d'assembler toute la cavaliere, le plutot possible, pres de ses quartiers, ou vous trouverez de place propre pour les accommoder, ceux qui sont utilement employe excepte. Vous informerez son excellence de le moment de votre arrive. D n'y a pas du temps a perdre. Je suis votre serviteur tres humble, A. Hamilton. I receive now contrarys orders of his excellency, as you will see, and I pray you to joigne me, in the army, as quick as you can. Pulaski, General of Cavalry. Sir, His excellency desires you immediately to collect all the horse, except those on necessary duty, and to repair to some place as near his quarters as you possibly can, consistent with the accommoda tion of the horse. Inform him, when you have done this, and lose no time in doing it. Yours, A. Hamilton. LETTER XXXV. From General Washington. Head-quarters, October 25th, 1777. Sir, I am sorry to find that the liberty I have granted to the fight dragoons of impressing horses near the enemy's lines has been most horridly abused, and perverted into a mere plundering scheme. I intended nothing more, than that the horses belonging to the dis- Alexander Hamilton, having despatched an order to General Pulaski, he (Pulas ki) wrote his orders to Colonel Bland, on the blank intervals of Hamilton's letter, which accounts for the apparent confusion in the orders. The date is just two days before the battle of Germantown, which occurred on the 4th of Oct., 1777. 72 THE BLAND PAPERS. affected, in the neighborhood of the British army, should be taken for the use of the dismounted dragoons, and expected that they would be regularly reported to the quarter-master general, that an account might be kept of the number and the persons from whom they were taken, in order to a future settlement. Instead of this, I am informed that, under pretence of the authority derived from me, they go about the country plundering whomsoever they are pleased * * * convert ing what they [take] to their own private profit and emolument. This is an abuse that cannot be tolerated ; and as I find the license allowed them has been made a sanction for such mischievous practices, I am under the necessity of recalling it altogether. You will therefore im mediately make it known to your whole corps, that they are not under any pretence whatever, to meddle with the horses or other property of any inhabitants whatever, on pain of the severest punishment : for they may be assured, as far as it depends upon me, that military execu tion will attend all those who are caught in the like practice hereafter. The more effectually to put it out of their power to elude this pro hibition, all the horses in your corps, in the use of the non-commissioned •officers and privates, not already stamped with the continental brand, are without loss of time to be brought to the quarter-master general, to receive that brand, and henceforth if any of them shall be found with horses that are without it, they shall be tried for marauding and disobedience of orders. I am fully confident you will be equally disposed with me to repro bate and abolish the practice complained of, and will adopt the strictest measure to fulfil the intention of this letter, and prevent its continuance in future. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, &c. Col. Bland. LETTER XXXVI. From General Washington. Head-quarters, Nov. 8th, 1777. Dear sir, I have received your favor, mentioning the many and strong rea sons you have for quitting the service, or at least obtaining leave of absence for the settlement of your affairs, which, you say, and I make no doubt are, in a situation that demands your presence. As the con- THEBLANDPAPERS. 73 test, in which we all saw the necessity of stepping forth, still remains undetermined, and the event of war doubtful and uncertain, I con ceive that the same motives, which first called us out, now plead in the most pressing terms for our perseverance to that happy period, in which our united efforts shall effect that great design, for the accom plishment of which we were first induced to sacrifice the happiness of domestic life. I believe the private concerns of every officer in the army will suffer, in a greater or less degree, by his absence, which must have been expected, as a matter of course, at their first accept ance of their commissions. As to the strictness of honor and integrity with which you have conducted yourself, (having never heard the least suggestions to the contrary,) I think it unnecessary to say any thing on that head. I have always endeavored to give every indulgence to officers, which I thought consistent with my duty, and the good of the service. In this instance I think matters had better be deferred to the close of the campaign, when your request can in either way be answered with greater propriety and precision. I am, dear sir, your obedient, hum ble servant, &c. LETTER XXXVII. From Col. Bland to his lady, Mrs. Bland, at Farmingdell, Prince George County, Virginia. Nov. 16th, 1777, Camp While Marsh. My dearest Patsy, I wrote you a few days ago, by Col. Elliott. Mr. Peirce, I am told, is now setting out for Virginia, i cannot omit writing by him, though only to let you know I am well, and as happy as I can be without your company. Everard Meade has been in my mess, as a guest, for these eight or ten days ; and as I have had little to do in the military way, our army having lain pretty quiet, I have had the pleasure of enjoying a good deal of his company, and Buller Clai borne's, who arrived here from the northern army. You may inform his parents he is well, and in good spirits. Our fort* yet holds out, against all the efforts of the British army and navy. Reports have been spread that it was evacuated ; but I can assure you that they are groundless. It is now just beginning to snow here ; have * Red-bank, on the Delaware River. 10 74 THEBLANDPAPERS. you any with you? I am in a warm, comfortable (old quaker's) house. We have no earthly news here, more than what I wrote you a few days ago. I then held a long conversation with you. I have not received a letter from you for some weeks past, though I have often sent to the post-office. Surely my Patsy [will not] be remiss in letting me know, by every opportunity, every thing relative to her health, happiness, and situation, if she mentions no other thing in her letter ; but she cannot be insensible, how great a pleasure it would be to me, to hear of my friends and my affairs, superadded to that most agreeable subject (to me) of all. God ever bless, keep and preserve my dear wife in health, happiness, and prosperity, is the morning and evening prayer of her ever affectionate, fond and loving husband, &c. This letter was opened by your affectionate father, Theo'k Bland Postscript to Mrs. [John] Bland. Dear madam, I send you the letter ; I have received three of later date ; some of them you saw. My very best wishes attend you, and am your sin cerely affectionate M. Bland.* To Mrs. Bland. LETTER XXXVIII. From Colonel John Banister, "to the Hon. Theodrick Bland Esq., of the senate, at Williamsburg in Virginia." Camp of the continental army, 15 miles from German-Town. My dear sir, As nothing worth your attention had occurred during a journey through the upper parts of Virginia, Maryland and this province, I deferred writing 'till my arrival at camp. I am fixed in quarters within half a mile of the general's, in an agreeable company, with whom I pass the day in visiting our acquaintance in the army. ' The colonel and I have been inseparable since our first meeting * This lady's maiden name was Martha Dangerfield ; she survived her first husband Theodrick Bland, and married twice afterwards, first Blod^et u mer chant ; next, one Corran, a sea captain, with whom she went to France and there died. A journal kept by her for three years at Cawsons, during her second widowhood, is still extant, dated about 45 years ago.— [1840]. THE BLAND PAPERS. 75 You must have heard of an action which happened the 4th of Oc tober. When our army attacked and forced the enemy's camp at German-town, and were pushing them on towards Philadelphia, with the utmost precipitation, 'till the whole were actually routed. When, O dreadful to relate ! our men seeing a body of British advance to cover the retreat of their routed army, and not being able through a thick fog to discern their numbers, became panick-struck, and fled from victory, complete and decisive of the war, had we but pursued our advantage. So certain were the enemy of being vanquished, that General Howe had ordered a retreat to Chester, and was making preparations for his whole army's passing the Schuylkill. They ac knowledge this to be the severest blow they have felt since the affair of Bunker's Hill. Their loss amounts to fifty-two officers slain, among whom is Gen. Agnew ; and upwards [of] one thousand privates are killed and wounded. Once in this action we had possession of near all their artillery, camp-tents and baggage. A heavy cannonading has been carried on for three days past, as is supposed against our fort at Mud Island, which commands the chan nel and the chevaux-de-frises. Their intention in attacking this place is to enable them to take np the obstructions in the channel, that so they may bring up their ships to Philadelphia ; in which if they suc ceed, I fear we shall not regain that town, The cannonade has ceased, but we know not the fate of the fort ; this evening may put us out of suspense, and make us acquainted with an unfortunate event. Before this will reach you, another battle will have been fought between the two armies, and I expect a most bloody one. If we conquer, they are undone ; if vanquished, we may recruit, renew the blow, and in time melt them down by repeated losses. We are every where in a critical situation. Gen. Burgoyne is in a strong camp, between our Generals Gates and Lincoln ; what his desperate situation may impel him to perform is not within the bounds of con jecture, but, in human probability, the campaign will terminate in his defeat. I had forgot to inform you of the arrival of some reinforcements to the tyrants' force in New York ; with these it is General Robertson's intention to force his way up the North River, and attempt a junction with Burgoyne. With all the iniquity incurred by these people in being the abettors of tyranny and persecution, they must be allowed to plan and execute well. I wait only to see the event of this battle, and shall immediately return to my duty in the assembly. My most respectful compliments 76 THE BLAND PAPERS. to Mrs. Bland ; and believe me, with true attachment, your affection ate humble servant, &c. LETTER XXXIX. From Col. Bland, Jr., to his lady. [November, 1777.] * * each other * * * says my charmer, is not that done * * * to me regardless of every other consideration, * * the empty sound of honor, or flying [from the terrible] ones of war, repose his head on the pillow, * * in the lap of conjugal love. True, my dear, [but] what is a man without honor, without that principle, which I know my Patsy applauds, which I have heard her sweet lips so forcibly inculcate into others. My heart wants not sensibility. But I am awake, all over, to those feelings, without which I should cease to be the worthy object of my Patsy's love. I have solicited leave of absence at the end of the campaign ; have as yet received only an ambiguous answer, though I have not yet lost hopes of seeing my beloved, at or about Christmas. I wrote, the other day, to your friend, Mrs. Field, and made her a she-knight, by conferring on her the order of the Garter. She is very well, and insists on my visiting White-hill, before I leave this country. Do you think I can be proof against the widow's eyes after so long an absence from my Patsy ? But how does Farmingdell look ? How are all our friends, relatives and aequahatances ? By this time, I suppose you will have finished almost all your visits, both of friendship and ceremony. Tell me how you are received by our sober, money [making] friends, who prefer their own ease * * * that I am * * * [to] get a visit from Mrs. Faulkner, * * * * is frequently at my quarters, has [dined several] times with me lately, and is well. We have had [sun dry] pathetic interviews, tete-a-tete, of which you two were the sub ject, and like two love-sick swains, we [have] mingled our sighs together, and then like soldiers [have] blown them away. I told you our fort at Mud Island was evacuated on the 16th inst., after as brave a defence as ever was made. The garrison continued in it as long as there was a mortar or a gun left standing. The brave Fleury was wounded ; the officers and men distinguished themselves universally, and have received the thanks of the American congress, and the THE BLAND PAPERS. 77 commanders a sword, for their noble defence. Red-bank still holds out, and 'tis hoped will prevent the enemies' supplies and ships from getting up the river. You may remember I gave you a list of the negroes I would have sold. I also sent Mr. Banister and Ben. Harri son one ; if you or they have lost it you can easily exclude those * * * attention of the heroes, * * * much as ever and that many a fine * * * and will be fought this winter, by a [good warm] fireside, over a tankard of cider, with [a brown] toast and nutmeg. I told you that Fenwick [was taken] by a party of my regiment, and is now a prisoner with us. He has given me some needles, pins, * * silk, and riband, for his sisters-in-law, which were to have gone by Buller Claiborne, but both he and myself forgot them, when he set off. I have nearly accomplished my conjecture in filling this sheet, and now, my love, once more adieu, and believe me, until you see me, to- be your ever affectionate, tender, loving and constant, &c. LETTER XL. From John Penn, to Colonel Bland. Near Head-quarters, Nov. 31st, 1777. Dear sir, The reason of my inclosing the resolves of congress, relative to you, was that on Col. Shelburn's application for a colonel's commis sion, he having only had a lieutenant colonel's, General Washington was directed by congress to inquire into and settle the rank of all the officers in the service of the cavalry. However, soon after, Mr. Thompson made out proper ccpies from the journal containing all the resolutions relating to the different colonels, and sent them to the general. I received your letter for Mrs. Bland, and inclosed it to her ; in forming her that I should take pleasure in conveying any, that she might intrust to my care, to you. The enemy have evacuated Ticon- deroga, and all their other posts this side the lakes. Could you but be able to form a junction between Generals Howe and Burgoyne, with their armies, I think the war would soon be at an end. We have every reason to expect there will soon be a war between France and England. The French embassador has had directions to demand all the Ships and their cargoes, that have been taken by the 78 THEBLANDPAPERS. English, cleared out for any French ports, and unless this requisition is complied with, he is to leave the court. The general at Martinique is directed to prepare for war, as fast as possible, and to lay an em bargo on all the ships there, until a convoy can be sent for such as are intended for Europe. I am, with great respect, dear sir, your obedient servant, &c. LETTER XLI. From the Marquis de la Fayette, to Colonel Bland, Prince George county, Virginia. At thegulph* the 17 December, 1777. * * * I have been negligent enough as to let you leave this camp, without sending to head quarters those directions you have been pleased to ask mef ; therefore I'l make [myself the] pleasure of writing to you, and by the same occasion I shall * * * wishfing] you again an agreeable sejour at home. If you find their [there a] horse distin guished by his figure, as well as by his qualities * * * for what you think I can desire from him, I shall be extremely obliged to you, to send him to me as soon as possible. * * * provided he would not be wicked for others, and troublesome for me, as otherwise they are not so dear at equal beauties and qualities. * * * According [as to] to the price, I let you entirely master of it, but for being as fine as I wish him, he must certainly be very \ dear. I beg your pardon for that commission, and I am with a great affection, dear sir, your most obedient servant, The Marquis de la Fayette. If the horse is not entirely managed, I wish at least he would be of a good temper, and able to be used immediately. We have not any other interesting news in camp, but that a vessel is arrived hi Ports mouth, from France, with fifty piece of canon, five thousand arms, &c. * A defile so called near the Schuylkill river, not far from Whitemarsh, and at this period head-quarters.— See Writings of Washington, Vol. V. p. 185. f Here ' to me' was written at first, but the ' to' is cancelled. X Here the word 'pretty' is cancelled, and 'very' inserted above, in its place. THEBLANDPAPERS. 79 LETTER XLII. From Fleury. [1778.] Sir, The generall desires that you immediately detach an active officer, with ten light horse, towards Correl's ferry, and the roads between this and that country, in order to instruct the stragglers where to come to camp, and send them without lost of time. These officers are to take every method in their power to send out, where any of the soldiers are, and order them off in parties, (and under an officer, if convenient,) to camp. Fleury, B. M* (By duplicate.) Colonel Bland. If you find some good quarter nearer to the army, the general1 desires that you take it. This order is by two, and being afraid that the light horse could not find you, I send one other. LETTER XLin. From Lieutenant Baylor Hill. Winchester, [Va.] January 1st, 1778. Dear sir, This is to acknowledge the receipt of your favor, dated Leesburg, December 28th, to Col. Temple, wherein I was glad to find your [late] tour of duty (as I expected) much to your satisfaction. I have sold the horse, and taken the forage-master's receipt, as you directed; should have sent it by this opportunity, but did not think it quite safe. Colonel Temple left this place the 19th December, in company of Mr. Hughes and Captain Belfield. There are only White, Fantleroy, Worsham, and myself left at this place, who join with me in best re spects to you, and Mrs. Bland, and am in hopes you may spend this winter more agreeably than the last ; my time last winter was not spent with much satisfaction, but this I am afraid will be spent much worse ; the inhabitants of the town and the adjacent neighbors are the greater part very unsociable, (a few excepted,) there are scarce two * Brigade Major. 80 THE BLAND PAPERS. neighbors who wish the third well.* The other officers who were with the regiment when you left it, left this place a few days after our arrival. We had the misfortune on our march to this place, of two of' our men of the 4th troop getting the small pox ; one of whom is since dead, the other is almost well ; I had those of the men who had not had it, inoculated last Monday was a week ; they are all in a fair way of doing well. Since that, Lieut. White has joined with his party, from Fredericksburg ; and has four who have not had it, who will be inoculated, as soon as we can get matter. The horses Lieut. White brought with him are the meanest certainly that ever were bought for light-horse ; and after keeping them in the best order we possibly can, they will not answer the purpose for which they are intended. We had fifty men of our regiment on the parade, Wednesday last, all fit for duty, besides eighteen with the small pox. The men of the regi ment are very healthy ; the horses in town are in very good order, those quartered on the farms are in a fair way to get fat. The men are greatly in want of clothes, especially coats and waist coats, many of whom are entitled to another suit. Should be glad you would signify to me, as soon as possible, your intention, as in my opinion it would be best to let them have their new clothes, by which they will have warm clothes in the winter ; with the assistance of then- old clothes, to do the drudgery of the stables, they will greatly preserve their new, and if not drawn now, many must suffer greatly before summer, and then have thick clothes ; some must draw soon, if the whole cannot get, as they are almost naked. Pray excuse this scrawl, as the bearer is waiting. I am, with respect, your obedient humble servant, &c. LETTER XLIV. From the Honorable John Penn. York,] [Pennsylvania,] Feb'y 6th, 1778. Dear sir, My having been unwell for some time past, is the reason of my not writing to you, as often as I intended. We are informed that the * This unfavorable picture of society in Winchester, (whatever may have been its justice at the time when Lieutenant Hill was quartered there) is undoubt edly wholly inapplicable to that town at the present day. t Congress at this period was sitting at this place. Mr. Penn was a member of that body, from North Carolina. THE BLAND PAPERS. 81 king's*officers behave with great severity to the Canadians ; that by flogging those that were taken with Burgoyne on their return, they had compelled all of them to enlist again, though expressly contrary to the convention of Saratoga; and that the inhabitants in general were much incensed against their oppressors. Congress have determined to have an expedition made as far as Montreal at least, in order to get possession or destroy the enemy's fleet on the lakes, and in order to induce the Canadians to exert them selves and join us. The Marquis de la Fayette will command ; Gene rals McDougal, Conway and Stark attend him. The men employed will go from Albany and New Hampshire. The reputation we have acquired in taking Burgoyne, and the dissatisfaction of the people against the English, make me hope for something clever ; besides it will rouse us a little, which we want, and distress the ministry in their councils ; they will be at a loss where to send reinforcements, if they have any. I informed you that Burgoyne and his whole army were to be de tained until the convention is confirmed by the ministry. Burgoyne wrote to General Gates, that we had broken the convention, on ac count of his not having as good lodgings as he wanted ; and soon after, refused to suffer a descriptive list to be taken of his troops, which was done by General Carleton, before he would suffer our soldiers to come out of Canada. My compliments to Mrs. Bland. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, &c. LETTER XLV. From General Washington to Colonel Baylor. Instructions about horses. It being judged advisable to augment the cavalry in continental service, by an addition of one lieutenant, one sergeant, one corporal and twenty-two privates, to each troop ; and that the states of Vir ginia and North Carolina should furnish six hundred horses for this purpose, you will receive from the committee of congress, (sitting at Moore Hall,) directions respecting the means of obtaining these, with which you will repair to Virginia, and as soon as possible consult Col. Bland, who is requested by letter, to aid you in this business, and to whom you are to communicate the [measure], and furnish a copy of 11 82 THE BLAND PAPERS. these instructions, on the most effectual mode of accomplishing this purchase with economy and despatch. In purchasing these horses, you are not restricted to price on the one hand, nor by any means to launch into acts of extravagance on the other. Good horses are wanting, and for such the customary prices must be given. Take none less than a quarter blooded, nor under fourteen hands and a half high, sound and clean made ; they are not to exceed twelve years old, nor to be under five this spring. Any kind of bays would be preferred, but as the time is short in which they must be procured, and the service without them will suf fer, you must not stand upon color. Pacing horses, stone horses and mares must be avoided. Col. Bland and yourself will fix upon proper places of rendezvous for the horses when purchased, where provision is to be laid in for their support, and where every proper means is to be used for the exercise and training of them. You will so concert matters, as not to interfere with each other, thereby enhancing the prices of horses, and rendering the purchase more difficult. You will, each of you, use your best endeavors to obtain saddles, and other accoutrements, for the number of horse aforementioned ; and procure also as many swords and pistols as you can. To enable Col. Bland to perform his part of this business, you are, as before directed, to furnish him with the money and certificates. To add any thing with a view of impressing you with an idea of the great importance of this business, and the despatch necessary in the execution is, I am persuaded, totally useless. Your own observa tion and judgment will point this out in the fullest and clearest man ner. But J am to desire both you and Col. Bland will give me early and regular information of your proceedings and prospects. Given under my hand, at head-quarters, Valley Forge, this 4th day of March, 1778. P. S. As you will probably receive partly cash and partly loan- office notes, for the purchase of horses above-mentioned, you are to take particular instructions from the treasury-board respecting the negotiation of those notes. "Received the above instructions March 26th, 1778." THE BLAND PAPERS. 83 LETTER XLVI. From General Washington. Head-quarters, Valley Forge, 18th April, 1778. Dear sir, I yesterday was favored with yours, without date. The season is already so far advanced, that, however inconvenient it may be, I plainly perceive, we shall be obliged to bring our new-raised horse into the field, without training. I am sorry to inform you, that few Of the horse sent out last winter to recruit will be in any kind of con dition, such has been the inattention of their officers; and we Shall, for that reason, be under the further necessity, of using our fresh horses immediately. You will therefore be pleased to send forward the recruits, as fast as you can mount them — those who have not had the small pox, as well as those who have. They may be inoculated, as soon as they join their regiments, and should be cautioned carefully to avoid every place where the small pox is, of has lately been. If you should have more horses than men, the spare ones may be led. As the recruits and horses are to be sent to the regiment, the riding- master should remain there also ; and as a field officer will be neces sary to take the command, I desire that Major Jameson may come on, and leave Lieutenant Colonel Temple to complete the clothing of the regiment. To pay for which you are to supply him with money. Although the recruiting of men was not mentioned in your instruc tions, it was intended ; and I am glad you found so great an advantage from having the men of your regiment mostly natives, and all of them of reputable connexions, that I need not urge to you the benefit we shall derive from having men of that class in the cavalry; and I there fore hope you will be attentive in your choice. I have not been able to obtain a correct general return of cavalry, but you need not be afraid of procuring too many horses, arms and accoutrements.- I am,- dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c. Coe. Bland. 84 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER XLVII. From General Washington, "on public service," to Colonel Bland, at Petersburg, Virginia. Head-quarters, Valley Forge, May 1st, 1778. Dear sir, I have received yours of the 10th ultimo, with an account of your proceedings up to that time. As the money put into your hands by the board of treasury, was particularly for the purpose of procuring horses and accoutrements, I think you were right in not applying it to the payment of the clothing, purchased by Col. Temple. I can see no objection to your taking up money from the deputy paymaster general, and giving credit for it when you come to settle your regi mental account. I wrcte fully to you about ten days ago, and to Col. Baylor this day, to which I refer you, for orders respecting send ing forward the horses and recruits with all despatch. I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c. Col. Bland. LETTER XLVHI. From John Banister.* York [Pennsylvania], 3d May, 1778. Dear sir, By an express of yesterday, sent by the board of war, I wrote Mr. Davis all the news preceding that date ; before he got away, a mes senger arrived from France, charged with the most important papers from our commissioners at Paris, containing a treaty of alliance and a treaty of affiance and commerce, between the court of France and America. By these treaties, our independence is made a grand object on the p?rt of the king of France, who has [acted] with great liberality, that he takes no advantage of the present situation of the states, but has made the same treaty with them, as if they had been in the most flourishing prosperity. The treaty, which was concluded * Colonel Banister was at this time a delegate in congress. THEBLANDPAPERS. 85- and signed the 6th of February, guaranties to America all her pos sessions in America, together with Bermudas. If England declares war against France, or occasions a war by attempts to obstruct her commerce, we are to make common cause with her, and join our forces and councils. The States guaranty to France all her posses sions in America. Extract of Dr. Franldin's letter, 28th February : " We have found the greatest cordiality in this court, and that no advantage has been taken of our difficulties, to obtain hard terms of us, but such have been the king's magnanimity and goodness, that he has proposed none we might not have agreed to in a state of full prosperity and established power. The principle laid down, in the plan of the treaty, being as declared in the preamble, 'the most perfect equality and reciprocity:' the privileges in trade are mutual, and none are given to France, but what we are at liberty to grant to any other nation. When we mention the good will of this nation to our cause, we may add that of all Europe, which having been offended by the pride and insolence of Britain wishes to see its power diminished. The preparations for war are carried on with immense activity, and it is very soon expected. When this last event shall take place, America will be in a situation to prosecute the war, with ease to her self; but, at present, the utmost exertions should be made in opposi tion to those of Great Britain, which will be through rage and disap pointment as great as her utmost ability in men arid resource will ad mit ; and it would be happy if the prople at large could be persuaded that one vigorous effort would restore them to what they so ardently wish, a state of perfect tranquillity with established independence. The present treaties, advantageous as they are, have no immediate opera tion on our military conflict with Great Britain, but promise eventu ally assistance, by Great Britain's being provoked to a declaration of war, or drawing on one by an interruption of the commerce of France." I am your affectionate friend and servant, &c. Let your father and Mr, Davis have this news as soon as pos sible. ******* 86 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER XLIX. From J. Banister, to Col. Bland and Lady. Yore, [Pa.] June 19th, 1778. My dear sir, I wrote you yesterday, that the commissioners from the court of Great Britain, had received their answer, which will put an end to the business of their mission. Indeed they must have known from our repeated answers to their general, our observations on the bills, before they had passed into acts, and the treaty subsisting between America and France, that any proposals short of independence would be re jected here. Their injuries have been so great, and so often repeated, that they could not expect our return to their domination ; and there fore, in my judgment, their views in carrying the proposals of treaty so far, were directed to the reconciling their own people, and to give a coloring to their own conduct, in the eyes of the powers of Europe. Whatever may have been their motives for persevering to treat on such narrow ground, knowing as they did the temper of America, the sudden abruption of all hopes of accommodation will immediately bring on some determinations of considerable moment respecting the operations of their army. If they evacuate Philadelphia, (and all their movements and preparations concur to show they shortly intend it,) their march will be directed to New York, and thence up the North River. Friday evening, the 19th. A letter from the General [Washington] informs congress, that Capt. McClean had taken possession of Phila delphia, after the main body had gone over to the Jerseys, by the way 6f Cooper's Ferry ; and three thousand had embarked and proceeded down the river. I hope we shall not expose ourselves to any danger from their stratagems. I am anxious to know how the commissioners received our final answer to their inadmissible propositions. These with the answers are enclosed. I wish to be informed how the people in Virginia stand affected, as to the rejection of any treaty or communication, on the subject of the late acts of parliament, bearing the specious title of conciliation. If they could be prevailed on to make a vigorous effort to raise a formidable army, capable of resisting the augmenting powers of the enemy, upon the principle of self-interestedness, and actual Venality, as I do not expect it of them from patriotism, they might THE BLAND PAPERS. 87 the sooner go to the gratification of their passionate fondness for wealth, and the extension of that commerce, the very idea of which occupies every faculty of their souls. Nothing has occurred since writing the foregoing, respecting the enemy's motions either by sea or land; and the inclosed paper con tains an exact state of our politics ; so that I have nothing more to add, than that I am most truly your affectionate friend, &c. My dear Mrs. Bland, How is it that our correspondence is laid aside? Is it because a person breathing this thick atmosphere, and inhabiting a Boeotian land, cannot produce a sentiment that can claim the attention of a lady of delicacy, and refinement? Perhaps there may be something in this region unfavorable to the flights of fancy, and worse to the finer feelings of the heart. The latter I am sensibly alive to, notwithstand ing it is not here that philanthropy and the friendly attachments are often to be met with ; yet even here I have made some connexions that are delightful, and serve to fill up that vacancy, which the absence from those I hold in the highest estimation hath occasioned. There is one lady (Mrs. Plater) in our party, Mr. Plater* and some of the first of congress, who are indeed men of the world, as well as of the first abilities I have met with. Take notice they are not natives of this soil. Beside this particular society, we have a Saturday's club com posed of about fourteen very agreeable members. Here we some times have a few ladies to drink tea on an island, which for its beauty and enchanting situation we have honored with the name of Paphos. I had the pleasure of seeing at camp some of your Jersey acquaint ance, Lady Stirling, Lady Kilty, Miss Brown ! His excellency's lady was at head-quarters ; she is an agreeable, well-disposed, excellent woman. I had the felicity of being there, when cheerfulness and gaiety of heart enlightened every countenance, when the promulga tion of our alliance in Europe had brightened every prospect. But how are the ladies in your part of the world 1 I must return home, and pay very assiduous attention to some of them, for I am wearied of my unconnected, solitary state. Kiss my dear Robin in my name ; I hope he is a good boy, and de serves the endearments and instructions of his dear mama. Permit me to assure you, that I am, with affectionate regard, dear madam, your obedient servant, &c. * George Plater, delegate in eongress from Maryland. 88 THEBLANDPAPERS. LETTER L. From Col. Benjamin T'empept. King- William, June 29th, 1778". Dear Colonel, I this moment received yours by Hill, and can only [say,] I am sorry that you could not indulge me in letting me go to camp ; but as it would be inconsistent with your orders, I cannot desire it, but must be content. You must think how disagreeable such business must be without money, and especially when I see these people, [from whom] I should suppose we had a right to expect every assistance in their power, throwing [impediments] in the way ; it was really galling to see General Nelson's [men furnished] at 4 shillings a dozen, and me obliged to pay 9 shillings and sixpence for the same, for our [men.] As soon as I set the clothing off, I shall go up to Simpson, and [do] every thing in my power, to procure the articles ordered by you. I expect [the] wagons that are to carry the clothing to camp, with the shirts and boots from Williamsburg, at Aylett's* to-night ; there are no wagons to be got here, to send the clothing to Petersburg ; nor did I understand 1 Was to send them over ; it will be very little out of the way, for the party to come to Aylett's. I have sent for Capt. Bel field, to go to [camp] with the clothing, he is to be at Aylett's to night, please to [say when] he is to go. Lee passed by here yesterday on his way to Williamsburg ; [he] wants clothing for his men, and I will lay any thing he [will] get thein, though we could not get an article. The British court declared war against France, the 3rd of May; and the enemy has certainly left Philadelphia. Lee tells me, that any num ber of saddles may be got in Baltimore ; he got all his made in a little town called Charlestown, near the [head] of Elk, in ten days. I should think Philadelphia would now be the place [to get] completely equipt. I am, with great respect, your most obedient servant, &c.f -*¦ Aylett's Warehouse, in King William County. t " Instructions concerning clothes and accoutrements ; counterpart delivered to Col. Temple." 70 cloaks, Peteisburg. 60 blankpls, do. 42 roats, do. THE BLAND PAPERS. 89 LETTER LI, From Richard Caswell.* Dobbs, 29th June, 1778. SIR* I had your favor of the 20th instant handed me this day by Capt. Medice, whom I would most willingly supply, agreeably to your re quest, if it were in my power, but such are our finances at present, that the sum necessary for him cannot by any means be advanced. We have lately been disappointed in receiving money from the conti nental treasury, and I am much distressed thereby, having, in full ex pectation of having it reimbursed, borrowed considerable sums for public use on my own credit; such is the case, and if the public service is retarded in this instance, I wish it may prove the only one occasioned by congress failing to supply this state with the necessary sum required. I was impowered by the assembly to draw on the continental treasury for 300,000 dollars to defray the expense of raising and marching men from this state to complete our continental battalions ; I did so, and sent on for the money ; the messenger wait ed at York upwards of twenty days, and then returned with one-third of the sum drawn for, which will not pay more than the bounty of 42 waistcoats , Petersburg. 68 pair of leather breeches, do. 84 pair of stockings, do. 60 pair boots, do. 70 black stocks, do, 70 caps, to be had at Baltimore. 124 shirts, Petersburg. 410 sets accoutrements complete, viz. . Saddles, curb bridles, (Petersburg,) watering bits, pair of holsters, buckets', pillions, straps for buckets, straps for cloak3, portmanteaus, cleaning frocks, oil cloths, curry-combs, horse-brushes, boot- brushes, blacking ball, mane combs, spurs. The above articles of clothing and accoutrements wanting, as well for the use of the regiment as the party now in Virginia ; which Col. Temple will please to have expedited as much as possible. Those marked are either to be reserved at Fredericksburg, or sent on to Petersburg for the party here, that the men may be equipped as far as possible before they march to camp. Such accoutrements, clothino-, &c. as are delivered out, Col. Temple is ordered to take the men's receipts for, in a book. * Governor of North Carolina, 12 90 THE BLAND PAPERS. 1000 volunteers, when 2600 and odd were ordered to march. I ask pardon for troubhng you with this state of the matter, but 'tis to show how deficient we are in the article of cash. I am, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, &c. Col. Bland. LETTER LIL* From a Lady in Philadelphia, to Mrs. Bland, wife of Col. Theo'k Bland, Jr. (Very imperfect.) * * * execution, and the irresistible Miss Amiel (?) * * [has transmi] grated into Mrs. Armstrong. A lieutenant [in the] British army * * means to sell out, I am told, * * * Roche, and go into Philadelphia to spend a few weeks, but did not marry S ; he was not in the city, being sent home recruiting ; by all accounts he is a vile fellow, so tell M he may still have hopes. Miss * * * * is not shackled, though she had many bleeding hearts at her feet. Her vivacity made her exceedingly admired, though saucy. [One of her] saucy speeches I cannot omit : Sir William Howe in a large company, one evening, [took] a piece of narrow riband from her, the [moment] he entered a ball room. * * * good bon-7wt. Mrs. Beekman's * * * still in the city. They continued in the * * * , and were very ungenteelly treated, being turned out of their house to accommodate Lord Howe ; they then moved into the street my mother lives in, to a house belonging to Mrs. Bordly (?), from whence, I hear, they will soon be obliged to remove again, as Mrs. Bordly is coming to town herself I formed an acquaintance with them, and liked them much. Mr. and Mrs. G are at their house in Chestnut street. Notwithstanding the gratification [of] their wishes was completed in the arrival of [the British] army, they received the usual disappointment. A fine son born, but, alas! he never * * * they received some little cavalier ***** | * * * up Market street, the Hessian general * * * Knyp hausen Hipeli's (?) at the corner, * * * and when Lord William * This letter gives an account of occurrences that took place at Philadelphia, in the winter of 1777, but seems to have been written not until some months thereafter. t Here half the page is torn off. THEBLANDPAPERS. 91 came, he * * * the town into General Cadwallader's house ; [and when] Lord Cornwallis went to England, General Howe [moved] into the quarters his lordship had left, being nearer the lines, which ex tended from Schuylkill to Delaware, just at the outskirts of the town. You see I am bidding fair to obey your commands, and writing a folio. * * * my God ! if this nonsense should [fall] into your hus band's hands, I should die ; for heaven's sake, my Patsy, don't expose it to him ; he would never let me hear the last of it ; besides the inde licacy absolutely shocks me ; your saucy epistle has led me [into this] scrape. * * * p00r p s j p^y hjm exceedingly, as I really be lieve him * * * though he may be of a timid disposition * * intending any thing, but to make his escape ; his horse, which Major Gwin kept, won him, in the course of last winter, several hundred guinea purses. Mr. Wikoff, whom you inquired after, moving his family from place to place to avoid the enemy, at last fell into their hands, (at least his family, himself did not,) and was by them, and by a party of tory robbers, (who for some time past have infested in great numbers what we call the Pines,) plundered of almost every thing in the house and clothing way. Mrs. Jacob Morris has presented her husband with a fine son. I really do not know where Miss Cox is now ; the winter she spent with Miss West. Little Poll Redman still continues as violent a pa triot as ever, and several times sung " War and Washington," with " Burgoyne's Defeat," for the British officers ; and with a particular emphasis, and saucy countenance, always in the plainest manner warbled forth the line " Cooped up in a town." Poor B , ha, ha, ha ! yes, my dear, I had heard his pitiable case ; I sincerely hope there may be no discovery left for his wife to make. What a field of hope, my dear girl, has opened to my view, by the delightful supposition of Mr. Bland being one of these days to grace our senate; it must, it shall be so; 'tis a thought I have long cherish ed, nor will I be disappointed. I shall then once more stand a chance of spending some charming hours with you. Why are we so unfor tunate in being placed so distant from each other ! What pleasure would I every few months receive, could I whip into a carriage, and be conveyed to you, enjoy myself a week or two, mutually exchange our thoughts and wishes, settle the nation, as we are most profound politicians, and then whirl back again ! But, my God ! the intruding ideas of the many miles which lie between us, dispel the pleasing visions, I have sometimes entertained, of paying you a visit. 92 THEBLANDPAPERS. I will now, my dear, suppose you anxious for an account of our last winter. You have, no doubt, heard that 'twas a gay one, as like- wise the censure thrown on many of the poor girls for not scorning the pleasures that courted them. You, my friend, I am certain, have liberality of sentiment, and can make proper allowances for young people in the bloom of life and spirits, after being so long time de prived of the gaieties and amusements of life, which their ages and spirits called for ; how hard a task must it then be to resist tempta tion of that nature? Plays, concerts, balls, assemblies, in rotation courted their presence. Politics were never introduced ; the known whig ladies were treated with equal politeness and attention with the tory ladies. I myself, though a noted one, was at last prevailed on to partake some of the amusements, though nothing could have made me believe, at the beginning of the winter, that such a thing was pos sible. I am generally styled, in raillery, with several other ladies, "rebel," but I had always effrontery enough to declare that I gloried in the name, and thought it virtuous to rebel in some cases, as in the present. They never failed collecting the whig news for me, and from them I received the glorious news of Burgoyne's defeat, and the still more mortifying " draught of the bill" with Lord North's letter, which lengthened faces amazingly. I was not a little disconcerted, in a large company one day, by a great Hessian Yager colonel coming in and telling some of the officers that Col. Bland was that day killed by a party of his men. I involun tarily exclaimed " God forbid !" which immediately drew the eyes of the company on me. You would have liked the wretch, had you seen the pains he took, after inquiring of one of the ladies if Col. Bland was any relation of mine, and receiving for answer " not a re lation but a particular friend," he execrated himself for having been so unfortunate as to give me a moment's pain, and hoped with me the account might prove false. A few moments relieved me from the state of suspense ; indeed I almost ventured to declare it could not be so ; so easily, my dear, do we believe as we wish. Our principal grand entertainment, which was ajven by twenty field officers, and which has several times given subject for little minds to display their wit ,in the newspapers, was designed as a compliment to General Howe on his being recalled,* and as my curiosity led me to see (a sight, 'tis more than probable I never may again,) I mean to give some account of it for your entertainment, but must make that the subject of another sheet of paper. Are you tired ? * He was succeeded by Sir Harry Clinton, May, 1778. THEBLANDPAPERS. 93 And now, my dear, give me leave to introduce you to the Meschi- anza, which I have a double inducement to do, the flattering expecta tion of entertaining you for a few minutes, and preventing your giving any attention to the ill-natured censorious assertions which are propagating respecting that entertainment, and putting it in your pow er to contradict many absurdities, which you will undoubtedly hear. To begin then. Cards of invitation being sent out, and answers returned, tickets of admission were given, (one of which I enclose, though the worse for wear.) Was I sure this packet would find the colonel at home, I would leave the explanation of the matter to him ; lest that should not be the case, and madam prove impatient, I will give it to you as I have received it. On the top is the crest of the Howe arms, with "vive, vale," "live and .farewell;" to the sun setting in the sea the other motto refers, and it bears this translation, " he shines as he sets, but shall rise again more luminous." Gen. Howe being recalled is the setting sun ; while ploughing the ocean, he is ob scured, but shall on his arrival, and giving an account of his heroic deeds, " rise again with redoubled lustre." The wreath of laurel en compassing the whole, and encircling the arms, completes (I think) the burlesque. On the back of the ticket, you observe, we are to attend at Knight's wharf, (you remember Pool's bridge, near Kensington.) Thither we accordingly repaired in carriages, at the appointed hour of three, where we found a vast number of boats, barges and galleys to receive us, all adorned with small colors or jacks of different colors. On a signal from the Vigilant, we all embarked, forming lines* and all the music belonging to the army in the centre. The ladies interspersed in the different boats (the seats of which were covered with green cloth) with the red coats, colors flying, music playing, &c, you may easily suppose formed a very gay and grand appearance ; nor were the shore and houses, lined with spectators, any bad object to those on the regatta (the water party so called). We were obliged to row gently, on account of the galleys sailing slow. The armed ship, the Fanny, was drawn into the stream, and decorated in the most beauti ful manner, with the colors of every court or state streaming ; amidst the number, the Thirteen Stripes waved with as much elegance, and as gracefully sported with the gentle zephyrs, as any of the number. After passing the above ship, we reached the Roebuck, whose men were all fixed on her yards, and gave us three cheers as we passed, and as soon as we had got to a distance not to be incommoded by the smoke, she fired a salute, and was answered by several other ves sels in the harbor. 94 THEBLANDPAPERS. At length we reached the place of destination, (after lying awhile on our oars opposite the Roebuck, and the music playing " God save the king,") which was a seat belonging [to] the Wharton (?) family, about half a mile below the town ; the house stands about three hun dred yards from the river. Here we landed, and in a lane formed by grenadiers and guards we proceeded about half way to the house, where we were stopped. Here a large triumphant arch in honor to Lord Howe engaged our attention ; Neptune with his trident was en graved thereon, and two sisters guarded it with drawn swords ; they were placed in little niches formed for that purpose. On each side of this arch were seats for the ladies : steps, one above another, and car pets thrown over the whole. I am now to tell you that, [at] the par ticular request of the managers, fourteen young ladies were dressed alike: white Poland dresses of Mantua with long sleeves, a gauze turban spangled, and sashes round the waists. Seven of them wore pink sashes with silver spangles, and the others, white with gold span gles ; handkerchiefs of gauze spangled in the same manner. Those of the pink and white were called the Ladies of the Blended Rose ; the white and gold were of the Burning Mountain. These ladies, with all the others, were seated on these steps, when a herald from the Blended Rose made Ms appearance, (his dress was quite in the Arabian Nights' style : a white satin waistcoat, small clothes of the same, monstrously large, in the Spanish fashion, trimmed with broad stripes of pink satin, adorned with silver, thrown in a loose manner down them, and the jacket — you have no doubt seen such dresses exactly, on the stage, the Spanish dons generally wear them — white leather boots, and little round beavers,) with trumpets sounding. This herald declared the Ladies of the Blended Rose to be fairer than those of the Burning Mountain, and dared in the name of his knights any one to deny it. The herald of the Burning Mountain appeared in the same manner, his dress being [orange] color and black, (those of the Rose wore pink sashes spangled, the other orange,) and he in the name of his knights denied the assertion, and declared the Ladies of the Burning Mountain to be fairer than any ladies in the world. The knights then made their appearance, attended by then: squires, whose dress was as fantastical, though in another model, having the short cloak thrown over the one shoulder ; these preceded their re spective knights, bearing the shield and spear * * * THEBLANDPAPERS, 95 LETTER LLU. From General Washington to Colonel Bland, at Petersburg, Virginia. Head-quarters, Brunswick, 3d July, 1778. Dear sir, I have been favored with your two letters of the 5th ultimo. As it was not possible for Captain Medice to procure horses at the prices to which he had been at first limited, I think you did right in advising him to purchase upon the best terms he could without limitation ; but I do not think that you should advance him any money ; he will with more propriety [procure it] from the state to which he belongs. [There are] some horse accoutrements arrived from [France], at Portsmouth, New England; but how many or what kind I do not know. I would therefore have you still procure all you can in Vir ginia. I have ordered the above accoutrements to meet me at the North River ; and therefore I desire that you may send forward the men and horses as fast as the first are clothed, and the last fit for service, and I will accoutre them here. [Lieutenant] Lewis is certainly entitled to a captaincy [by reason] of Major Lee's promotion, lout what reason Captain Jones has to complain I cannot conceive, unless it be that congress, on account of the extraordinary merit of Captain Lee, and the officers who served under him last campaign, have promoted them in a separate corps. Had Captain Lee been promoted in the regiment, Captain Jones would then have had reason to think himself injured. It was the pleasure of congress that Captain Lee's former troop should make part of his present corps, and therefore I can say no thing about it, further than that in the enlistment of men for your regiment, you must make provision for that deficiency. I should have been exceedingly [glad] had the settlement of the rank of the [officers of horse] been agreeable to all parties. You must be sensi ble, that it is not in my power to do more than I have done, or to alter the determination of the board of officers, to whom it was left. You are mistaken as to the colonels of "the other regiments of ca valry having filled up the vacancies in their regiments. They have only taken an account of such gentlemen as are willing and qualified to serve, and I Should be glad that you would do the same. I have just received yours [of the 14th] ultimo, with the returns enclosed ; and am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c, 96 THEBLANDPAPERS. LETTER LIV. From Colonel John Banister. Philadelphia, July 6th, 1778. * * * A few days ago, I wrote you an account of all the public concerns then appearing of moment. But the inclosed will inform you of an action,* which has displayed the military abilities of our general, in the highest point of view. Its consequences on the affairs of America will necessarily be great. General Lee is under great suspicions of misconduct, and bad intentions ; but being under arrest, and his trial now going on, I forbear to mention what Ls related by offi cers, who were in the battle, and were eye-witnesses of his retreat at the head of 5000 of the best troops in the American army. The English army is supposed (not without foundation) to have been lessened in number, from its departure out of this place until this affair happened, between two and three thousand. Their best troops were engaged with our army after the select five thousand had been taken out, and in fair battle were defeated, ours keeping pos session of, and sleeping on the field. I am much delighted and entertained with your account of my promising boy. My affectionate regards to Mrs. Bland, and believe me yours, &c. LETTER LV. From Major John Jameson. Roundbrook, July 9th, 1778. Dear Colonel, Since my last we had a very pretty little engagement with Sir Henry Clinton, to wit, June 28th. General Lee, with about 5000 chosen troops, was ordered to attack the enemy, which he did, but very soon retreated, without having sustained any loss, or there being any reason (in the opinions of Generals Wayne and Scott) for so do ing. Whilst our troops were making this inglorious retreat, they * The battle of Monmouth, June 28th, 1778. THE BLAND PAPERS. gf were met by his excellency, who asked what they were retreating for | they answered that they knew no reason but General Lee's having ordered it. His excellency ordered them to make a Stand, which they did immediately, (and then spoke to General Lee, ordering him into the rear; General Lee is since arrested for three crimes, and the court [is] now sitting on his trial,) and drove the enemy from that place to the place where Lee had retreated from, [and] encamped .on the field of battle, which the enemy entirely evacuated -about twelve in the night, leaving 247 killed on the spot, besides what they buried and carried off, so that yoU may guess their loss in wounded, &c. One of their hospitals fell into our hands, in which they left three o& fleers and 52 privates, so badly wounded as not to be able to be moved. Their loss by desertion since they Jeft Philadelphia is at least 800. Our men are so naked that it is a shame to bring them into the field; pray send on some officer with clothes for the poor fellOwa Rush, Rhoades and Cann have all left the enemy ; I have not seen either of them. The trumpet-major deserted the day before the "bat- He. John Wright, of the 6th troop, taken the day of the battle. Col. Moylan has appointed a brigade-major as commandant of the caval ry ; I have not heard from congress how the rank was settled; My compliments to your good lady; aunt Betty Carloss and all the good people of my acquaintance about Petersburg. Adieu* your very humble servant, &c. LETTER LV1. Fmm yQAPffifciN CasiO >W toCO APPENDIX. 151 (C) LIST OF INDIAN WORDS. (SUPPOSED TO BE CHICKASAW.) English. Indian. English. Indian. God Heshalumachoroyo .Soft Tauxu. Heaven Hooquaung. Thick * * * Sun Kishu. Thin Ooskacu. Moon Hockoque. Dirty Neesksu. Stars Alonque. Clean Kcheehsu. River Sepu. King Taukemau. Sea Nao. Prince Elau. Mountain Ochu. Father Nooh. Land Hockque. Mother Gauhace. Woods Hetook. Brother Nauhauns. Trees Tauctun. Sister Nauheesamace. Grass Skecole. Unkle Lungosees. Horse Namongace. Aunt Beetauk. Cow Washumoise. Brother and friend Nemotanjou. Sheep Meckeess. Nose Nekeun. Man Lenno. Mouth Doon. Woman Oebquea, Ears Hntauock. Boy Rhechish. Tongue Nelanoo. Girl Oebquichish. Speech Aptunochun. Fish Naimaije. Good * * * Deer Aituck. Bad Tacwoointham Buffalo Ceceha. Black Seacoless. Meat Yuise, White Opsu. Bread * * Green Welaiom. Clothes * * Yellow Mocksune.* Head Neel. Brown * * * Heart Daa. Great Hirgue. Hand Knock. Little Togletu. Body Knocktuweppe. High Mukakeel. Legs Kuecaut. Low Sungheehin. Dark Peejcar. Rich Hopain. Light Delakeka. Poor Ketmauxu. Dear madam Anna-TaholuuJ. Corn Husqueem. Pretty Woolelissu. Green-corn Taukuwence. Ugly Matessusu. Roasting-ears Danpusee. Tall Mauhockeel. Hominy Chicaunem. Short Taquotetu. Hog Quish-quish. Hard Shetanessu. Dog Miecunne. < Hence perhaps mocasin, from the color of the buckskin. 152 THE BLAND PAPERS. English. Indian. English. Indian. One Cootch. Ten Tellen. Two Nesha. Eleven Attahcootch. Three Nahah. Twelve Attahnesha. Four Neyoox. Thirteen Attah nahah. Five Paleynoc Fourteen Attahneyoox. Six Cotosh. Fifteen Attapaleynoc. Seven Neshosh. Sixteen Attacotosh. Eight Hosht. Seventeen Attaneshosh. Nine Paishcunck. Eighteen Attahhosht. O Connahle hah. How do ye, brother ? Cutteta. Will you drink f Hudlahai. Where are you going? 0 Cunnistolo Eskitihi Colena. Chiefs of the Cherokee chiefs. Hudla Kutluga. What town do you belong to ? 0 Shula Kislo Knakoke. You are a troublesome rogue. John Knalake. What you will. Clotia. Will you eat. (D. ) GAMING. GENERAL ORDER OF GENERAL SCOTT, OCT. 24, 1778. " The general positively forbids the practice of gaming in this corps, ancF assures the officers and soldiers that offences of this nature shall not be overlooked. He is certain that the gentlemen and others can find means of amusement without application to this vile resource, attended with so many ill consequences ; and therefore forbids this practice under any pretence whatever, exercises conducive to health only excepted, where no wagers are to be laid . This to be a standing order, and to be read by the adjutants at the head of their respective regiments, at roll-calling this evening." (E. ) Letters and Memoirs relating to the War of American Independence, and the Capture of the German Troops at Saratoga, by Madame de Riedesel. Trans lated from the original German. " Celebrare domestica facta.'' P. 211. " Before we passed the Blue Hills,* we made another halt of eight days for the sake of the soldiers. In the meantime, it has snowed so much, that we were obliged to have four men on horseback before our carriages to clear the road. We [ Blue Ridge of mountains. APPENDIX. 153 passed through a picturesque country, but of so wild a character, that it left awful impressions. The travelling was dangerous, the roads being almost impassable, and we suffered, besides, not only from cold, but from want. After our arrival in Virginia, and when we were a day's journey from the place of our destination, we had, for our last meal, tea, and a piece of bread and butter for each. This was the end of our little stock ; and we could procure nothing either for our present or fu ture wants, except some fruits which a peasant gave us for our journey. At noon we reached a house where we begged for some dinner, but all assistance was denied us, with many imprecations against the royalists. Seeing some maize,* I begged our hostess to give me some of it to make a little bread ; she replied, " that she needed it for her black people ; they work for us, (she added,) and you come to kill us." Captain Edmonstone offered to pay her one or two guineas for a little wheat; but she returned, "you shall not have it even for one hundred guineas, and it will be so much the better if you all die." The captain became so much enraged at these words that he was about to take the maize, but I prevented him from doing it, thinking that we should soon meet with more charitable people. But in this I was much mistaken, for we did not see even a solitary hut. The roads were execrable, arid the horses could scarcely move. The children, starv ing from hunger, grew pale, and for the first time lost their spirits. Captain Ed monstone, deeply affected at this event, went about asking something for the children, and received at last, from one of the wagoners who transported our bag gage, a piece of stale bread of three ounces weight, upon which many a tooth had already exercised its strength ; yet to my children it was at this time a deli cious morsel. I broke it into pieces, and was about giving the first piece to the youngest, but she said " No, mamma ; my sisters are more in want of it than I am." The two eldest girls, with no less generosity, thought that little Caroline was to have the first piece. I then endeavored to distribute to each her small portion. Tears ran down my cheeks, and had I ever refused to the poor a piece of bread, I should have thought that retributive justice had overtaken me now. Captain Edmonstone, who was much affected, presented the generous wagoner, who had given us his last morsel, with a guinea ; and when we were arrived at our place of destination, we provided him besides with bread for a part of his journey homeward'. " The place of our destination was Colle in Virginia ; where my husband, who had advanced with the troops, already expected us with impatience and anxiety. This was about the middle of February, 1779. We had passed in our journey through the provinces of Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland, and had travelled in about three months six hundred and twenty-eight miles. The house where we lodged, and indeed the whole estate, belonged to an Italian,! who rented it to us as he was about setting out upon a voyage. We looked impatiently forward to the4:ime of his departure, and that of his wife and daughter, on account of the smallness of the house and the scarcity of provisions. In respect to the latter, our landlord voluntarily assumed a kind of tutorship over us. Thus, when he killed a calf, he gave us on the first day only the head and the tripe, though we represented that this was not enough for twenty persons. He replied, that we could make a very good soup of it. He then added to the meat two cabbages and some stale ham, and this was all we could obtain from him/ * Indian com. I Mr. Mazzei. 20 154 THE BLAND PAPERS. " In the expectation that the troops would have arrived sooner, a great number of horned cattle and swine had been sent to the butcher, and salt being very scarce here, there were no other means of preserving it but to lay it under earth and to strew it over with ashes, which seem to have the same qualities as salt. Yet the weather being sometimes very hot here even in the month of January, the meat which was lying uppermost was spoiled. Our rations were brought to us on wheelbarrows ; but we were often obliged to throw it away, or to salt it, and have it smoked. One day, when we, had scarcely enough for ourselves, I saw eight officers suddenly arrive a little before dinner. What could we do but share with them the little we had ? " The troops were at Charlottesville, three hours' ride from us, and the road thi ther ran through a fine forest. At first they suffered many privations ; they were billeted in block-houses without windows or doors, and but poorly defended from the cold. But they went diligently to work to construct better dwellings, and in a short time the place assumed the appearance of a neat little town. In the rear of each house they had trim gardens, and enclosed places for poultry. After wards, when the old provisions were consumed, they received fresh meat, and flour to make bread ; and as this latter was of wheat, they could even make cakes and pies. They wanted nothing but money, of which the English sent but little ; and as it was difficult to purchase any thing on credit, the soldiers were in many per plexities on that account. " In the middle of February, the fruit trees were already in blossom, but the night frost killed them. As soon as the weather would permit, we caused the garden and the fields to be cultivated ; and as our landlord left us within three weeks af ter, we took into our care all the poultry, &c. &c. We had turkeys which weighed fifty pounds, and were perfectly tame, but on the approach of spring they flew off, to hatch their eggs which they had laid in the woods. We had already given them up for lost, when they suddenly returned with a numerous brood. We had a large house built for us, with a spacious saloon in the centre, and with two rooms on each side, which cost us a hundred guineas, and was quite elegant. The ne groes sold us their little stock of poultry and vegetables. Every week we and General Phillips sent by turns an ox and two swine to the slaughter-house. Thus with respect to provision we had nothing to wish for ; but we suffered much from the heat during the summer ; we lived in continual apprehension of rattlesnakes • and our fruit trees were destroyed by three sorts of insects. Sometimes also we had tremendous thunder-storms, accompanied with such winds, that more than a hundred trees were blown down around us. I must say however that their roots were scarcely under ground, and when a strong wind blew away the earth, which was nothing but light sand, they remained almost entirely bare. The woods were besides often wasted by the fires of negroes and herdsmen, and indeed nobody seems here to care much for trees. Whole forests are sometimes burnt down to redeem land for the purposes of agriculture. The heat was so great, even during the night, that we were obliged to sleep with open windows ; but this brought upon us another inconvenience. Frequently three or four bats, three times as large as those which are known in Germany, would flutter around our beds, and we would spend half the night in driving them out of the room. One night the servants came to tell my husband that the stable, which had been recently built, was in danger of being blown down by the wind. Every body except myself, my children, and the maids, ran immediately to prop it. The wind increased, and APPENDIX. 155 large fragments of the chimney fell down into the room. The house tottered, and through the remainder of the night I was apprehensive lest I should be buried under its ruins. We were often in such dangers. " We had no chairs ; in lieu of which we made use of round blocks of timber, which also served us for tables by the help of planks. " In this way we passed three or four months, and not unhappily. My husband however continued to be much depressed, partly perhaps because he could not bear such a high temperature. It was indeed very oppressive to every body, for the thermometer rose sometimes to a hundred and three degrees. We all endeavored- to buoy up his spirits ; and when our little garden began to be in such a state as to afford him some occupation, he seemed to be less dejected. He was very liable to head-aches, and disliked to wear his hat in the garden, and this was the cause of one of the greatest shocks to me that I had yet experienced. One day, while I was just engaged in arranging his room, I suddenly heard a great noise. I ran to the window, and saw some men bringing my husband homeward. His face was blue, his hands were white, his eyes staring, and sweat ran from his brow, evi dently from a stroke of the sun. I was terrified, and the children screamed aloud ; happily the surgeon of the regiment lived in the house, and bled him immediately; he then recovered his speech, so that he could explain the accident. The effect of the coup-de-soleil was so sudden, that he was scarcely able to reach the house ; and he would have fallen down had not his aid-de-camp just arrived in time. If I had lost him, what would have become of me and my little ones in the midst of a captive army in the enemy's land, and at such a distance from home ! lean never think of that event without terror. When my husband felt a little better, he took me by the hand, and looked at me with deep emotion. He was uneasy when ever I left him. We sent for a physician, and by using all possible care I was enabled, through God's mercy, to preserve my dear husband ; but he remained fee ble, and therefore so much the more sensible of his painful situation, and for many years afterwards he complained of some pain in his head. His physician and ac quaintances advised him to go to a watering place called Frederick springs, and we went there ; but I fear he increased his disorder by washing his head. Seeing that he could not sleep during the night, I willingly imposed upon myself the task of entertaining him with some books, and I purposely read in a drowsy manner ; this had a good effect." * * (F. ) MILITARY ORDERS OF COLONEL BLAND. [August, 1777.] From Bland's 1 C. IS. 10 P.* From Baylor's 1 L. 1 C. 10 P. From Moylan's 1 C. 1 C. 10 P. 1 Trumpet. Lieutenant, corporal and ten men to be posted at Will Conway's, and to ad vance a videt to the forks of the road, turning in to this place * * * at the * C. Corporal. S. Sergeant. P. Privates. L, Lieutenant. 156 THE BLAND PAPERS. widow McKenzie's, * * * videt a quarter of a mile on the road leading to Elk ; * * * a cornet, corporal and ten men to be posted at Samuel Wikmit's, and to advance a videt a quarter of a mile down the Nottingham road towards Elk. The sentry to fire on seeing any body of armed men, and retreat to the picket. The pickets to turn out immediately, and if a great alarm, three guns to be fired distinctly, and at the main picket an alarm to be sounded by the trumpet. At whatever picket the three alarm guns are fired, a horseman to be immediately despatched with the utmost speed to Colonel Bland's quarters, where a trumpet is to remain. The whole horse to parade as near Colonel Bland's quarters as they conveniently can draw up, by [night half of the horses of the] guard and patrol to be always saddled, and to be relieved by the other half every two hours ; neither officers nor men to pull of boots or any other accoutrement. (G.) GENERAL ORDERS. Head-quarters, Charlottesville Post, April 24, [1779.] Countersign before 12, Lincoln. after 12, Greene. The quarter-master commissary of purchases, commissary of issues, wagon- master, superintendent of hospitals, person acting as barrack- master, and the per son acting as forage-master, or their principal assistants residing at the barracks, will wait on the commanding officer of the garrison every day at orderly hour, at his quarters, in the garrison, or send an assistant or sergeant for such general orders as will be transmitted to them from the officer commanding in-chief at this post, through him, and for such garrison orders as the officer commanding in garrison may find necessary to issue, which they are hereby directed to pay a- due obedience to, in all matters in their several departments, relative to the immediate economy of the garrison, and the rules thereof, which will be published in due time. Theo'k Bland, Col. Com. At the post Charlottesville. (H. ) Extract from a Memorandum of T. Bland, Jr., which his father was requested to execute for him in his absence. Hands at Farmingdell to be Tom Baker, Joe, Simon, * * Moll ; the last of which, besides working in the ground, is to milk, and in the winter and at spare times to spin. Moll to take care of the house, and spin fine flax, and mipd the dairy and hen-house, and gather the seeds in the garden. Maria and Chloe to be kept to spin coarse flax under Bell, and if necessary to help Moll in spinning cot- APPENDIX. 157 ton and wool ; also Esther to be kept constantly spinning coarse flax Under Bell. Bevil is to keep Brinah spinning at the quarter. George and Rico are to be employed in minding the stock, * * horses, cat tle, hogs, &c. ; and George is also to plant peach and apple trees, and to sow two or three acres of oats every [spring] for the use of the mares and foals, and such * * as he may have under his care ; to be cut and given them green when they are headed. They are also to tend some cotton, potatoes and pump kins for the milch cows and stalled beeves, two of which I would have stalled the first year, those two and one other the next, these then and two more the third, and so on. The mares and colts to be kept always fat and in fine order, and * * * The crops when made to be divided, (which Mr. Peter Bland has been kind enough to undertake to do for me,) measured and sold, if possible at the highest price for ready hard cash, at the proper seasons for selling, viz. : corn about April, wheat about December or January, and tobacco not until the highest price for the crop is [given,] this last never when the price is falling. The grain is to be sold and delivered where it is made, and by no means to be transported at my expense, even if it is sold for less than the current price. An ox-chain to be made for Bevil Quarter, and [he] be directed to break four of the largest steers. He is to work the two mules next year, and the Fea[r-nought] and Aristotle mares, if you think it can be done without danger of their losing their mule foals ; if not, two good horses to be bought for that plantation, such as are ten or fifteen pounds old money a-piece, not to exceed five years, and to be both horses, to be bought this winter or in the spring ; but if he should have more than twelve hands, three horses may be bought. A written agreement for next year to be entered into with Bevil, pursuant to the tenor of" our verbal contract, viz. : if he has eight shares, one share and a quarter, if ten, one and a half, the same if twelve shares, but if above, then one share and three quarters to fifteen shares; if above, in proportion, allowing a share of grain for two plough horses or mules. He is to break and clean the flax which may (the [greater] part) be spun up there, and the fine sent down to be spun ; his wife to weave it, and be paid at the old price she used to charge me for weaving. All the butter made there to be sold, and the [proceeds] accounted for and lodged with you for my use. (I-) Plan for establishing Linen and Woollen Manufactories in Virginia- in the hand af Colonel Bland, Jr. No date — incomplete. FOB THE LINEN WORK. 1st. To be imported three good flax dressers, two who understand the manage ment of hemp, six good spinners, two good weavers and two bleachers ; three of the spinners ior coarse and three for fine work, 158 THE BLAND PAPERS. 2dly. That they shall be under similar engagements with those of the woollen manufacturers as expressed cap. 2., art. 3. 3dly. That their encouragement shall be the same as the others expressed in art. 5, 6, 7, 8. 6thly. That each manufacturer shall instruct in his separate branch two or three [apprentices, who are to be] bound to the company, and that there shall be a schoolmaster appointed to teach the apprentices and the children of the manu facturers, as in art. * * cap. 2. 6thly. That all the necessary tools shall be imported at the expense of the company for carrying on the work. 7thly. That there shall be a board of directors appointed as mentioned in cap. 3, art. 3, 4, 5. 8thly. That the stock of each subscriber shall be transferable as in cap. 3. (J.) Sketch of regulations for the post at Charlottesville. "BOUGH DRAUGHT." [1779.] To visit the barracks twice or three times a week myself. To appoint a bar rack-master, who is to be furnished with a sergeant's guard, whose duty is to visit the barracks three times a week, to go through all the apartments, see that they are cleaned out, the wells kept clean, the springs, &.c. in good order, plenty of wood furnished, fires put out in proper time, a report made to me by him every time he visits, tools of every sort to be lodged with the barrack-master, and not given out without an order from the commandant of the regiment or the field officer of the day. To appoint a field officer of the day to continue on duty during the week, who is to go round the garrison, to see the guards are properly posted, and do their duty regularly, to examine into the state of the provision, as well with respect to the garrison as that of the prisoners, who is to visit the streets and apartments frequently, and report whether the barrack-master does his duty. All small com plaints arising in the garrison to be brought to him, and instantly redressed, and the delinquents punished ; he is to have a subaltern's guard to accompany him whenever he goes the rounds ; he is to take care that no arms or ammunition are lodged in the barracks or in the possession of the prisoners ; see that the guards are relieved, roll called, apply for fatigue parties, &c. See that the reveille, tat too, &c. are regularly beat; make his reports regularly to me of the state of the guards and lines, pickets, &c. Quarter-master to see that the roads are cleared and passable, forage plentiful ly provided and regularly issued, wagons arranged and put under the care of pro per wagon-masters, water-carriage attended to, and proper batteau-masters ap pointed. Magazines of forage, laid in at proper places, to be conveyed to the barracks. Commissary to review the provisions, make an estimate of what is on hand and APPENDIX. 159 what will be necessary, appoint proper butchers, drovers, &c, provide salt, ap point commissary of hides and tallow, to make a report of number and quantity, store them after curing, appoint tanners to tan them, and persons to make candles and soap, procure flour, peas, rice, vinegar, seeds, cabbage, coleworts, turnips, potatoes, &c, for garden. To order a public garden to be laid off, which is to be cultivated by the prisoners. Surgeon general to establish hospital, and furnish it with medicines and other necessaries, appoint surgeons, &c. (K.) . PAROLE OF DR. CARROLL. [1779.] I do hereby promise and declare, on my parole of honor, and on the faith of a gentleman, that I will not, during my journey from the post at Charlottesville to Charles Carroll's, Esq., near Annapolis, by any means, directly or indirectly, by words, writing, or [in any manner,] say or do any thing to the prejudice of the United States of America, or any one of them, or the inhabitants thereof; that I will not hold conversation in order to obtain a knowledge of the situa tion or state of the armies, encampments, fortresses or finances of the United States, so that I may communicate intelligence thereof to the enemies of the United States ; that I will on my arrival put myself under guidance and direction of his excellency, Governor Johnston, and not exceed such limits during my resi dence in Maryland, or on my return to the convention army, as he shall prescribe to me; and that immediately on my arrival at Charles Carroll's, Esq., I will announce it to his excellency, the governor of Maryland, and deliver to him a copy of this, my parole. W. B.* Cabboll, Jr. 20th Reg't. (L.) GENERAL ORDERS. Head-quarters, Charlottesville post, May 2d, 1779. Countersign Petersburg,Penny Town. Field officer of the day for to-morrow, Colonel Fontaine. Colonel Bland hopes that, as the regiment in the garrison is not at present furnished with a surgeon, the officers, whose right it is, would proceed immediately to the choice of a pro per person to act in that capacity, which, when he is informed of, he will re- * The initials are written equivocally, and may be read either W. B. as above, or A, B. 160 THE BLAND PAPERS. port to the governor and council for their approbation. Although Colonel Bland understands that they are not yet legally authorized to appoint a surgeon, never theless his solicitude for the welfare of the troops under his command at this post, and the long list of sick presented to him this day, have determined him to point out to the officers of the garrison the above mode. In the meantime he will request Dr. Gilmer, the senior surgeon of the hospital at this place, to pay all possible attention to the regimental sick, and afford them every assistance in his power. Colonel Bland approves the discharge from confinement of Moses Morris and Absalom Roach, and hopes the lenity shown them will convince them that it is more his wish, and that of the officers of the garrison, to have duty done by leni ent than by harsh measures. END OP VOL. I. I5L£VMIIM(D)M THE BLAND PAPEES : SELECTION FROM THE MANUSCRIPTS COLONEL THEODORICK BLAND, JR. OF PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY, VIRGINIA. TO WHICH ARE PREFIXED AN INTRODUCTION, AND A MEMOIR OF COLONEL BLAND. Clarorum virorum facta moresque posteriB tradere.— Tacitus. EDITED BV CHARLES CAMPBELL. IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. II. PETERSBURG: 1843. INDEX TO THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTERS WRITTEN DURING THE REVOLUTION. BY WHOM WRITTEN. PAGE St. George Tucker, 9 John Hay to Gen. Phillips, - 12 General Phillips, - - - - 13 Timothy Pickering ... _ - 14 Lieut. Charles Johnston to Gen. Phillips - - 15 John August Leonhard Kohle - - - - 16 Theodorick Bland, Sr. - - - - 17 John Jay - ... .... 19 Gen. Phillips - - - - - 19, 20 " " to Gov. Jefferson - - - - 21 Gen. Phillips - - - - - 21, 22, 24 Lieut. Wm. Houghton - - 23 Francis Taylor - .... 24 Col. Bland to Lieut. Houghton - - - - 24 David Meade Randolph - - - 25 Conrad Krebs to Conrad Krieg - - 26 Col. Bland to Col. Francis Taylor - - - 27 Gen. Washington to Col. James Wood 29 Chevalier de la Luzerne to M. Destouches 29 Thomas Jefferson - - 31 Col. James Wood - ... .31 Benjamin Harrison - - 32 Col. John Banister - - - - 32 Richard Kidder Meade - - - 33 Col. Bland - - - - 34 Col. John Banister - - - - - 36 Col. Theodorick Bland, Sr. - - - - - 37 Col. John Banister .... ... 38 Samuel Nightingale - 39 Richard Henry Lee - 40 Col. Armand ----- 41 Hon. Joseph Jones - - - - 43 President Joseph Reed to the committee of congress at Trenton,44, 45, 46, 49 Theodorick Bland, Sr. 50 President Reed to Hon. John Witherspoon - - - 52 St. George Tucker - - 56 Col. Alexander Hamilton 56 Richard Henry Lee - - - - - 57 Joseph Jones - 58 James Wood - - - 59 Col. Ball 59 INDEX TO THE BLAND PAPERS. BY WHOM WRITTEN. PA™ Col. Theodorick Bland, Sr. - - - ' " m John Banister - ' " co W. Thomas to Thomas Symonds "intercepted" - 63 Col. John Banister ... 65, 66, 68 Col. Christian Febiger - 71 General Washington - ' * Col. Banister - ?3 St. George Tucker - - 74,75 Arthur Lee - 77 Edmund Randolph - 78 George Webb 78 St. George Tucker . - 79 James Hunter - 80 St. George Tucker - 81 Edmund Randolph 82 Gen. Spotswood - 84 Col. John Banister - 84 Edmund Randolph - 85 James Hunter - 87 Jacob Rubsamen - 88 James Hunter - - 92 Edmund Randolph - 93 Col. John Banister 94 Anonymous - - 95 Gen. George Weedon - . - - 97 Chevalier de Dubuysson - 99 General Washington - 101 Col. Bland - - - 105 Arthur Lee - - 107,108,109 Benjamin Harrison - - 109 Jacob Morris . Ill David Ramsay 111 Archibald McAlister - - 112 Stephen Higginson - - 113, 116 Henry Lee, Jr, - 115 APPENDIX. Matoax - - 119 Anburey's Travels - - 120 General Phillips ... . 124 Extract from a letter to Joseph Jones, Esq., one of the Virginia delegates in congress - - - 125 N. B. To the reader. — In all cases where the name of the person to whom a letter is addressed is not specified, it is to be considered as addressed to Col. Bland, Jr. THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTERS WRITTEN DURING THE REVOLUTION. LETTER I. From St. George Tucker. Matoax* June 6th, 1779. My dear sir, "Quando caput dolet," says an old Latin proverb, the body will be sure to feel its share of the pain, and vice versa,. Your reproof, therefore, to your sister was not altogether without its effect upon me ; and, as I feel myself roused by it, I have determined to embrace this first absence of the vis inertiae to perform what I have constantly intended, and occasionally procrastinated, in hopes of catching some more favorable moment for my purpose * * importance of which should serve me as a theme to descant on ; for I mortally hate writing, unless I have something to write about. Yet, I know not how it happened, I suffered the intelligence of the late incursion of the enemy to be conveyed to you by other hands ; after which, all I could have said would have been but a dull, uninteresting repetition. Here then was a severe disappointment, which nothing could have compen sated for but an opportunity of telling you of my dragonade, which, being almost as much crowded with wonderful adventures as Major Sturgeon's march to Hounslow, would have afforded ample scope for an historico-military epistle, had not fate, to render all my views abor tive, conveyed the hint to you already in a dream, or by some othsr means, so far as to render such a detail a mere work of supereroga- * See Appendix (A.) 2 10 THE BLAND PAPERS. tion, to one who has already so just an idea of it. Thus defeated, where I thought myself in no danger whatever, I have nothing left to hope for, and must therefore write on, putting my trust in chance, for each succeeding sentence ; for Fanny has absolutely prohibited me from availing myself of any hint which your letter may offer, as she considers it to be her indisputable prerogative to answer her own letters. Thus, you see, I am hampered in on every side, without any ' internal resources, and without a possibility of deriving them from any other quarter. Burgoyne himself was not more harassed when his enemies encompassed him about at Saratoga. No, nor is General Campbell at this day, although report says that he has made three unsuccessful attempts on Charlestown, with the loss of 653 men, and has General Lincoln with a formidable army ready to attack him in the rear. Such are the accounts we have received from that quarter, for this week past:* the detailers of this news are various. That great man, , I am told, arrived yesterday from Newbern, and positively asserts that these accounts may be relied on. If this be the case, your flock will probably receive some augmentation ; for I sup pose the lambsf will be sent hither to be taken due care of. The success of this southern expedition of the enemy is pregnant with matters of great importance to America ; for if they should gain pos session of Charlestown, I fear it would not be easy to regain it ; and this circumstance would give them too firm a footing in the southern part of the continent. I most cordially wish we may soon have an authentic confirmation of this truly interesting intelligence. If I mis take not, added that the enemy had retreated to James' Island, perhaps with a view of storming fort Johnston^ in the rear, or of regaining their ships, by a forced march to some of the southern inlets, where they might re-embark. If either of these should be their object, it is my sincere wish it may be frustrated. For success in the former would facilitate the approach of their ships to Charlestown ; and if they are so weak as to make the latter necessary, it is to be hoped they might, by proper exertions, be prevented, and perhaps reduced to a Burgoynade, to use the fashionable term. Enough of this subject, which I find I cannot judge competently of * This intelligence is since contradicted, with this disagreeable addition : that Pulaski sallied out on the * * ullimo, with 150 light dragoons, and meeting with an advanced party of the enemy's horse, returned, after a severe conflict, with only 15 men of his own party. f Prisoners of war. t We are since informed that fort Johnston being thought indefensible, was evacuated and demolished. THE BLAND PAPERS. H I congratulate you on having become a resident at the court-end of the commonwealth. As the seat of government is to be removed, I presume it will be fixed as commodiously as possible for the accom modation of his excellency elect.* You will therefore be in the very centre of the " beau monde." Sub rosa, I wish his excellency's activity may be equal to the abilities he possesses in so eminent a degree. In that case we may boast of having the greatest man on the continent at the helm. But if he should tread in the steps of his predecessor,! there is not much to be expected from the brightest talents. Did the enemy know how very defenceless we are at present, a very small addition to their late force would be sufficient to commit the greatest ravages throughout the country. It is a melancholy fact, that there were not arms enough to put in the hands of the few militia who were called down on the late occasion ; of those which were to be had, a great number were not fit for use. Nor was there by any means a sufficiency of ammunition or camp utensils of any kind. In short, never was a country in a more shabby situation ; for our forti fications and marine, on which more than a million have been thrown away, are in no capacity to render any service to us ; nor have we any standing force to give the smallest check to an approaching enemy. In two days after the departure of the fleet, they might have returned and found no body to oppose them. Such wisdom, energy and foresight do our leaders display on every occasion ! Fanny, with her usual impertinence, has just peeped into my letter, and uttered a volley of hard words, (N. B., I dare not call them oaths,) because I have left her the trouble of answering her letter. She or dered me to say a great deal to you on the subject, but in so vehement a tone that the sound made it escape out of one ear as fast as it entered the other. Therefore, let me entreat you to suppose your letter answered, paragraph by paragraph, like a speech from the throne of Britain, by the virtuous representatives of the people of that nation. Thus may I perhaps escape with whole bones, or at any rate with a good hearty scolding, and a few boxes on the ear. But, lest I should incur some more severe chastisement for a total omission, you will accept our joint congratulations on the happy event of Mrs. Bland's accession to your sylvan scene of civil-military life.f Our con dolences must be offered to her on exchanging her situation from the fruitful vales of Egypt, for the rugged wilderness of Sin. Yet we recommend to her to look forward to the land of Canaan, for comfort from the present evils. " For behold the Lord hatla smitten the land * Thomas Jefferson. t Patrick Henry. I At Charlottesville. 12 THE BLAND PAPERS. of Egypt, and the locusts have devoured every green thing which groweth upon the face of the earth ; but in the land of Canaan ye shall find abundance of all things, wherewith the Lord hath blessed the earth. And in due season every tree shall yield its fruit, for your comfort, and ye shall abound in milk and honey, and in corn and in wine and in oyl :" viz., when Mazzei's vines and olives* come to per fection. In the interim, you must solace yourselves with peaches. It is a great happiness that we can read faster than we can write ; otherwise you would not have patience to get through this letter. Nor would I lay any considerable bet that you do, as it is. But lest I should have written all this to no purpose, it is high time to tell you that the good old gentleman at Cawson's is now pretty nearly reco vered from a severe fit of the gout. The boys as usual. That we all wish we could spend a few weeks with you. That I shall endeavor to put such a wish in execution. And lastly, that we all wish to hear from you and Mrs. Bland as frequently as possible, and in the interim request you to accept our most sincere regards. In behalf of the whole body corporate of Matoax, I remain, dear sir, yours very affec tionately. To Col. Bland. LETTER II. From John Hay to General Phillips. Chesterfield Court-House, July 3d, 1779. Sir, The necessity that the officers, soldiers, &c, prisoners of war, at this place with me are in for almost every kind of clothing, and their not having received a farthing of pay since the 24th of February, obliged me to ask permission from Governor Jefferson to lay their case before you, in hopes of some relief We have lived very fru gally, and yet, from the monstrous prices of the necessaries of life here, find ourselves a good deal in debt. Some of the gentlemen are absolutely barefoot, as are most of the men ; in short, they are in want of shirts, shoes and stockings, and some kind of cloth or cotton to make breeches or trousers. The gentlemen have but two bad shirts each, and two pairs of bad linen or cotton trousers, and without * Mr. Mazzei was introducing the culture of these near Charlottesville. THE BLAND PAPERS. 13 a speedy relief will be really naked, not having a farthing to purchase any thing with. If we could get bills negotiated, we could all draw for such sums as would not only relieve us from our present difficul ties, but support us for some time to come ; but that not being the case, we depend entirely upon your good offices, which I am sure you will employ, as far as circumstances will admit. I am, sir, &c. LETTER III. From General Phlilips. Colonel Carter's House, July llth, 1779. Sir, My secretary has informed me that you have not thought yourself at liberty to sign your name as a permission for the despatch to pass, which contains the letters relating to Lieutenant Governor Hamilton, a British prisoner of war. I am perfectly convinced, sir, that you feel the want of authority which you mention, and I cannot doubt its pro priety. It would, therefore, ill become me to trespass upon your politeness and attention, more than to hope that you will have the goodness to allow of its being carried by Captain Edmonstone to the president of the American congress. I have no doubt of the despatch being forwarded to New York, as a transaction of so public nature can never be intended to remain a secret. If, however, it should not be allowed, I shall at least have it in my power to prove to Sir Henry Clinton that I have not neglected my duty in endeavoring to give him information upon so interesting a subject. I am, sir, your most obe dient, humble servant, &c. Colonel Bland. LETTER IV. From General Phillips. Colonel Carter's House, July 12th, 1 779. Sir, The enclosed is a copy of a letter which arrived to me yesterday, having been examined and passed by Governor Jefferson. 14 THE BLAND PAPERS. You will naturally suppose, sir, upon reading this letter, that I am very anxious to give relief to the persons concerned, and shall take it as a great favor if you can point out a method by which I can do it. I should imagine there might be one in your having the goodness to allow of a non-commissioned officer going to Chesterfield Court- House, by whom I will send money to answer the pressing calls of these prisoners of war. But at any rate, sir, I will request your obliging interference in the matter. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, &c. Colonel Bland. LETTER V. From Timothy Pickering. [No Address.] War Office, July 23d, 1779. Gentlemen, We have considered your letter of the 21st instant, requesting our advice, whether or not colonels on command have a right to order purchases of such articles as may suit their convenience ; and also to determine whether or not they have a right to supersede the commis saries appointed agreeably to the system of Congress 1 To each of which questions we answer in the negative. In regard to purchases, nothing is clearer than that if a commissary purchase any articles not allowed by the resolves of Congress, for the use of any officer, it is at the risk of the purchaser, whose charges for such articles can never be allowed. We know not of any article issued to officers at camp, besides bread and meat, vinegar, salt and vegetables, except rum, for which latter article we presume they pay a reasonable price. If any deputy commissary is deficient in his duty, instead of re moving him, we conceive a commanding officer should represent the matter to his principal, whose duty it is to remove a delinquent, and appoint a successor. The only exception to this rule must be, when the evil is so pressing as to admit of no delay ; but in this case the remedy should be temporary, and continue no longer than until the principal in the department could be properly notified of the matter, and provide the proper remedy, either by removing the deputy, if upon examination found delinquent, or, if otherwise, confirming him, and making such arrangements as to prevent future difficulties. A eommiseary is not implicitly to obey the order of an officer, unless the THE BLAND PAPERS. lg order is warranted by a resolve of congress, or the regulations of the department, by which alone the commissary is to be governed. As you have more than once asked our advice on this subject, we have given you our opinion at large, at the same time we would re commend the cultivation of harmony between the commissaries and military officers, as the good of the service much depends thereon. We are, gentlemen, your most obedient servant. By order of the Board, &c. (Copy)— Teste, W. M. Cowles. LETTER VI. From Lieut. Charles Johnston to Major General Phillips, and by him communicated to Col. Bland. July 28, 1779. Sir, The circumstances relative to the affair between Robert Finley, overseer to Captain Jones, and the servants belonging to the officers, who reside upon his plantation, are, as nearly as I can recollect, as follows : The said Finley, shortly after being appointed overseer by Captain Jones, without cause, abused those servants in so gross a manner that, had they not been restrained by their masters, the consequences would have been very disagreeable. Besides abuse, he has, in the presence of some of their officers, brought his fusil loaded, has cocked and presented it at some of them, swearing, in the most violent terms, he would blow their brains out. Complaint of this being made to Captain Jones, he assured us that he would be answerable for his not interfering with us for the future, and that, if ever he was guilty of the like behavior, he would, let the inconvenience to himself be never so great, dismiss him his service. Said Finley (as he has no business in or near the houses which we rent from Captain Jones) has, till the above affair, had no communication with us ; he then took the advantage of Captain Jones's absence, and began again to behave in the manner above-mentioned ; and, at length, in consequence of some sheep being hunted out of our court,* (not one of which was in the smallest degree hurt,) the abuse came to such a pitch between him * Court-yard. 16 THE BLAND PAPERS. and one of our servants, that Thomas Shenstone, the said overseer, con trary to what he has sworn in his depositions, ran at least eight yards at the said Shenstone, with his hand drawn, and, as far as I could see from the room where I was sitting at dinner, struck him, and conti nued doing it till the said Shenstone was knocked down. Upon this, I ran to the gate, and, the rest of the servants coming up, prevented Finley's proceeding greater lengths; for, without waiting to know whe ther it was my intention to desire the rest of the servants to fall upon him, he ran away as fast as he was able. I am confident if I had given the smallest hint to them to follow him, they would have beat him, let the consequence have been what it would, they were so enraged against him for his former infamous behavior. This affair happened on the 18th of July, and was delayed till the 24th; on which day the affidavit was made at Charlottesville, because a justice of the peace, Captain Harris, who lives within three miles of Captain Jones's, knowing the plaintiff's character, would not receive his depositions without inquiring into the affair. I believe, as the plaintiff was the aggressor, no affidavit would have been made, had he not since the above affair been guilty of another piece of villany, for which an affidavit will be made against him; and he imagined his making the first complaint, then without foundation, would at least make appearances in his favor. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. LETTER VII. From John August Leonhard Kohle, Chaplain to the regiment of Brigadier General Specht, to Sir Bland, Colonel commanding at Charlottesville. At the Barracks, August 3d, 1779. Sir, I beg your pardon when I take the liberty to trouble you by these lines. You remember certainly very well the bad occurrences my now sick servant, Charles Skinner, meet with going to Dr. Smith's ordinary last week, by permission of an open and authentical pass, subscribed by Sir Colonel Taylor, at the barracks. You pleased to retain my open letter, addressed to Dr. Smith, and to be sent by my Skinner, with a short register, concerning some pieces of my bag gage, received by Dr. Smith from me, on purpose to bring to me some physick and victuals ; and when on one side was to pay money to THE BLAND PAPERS. 17 supply it with ready money. You wrote, sir, another pass for my servant on the reverse of the old one, to Dr. Smith's ordinary. You kept it with you afterwards and gave my servant a proper pass to the barracks, for which favor of your I return you my acknowledgments. I bore your pass in the same moment my servant was returned, to Sir Colonel Taylor. Sir, if it is still resolved from you, as you de clared to my servant, to transmit my letter to my commanding gene ral, the baron of Riedesel, I beg you eagerly to bring it into effect as soon as it will be possible for you : I wish that it may be evidenced by an faithful trial of the whole affair, that all what is done belongs in no way to the compass of the ordinances, which you have made mention of, and by consequence that there happened none transgres sion against public orders by. That will alone tend to my honor before the publick, and it shall prove my unfeigned magnanimity to blot out the memory of that sad affair, chancing in my present Ame rican life. I am troubled by all these occurrences in the highest de gree, because by observing myself all decent honesty, and receiving a well authorized open pass for my poor servant, and acting accord ing to it, I never feared any mischief of that kind for, him, as he has suffered ; for he was then, I think, under the public protection granted by your whole nation. After your getting the certainty of the true quality of this sad affair, by pursuing your purpose in sending my letter to my general, the baron of Riedesel, I hope confidently to be supported by your own care and interposition, that no shall remain the least possible, as if it had been come into my mind to act in any manner against your public orders. For that end I beg your leave to have with you any interview at Charlottesville, after any time. Recommending myself to your good will, I enjoy the honor to be, sir, your most humble and obedient servant, &c. LETTER VIII. From Theodobick Bland, Sb., to Col. Bland, at Charlottesville. Cawson's, August 4th, 1779. Dear son, I received yours of the 1st of last month, about ten days ago, which gave me great pleasure, as it brought an account of your fami ly's health, which God grant may continue. According to your desire I will give you the best account that I can 3 18 THE BLAND PAPERS. of your affairs at Farmingdell and Amelia. To begin with the latter. I was there the week before the last, where I found every thing in al most as bad a situation as it could be. Your corn about waist high, and tasseling — the field clean, but the ground so hard that they could scarcely get earth to put to the corn, occasioned by the ground not being properly ploughed. They were then ploughing, but did not go two inches deep. I took the liberty to order George to take off the plough-hoes, and put the grubbing hoes to the plough, and break the ground as deep as possible. They have been very dry there till about a fortnight ago, since which it has been pretty seasonable ; if it con tinues, yoH may perhaps make bread-corn. Your crop of wheat, if it turn out well, will be about forty bushels. I have ordered George to sow all the corn-ground with wheat, which will be a great help to the corn. You have no hogs on the plantation except three or four sows and a few shoats. Your horses and colts are in tolerable order. Very little cotton will be made. Thus far Amelia. I was at Farm ingdell last Monday, and took a view of your corn there; about one half of the corn is good, the other very indifferent, not more than waist high and in the tassel. The peas are very good, and a good many of them. The cotton is tolerable. We have been very dry ; but it is now fine seasonable weather, which I hope will bring on the corn and every thing else. You are better off in your garden than most of your neighbors, having plenty of vegetables, which most of our neighbors are in great want of, particularly myself, who have had no vegetables of any kind, except a few greens, till within this fortnight, from the frost. Tom Baker is still out ; I have had him outlawed, and offered a reward of one hundred dollars for apprehending him, and two hun dred for his head. This I should have done had he been my own. Simon was runaway for three weeks, and, after taking a trip to Mrs. Dangerfield's, returned home last Sunday, and brought me a letter from Col. William Dangerfield, desiring he might be excused, but Mr. Sturdivant, very justly, I think, gave him a whipping before I saw him. Mr. Sturdivant tells me your crop of wheat at Farmingdell will be about fifteen bushels. Thus have I given you the best account I can of your affairs. As to other particulars I must refer you to those with whom you have entrusted the management. As to news, we have a certain account, by Major Franks from South Carolina, that the enemy have left that state and gone, it is supposed, to Georgia. This Major Franks is a gentleman, aid-dei camp to General * * * , and I suppose may be depended on. THE BLAND PAPERS. 19 We also have an account, by a letter from General Washington to congress, that generals Wayne and Greene, on the 16th of last month, with 1200 light infantry, surprised the garrison at Stony Point,* commanded by Colonel Johnston, and took the whole prison ers, consisting of 500 men, with all their artillery and stores. Our men marched up in the face of a heavy fire, without firing a gun, with the loss of only four privates. As soon as they got possession, they turned the cannon on their ships, who immediately sailed down the river. The week before last two continental frigates took off our capes two of the enemy's privateers, landed the prisonors at Hamp ton, and carried off the vessels. This is all the news that occurs at present ; therefore must conclude with wishing you and yours all the happiness you can desire. In which wish my wife joins, with her love to Patsy and Bob, with your affectionate father, &c. LETTER IX. From John Jay, President of Congress. Philadelphia, August 11th, 1779. Sir, The bearer, Mr. J. Mercereau, deputy-commissary of prisoners for the eastern department, having business to transact at Charlottesville, I take the liberty of recommending him to your aid and attention. His private character, and the early and decided part he took in favor of the American cause, (with both of which I am acquainted,) merit consideration. I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient and humble servant, &c. Col. Bland. LETTER X. From Major Genebal Phillips. Colonel Carter's house, August 11th, 1779. Sir, I have received your letter of this day's date, which is, through the whole of it, of so very serious a nature, as will require a very serious * On the Hudson river. 20 THE BLAND PAPERS. answer. Many parts of it seem at the first view to contain implied injurious suspicions of the officers of convention, and, under that de scription, dishonorable to their parole. Other parts of it, sir, seem oppressive to the common soldier, which I cannot conceive their ordi nary conduct deserves ; and I can never understand that the picquets could be intended to prevent desertion, but to correct any abuses and misbehavior which might appear growing among the soldiery to wards the inhabitants of the country round. I shall take permission to refer myself to his excellency the governor of Virginia, upon this subject, and to claim his protection of the troops of convention. I request, sir, to know how I may be allowed to send my sentiments upon this matter to General Washington, and the American congress. I cannot possibly conceive that body, or the gentlemen in public cha racter, to whom I mean to address myself, can propose to use unde served severities with the troops of convention, or to stigmatize the characters of officers which have been invariably irreproachable. At any rate, I shall do my duty by the troops, at whatever consequences may arise to me. I am, sir, your most humble servant, &c. Col. Bland. LETTER XI. From Genebal Phillips.* Colonel Carter's house, Sept. 8th, 1779. Sir, During your absence reports circulated very quick that part of the troops of convention were to be removed to some other station in Virginia, for a greater conveniency of provisions, and it engaged me to write a letter to Governor Jefferson, of which the enclosed is a copy. I send it to you, sir, requesting your concurrence to the mea sure I there propose, supposing a removal should take place. I am, sir, your most humble servant, &c. Colonel Bland. * See Writings of JeffersoD, vol. i, p. 154. THE BLAND PAPERS. 21 LETTER XII. From General Phillips to Governor Jefferson. Colonel Carter's house, Sept. 3d, 1779. Sir, I take the liberty of addressing your excellency, on the subject of a removal of part of the troops of convention, and that, should such a measure take place, it may be left in the option of the British to re main in their present barracks. I form this claim from the British having removed from Cambridge to Rutland, in New England, and that a removal now would be in regular turn given to the Germans. At any rate, sir, I will intercede that, should the British be ordered to move, the officers may still be permitted to remain in the present quar ters, and present barracks, which they have hired and built at a great expense, except as follows : one field officer for the whole, one cap tain, and two subalterns each corps. These it would be proper should reside with the troops wherever they may be. I will request your interposition in this as belonging to you, sir, and the executive power, to regulate and order. I have the honor to be, &c. LETTER XIII. From General Phillips. Colonel Carter's house, Sept. 7, 1779, * * o'clock, P. M. Sir, I this instant receive your letter of this day's date, informing me of General Washington's signification to you, that Major General De Riedesel, and myself, with our respective families, have permission to go into New York upon our paroles. I shall send the deputy adjutant general of the troops of convention to you, sir, to morrow, to re ceive your further directions, as I should prefer setting out imme diately, with my family, leaving Major General De Riedesel and his lady to follow, as may be most convenient to them. The other part of your letter I shall take a liberty of answering to-morrow. I am, sir, your most humble servant, &c. Col. Bland. 22 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER XIV. From General Phillips. " Copy sent to General Washington." Col. Carter's house, Sept. 12th, 1779. Sir, I have received your letter of yesterday's date, with the enclosed paper, expressed by you to be a parole which I am to sign previous to my departure for New York. The very unusual and extraordinary terms of this paper, which you intend as a parole for me, oblige me to request to know if it is your own idea and composition, or dic tated to you by a superior authority. In the first instance, sir, that is, supposing it entirely your own, I shall sign it without hesitation. But, sir, should it be given to you by your superiors, it is necessary I should consult with Major General De Riedesel, how far it may be consistent with our situation, duty and rank, to sign, without referring to the orders of his majesty's commander-in-chief in America, a parole of so particular a nature, which seems a slight upon every idea which may be contained in the term honor. I am, sir, your most humble ser vant, &c Colonel Bland. LETTER XV. From General Phillips to Col. Bland. 15th September, 1779. Sir, I am particularly sorry that you have had so much trouble about horses for my baggage-wagon. The necessity I have been under to apply for your assistance has been the occasion, to which may be added your directions against the procuring horses other than through your quarter-master-general's department. As it is, my baggage has, by your permission, proceeded upon the route, and I am much obliged to you, sir, for the aid you have been so good to give by your orders. I have the honor to inform you, that I have arranged with Major General Riedesel, every thing which relates, as far as we have it in our power, to the care, charge, and command of the troops of con vention, upon our departure ; and I have directed that the communica- THE BLAND PAPERS. 23 tion and correspondence between the troops and you, sir, be carried on and executed by Brigadier General Hamilton. That in case of his illness preventing him that honor, Lieutenant Colonel Hill, or the eldest British field officer, will be charged with that duty. * * * , LETTER XVI. From Lieutenant William Houghton, of the artillery. Blenheim, 17th September, 1779. Sir, The bearer, (Richard Wearn Mattross,) acts as farmer to Major General Phillips, and was left here to assist in getting in the harvest, and taking care of the live stock, till I know what is to be done with it, &c. ; and, as I have no other person to send to the barracks for my provisions, should esteem it a singular favor you would grant him a pass for that purpose during my stay here. I should have waited on you myself, had not the confused manner in which things are left in the house prevented it, but intend myself that honor in a few days. I hope Mrs. Bland keeps her health; and beg she will frequently send here for such vegetables as the garden or plantation produces. I re main, dear colonel, your most obedient, and very humble servant, &c. P. S. There are a corporal of artillery and his wife, who have been employed in the general's family, going with the bearer to the barracks. N. B. If you have a couple of your own riding horses that you wish to pasture, you will much oblige me by sending them, as our pasturage is now in high perfection, and the fences very good. LETTER XVII. From Fbancis Taylor. Barracks, 22d September, 1779. Sir, I intend to set out for Orange to-morrow morning, and expect to return in about a week. Several deserters have been brought in 24 THEBLANDPAPERS. yesterday and to-day, by the country people. Col. Burnley informs me, that an express from Charleston, on the way to congress, has just past through Orange (yesterday) with the interesting and agreea ble news, that Count D'Estaing had arrived at Charleston with his fleet, surrounded the British fleet, landed 5000 men ; that the militia were collecting ; and that it is thought the whole of the British army in that quarter will be shortly captivated. Col. Burnley's letter says the express had tired several horses, and that he had authority to im press; and seems to make no doubt of the authenticity of the above account. I hope soon to hear it confirmed, as it will effectually stop the mouths of those among us who have always said the French only aimed at their own interest, and will be a capital stroke in favor of the Americans. Wishing you good health, I am, sir, your very hum ble servant. P. S. Please ask Mr. Randolph to take the letters attending this into his care. LETTER XVIII. From Major General Phillips. Elizabethtown, [New Jersey,] September 30th, 1779. Major General Phillips sends his compliments to Colonel Bland ; he quite forgot to send the paymaster general to him relating to the bet. He has commissioned Mr. Hoaksley to wait upon Colonel Bland with the five hundred pounds currency. LETTER XIX. From Col. Bland to Lieutenant Houghton. Charlottesville, October 5th, 1779. I am this moment favored with yours enclosing Col. Harvey's per mission to visit Mr. Archibald Bolling, which, on your affirming at my quarters to me, I never entertained the smallest doubt of. For, al though a native of this country, sir, I possess as high a sense of the credit due to the assertion of a gentleman, and the honor that should distinguish the character of an officer, as if I had been born in any THE BLAND PAPERS. 25 other country. It therefore required not written testimony to con vince me of that which I expressed to you personally my having no doubt of. The duty of the office with which I am honored, rendered it necessary for me, however irksome, on your application to be per mitted to remain at Mr. Calland's, to refuse that request, and to inform you, explicitly, that as all the officers of the convention troops had been called into certain limits, it was expected that you should con form to that order, and return to the county of Albemarle. Whether you conceive your parole to extend to a conformity to such regula tions, or an obedience to such restrictions, as the states may, from time to time, think necessary for their safety, I know not. But of this I am certain, that after such orders are regularly made known through the proper channel, I shall look upon it as the indispensable duty of my department, at all times, while entrusted with this command, to exert the authority arising from it, to have them complied with. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. LETTER XX. From David Meade Randolph.* Lancaster, October 5th, 1779. Dear sir, I have just time to inform you of our safe though tardy progress. We arrived here yesterday, about three o'clock ; shall continue till to morrow, when we shall proceed to Reading. My companions have been informed that the generals went by Philadelphia. They throw out several hints that they ought to observe that route; they have even requested my permission to write to congress for leave. But your instructions shall strictly be adhered to. We have hitherto gone on with perfect harmony. There are several officers here prisoners of war, and consequently are sometimes in company with those of ray escort. You'll excuse this abrupt epistle, when you're informed that not only paper, &c, are deficient, but time. I shall take some more favorable opportunity of writing you fully on this subject, when per haps there will be something more worthy your attention. I have * For an account of a visit to this gentleman, at Maycocks, his seat on James River, see " Travels of the Marquis of Chastellux." 4 26 THE BLAND PAPERS. heard of General Phillips' exchange ; but can't assert it. The quar ter-master at this post has forwarded your letters per express. Though I have not been able to procure a new coat, I have not withstanding the honor to be, with due respects to Mrs. Bland, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. LETTER XXI. From Conbad Keebs, to Conrad Kbieg, Life-guard Hessen Hanau regiment, Albemarle Barracks. [The original in German.] Winchester,* 23d of October, 1779. My dear Krieg, This is the second letter which I send you. I have been very well. All the smiths, saddlers and gress have deserted. In respect to us, however, our master has been compelled to give security in £1000, in order that we may be released from jail, and allowed to work with him. We have no news here. Be good enough to go to the captain, and let him know of my being detained a prisoher-of-war in Winches ter ; and also that I never have intended to desert, as you well know. And send me an answer soon, and mention what the captain says in regard to the Germans ; for there are sixty English soldiers lying in jail here. Give my best respects to the Fourier, L. Kohler, and A. Leyler. L. Miechel, of Grossen Hausen,is here. I am quite comfort able here ; should like, however, to be where I wish to be. I remain your comrade, and recommend you to the care of Providence. I hope soon to be where I dare not say. Give my best respects to your wife, and all countrymen. I shall be glad to hear of your daughter's enjoying good health, &c. [P. S.] Be good enough to write to me by the first opportunity. My master's name is Lewis Hoff, wheelwright, in Winchester. Direct the letter to 1779. There are no barracks here. All prisoners of war who have been here have had their quarters in the church. We have, however, good provisions, and receive them daily. * Winchester, on account of its security, was used as a depot for Hessian and British prisoners taken during the revolution. The number increased so much that barracks were erected, four miles north of the town, for their accommodation. At one time, in the year 1781, the number of prisoners was 1600. See Martin's Gazetteer of Virginia, p. 343. THE BLAND PAPERS. 27 LETTER XXII. From Col. Bland to Col. Fbancis Taylob. " Instructions." November, 1779. Sir, Having been honored with a letter from his excellency the com mander-in-chief, containing a permission for me to retire from this post, and nevertheless for a time continue my superintendence thereof, and leave such instructions to the next in command as I may conceive to be necessary for the government of it in my absence, you, sir, as the next in command, will be pleased to attend to the fol lowing circumstances, and from time to time issue such general orders as you may find necessary for conducting the troops of convention, as well as the garrison, including all the staff departments connected therewith. 1st. As the officers of convention have certain limits established under parole, (viz., the county of Albemarle for the British, and the counties of Augusta and Albemarle for the Germans, below Staunton and within two miles of that town,) you will by no means restrict them to narrower limits, unless their bad conduct should render it re quisite : in which case you may confine them to any limits that you may think advisable, even to a single house or room, under such guard as you may find needful. Nor are you to enlarge the aforesaid parole limits, without express orders from congress, the commander-in- chief, or me. The men are by no means to be suffered to work out, or to go at large. And all orders heretofore given by' me on that head are to be strictly complied with, excepting only such men as have been allowed to labor on the public works about the barracks, who are to return to their quarters every night. The last general or ders, also, respecting officers and their servants, are likewise to be strictly adhered to. As soon as the picquets are completed guards are to be mounted in each of the block-houses, and sentinels posted, so as to prevent any of the soldiers belonging to the convention troops passing without permission by day, or in any manner by night. The gates are to be shut at the beating the retreat, and the keys de livered to the officer of the guard, except one fronting the main guard, through which officers are to be allowed to pass, having the parole, to and from their quarters, and no other persons whatever. At that post a sergeant and four men are to be posted, whose duty it will be to see to the execution of these orders. 28 THE BLAND PAPERS. No wagons or other carriages are to be permitted to go into the line of picquets without being previously examined and reported to you or the commanding officer, and having a passport. All provi sion and other commodities brought for sale are to be exposed to sale in a public market place between the barracks and the garrison, and no soldiers of the convention troops when coming out to market are to be suffered to exceed the limits of the market place. Sentries are to be posted for that purpose, and a small guard kept in readiness to prevent disorders. Any persons exciting such are to be immediately confined. The commissaries, quarter-masters, forage-masters and other prin cipals of the staff departments residing at this post are to make you regular returns of the state of their several departments. And any neglect of duty or disobedience of orders you will have punished of course as the case may require. And you will give such orders for supplying provision, wagons, forage, &c, as may be found desirable, from time to time, or the exigencies of the case may demand. Should any alarming difficulty occur in any of the departments of your command, you will be pleased to give me immediate intelligence thereof, sending an express by a light dragoon; in the meantime taking such effectual steps to suppress or remedy it as you may think necessary, of which steps you will please inform me. You will send copies of all general returns once a month to the board of war in Philadelphia, as also to the executive of this state, and inform them of any material transaction. No officer of the convention troops is to quit his limits or place of abode in this state, without express orders in writing from congress or the board of war. And you will be pleased to keep all such, and other orders as shall come to this post during my absence, copies of which, if they enjoin any material alteration at this post, you will please to transmit to me by express, in the manner before mentioned. I have not the least doubt of your maintaining the strictest disci pline and good order among the troops that compose the garrison, and as far as lies in your power of your rectifying every abuse that may tend to disorder among the convention troops, or prove injurious to the United States. Should any orders come from the commissary general of prisoners, or his deputy, or from the board of war, for the removal of the prisoners of war here, you are to order them to march under such an escort as can be spared, in the care of a good and a prudent officer, to the place of their destination, if within this state, or until they are delivered over to some other officer, if within any other state. Should you not be in a condition to spare a proper THE BLAND PAPERS. 29 escort, you will apply to the executive of the state (should none be ordered for that express purpose) to order a detachment of militia. If any directions are omitted in the above orders to provide against contingencies that could not be foreseen, you will in such cases use your best discretion, as I have not the smallest doubt but that you will in every transaction consider the advantage of the United States, and the good of the service in general. I am sir, with much regard your very humble servant, &c. Furloughs are not to be granted to more than one man at a time from a company, unless it exceeds 25 men, and not more than two if it exceeds that number. Should you receive any application from the commanding or any other officer for any alteration of the regula tions by which they are to be conducted while here, or for permission to go on parole, &c, such application is while I have the super intendence of the post to be transmitted to me, and through me to Congress, by an express order of his excellency the commander-in- chief. LETTER XXIII. From Gen. Washington's "Instructions to Col. James Wood.*" Head-Quarters, Dec. 4th, 1779. Dear Sir, Col. Bland having obtained permission to resign, and congress having directed me to appoint a successor, I am induced, from a con fidence in your judgment, care and prudence, to make choice of you for the purpose. You will therefore proceed, as soon as you can possibly make it convenient, to Charlottesville, and take the command at that post. Col. Bland will communicate to you the instructions that he has received from time to time, which you will punctually observe, together with any others you may hereafter receive from the governor of Virginia ; and I would recommend to you to consult Col. Bland on the objects of your command ; as he will have it in his power to give you useful information. The proper management of the con vention troops will require great circumspection. While I do not wish you to show them any unnecessary rigor, I wish you to be extremely cautious not to grant any unnecessary indulgences. To * Governor of Virginia, in 1798 and 1799. 30' THE BLAND PAPERS. avoid this, you may frequently have to resist a great deal of impor tunity. I am persuaded you will not permit any thing inconsistent with the good of the service. Any proposition you may receive on discharges, or other matters to which your instructions are not com petent, you will impart to congress, and request their orders. I am, with very great regard, dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c. [A copy.] LETTER XXIV. From the Chevalier de la Luzerne to M. Destouches, Commander of the French Squadron, at Rhode -Island. [The original in French.] Philadelphia, January 2d, 1780. I have the honor to hand you, sir, a copy of a letter addressed by the governor of Virginia, to the delegates of that state in congress. They have communicated it to me, and at the same time have written to inform me " that the ship ' Committee,' sent out from Nantes, by Messrs. D'Acosta and Genet, laden with arms, &c, for the use of Virginia, had been captured by an English privateer, and afterwards retaken by an American one ; that one half of her cargo had been adjudged to the recaptors, the other half to the owners." It is this half, sir, that Virginia is very solicitous to procure, as soon as possible. Arms and stores are wanting in that state, and it will be rendering her an essential service, to procure for her those which are aboard the Committee. The Chevalier de Ternay has inspired me with hopes, that he may be able to establish a strong blockade offj and near the Chesapeake bay. I believe, if you are of the same mind, the circumstance will be favorable for the transportation of these arms and stores. In this case, it will be necessary that you should inform me, by different channels, at what period you will be able to undertake this expedition, in order that the governor of Virginia, may give the requisite orders for the reception of these arms, at the points which you may indicate. To this I subjoin an order of the delegates of Virginia, addressed to Mr. Samuel Nightingale, that he deliver to your order the articles in his care. These delegates assure me, that Virginia will spare no pains to render the requisite situation agreeable to the ships which you may judge fit to be charged with this blockade. THE BLAND PAPERS. 31 As it will depend upon contingencies, sir, I have avoided confirming the hopes they have conceived, and you are far more than myself in a condition to judge what it is proper to do upon this occasion. I will merely assure you, that the transportation of the arms in question is at present of the highest importance for the defence of the southern states, which can raise recruits with sufficient facility, but cannot arm their new levies. The protection of the commerce of Virginia and Maryland is like wise a very interesting point to our allies, and if you could establish even a momentary blockade, it will render them a very essential service. If the proposed blockade should prove impracticable, you will perhaps be of opinion that frigates can, in respect to the con veyances of the arms, render the same service to Virginia. I have the honor to be, &c. LETTER XXV. From Thomas Jefferson to Col. Bland, at Petersburg. Williamsburg, Jan. 18, 1780. Sir, The most timid being now satisfied that the enemy will not pay us a visit, Baptiste* is relieved, after a delay which seems to have been very painful to him. This should have taken place much sooner, but I wished and hoped daily to send by him orders for taking off the suspension of General Scott's march, which it was thought not proper to do, till we received satisfactory information of the enemy's move ments. It seems tolerably certain that they left New York about the 27th of December, so that they must be gone somewhere else. I am,. sir, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. LETTER XXVI. From Col. James Wood to Col. Bland. " By express." Charlottesvilte, March 1st, 1780'. Dear sir, You will perceive by the enclosed, that his Excellency Genera* Washington has done me the honor of appointing me to succeed you * An express -rider. 32 THE BLAND PAPERS. in the command of this post, and as the enclosed is the only instruc tion I have received, and it referring to those formerly given to you, I shall be exceedingly obliged to you, if you will send all former in structions by the return of the express, and will ever esteem it a sin gular favor in you to give me your thoughts on the objects of this disagreeable command. Your experience in the management of the convention troops puts it in your power to give me more useful ad vice than any other person. My respectful compliments wait on Mrs. Bland. I am, with real esteem, dear sir, your very obedient servant, &c. LETTER XXVH. From Benjamin Harbison. Berkley, June 26th, 1780. Dear sir, I shall most certainly lay your favor before the assembly to morrow, and make no doubt but they will be fully satisfied with the short time you propose to take, to settle your affairs, as we have now four gentlemen in congress of sense and ability ; as to myself, without a compliment, I wish you there, yet I would by no means press your departure, till it will be convenient. I am, &c. LETTER XXVIII. From Col. John Banister. September, 1780. My dear sir, I wrote you by the last post, to give you an account of our late misfortunes in South Carolina ;* since which we are certainly informed that the defeat was not so fatal as was apprehended. Instead of all the Maryland line being killed and taken, near five hunded are come in, with most of the officers, particularly Smallwood, Gist and Gunby, who were said to have been slain. • At Camden, August 16th, 1780. THE BLAND PAPERS. 33 This veteran corps after having sustained the attack of the enemy, with the assistance of only one regiment of North Carolina militia, by a bold and well conducted attack on the enemy forced a passage through their main body and retreated. On their retreat they totally demolished a party of horse sent to harass them, except two only that escaped by flight. The militia are collecting at their places, Charlotte, Salisbury and Hillsborough : and Governor Nash informs me, that the defeat is by no means so disastrous, as was at first represented ; and adds that in a few days they should be able to face about and confront their enemies, who had been severely handled in this action, and had not advanced from their post at Camden. I was yesterday at Cawsons ; the family well. * * * * LETTER XXIX. From Richard Kidder Meade. Japan, New York, Oct. 3d, 1780. I wrote to you my good friend, I know not the precise time, but in the course of last month, on a subject that keeps me anxious. I have been absent for some days with the general,* on an interview between him and the generalf and admiral| of the French army and navy. On my return I expected to have been gratified with a line from you. I have, however, now been here five or six days, and cannot find a single line from you. You know I have patience, and I shall exhibit it on this occasion, as I know you are well employed, and when I am confident there was nothing offensive in my letter, and that there is still time for your advice. I am prompted now to give you this hint, not because I conceive you will not give it an answer, but in consequence of an infernal af fair, that has lately taken place, which you must have been warned of before now. This circumstance, though I have ever looked upon Ar nold as an avaricious, unprincipled villain, has added fresh proofs, from the pain I have felt on the occasion, to evince that I have no more business in public life, than I have to cut the throat of you, my friend. As I expect to see you not at a very distant period, and you will have been informed of this black affair, though not of all the particu- • Washington. t Count de Rochambeau. % Count de Ternay. 5 34 THE BLAND PAPERS. lars of it, I shall reserve them until then. I will only add, that poor Andre, the British adjutant-general, was executed yesterday ;* nor did it happen, my dear sir, (though I would not have saved him for the world,) without a tear on my part.f You may think this declaration strange, as he was an enemy, until I tell you that he was a rare cha racter. From the time of his capture to his last moment, his conduct was such as did honor to the human race. I mean by these words to express all that can be said favorable of man. The compassion of every man of feeling and sentiment was excited for him, beyond your conception. This affair, I know, will furnish us, when we meet, with matter for some hours' conversation ; and I will, on my way to Vir ginia, allot as much time as possible for this and other purposes. Both you and the good woman are entitled to all the respect and friendship that I can bestow. Remember me sincerely to her ; and be assured, my dear friend, that I am yours, &c. I enclose you trouble. Perhaps the madam will assist you in it. LETTER XXX. From Colonel Bland to Governor Jefferson. Philadelphia, October, 1780. Sir, Some overtures having been made to congress, through Mr. Jay our commissioner at the court of Madrid, for building frigates in America for and on account of his cafholic majesty; and the propo sals having been referred to the admiralty to confer with the navy boards of the eastern and middle districts, and obtain from them esti mates of what would be the cost of a frigate of forty guns ; and there being no navy board in Virginia, it was moved in congress by the delegates from that state, that the admiralty should also lay before congress estimates of the cost, &c, of building such frigates in Virgi- ginia, in which it would be proper to specify the terms and the time it would take to complete one or more such frigates. We have thought it proper to inform you thereof, that proper persons may be employed to make out such estimates for government, in order that they may * October 2d, 1780. t For the particulars of Major Andre's death, see Library of American Bio graphy, vol. iii., p. 283. THE BLAND PAPERS. 35 be given in to the admiralty, to report upon to congress, as we are not willing that such lucrative and desirable contracts, the execution of which in the end must be attended with so many advantages, should be lost to our state, and engrossed by others, already so far advanced before us in the establishment of a marine. This estimate, transmitted as early as possible, will put it in the power of the dele gates from Virginia to press its being transmitted to our commissioner at Madrid, with the estimate from the other states. And the subject itself, together with a speedy compliance, we have no doubt will strike you in the same important light in which it has us. The perfect tranquillity which has reigned here with regard to news has been lately disturbed by a most extraordinary and unex pected event — no less than the sudden defection of Major General Arnold from the American cause, and his flight to the enemy. He, on the 23d ultimo, shamefully, treacherously, and ignominiously de serted the important post at West Point, which garrison he com manded, after having concerted measures with the British adjutant- general, Colonel [Major] Andre, in the quality of a spy, for delivering it up to the enemy, with the blackest circumstances of treason and perfidy that ever entered the heart of any wretch but himself. Our great general, Washington, the French ambassador, [De la Luzerne,] and the Marquis de la Fayette were to have been his peace-offering to the enemy. But Mr. Andre was accidentally taken by a small party of militia,* and is now in our hands, and has probably before this paid his last tribute of loyalty to his royal master, together with his infa mous coadjutor, Joseph Smith, of New York. This occasioned Ar nold's precipitate flight on board of a British man-of-war, which was ready to receive him in case of accident. The general and other gen tlemen above-mentioned arrived at Arnold's quarter a few minutes after his flight, and he has taken effectual measures to prevent further mischief. Arnold has written him a letter, dated on board the Vulture sloop, imploring his interposition in favor of his wife, whom he has left behind. His papers have been seized in this city, where he some time ago resided, and they expose scenes of villany transacted in the commer cial way, while he had the command here, between him and other miscreants, and have laid a train perhaps for further discoveries. " Quid non mortalia pectora copia auri, sacra fames !" Every mark of horror and resentment has been expressed by the * Paulding, Williams, and Van Wart. 36 THE BLAND PAPERS. army, at such atrocious and complicated villany ; and the mob in this city have burnt the traitor in effigy, after exposing it through the streets, with a long purse in one hand and a mask in the other, and labels descriptive of the character thus consigned to public infamy and odium. Thus, with ignominy, have faded the laurels of a hero ; and the appellation must now be everlastingly changed for one of the blackest infamy. * * * LETTER XXXI. ' From Col John Banister. October, 1780. My dear sir, I wrote you yesterday, and afterTdespatching the_. letter^ was in formed of the enemy's landing within the cape, and that' they had, be fore' sunrise the next morning, possessed themselves^of the narrow pass, at the GreatgBridge ; securing by that means all the county of Princess* Anne,'; without opposition ; by whichjmeans all the cattle our commander had collected, for the public use, fell into their hands. The same day they debarked some troops at Portsmouth, and it is highly probable will attempt to^reduce this place and Richmond ; but possibly they may not make their advances this way until they have fortified Portsmouth, Crany Island, and Norfolk. Should this delay take place, we may be able to collect a numerous body of militia, and I hope effectually oppose them. But should they immediately come up by water, we must fall an easy prey to their rapaciousness and cruelty. In case of their near approifch to this- place, I propose to send off my negroes, and whatever else can move without carriage, and en deavor to defend the soil with the rest of my countrymen. This stroke has been impending over our heads so long, that it must be matter of surprise to all the world, that we should again be found in a defence less state. I received your acceptable favor yesterday, respecting Arnold's in famous plot ; and while I contemplate the baseness of his venal soul with horror, I cannot help considering the escape of our general as the interposition of providence. Indeed, this wicked combination is attended with so many circumstances of deep contrivance and art, THE BLAND PAPERS. 37 that the failure in the execution is next to a miracle. I shall not seal this letter till I hear something more of the enemy below, and, I hope, of some stroke against Cornwallis, who was so closely pushed by many partisan officers, that he retreated with the camp kettles boiling. No news from our friends in the south. I am just returned from Smithfield. LETTER XXXII. From Col. Theodorick Bland, Sr. Cawson's, October 21st, 1780. Dear Theo. I received yours of the 17th of last month, and was surprised to find you had not received a letter from me. I have written you two ; one as soon as I had intelligence of your being in Philadelphia, which was sent by Mr. Constable ; the other went by post. In my first I in formed you of the receipt of yours from Mrs. Dangerfield's, and you may depend I will endeavor to comply with your request. I also in formed you that I had paid in this county six hundred and odd pounds as your proportion towards the hire of a soldier; since which I have a demand upon me, from Amelia, for £524-14-7 on your account, and £1435-12-1 on my account, for the same purpose. Such laws, I be lieve, will soon reduce the most opulent fortune to a level with that of the inferior class of people, especially if the assembly continues to put the power of taxation into the hands of the very lowest class of the people, which they have done in this instance. But enough of this disagreeable subject. We have an account from the south, that Sumpter and Morgan have had an engagement with the enemy, that they had killed 1 50, and taken 810 prisoners, with 1500 stand of arms. That news, I am informed, occasioned great rejoicing at Richmond last Monday, so that I suppose it may be depended on. Arnold's conduct has been most surprising to me, as he had so great a character ; but in that, as well as many other matters, that great and good man, General Washington, seems to be under the pe culiar care of Providence. God grant him success in all his under takings, and that he may bring his enemies to his feet ! A report prevails here that C and his partners have been de- 38 THE BLAND PAPERS. tected in being concerned in a British privateer, and that they are in jail in Philadelphia. If this be true, I hope they will meet with the fate they deserve ; though I am rather inclined to think it false. Your mother has had a relapse, and a fever that continued for ele ven days, and after recovering from that about a fortnight, was taken with the ague and fever, which has reduced her so much as to be scarcely able to walk, though, thank God ! she is now on the recovery. She desires her love to you, Patsy, and Bob. You may assure your self I shall do every thing in my power for your interest ; though these demands for soldiers, added to other taxes, will puzzle me much. I shall not purchase work-horses for your quarter, if it is possible to avoid it, being asked the other day £1000 for a horse, not more than thirteen and a half hands high. Your sister Tucker and all the children have been very ill, but are now on the recovery. Pray let me hear from you by every opportu nity, and give me the news. I am, with my love to Patsy and Bob, my dear sir, your affectionate father, &c. LETTER XXXIII. From Col. John Banister. Tuesday, October 24th, 1780. Dear sir, I have just time to acquaint you with the arrival of a considerable fleet of English ships, with a body of land forces, said to amount to eleven regiments. The troops are debarking at Portsmouth and Nor folk. To oppose this force, we have an unarmed militia not yet col lected. It is disagreeable to blame measures, but it is impossible to observe, without regret, that, after five years' war, we are as unpre pared as at first. I thought this information might be interesting to you, and this cannot be ranked among the communications which will take up much of your time, which you say you cannot bestow on private correspondence. The troops in Carolina are near Lord Cornwallis, greatly encour aged by their late total defeat of Ferguson.* Should they be able to * At King's Mountain, in North Carolina, October 7th, 1780. THE BLAND PAPERS. 39 rout this general, the consequences will be great and important, by the recovery of South Carolina and Georgia, except, perhaps, Charleston and Savannah. It seems the tories are tired already with their new masters, and have in many instances revolted from them, owing to their insupportable tyranny, too early exercised to be justified by policy. This state has much to do at present to defend its own and its neighbors' enemies. You must have heard that, in the last action, the militia of this state had a considerable share. I beg my compliments may be presented to Mrs. Bland, and that I may be remembered by Bob, and that you be assured of the affec tionate regard of, dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c. I shall write Mrs. Bland next post, whose leisure, I hope, will better admit of my correspondence. LETTER XXXIV. From Samuel Nightingale. Providence, December Qth, 1780. Gentlemen, I this day received your favor, dated the 14th October, inclosing a letter from his Excellency Governor Jefferson, dated the 28th of the same month, also a letter to the Hon. John Foster, which I have deli vered him. Due attention shall be paid to them. I am very sorry to hear your state is invaded by a powerful enemy,. but hope you will soon be able to dislodge them. Observe you design the goods belonging to the state of Virginia. which came in the schooner Committee, shall be transported by land ; and that you request me to do something, but am not able to tell what, as that part of your letter was entirely worn out before I received it. The small arms are very badly packed, having nothing between them and considerable play in the boxes. I shall consult some person that is acquainted with the manner of packing arms, and endeavor to get them packed properly, as it must be for your interest, and pre sume you will justify me in so doing. I sent a letter to his Excellency Governor Jefferson, dated 22d of November, inclosing an invoice of that half of the goods which is stored for the former owners, to your care. By it you will see the marks and numbers which were found on the goods when * * 40 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER XXXV. From Richard Henry Lee to the Hon. Theo. Bland, Member of Congress, at Philadelphia. Richmond, Dec. 15, 1780. Sir, I should have replied to your favor of November 20th much sooner, if any thing of consequence had occurred, or if I had not been much involved in public business. We have been preparing, in the best manner that we can, to meet the storm that is brewing against us in the south ; but I fear that our exertions, unassisted by our northern friends, will not be sufficient to oppose the collected strength of our enemies. We want clothes, arms, ammunition, tents, and many other important stores. I cannot reckon much upon the ten millions of pounds, now issuing by order of this assembly ; it will pass away like a vision in the first instance, and remain afterwards a poisonous me dium, obstructing future operations. Yet, in our actual situation, we must have issued money, or ceased to oppose the enemy. It is deter mined to raise 3000 men for the war, by 10,000 dollars bounty in hand, and a negro at the end of the war. If this does not answer, a draft is to take place. By our best accounts from North Carolina, things are in a bad slate jthere ; no order, no government ; faction and license generally pre vailing. Thus, you see that we are bound to look to it, and we must ,be well assisted by Congress. We have no late authentic accounts of military operations in the south. I pray you, sir, to deliver the en closed to my son, i^ he is in town, but if he is come to Virginia, re turn it to me, under cover, directed to the care of the postmaster at Leedstown, in Westmoreland county. There is much business before .the house, but as Christmas approaches, so does the anxiety for getting home, and it remains a doubt whether the house can be kept together when the holidays come on. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. 41 LETTER XXXVI. From Col. Armand, to the How. Col. Bland, "Member of Congrew" at Philadelphia. 1780. Sir, You have entirely mistaken the sense of my letter ; by no means I wishes nor asks to know the motive on which congress proceeds with regard to individuals, nor the principle on which they generally act ; those are entirely out of my desire, and should I have anny such wishe respecting my own affairs, I think that it could be satisfied by my own judgement. As you had showed me great politeness and some friendship during my sickness, I expected that I was authorised to tell you with frankness my trouble, and my case in general; and as the resolve from congress hurted my reputation and my hart, being a repetition of three years, I wished that you could have influenced in the house, for not render this resolve publick, in inscribing it on the journal. In those I believe it is not even the least idea of politique, which may render my letter disagreeable to you as a member of congress. However, as it appears by your answer, that your publick character don't allow you to pay attention to particular applications, I beg to be excused ; and may assure you that if I have mistaken your power, and the intention of my rights, with a persone which I respect as a man just, and who had acted friendly to me, it will be the last time. With great respect, sir, your most humble obedient servant, &c. LETTER XXXVII. From Col. Abmand. 1780. Sir, The resolution of congress mentioned in your note of yesterday, is the very same which has ready passed at three different time in the house, on that very subject. In 1778 I had orders to raise my corps to the full complement of a regiment of infantry. I had one com pany of horses raised at my own expenses in 1779, the remains of 6 42 THE BLAND PAPERS. Pulaski's legion were added to my command. Therefore whatsoever may be the honor which congress has paid me in passing their last resolve, for the formation of a legion amounting to three hundred men, which it will be difficult to raise, you may perceive that my command, instead of being promoted and enlarged, is very much reduced ; but you was not in congress at those time, and may be ignorant of what then passed, on account of a French individual, therefore had you been against my last petition for promotion, you was more induced to it by the present situation of affairs, than by the past conduct of congress towards me, and than by my own conduct in the army ; and then you could form your opinion against my promotion without doing me injustice. It is those motives which permit me the pleasure to wrait to you, and your kindness who allow me to speak with frankness. By the resolution of congress after the deatlrof the Baron de Kalb, of Count Pulaski, after the resignation of most all the French, when I am the only Frenchman with a command to the southern army, after four year campaign, having sacrificed a part of my state in this war, is it not very plain by their denial of doing me justice, that they do not wishes to have in their army anny French men, who from their situation in their own country may expect some regards from America, if against all the difficulty offered to them they may be so happy as to render services. But I dare go further and say, that this look as if they would give occasion to those French men to withdraw from their army. No doubt but I shall be forced to go back to my country. What will be the questions of the ministers, of my friends, but this, all the French men gone over to America, even those without service, without rank, without sense, those of the most low birth and honor, have been promoted as they wished, what has been your promotion ? I had nor shall I answer ? what will be then the consequence 1 God know but I shall trayed to justify myself by myself. But perhaps shall I have to repent all my life of having served this country, with more frankness, than true politique (whoever unworthy instruments of a soldier) would allow me. I have not practise the way of making friend to me in congress, nor no where else except by my cond uct in the army. I had no time, nor that will ; and my opinion having been always that such way of promoting our wishes were below the charactere of an honest man, I have despised it, as well as those who tranched in it. I inclose here a certificate from his excellency Gen. Washington, which may better acquaint you with my services. I would be happy if you could influence in con gress, that their resolve should not come out those few days ; perhaps THE BLAND PAPERS. 43 on reflecting, they may be induced to alter it ; but at all events I wishe such resolve could never come out. With great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, &c. LETTER XXXVIII. From the Hon. Joseph Jones. Virginia, Jan. 2d, 1781. Dear sir, My ill state of health, and particularly a relapse that I was so un fortunate as to experience just after the receipt of your last favor, will I hope excuse me for not answering yours of the fifth ultimo. The subject of our claim to the free navigation of the river Missis sippi is, in my opinion, a very important one to America, and ought not to be relinquished upon any consideration but absolute necessity, which alone can justify the sacrificing the clear and evident con venience and interest of a part of the states, for the advantage of the whole. The navigation of the Mississippi is of the first consequence to all the southern states, Virginia inclusive, and will be more so to those new states congress may hereafter carve out of the lands proposed to be ceded ; these are to be resigned for an assurance of independence and subsidy ; while Spain continues to aid France, she as effectually aids us, as she would do, were we allied with her. If she is really in the condition with respect to her finances that she represents, what hope have we of obtaining a subsidy that will be regularly paid during the war ? and it is during that period our wants require her assistance. I have no apprehensions of the neutral powers interfering in our dis pute, unless France shall appear disposed they shall do so; their professed object is very different, and the armed neutrality has been brought about more by French than by British politics. But why should Spain exact cessions from us, in our distress, or expect that we should sacrifice to her unwarrantable demands, essential interests, which, if yielded, can only lay the foundation of discontent, distrust, and unavoidable quarrel in future ? Let her act upon the same liberal footing with France, and treat upon principles of reciprocity. I like not, I confess, this buying her friendship. If it be done, it will be of short duration, and may in the future quarrel involve us in a disagree- 44 THE BLAND PAPERS. able predicament with France. Those people who will settle on and near the waters of the Mississippi, in the United States, will use the river, and a rupture must inevitably follow ; better it would be for them and America, to settle the terms of this use now, so as to prevent future contest about it ; and harmony may thereby subsist between the natives a long time. If we give up our pretensions, nothing but power can regain them, and this struggle should if possible be avoided by the treaty now to be formed. Our appearing to relax in this claim serves to confirm and strengthen Spain in her hopes of success, so that we shall at last yield to her wishes. What may be the sense of the legislature, on this business, in its present state with Spain, I cannot say ; but doubtless they will give their delegates their opinion for their conduct, if the question remains for determination. I have hopes that the assembly will take up the question of the back lands before they rise ; they promised to do so, if the members could be kept together, and I hear they had not broken up on Saturday. Our new levies I fear will be late in the field from the delay that the bill met with in the house. I have secured for the delegation a sum of money that will I hope serve them at least half the year, and shall when I come forward bring the bills with me. I hope to be able to do so about the 12th or middle of this month. I am, with best respects to your lady, dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c. LETTER XXXIX. From President Joseph Reed* to the Honorable the Committtea of Con gress, at Trenton. Hunt's, Maidenhead, Jan. 8, 1781, half past 2 o'clock. Gentlemen, .As you must have received my letter this morning, I need not repeat any of the transactions of yesterday. I have had no direct accounts from Princeton this morning, but, from the straggling soldiers, and indirect intelligence, I understand that my proposal has been generally accep table ; only they think it is not quite explicit as to those who received 120 dollars, which was a bounty given by congress to those whose times were near expiring, and engaged again for the war. I understand • President of Pennsylvania. THE BLAND PAPERS. 45 they give up the twenty-dollar men; and that it now seems agreed to march to Trenton to-morrow morning, if ordered ; which I think wall not be withheld under all circumstances. I therefore hope that Mr. Nelson and Mr. Stewart will make preparation. They drew rations yesterday for 2000 men, but they have not more than 1500, 1 doubt whether so many. A letter similar to the former, and wrapped up in sheet lead, was dropped this morning before the door, where the ser geants meet, which they delivered to Gen. Wayne. They keep the spies of yesterday in close prison, but have not settled their fate. This opportunity offering, I thought it might be agreeable to the com- mitteeto know the intelligence of the day; in the afternoon I shall doubtless hear officially. I have despatched three of the light-horse toward South Amboy, for intelligence. At present we have no ac counts of the enemy of any kind ; but the weather is very favorable to such a movement. I am, sir, with much respect and esteem, gen tlemen, your obedient humble servant, &c* LETTER XL. From President Reed to the Honorable Committee of Congress. Hunts, at Maidenhead, Jan. 8, 1781, 7 o'clock, P. M. Gentlemen, This evening I received the inclosed. The accounts from Princeton seem very vague and uncertain, but less favorable, as confusion in their claims, and want of all other order, except military order, has taken place. From their conversation, there is little probability that they will agree to what their sergeants determine. I have written to Gen. Wayne, confirming their proposals of last evening, but rejecting that now made, of the sergeants sitting with the commissioners. I have also, agreeably to your proposal, insisted upon the spies being delivered up. This I have mentioned as a requisition from you, not choosing to add or alter the terms I offered. I have also, in addition, directed them to march to Trenton to-morrow morning. If they do neither, we must, however disagreeable, use force ; for which the coun try must be prepared, by showing that terms of a reasonable kind have been offered, and refused. Gen. Wayne has written to Con- * For an account of this mutiny, see Spark's Life of Washington, p. 346, 46 THE BLAND PAPERS. gress, but I have directed the messenger to wait on you. General Wayne's staying, in my opinion, is no longer of any benefit, but otherwise. He promised to come away this evening. What has prevented, I do not know ; but they certainly take countenance and spirit from having him among them. I expect to have the honor of seeing the committee to-morrow at all events ; and am, most respect fully, gentlemen, your obedient, humble servant, &c. P. S. I omitted to acknowledge the receipt of the committee's favor of this afternoon, by Mr. Cray, the light horseman. LETTER XLI. From Joseph Reed to the Honorable Committee of Congress. Hunt's, Maidenhead, 4 miles of Princeton, Jan. 8, 1 78 1 . Gentlemen, I returned from Princeton so late last evening, that it was out of my power to write as proposed, it being past midnight. I shall now inform you of the particulars of the day. Just before I set out from this, yesterday, a sergeant and four men came for the two spies. As Col. Butler and General Wayne had given their word to redeliver them, I was not at liberty to refuse ; and, more especially, as in the note they promised that the men should be forthcoming to my order. Some gentlemen thought this so unfavorable a symptom, that it ought to change the plan, and prevent going in. But, as I had sent them word I was coming, I did not choose to run the risk of disappointing them, and accordingly went into Princeton, at 3 o'clock. The guards, which are regularly posted, turned out and saluted us. Near the col lege I found the whole line under arms, and the artillery ready to dis charge ; but this was prevented lest the country should be alarmed. We passed in the front, the sergeants having the places of their officers respectively, and saluting. I did not think it prudent to refuse them the usual attention, though much against my inclination. Soon after I dismounted, a number of the sergeants came, under a pretence of knowing when they should wait on us, but really, as we were in formed, to ascertain my identity ; for so amazingly suspicious were they that nothing, but some sergeants, who had personal knowledge, THvE BLAND PAPERS. 47 declaring their satisfaction, would convince a great number of the soldiery. This ceremony being over, and an hour fixed to hear them, we got what intelligence we could of the inhabitants ; but in a few minutes Sergeant Williams returned, with several others, bringing the two spies, whom they had paraded through the lines. General Wayne and some others strongly urged them to execute them by their own authority, or that the board would request him to sign the warrant ; but I was sorry to observe, especially in Williams, an aversion to this, and a strong desire to discharge them with a taunting message to Sir Harry Clinton. Finding General Wayne not likely to succeed, I proposed a middle way, viz., to keep them under close guard till we could consider farther ; and claimed their promise of subjecting them to my order. They took them away undetermined ; and there were great debates at the board — the result of which was that my advice should take place ; and they were accordingly put under guard till farther orders. The sergeants in this, as in most other cases, are like the men much divided in sentiment: some proposing one thing, and some another, and agreeing only in those points of common interest,, arising from their danger — such as keeping in a body, and being re^ gular and chaste in their conduct. Some of the sergeants utterly disapproved the executing them, as it would cut off all benefit of that influence which might be used to advantage in making terms ; some were more open on that subject. I fear they will dismiss them to-day, or connive at their escape, though we have taken such measures as I trust will hasten their journey to a different place than New York.* In the evening they came and presented me the single proposition inclosed ; after which a long conference ensued, in which some of the sergeants spoke with a degree of intelligence and good sense that really surprised me, and stated some real hardships they have suffered, which I fear have too much foundation. I cannot but think some undue methods have been taken to engage many in the service. I therefore took up that ground of justice which appeared most likely to serve the country, and conciliate them, viz., that all those whose times were expired, and who had not freely entered again, knowing the duration of the service, should be discharged ; holding firm the principle, that where a man has taken a bounty for the war, freely, and voluntarily, he ought not to be discharged. This occasioned * These two spies were given up, tried by a court martial, and executed. Spark's Life of Washington, p. 347. 48 THE BLAND PAPERS. much debate : one of the sergeants arguing with no small specious- ness, that there was at that time, viz., (1776 and 1777,) no resolve of congress to enlist during the war ; but an idea of temporary enlist ments, which so generally prevailed, that they ought not to be held to the letter of their enlistments, but to the spirit and general prevailing idea of congress, and the country. After some time we brought them to acknowledge that the principle contended for by the twenty-dollar men was not just, but they expressed much doubt of convincing the men. Finding the evening to pass away rapidly, and unwilling to part without some plan, I wrote the inclosed. If it does not take ef fect, I fear we shall be obliged, on some principle, or perhaps no prin ciple, to dismiss them; but I shall endeavor to have this done at Trenton. I am glad to find so little reason to think, that they have prejudices with respect to congress ; their prejudices are most cer tainly against their officers, and they look to congress and the state for redress and help. There is, therefore, no occasion for the com mittee to take any other quarters than are convenient, and suitable to their rank, as I should not advise trusting themselves within a guard of mutineers. I would wish the same of the committee, on the dis charging the twenty-dollar men voluntarily enlisted ; this will affect all other soldiers, and future enlistments. Upon the whole, I think the terms I have offered, reasonable ; if they are refused, or if the men refuse to march to Trenton, it must be evident that they do not mean sincerely, and I should hope the militia of Jersey might be brought to act against them. If a proclamation in the name of congress, or the state, reciting the terms offered, was drawn up, and a number printed, we might dispose them among the men, as we have reason to think the sergeants do not always communicate freely. Williams is either very ignorant and illiterate, or was drunk yesterday, as he showed no talents to conduct such an enterprise. The proclamation might con tain some seasonable advice, and I think a little spirit would do no harm. If they offer to move eastward, I shall throw myself between them and the enemy, with what force can be mustered. I am, gentlemen, very respectfully, your obedient, humble servant, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. ' 49 LETTER XLH. From Joseph Reed. Gentlemen, I wrote you last evening by Mr. Dewees, informing you of the pro posals made by the sergeants, and my orders to the troops to march to Trenton this morning, being resolved to open no further negotiation, but to take steps of a contrary kind, in which I am of opinion we had a good chance of success. But on my letter going in to General Wayne, orders were given to march this morning, and having also communicated the requisition of the honorable committee respecting the spies, there seemed to be a better disposition on that head. I am in momentary expectations of hearing that they are set out, and hope the commissaries and quarter-masters will be prepared. Quar ters must be provided for at least 1500 men, though I will endeavor to detach 1000 at least to Bordentown and Burlington to-morrow. At Trenton, I expect they will receive their officers ; and that is my greatest concern at present ; as they appear so deeply to resent the conduct of the troops to them personally. Had General Wayne not given a promise of general pardon the 2d January, and confirmed it on the 7th, I should have excepted the men who insulted their officers, if they could have been discovered. I was somewhat apprehensive that the delivering up the spies, being an annexed condition to the pardon, would have involved some difficulties, but I now rather think it had a good effect. I beg leave to offer it as my opinion that, for the sake of conveniency as well as dignity, the committee retire a little distance from them, until the officers have taken their places, and order is restored ; for they are so ignorant and capricious, that I would not be within their guards myself for any time, lest some wicked rascals, of whom they have too many, should suggest mischief. Besides that, I fear they will presume upon finding themselves treated with by congress, of whom, at present, notwithstanding what has been said, I think they entertain respectful ideas. I apprehend that the committee have in their first resolve mistaken the bounty * * * for a bounty of 120 dollars. I beg leave to explain that matter, as I understand it. Congress, with a view of conciliating those soldiers who had served for some time (being enlisted for * * * ) ordered 1 00 dollars to be given them, under 7 50 THE BLAND PAPERS. that description. The officers took the opportunity to turn it into a bounty for enlisting, and induced many who had enlisted for 3 years, or during the war, to take the money, and sign a receipt ex pressing they had taken that as a bounty to enlist for the war ; some refused to take it, alleging that as they were not engaged for the war they were not entitled to it ; and I fear upon inquiry it will be found that the officers by rigorous methods forced them into the acceptance ; br at least, that they did so in some instances. As there was a doubt in the case, I thought it better to resolve this point in the soldiers' favor, and consider it as a gratuity ; rather losing some money, than dispute a doubtful matter. Then came the 1 20 dollars which was a bounty for re-enlistment, so understood, and freely taken by many ; perhaps there might be compulsion as to some, but I believe not many. I wait here for intelligence of their movement, and am, gentle men, most respectfully, your obedient and very humble servant, &c. P. S. I have no account yet from the messengers sent to South Amboy. Ten o'clock. I am just informed that the troops have paraded and are set out. LETTER XLIII. From Theodorick Bland, Sb. Cawson's January 8, 1781. My dear son, * * * Your affairs at Farmingdell are, I think, in a tolerable way, (except the garden, which is totally destroy ed.) They will make a very good crop of corn ; and Sturdivant tells me he expects there will be a considerable quantity for sale. I shall be glad to know, as soon as possible, whether you would have it sold or not. As to Amelia, I have not been there for some months, having been so long confined ; but, if nothing happens to prevent me, I intend to visit there next week, and by the next opportunity will give you a particular account. I have endeavored to rent your houses at Blandford, but can't meet with a tenant ; you may depend, they shall be rented as soon as it is in my power. You desire to know whether you may draw on me. I will give you a sketch of the money THE BLAND PAPERS 51 I have to pay ; and then you may judge of the situation I shall be in to answer a bill. I have 700 and odd pounds to pay for my tax of last year in Prince George, besides yours, and your and my taxes in Amelia — the sum I do not know. I have likewise 2000 and odd pounds of my own tax and yours, (the amount 380 * * * ) to pay in Prince George, for the present year * * * and tobacco tax. For the payment of these I shall be under the necessity of disposing of some part of my property. Judge, then, what situation I shall be in to answer a bill. Though Mr. Banister desired me to inform you, (which he says he has done by letter,) that he is authorized to draw in Philadelphia, and will draw in your favor, if you desire it. Thus much concerning your affairs. You also desire to know, if Mr. A. is paid for the coach. I never before heard or expected he was to be paid for it. I am now to inform you of the proceedings of our assembly, a majority of whom, I fear, are enemies to America, or fools or knaves, or all three. They have determined to raise as many men as will make up our quota of continental troops for three years only. No arguments could prevail with them to raise the men during the war ; and, if they can't be raised by voluntary enlistment, then an indiscriminate draft is to take place for eighteen months. In short, their proceedings in every respect have been such, that God grant it may not bring on a revolution in this state, which I fear is the wish of a majority of the assembly. Henry* is at the head of that party, who carries every thing in the House as he pleases. This I have from a sensible, and, I believe, a worthy member of that assembly. Last Saturday a fleet of the enemy's arrived in the bay; what their numbers, and what they intend, I have not yet heard, neither is their design known. If they attempt to penetrate into the country by land, I flatter myself they will meet with a spirited opposition from the militia, as they turned out on the last invasion with great readi ness. If they propose coming up the river with their ships, there is nothing to oppose them. However, be the case as it will, I am de termined to remove from this place immediately. We have had a very sickly fall, and many deaths, among which is your old neighbor, Thomas Lewis. I received Patsy's letter, for which I am much obliged to her, and shall always be glad to receive one from her. I would have answered it, but had nothing to say more than what I have said to you. * * * * Patrick Henry. 52 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER XLIV. From Pbesident Reed to the Honobable John Witherspoon, Chairman of the Committee of the Honorable Congress. Maidenhead, 8 miles from Trenton, Jan. 9, 1781, 1 o'clock. Gentlemen, I have received your favor by Mr. Shull, and shall do every thing in my power to answer the expectations of the committee. I had the pleasure of meeting General Wayne, Colonels Butler, Stewart and Moylan, who have been permitted to come out freely to me. They make such a report of the good temper of the men, and their anxiety to see us, that I have concluded to go among them. With the suspi cions usual in ignorant minds, that we are not here, that it is a plan of the officers to protract and forbear giving answers, they begged to be informed if I proposed coming, that they might show me every mark of respect. The gentlemen are unanimous in their opinions of its propriety, and in such cases some risk is to be run. My personal safety is a small consideration, and the prospect of public benefit is evidently now on the other side. Besides, their behavior this morn ing seems to warrant a confidence that would not have been justifia ble yesterday. But be assured, gentlemen, no danger or circumstance shall induce me to make concessions which in my judgment will be injurious to my country. With the greatest respect and regard, I am, gentlemen, your obedient and very humble servant, &c. I propose to come to this place this evening, as Trenton is too dis tant for our business, and shall write as soon as I return. LETTER XLV. From Col. Banister to Col. T. Bland, jr. January, 1781. My dear sir, Your letter by the two noble strangers came to hand, and every attention was paid them that the shortness of their stay would admit of, They went down the country from hence, attended by Col. Senf, THE BLAND PAPERS. 53 to take a view of the enemy, after which, they immediately set out for the northward. I am much surprised that my letters do not meet a proper convey ance to your hands, as I can assure you I have written more than I have received from you. In my last, there were some things that I am sure would have merited your attention ; but nothing from you showing the receipt of them, induces me think they have not come to to hand. The enemy, commanded by Arnold, landed at Westover about fifteen hundred infantry, and 60 or 70 horse, and with this force pro ceeded to Richmond with the utmost rapidity, unopposed by a single man. Arriving at this new capital, they destroyed its public buildings and such arms and military stores as the supineness of those to whom their care was committed had left in the way of the enemy. They then went to Westham, and blew up the foundry and its appurtenances, but did not cross the river, which was very practicable, as there were at Manchester only about forty militia at that time with Baron Steuben, under the command of Major Goode. We daily expected they would have made us a visit, but as they went up the north side of the river, we had time to get away all the military stores, and col lect the force of this county, which was done in the course of two, days ; and happy for us that the militia turned out with alacrity, for- otherwise I think the privateers would have plundered this place. They were up the Appomattox near to a place called the Bakehouse, where they captured all the tobacco-laden vessels, but were obliged, by two companies of my militia, to abandon them and proceed down, to City Point, where the succeeding night they were so severely cannonaded that they retreated to the fleet, after being a good deal, shattered, and losing a captain and some men. Your father's best tradesmen* went to the enemy, but the most valuable have returned. The militia are to the amount of 1000 with Baron Steuben,-)- at Cabin Point, and others are about to move from this place, so that in a few days we shall be able to circumscribe them. They are at present employed in taking off the tobacco at Smithfield. In their way thither they called at Hog Island, and from thence began their march to the scene of their present rapine. It is said the Knightt. treated them with great civility. * Mechanics. t See Life of Steuben, p, 54. et Seq. t Sir Peyton Skipwith, who resided there. The ruins of his house are still to- be seen. 54 THE BLAND PAPERS. Our dispersed situation, until we levy a regular force, will always render us liable to these incursions. If either a standing body of troops were raised for the defence of the country, or arms put into the hands of every militia-man, I think there would be no difficulty in defending ourselves. , I am at a loss to determine whether this ban ditti of the enemy intend taking post at Portsmouth, or to depart after committing all their robberies. If the former, I think they may be so limited as that they will avail themselves but little of their situation. It is rumored here that Sumpter has gained another advantage over the enemy, and by some credited ; if true, it will be of signal service to our affairs in the south. I beg you will inform me whether we may probably expect another fleet and army from France — an event that would, in the present conjuncture of affairs, give us a decided superiority over our enemies. Our countrymen on this occasion have manifested great unanimity and zeal — a plain proof that the people are not to blame, but their governors. They will turn out to a man to defend their country if they can be armed. Mr. Tucker and his lady are gone up the country, and my family to Hatcher's run. Remember me to Mrs. Bland and Bob. Your affectionate friend, &c. LETTER XL VI. From St. George Tucker. Farmingdell, January 21st, 1781. Can you believe your eyes on perusing the word Farmingdell in my hand. If you have received my last letter, nothing could be farther from your expectation, than a letter from me dated at this place. Well! The hurly burly's done — at least for a few days; shall I trust to fame to tell you all that has been done, or shall I take that office upon myselfl I will do both in part; fame shall tell you all that relates to public affairs, while I undertake to give you some informa tion of such private occurrences, as I am sure you would wish to be informed of. On the third inst, Patsy Banister received a letter from her mother, acquainting her that the enemy were coming up James river, supposed to be destined for Petersburg and Richmond. Your sister had then THE BLAND PAPERS. 55 been but five days mother to her last child ;* I need not descant on my own sensations on the occasion, but will only observe I was resolved to keep her utterly ignorant of the impending danger. The enemy that night landed at Hood's, of which being apprised early the next morning; and hearing that they had marched as far as Bland's ordinary,] in their way to Petersburg, I came to a resolution, whatever might be the consequence, to remove your sister, &c, out of the way of danger, if possible : on the 5th this resolution was carried into execution, and we abandoned Matoax, and all our effects, to their fate: — Fanny met with a most kind and hospitable recep tion, at the house of Mr. B. Ward, Junr. (brother to Mrs. Baker,) at Wintopoke, where she now is, and will remain until her health and strength, which have been somewhat impaired by fatigue, and hurry of spirits, will permit her to proceed to Bizarre, where we propose to reside for the present year. Not being able to hear any thing with certainty of the old gentle man and lady, except that they had abandoned Cawson's, I rode down to this place, last night, to see them ; they were preparing to go out to Amelia, resolving to stay at W. Yates' and R. Boiling's until a house could be built for their reception. I have prevailed on them to alter that resolution, and to take up their residence at Sapponi, where the of house is large enough for a small family, but rather too small for one my bulk. As you may have heard that the old gentleman has suffered much by the absconding of his negroes, I must tell you that the most valuable fellows have returned. Aleck and a boy who worked in the smith-shop are all that are now missing, except a negro of yours, called Joe, and one of T. Ruffin's :— I have lost none, but have not been without a small share at least in the calamities of war, by the loss of some rum at Richmond ; but it was too trifling a quantity for a man to break his heart about, be ing only two hogsheads. I must only drink my grog the weaker, for grog I must have, or something in lieu of it. The militia have had a couple of skirmishes with some privateers at Broadway, and City Point, in both which they kept the field, which is rather more than they have done in some other places. I really know too little of what has been done, to give you any satisfactory account. I can only tell * Henry St. George Tucker. t Bland's Ordinary, in Prince George county, stood on the main road, about a mile from what is now known as Garysville, or the Merry Oaks, near Cox's mil!* 56 THE BLAND PAPERS. you, that the enemy went down the river, some days ago ;— that they plundered without mercy ;— that there was a skirmish between them and the militia, between Hood's* and Bland's ordinary, in which the former lost some men, as 'tis said, and the latter ran away manfully, after having made one as good fire as could have been made by the best troops in the universe. That the enemy landed afterwards at Hog-Island, and from thence marched unmolested to Smithfield, and by the latest accounts were on their way to Portsmouth, not being in any danger of being assailed in their route. That we have more men in the field than muskets, being posted at Petersburg, Bland's ordi nary, Cabin Point, and near Allen Cocke's, on this side James river, but as to the other side, I know nothing about it. As to what the enemy did at Richmond, I can give you no informa tion; we were told that the records, the auditor's books, the trea surer's, and the money were all lost. We are now told that they are not lost, but nobody seems to know where they are. All is confusion there still. Adieu, yours, very sincerely, &c. * * * Your father and the old lady desire to be affectionately remembered to you both. Mr. Bays sends his compliments to you. He will send you a copy of his late subject for a rehearsal, as soon as he finds leisure to transcribe it. LETTER XLVII. From Col. Alexander Hamilton. Ringwood, Jan. 26, 1781. Dear sir, Our worthy Meade, before he went from head quarters, charged me when I wrote to him, to save him postage, by committing my letters to your care for private opportunities. I now inclose you one which I beg you be so good as to forward by the first conveyance that offers. I have been informed of the efforts you made to have me appointed to the Versailles commission. Such a proof of your good opinion, and friendship, flatters my self love, and gratifies my esteem for you. * See Lib. Amer. Biog., vol. ix., p. 56. THE BLAND PAPERS. 57 I cannot lose this opportunity of expressing to you how sensible I am to it. I accompanied the general to this place, on the business of the Jersey revolt. To-morrow morning it will be brought to a decision. I hope such a one as will please you. The Count de Charlus, who does me the honor to take charge of this, will be able to tell you the result, as he will of necessity remain here till the affair is finished. You will no doubt make acquaintance with this gentleman. He is son to the present minister of marine, in France, and appears to me a sensible, amiable man, with all the dispositions we can wish towards our country, and on every account I hope he will bring with him from Philadelphia favorable impressions of our nation. I beg my affectionate compliments to Mrs. Bland ; you see I write in the style d'amitie. Adieu, my dear sir, &c. Permit me to request your particular care of the letter to Col. Biddle, which, to save the Count de Charlus trouble, I put under cover to you. It is interesting to me that it should reach Col. Biddle safe. Speaking of the Count de Charlus, I ought not to have omitted mentioning the Count de Dillon, who has all the qualities to please men, and I dare say the ladies will think he has all the qualities to please women. LETTER XLVIII. From Richard Henry Lee. January 26th, 1781. Arnold remained not long at Richmond ; having done what mischief he could there he retreated down the river ; and when an express, that lately came here from Williamsburg, left that place, the party had landed on the south side of James river, and were proceeding to Smithfield, or to Suffolk. The want of a small marine aid, secretly and judiciously applied, is inconceivably injurious to us. This motley band of Arnold's is sufficient to employ (by its quick transition from place to place) a number of men more than ten times enough to ruin them, if they could be brought to action at any one point, with that tenth part. And the next consequence resulting from this great num ber of militia being then necessarily employed is, that they eat up 58 THE BLAND PAPERS. our resources, starve thereby the regular army, and thus the enemy may destroy the concert by playing interludes. For Heaven's sake, for the preservation of the sacred cause of liberty, press every motive and strain every nerve, to procure an adequate naval aid. I am per suaded, that even at this late period, * * * It is clear that whilst the enemy have so many agents in our most secret coun cils, that whatever marine aid is intended to act against them, should be communicated to as few as possible, or of course it will fail. But surely if secrecy and despatch were used, one ship of the line and two frigates would be the means of delivering Arnold and his people into our hands ; since the strongest ship here is a forty-four, which covers all their operations. If I am rightly informed, the militia now in arms are strong enough to smother these invaders in a moment, if a marine force was here to second the land operations. If you have any important news from Europe, that can be commu nicated, I shall thank you for it ; as I will for delivering the inclosed to my son, if he is in town, or returning it to me, if he has left Phila delphia. I am, dear sir, your affectionate friend, &c. LETTER XLLX. From Joseph Jones. February 4th, 1781. Dear sir, This being a leisure day, Mr. Madison and myself were absent when your servant came, wanting the remainder of the £22,750 Pennsylvania currency ; intending, in consequence of what you men tioned to us of your present wants, to take out what would serve us till the next payment came round, and send you the remainder, we have been as sparing as we well could, that you might receive such a proportion of it, as might ease you of those disagreeable applications you mention. The bundle now sent contains 17,240 dollars, which, with what you had the other day, will amount to thirty eight thou sand two hundred and thirty three dollars ; for which you will please to give me a receipt, also a duplicate, that the original may, when I have an opportunity, be transmitted to the auditor's office, and my account credited for the sum ; the duplicate I reserve for fear of acci dents. I shall, I expect, receive in a fortnight from this time alike sum, THE BLAND PAPERS. 59 £22,750, from1 Turnbull and Company, and thirty thousand pounds more in next month, if Mr. Braxton's drafts are paid ; the remainder 6f the warrant, the first of May; of these sums you shall have as large a portion, as it will be in our power to spare, knowing that your expenses necessarily greatly exceed ours. I am, sir, your obedient servant, &c. I return the former receipt ; those inclosed to be signed you may deliver me to-morrow, at your leisure. The day does not suit our trip to the country. LETTER L. From J amis Wood to Col Bland, member of congress, Philadelphia. " Favor of Col. Neville." Fredericktown,* 8th March, 1781. Dear sir, The German troops of convention have been removed from the Barracks, by order of the executive of the state. I have quartered them at Winchester, and the Warm Springs in Berkeley, until I receive further instructions from congress; they are in a plentiful country, and well supplied. I intend myself the honor of waiting on congress, within a few days, in order to give them every information in my power respecting the convention troops. My best compliments wait on Mrs. Bland, and believe me to be, with great respect and esteem, dear sir, your very obedient servant, &c. LETTER LI. From Colonel Ball. Traveller's Rest, March 12th, 1781. Dear sir, This will be handed you by my brother, Mr. Henry Armistead. I wrote you by M. Smith, Esq., when he went through Fredericksburg, and I've since been anxiously expecting to hear from you. • In Maryland. 60 THE BLAND PAPERS. Let me, my dear sir, entreat you will not be troubled with roy daughter, if it will in any manner be attended with inconvenience to you or Mrs. Bland. But should you and Mrs. Bland still be willing, (and it not be inconvenient,) to superintend the bringing her up, nothing will give me more happiness. I wrote to Colonel Febiger some time ago, to solicit your aid in pro curing instruments to compose a band of music ; it is true, that provision has never yet been made by congress for such ; but I hope congress are sensible how much music adds to the discipline and ap pearance of their troops, and will encourage it. It is said Col. Febiger and myself by the last arrangements are in one regiment. This at once gives us a good band, which otherwise would have been broken. But wc still want some instruments, and also some surety how the musicians are to be paid for the present, and provided for in time to come, as it would give them new vigor. Being excluded from the active field, for a time, and finding it exceedingly uncomfortable to live a bachelor's life, I am induced to take a fair one, again, to my bosom, having experienced there can be no happiness in this life without. But I assure you I do not mean to desert the service of my country even in the case, but, on the contrary, wish the opportunity again to arrive when I may take the field. Pray is there any prospect of a general exchange ? We have a great deal of news in this quar ter, from the north and south, but we have scarcely any thing authen tic. Cornwallis is not yet taken, nor is Benedict. My most respectful compliments to Mrs. Bland. I am, dear sir, With the highest esteem, your most obedient servant, &c. LETTER LII. From Col. Theodorick Bland, Sr. Cawson's, March 21st, 1781. My dear Theodorick, I received yours of the 25th of January last, by Mr. Parker, (when I was confined to my bed with the gout.) I have not seen that gen tleman, neither can I hear any thing of him or the willow trees. The first you sent came to hand, and are set out in my garden ; if they live, they may be removed to the places you mention in your last * * * when it was not possible to send for them (some ne- THE BLAND PAPERS. 61 groes hired from Mrs. Dangerfield) there, except Tom Baker, (who has behaved extremely well.) Ned being gone to Amelia, and Joe to the enemy, and no ground prepared for them, owing to the want of their work in the winter, this, added to the consideration of your being burthened with their taxes, which are enormous, to wit, £170 for every hundred pounds value in specie, (to be paid in paper,) with the expense of feeding and clothing them, induced me not to be concerned with them. * * * Your brandy and cider are yet safe in your cellar, and I hope will remain so. Your crop of corn shall not be sold, and at present is safe both from the enemy and the militia. * * * His (Mr. Tucker's) family removed* to Bizarre, on the enemy's approach, and I am told he has joined General Greene as major of the militia, but the truth of it I do not know. * * * Arnold is intrenched at Portsmouth. We have a large body of militia there watching his motions, though, from all accounts, (unless we can have some assistance from the French with their ships,) it will be impossible to drive him from that post. We are flattered with the hopes of a French fleet, which, it is said, is expected every day. The Marquis is arrived, but no troops have yet appeared. I was much pleased at the accounts you gave Mr. Banister of the Count de Estaing's success. We have a report that Great Britain has declared war against the Dutch, and that they have taken St. Eustatia and Curagoa, but this wants confirmation. If it is so, I hope it!will be an advantage to America ; but whether it will, or not, I am not politician enough to determine. I thank God, my wife and self have recovered from our late indis position, and are once more able to go out. I have at last got the coach completed, which (including my people's work) stands me in fourteen thousand and odd pounds of the present money. I have sent all my workmen to Amelia to build me a house, and shall remove there as soon as I can get one built. God bless you all, in which wish my wife joins. Your affectionate father, &c. * From Matoax, near Petersburg. 62 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER LIII. From John Banister to Col. Bland. 1781. My dear sir, Your agreeable favor of * * date, came to hand by the last post, bearing the marks of villanous curiosity, in coming to hand opened. This kind of baseness is not uncommon, when letters come from the source of important information. From the impression of a fresh newspaper on the back of the letter, I suspect they have robbed the packet of one. However, I had the perusal of one sent the old gentleman. I have the highest satisfaction in hearing of Bob's reco very from the small pox, as now there remains no impediment to hinder his being instructed at school, if it is thought advisable for him to commence a scholar. As I have, contrary to expectation, been detained until now by the invasion, it will be too late to pay you a visit this winter. I am en gaged in a regiment of volunteer horse, pretty well mounted and equipped, in General Lawson's corps of volunteers,* the whole of which, including horse and foot, amount to about 600 good men. There are here two regiments of foot, one of musquetry, which Col. Everard Meade commands, and another of upwards of 200 riflemen, under the command of Lynch, of Bedford, all raised by himself, besides a troop of horse not yet joined. With these, I think if the enemy had come out, they would have been checked and greatly annoyed, as I never saw better, more determined, or more orderly men. Any of the worst of the riflemen can hit a man's head 150 yards, as has been often proved. But I verily believe, our being in some measure prepared has determined the enemy to move off, which * " Brigadier Lawson (who commanded one of the two brigades of Virginia militia, which behaved so handsomely at the battle of Guilford Court House,) was at the head of the strongest of these corps, having under him the lieutenant colonels Monroe, (a) Banister and Mercer. (6) As soon as Leslie abandoned Vir ginia, to join Cornwallis in South Carolina, Lawson's corps was disbanded ; by which means the horse, commanded by Banister, was lost to the state, when our situation now so pressingly required cavalry." Lee's Memoirs of the War in the Southern Department, vol. 1, p. 197. (a) John Mercer, subsequently governor of Maryland, (a) Jaraei Monroe, afterwards president of the United States. THE BLAND PAPERS. 63 they did last Wednesday, leaving behind several hundred half-starved negroes. During their stay they achieved innumerable petty larce* nies, desolating the country, and burning houses, which last actions were always marked by personal animosity, and revenge, of long standing. But as soon as our militia, amounting to about 4000, pretty well armed, collected, they were circumscribed to Portsmouth and its vicinity, in fortified posts. If we could establish proper magazines of arms, (and now the enemy have sailed is the time to begin the work,) I think the people are well enough disposed, and able to defend the country, especially if some of the principal gentlemen of every county would unite, by their example, the lower orders of men to a sincere and firm resolution of defending their country. The zeal and patriotism of Col. Lynch and General Lawson, cannot be too much commended in these exertions in their country's cause. As I am not experienced in the command of horse, I wish you would lend me your books, and your own observations on that sub ject, as I am determined to be acquainted with the business against another invasion. I dread the operations of the enemy in the south, with the reinforce ments gone from hence ; it will be well for congress to make timely preparations to ward off that blow. The unanimity you describe in that body promises the best and greatest effects. If they continue in an undeviating pursuit of public good, without party, venal, or local attachments, we cannot fail to prosper. Everard Meade improves his regiment to a wonder; they already act like veterans. * * * LETTER LIV. From W. Thomas to Thomas Symonds.* " Intercepted." Hope, off Annapolis, March 20, 1781. Sir, By this, I have sent down two small schooner boats, with oats; have given direction for them to be delivered to Messrs. Goodrich and * One of the signers of the capitulation at Yorktown, 64 THE BLAND PAPERS. Mackay, for sale. The rebel army landed at Annapolis on Saturday and Sunday. Their encampment is in sight of us. They, Saturday, sent out a schooner to reconnoitre us ; on her tacking, the Monk fired several shot, some of which, I believe, took place. This morning she came out again, but took care to keep out of gunshot. We now lay as near as we can, to prevent any vessels passing. From the intelli gence all we can learn is, that they are not prepared for marching by land, and that their baggage, stores, &c. are not arrived from the Elk. On Sunday, the 10th, three deserters came off from Annapolis, the latest intelligence we have ; two of them were in the army, who say the army in general is much dissatisfied, and think they have nothing but death to expect. They have no provisions but what they collect from the country. On our first appearance off here, they were in great consternation, fearing we should attack them * * * it then blowing hard, and could get no intelligence, nor knowing of their ar rival here, I proceeded up the bay, but returned as soon as possible after getting information. They then had no guns mounted, now have fourteen pieces of heavy cannon on Horn Point. The small craft lies up the creek ; armed vessels, which consist of two brigs, two schooners, one sloop lies between Brown's Point and the Wind" mill. The Surprise and Trimmer privateers spoke us on the 13th, and are now up the bay. They intended to proceed up the Elk. I hope they will destroy all the bay-craft ; had we arrived here ten days sooner, they never could have moved by water, but I do not be lieve they can proceed farther, though I think the Swift and Independ ence would be of great service, to destroy all the craft up the Poto mac ; or if you could send two ships or vessels here, I would not he sitate a moment to go up as high as Alexandria, which would effectu ally prevent their crossing that river. I would have sent the privateers up, but did not think they would have answered the purpose intended. On the 18th, I sent * * * two small schooners, and one sloop, prizes of under the command of Fuld, the pilot, which I hope have arrived. It continues to blow fresh, which prevents our getting further intelligence, as I cannot spare men, and wish to have those back that are gone down, I am under the necessity of sending those down by black men. As you know how long our supplies will last, I hope you will send us relief soon. The flour we have taken has been of infinite service to us ; dough-boys and fresh beef, which we must now and then make excursions to procure, will help us out, and which I hope will give us high health, and add to our good humor. I am, sir, your most obedient and faithful servant, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. 65 N. B. Should be glad you would inform me whether any ship is go ing to the southward. To Thomas Symonds, Esq., commander of his majesty's ship, Cha ron,* -^^^- Elk riven LETTER LV. From Col. John Banister. {April, 1781.] My dear sir, My last long letter went by an officer, who has, I suppose and hope, before the last post delivered it, and yet nothing from you for the two last posts, though the period is so interesting. Since this, several to us in Virginia) very serious events have turned up. The French did not, as you suppose, bring a single article of military store for us ; nor render us the smallest service by their battle with the English fleet, not having attempted to throw in any succors of land forces, but after their action at sea, went safely into port at Rhode Island, and I suppose there remain, as spectators of very affecting tragedies in these states. The Marquis, too, as we are told, is ordered back to the American army, where there is no war, and we are abandoned by our northern friends, as they are called, and left with unarmed militia to encounter a great proportion of the British army here, and Lord Cornwallis's, in North Carolina. Had the Marquis been permitted to push on with his troops, select as they were, Greene thus aided would have put an end to Cornwallis's army, and the consequences would have been felt here, by enabling us to concentre our force, against the enemy's attempts to penetrate into our country ; or had the French landed their troops at Cape Fear, they could easily have reduced the few mean troops there, and effecting a junction with General Greene, have rendered him so superior to his foe, that a favorable decision of the southern war would soon have ensued. But now the scene is re- * The ship Charon, of 44 guns, (together with two smaller vessels,) was burned during the siege of York, being set on fire by red hot shot from the left of the line, commanded by Count St. Simon. This took place about S o'clock in the evening, October 10th. The Charon was on fire from the water's edge to her truck at the same time, and the weather being serene and calm, the spectacle was awful arid magnificent. Gazetteer of Virginia, p. 294. 66 THE BLAND PAPERS. versed ; Cornwallis is at Wilmington,* and has joined his reinforce ment there, and obtained for his naked and fatigued soldiers all kinds of supplies. And in this state we are visited by a reinforcement of more than 1500, which added to our former opponents, will augment their army to near four thousand well appointed troops, and we are assured they will make Portsmouth a place of arms, which, strength ened as they intend, will be for ever theirs if they retain the command of the water. So soon as the redoubts and fortifications are extended from creek to creek, the plain fronting upon Portsmouth will be en closed by a wet ditch, defended by strong redoubts, abattis, &c. ; and on the water side by ships and batteries, so that it will be unassailable by any force we can carry against it. As a key to the fine county of Princess Anne, they will have a post at the great bridge, which may be maintained with a small garrison from its natural and now artificial strength. Having effected these purposes which are near their com pletion, they may send detachments up our numerous rivers, and annoy and desolate the country. I am well * * * LETTER LVI. From Col. Banisteb. Dear sir, Your last, containing the idea of a reformation of the militia, I think suggests many useful hints ; but we are too fond of the products of our own minds, to listen to the wiser plans of xithers ; so that, I fear, our assembly will not adopt the system, or, at least, they have given proofs of their aversion to a change in the law, by a rejection of a bill similar to the one which you propose. My last contained an account of Arnold's incursion into the coun try, as far as Richmond, and of the loss that your father sustained in negroes, all of whom he recovered, Aleck alone excepted. You will have heard of Cornwallis's rapid progress to the north, after the de feat of Tarleton, (of which the following extract will give you a true idea,) and of the news from our army. "After General Morgan had defeated Tarleton, Lord Cornwallis marched immediately, with his * From this it appears that this letter was written in April, 1781 ; Lord Corn wallis having arrived at Wilmington, N. C, on the 7th of that month. THE BLAND PAPERS. 67 whole force, to endeavor to rescue the prisoners, and, in the height of his phrensy, pushed on to the Yadkin, which he crossed yesterday. From the best information, it is thought he will march for the Mora vian town to-day. General Greene has now his whole force collected, amounting to 1300 or 1400 regulars, and 200 cavalry. His lordship, it is said, is about 3.000 strong. Some of our principal partisans are raising the well-affected inhabitants in his rear. Expresses are sent over the mountains, to our faithful friends, Campbell, Shelby, &c, who are shortly expected, with a number of riflemen. I am of opinion, if we were joined by those men, we should give his lordship battle, and commit the issue to the point of the bayonet ; our men now are fond of appealing to that decision. A Captain Conyers has lately taken off a British picket of 30, with 14 militia, near Charlestown, and Colonel Marion is within 20 miles of Charlestown, with 500 men. Col. Pickens is gone round to assemble the well-affected in the district of Ninety- six, from which, February 30th, at Guilford Court House. After this General Greene marched to Dan, crossed that and Banister, and took post at Halifax Court House, where he now remains daily increasing in numbers, from all quarters. The people are entirely unanimous, and spirited on this occasion ; but I think the rest of the continent have totally abandoned us, as we have, unaided, to encounter an army at each end of the state, which, by keeping the militia always in arms, effectually prevents us from recruiting our regular forces. Lord Cornwallis has not yet crossed the Dan, and I believe the apparent danger of such a movement has brought him to cool reflection. If we could have a regular force to assist us, until we could get our soldiers into the field, I think, with the assistance of a strong French fleet, we could manage our enemies in all quarters. It is much the opinion of our friends in Greene's army that Lord Cornwallis will be roughly handled in a few days. I write this in great haste, but will, the first motion that takes place, give proper intelligence of its effects. You would oblige me by sending the newspapers weekly. The traitor* keeps very close to Portsmouth, being circumscribed by the militia on all sides. There is, however, some danger, as the French fleet is out on a cruise, of his giving our men the slip, and coming up the river. Since General Morgan's prisoners have got quite out of Cornwallis's reach, it is impossible to say what his next * Arnold. 68 THE BLAND PAPERS. object will be ; but this much is certain, that his ten days' suspense at Dan river has been of infinite service to us. There will not be half arms enough for the militia that have flocked to General Greene. Morgan was obliged to leave all those that he took concealed, on his way to Dan river. Why are not those sent on that were recaptured, and sent to Rhode Island 1 Our family all unite in cordial greetings to you, Mrs. Bland, and Bob. Let me hear from you soon, and believe me your affectionate friend, &c. LETTER LVII. From Colonel John Banister.Richmond, 16th May, 1781. My dear sir, Notwithstanding I have written four letters to you since I have had the pleasure of one from you, I cannot forbear to acquaint you of the late very distressing scenes that have taken place at and near Peters burg. We were not, as I wrote you, visited by Arnold, in his first expedition into the country, but General Phillips, coming to Ports mouth with a reinforcement, enabled them to come up the river with about 2500, at a time when the militia were all discharged to about 1000. On Wednesday, the 24th, they approached Petersburg by the way of my Whitehall plantation, where they halted in the heat of the day, and refreshed ; then proceeded at about 2 o'clock to advance in two columns, one by the old road leading to the Church, the other along the lane and across the ravine at Miller's old mill. Here they received a fire from Captain House, of Brunswick county, at the head of forty militia, which was supposed to do execution, but only a Jager* was known by us to have been killed. Captain House conti nued to retreat and fire until he came to Taylor's mill, where he joined Col. Dick at the head of 300 picked militia, who kept up a constant fire, and prevented their taking the heights, for upwards of half an hour; but, attaining these, they, with cannon and three times the force, dislodged Dick from his ground, but, notwithstanding he made a regular and steady retreat through Blandford, and formed behind a * Jager, a German rifleman. THE BLAND PAPERS. 69 battalion posted at Bollingbrook warehouses,* their right extending to Mrs. Boiling's gate,f their left to the warehouse, their front the morass opposite to the warehouse, terminating at Blandford bridge, which Dick had taken up as his infantry crossed. This was our last resist ance ; the enemy advanced in front their infantry and German rifle men. Against these our battalion kept up a steady and constant fire until they were ordered to retreat, which was not until four pieces of cannon, from the hill between Dr. Black's and Mrs. Boiling's, flanked them effectually. They then retreated in order along the causeway, by the river to Pocahontas bridge, which they took up, but ascending the hill to gain the heights by T. Shore's house,! the enemy played their cannon with such skill that they killed and wounded ten of our men ; all of the wounded are since dead. Our cannon was served well from Bakers,§ but the enemy's extreme caution has prevented our getting an account of their killed and wounded ; the former, though, it is clear was not less than 14, the latter were sent down the river in their gun-boats. By the way, these gun boats are of infinite use to the enemy, bringing them up in force to the shallowest landing. They carry from 50 to 80 men. After our militia had gained the hill, they retreated towards Chesterfield Court House, where they halted the next day. This little affair shows plainly the militia will fight, and proves that if we had force to have occupied the heights, they would not with that force have entered the town. In conse quence of this action I was obliged to abandon my house,|| leaving all to the mercy of the enemy. The enemy the next day ordered the inhabitants to move out the tobacco, or the warehouses should be, consumed with it. By the exertions of the people the tobacco was removed, and by the soldiery burnt, and the houses spared, except Cedar Point, which was put in flames by a soldier without order. The day after this business the whole army crossed the Appomattox, and then, after burning the bridge, proceeded to Osborne's, and having there destroyed the shipping to a great amount in value and number, and shipped off the tobacco, they marched on to Manchester, where, on Richmond-hill, we remained with a superior force, I mean to the detachment sent for this purpose, quiet spectators of the destruction of all the warehouses and tobacco, with several dwelling houses ad joining. They marched that evening to Osborne's, and on Tuesday, * Where now stands the City Point rail-road depot. t Bollingbrook. This gate was at the foot of the hill, to the east of the house. t Violet Bank. § Jerman Baker's. || Battersea. 70 THE BLAND PAPERS. the 31st, they embarked at the Hundred* and sailed down the river, as far as Burwell's.t where, upon the arrival of an advice boat, they all stood up the river, and arrived in the night of last Thursday again in Petersburg, and I was again obliged to retreat, leaving them in pos session of all my estate. They have not as yet burned my mills, but have taken all the bread and flour, to the amount of £800 or £1000, eleven of my best negroes the first time, and now I expect they will get the rest. Your man I sent to Amelia ; I believe he is yet safe. Your father received the following protection from General Phillips : " It is Major General Phillips' positive orders that no part of the pro perty of Col. Theodorick Bland receive any injury from his majesty's troops. April 25th, 1781. J. W.Noble, aidecamp Major General Phillips. Major General Phillips is very happy to show this favor on account of Col. Bland, Junior's, many civilities to the troops of con vention at Charlottesville." The troops still continue at Petersburg, and expect Lord Cornwallis from Halifax, where the van of his army under Tarleton is arrived. It is very clear, without naval aid the enemy will be possessed of the lower country, as the people are tired of the war, and come to the field most reluctantly. This, added to our exhausted finances and bad councils, with a powerful enemy in the country, are prognostics of no favorable complexion. In my last I touched largely upon the conduct of our eastern friends in this day of peril, compared with our conduct to them in their day of trial. Greene is in South Carolina, but how employed we are not informed. Before you receive this, it is probable the enemy will have penetrated to Fredericksburg, and have destroyed all the tobacco in their route. I beg to hear if we are to expect any assistance from the eastern confederates or our allies. If you write, George Nicholson, who is in Philadelphia, will give a ready conveyance to the letter. Jack, who is the only one of my family with me, joins in affectionate regards to Mrs. Bland and Bob, with your sincere friend, &c. I begged you in my last to send the newspapers. • * Bermuda Hundred. t Burwell's Ferry. THE BLAND PAPERS. 71 LETTER LVIII. From Christian Febiger, Col. Commanding [2d regiment] Virginia Regulars, Camp, 20 miles from Williamsburgh, July 3d, 1781. Sir, As by a letter of the 13th of June, from my much honored friend, Mr. Sharpe, I am informed of his intention of leaving Philadelphia, you will pardon the liberty I have taken in inclosing a letter for Mrs. Febiger, which I must beg the favor of you to let one of your servants deliver, being apprehensive, from miscarriage of letters, she has not heard from me a good while. By an express which left us on the 30th of June, without my know ing it, (being detached,) I doubt not but the Marquis has written congress, fully, respecting the situation of both armies. I will confine myself to what has happened since. On the 1st instant, our army, consisting of Campbell's brigade of militia, two brigades of regulars under Wayne and Muhlenburg, five pieces of artillery in park, Stephens' and Lawson's brigades of militia, and my detachment, were disposed in the following order : [Here follows a diagram. For which see Appendix.] Being in hopes that this letter will reach you safe, I will give you our number as nearly as possible. Campbell's advanced brigade, - - - 780 militia. Wayne's brigade 750 regulars. Muhlenburg's 800 do. Stephens' brigade 650 militia. Lawson's brigade 750 do. Febiger's regiment 425 regulars, best. 4155 Or, Regular infantry 1975 Do. cavalry 50 Do. artillery 300 Total regulars 2325 Militia, infantry 2180 Do. cavalry 60 very bad. 4565 is about our 8>2 THE BLAND PAPERS. strength ; with these we have to oppose an enemy at least equal in numbers, and certainly superior with respect to discipline; yet his lordship has not thought proper to attack ; though to my knowledge he has had it in his power several times, and to advantage, as the Marquis, fond of enterprise, has repeatedly detached his army, appar ently with a view to bring the enemy to action ; in short, we have not been collected since we left Dandridge's, until this morning, and now We are disposed as follows. General Campbell in front, near Byrd's ordinary, 16 miles from Williamsburg ; my detachment four miles in his rear ; Wayne and Muhlenburg about 1% miles in my rear; and the park and militia in their rear ; nearly situated as per a rough draft inclosed. I do not mean to account for the distances exactly, but it is as nearly just as possible. The enemy's . main body lies at Springfield ; Tarleton's horse on the right, and Simcoe's on the left. These views are very uncertain. Before I conclude, I will go down to Campbell. I have returned ; matters remain in statu quo, yet from the removal of bag gage * * * from Burwell's, there is some indication of their intending at least * * * a partial embarkation. I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, &c. Please to remember my respectful compliments to your lady. Note. — The Marquis de la Fayette having baffled Lord Cornwallis, in his attempt to capture the military stores, at Albemarle old Court House, June 18th, Lord Cornwallis fell back to Richmond, where the Marquis (being reinforced by the troops of the Baron Steube,n, and the militia of the adjacent counties,) follow ing him, his lordship, on the 24th of the same month, retreated to Williamsburgh. The day after, the main body of the British army arrived there ; their rear was attacked by an American light corps, under Colonel Butler, and sustained a con siderable loss. And it was a week subsequent to this skirmish, that the above tetter was written — at which time Cornwallis was about fortifying himself at Yorktown, which he was compelled to surrender October 19th thereafter; LETTER LIX. From Gen. Washington, to " the Hon. Col. Bland, Philadelphia." " Honor ed by the Minister of France." Head Quarters, near Dobbs' Ferry, July 8thi 1781. Dear sir, I have to acknowledge, and thank you for your obliging favor of the 2d. Your former (not with me at this time) has also been re- THE BLAND PAPERS. 73 ceived. I fervently wish that congress ere this may have received offi cial accounts of the taking of Ninety-six and Augusta. These, with the preceding events in that quarter, must, I should think, if proper means are taken to communicate them to the ' court of France, and the me diating powers, have a very happy effect in the expected negotiation of peace. 1 derived much ' satisfaction from Col. Cary's account of the spirit and temper of our countrymen ; and rejoice to hear that so few of them have joined the enemy. Would to God they could rise as one man, and extirpate Lord Cornwallis and his whole band. I wish the aid of congress to my request for a corps of riflemen may bring them to me, and in time they would be of 'infinite service to me, as I have already experienced in the little affair of the third, when the fire from the Hessian Jagers (with rifles) did us all the damage we sustained. The French army formed its junction with me at this place on the 6th. I am about establishing a communication at Dobbs' ferry, with a view' of shortening my transportation from Pennsylvania. It is with much pain and mortification I inform you that the recruits for the regular battalions come on very slowly, arid that I begin to de spond, not only of seeing them full, but even respectable ; and what dependence is to be placed in my requisition for militia, I am unable at this moment to form an opinion. Though last in order, it was first in my mind, to thank you, (as I do it with every sentiment of gratitude,) for your polite attention to Mrs. Washington, who will require, if circumstances should not per mit her to return to Virginia, your civilities. Be so good as to present my best respects and wishes to Mrs. Bland ; and be assured that I am, dear sir, your most obedient ser vant, &c. LETTER LX. From Col. Banister. " July 12th, [1781,] answered ; answer intercepted ; reanswered August 12th, 1781." Head Quarters, Holt's Forge, July 12th, 1781. My dear sir, The enemy, after a skirmish near Jamestown last Friday, passed over to Cobham, and from thence sent off a party, under Tarleton, for 10 74 THE BLAND PAPERS. the third time, to our devoted place.* I expect this visit will totally destroy the remains of our property. Already they have plundered me of 82 of my best negroes, including all my tradesmen ; and, notwith standing we have here a good army, the whole country must be laid waste, before it can pass James river. We are deficient in cavalry, much to the disgrace of our rulers. I cannot hear any thing of your servants, but will still make inquiry. My peculiar situation at present obliges me to Hatcher's Run, my present abode, at the risk of captivity, to see what has become of my family. If it were possible to sell the remains of my estate, I would remove my family to some other country. For nothing can compen sate for the sufferings and alarms they daily experience. Scarce do they remain settled a week at home, before they are obliged to aban don their dwelling, and seek an asylum from the bounty of others. By what I can learn from the papers, some very momentous events will occur in a few months, and I wish, from the influence of the em peror and czarina, something fatal to America may not be deter mined on. I doubt not but the enemy will, on our crossing the river, return to the north side of it, and so elude us at pleasure. The necessity for my immediate departure, obliges me to conclude. Your bill has not been presented ; but, when it is, I shall endeavor to pay it as soon as pos sible, if the enemy do not entirely ruin my property. Direct for me to the Marquis' care, who will forward the letters. Your affectionate friend, &c. LETTER LXI. From St. Geobge Tucker. Richmond, July 17 th, 1781. My dear friend, If one half the letters I have written you have got to hand, they will evince that I have deserved to be more frequently favored with yours. I have only time to tell you, I am much distressed on account of my family, who, I have some reason to fear, may have fallen into the enemy's hands in the excursion, in which they are now engaged, on • Petersburg. THE BLAND PAPERS. 75 the south of James river, from Petersburg upwards. As I can give you no particulars concerning them, I must remain silent on this subject. Captain Archer, who will deliver this to you, is a gentleman whose acquaintance, I presume, you will be pleased with. One trait of his character will suffice. He left England, and came to America, to fight in the cause of freedom. You will receive some other letters from me, by him, of an old date. Adieu. My love to Mrs. Bland. Yours most affectionately, &c. LETTER LXII. From St. George Tucker. Williamsburg, September 2 1st* 1781. My dear friend, After a silence of some months, I am happy to acknowledge your favor of August 20th, particularly, as I find by it that I had not been so totally neglected by you, as I began to apprehend. I am not a little surprised, nor less concerned, at that state of uncertainty in respect to your affairs of which you complain. As I heard of letters from you to your father and Col. Banister, I took it for granted you had received from them, in return, an account of such matters as related particu larly to yourself; they being more immediately possessed of the means of information, than I possibly could whilst at the distance of seventy miles, or in camp. Such has been my knowledge of the state of affairs, about Petersburg, that I am almost ignorant of my own at this day, having never been able to devote more than one day to visit ing my plantations in Dinwiddie and Chesterfield, since Phillips first got possession of Petersburg. In my progress through Dinwiddie, I was not fortunate enough to find any person who could give me a precise account of the state of matters at Farmingdell. Your furni ture, I was told, was totally destroyed or pillaged, your corn, &c, wasted, your stock of cattle and sheep greatly damaged, if not en tirely destroyed ; but I believe not more than one or two of your negroes went off with the enemy. From Amelia, I believe only one or two of yours and your father's negroes went off. I have written these things partly from indifferent information, and * About one month previom to the surrender of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown. 76 THE BLAND PAPERS. in great measure from a very inaccurate memory. I hope ere this reaches you, that you will have received more satisfactory accounts from those who are, or ought to be, better qualified to satisfy you on these points. I have never had an opportunity of getting your, depre ciation account settled ; and, indeed, I am afraid to attempt it, as the money I may receive may be wholly useless to you, unless I could convert it into specie — a thing not very practicable in a place where nobody chooses to exchange for a thing of no value in the eyes of any person whatever. I am obliged to you for the trouble you have taken in my brother's affairs. He is now here, and desires his compli ments to you. I have not heard from Bizarre for some days. They were all well at the time I received my last letters. The boys are still without, and more than ever in want of a tutor. Walker Maury has written to me lately, and given me such a plan ' of his school, that unless you procure a tutor before Christmas, I would at all events advise send ing them to him immediately after. I know his worth ; I know that his abilities are equal to the task ; and I know that his assiduity will be equally directed to improve their morals and their understandings, as their manners. With this prospect, I would not advise the provid ing any but a man of superior talents as a private tutor. I would have enclosed you his letter, but from the prospect which your letter presents of seeing you before the time when this plan is proposed to be carried into execution. We are all in high spirits here from the happy prospect before us. You already know all that I can tell you, except that the troops from the northward have not yet joined us, though daily expected. General Lincoln got into town last night. The fleet from Rhode Island ar rived in our capes, while the Count de Grasse was out in pursuit of the British fleet, who declined the engagement he offered. The Count took the Richmond and Iris frigates while he was out. Have you heard that Lord Rawdon is a prisoner on board the French fleet, having been captured in his way to London from South Carolina.* General Washington is expected in town to-day, having been down to visit the Count de Grasse. Probably our operations will begin soon after his return. I do not recollect any thing else, which can be new to you, who live at the fountain head of intelligence. * The vessel in which Lord Rawdon embarked for England, was captured on the voyage, and taken into Brest, where his lordship was immediately released. He then returned home. THE BLAND PAPERS. 77 My best wishes attend Mrs. Bland. I expected the pleasure of hear ing from her before this time. Let me trouble you with my respectful compliments to Mrs. Harleston. I wrote to her some time ago. Adieu, my friend, and believe me, with the utmost cordiality and sincerity, your affectionate friend and brother, &c. LETTER LXIII. From Abthub Lee to Hon. Col. Bland, Member of Congress at Philadelphia. Chatham, near Fredericksburg, Sept. 27, 1781. Dear friend, Paper, pens, and ink, I suppose, are very scarce at Philadelphia, for I have not received a line from you or any other person there. I have been half flayed alive to relieve me from a fever, from which I am be ginning to recover. What news did Col. Laurens bring ; and what has congress done on which the seal of secrecy is not fixed 1 Col. Dangerfield and his family are well ; and he has touched some hard money from the French, for his hay, which being unusual is very delightful. Are the French and Spanish ministers still at Mrs. Bland's feet, and have the banks of the Schuylkill still the happiness of see ing her 1 We have every reason to hope that Cornwallis and his myr midons will soon be our prisoners. The [French] troops behave with very great order and decorum, and give much satisfaction here. Make my respects to M. de la Luzerne,* if you have an opportu nity. My departure with Mrs. Washington was so sudden, that I had not time to take leave of him. I am now on my way to Prince William, where the gentlemen have invited me to represent them. But the tender-menf are making oppo sition, and will probably succeed in electing one of their own stamp. Not being clear in prospect of doing any good in the House, I am very indifferent about it. I kiss Mrs. Bland's hand, and beg to be* remembered to her. How is Mr. Izard? remember me to him. Adieu, &c. * The French embassador. t Such as were favorable to the tender-law — an ex post facto act, making pa per money a tender for debts contracted to be paid in specie. See Burk's Hist. of Virginia, vol. iv., pp. 387, et seq. 78 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER LXIV. From Edmund Randolph. Philadelphia, October 23d, 1781. Dear sir, Since your departure not a syllable of foreign intelligence has oc curred. Nor indeed have we heard any thing domestic, except the surrender of Cornwallis — an event on which I most sincerely rejoice with you. I shall send your papers, as many of them at least as I can collect in the course of each week, by every post. A committee of our body are engaged in the memorials of the different land com panies. They seem inclined to strike Virginia. We have endeavored to warn them of this improper exercise of jurisdiction. I wish that their proceeding may not oblige our country to awake to something wrathful. Mrs. Randolph and myself beg our compliments to Mrs. Bland. Believe me to be, dear sir, with regard, your most obedient serv't, &c. LETTER LXV. From George Webb. Belvidera, April 4th, 1782. Dear sir, I return you my best thanks for the early intelligence you gave me of the establishment of our independence and a general peace, and do most cordially rejoice with you on this important and happy event. Yet I cannot but confess that I feel some degree of chagrin at the fourth and fifth articles of the treaty between Great Britian and Ame rica, as I think them repugnant to the plainest dictates of justice, and of such a nature that to comply with them will involve the assemblies of several of the states in difficulties which I fear it will be scarcely possible for them to surmount. I have the honor to be yours sin cerely, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. 79 LETTER LXVI. From St. George Tucker. Richmond, May 2d, 1782. That my letter bears No. 1., in front, is to be imputed only to one cause. I have been up the country during an absence of three weeks from Richmond. In my tour I called on your father in Amelia ; the old gentleman was confined by a fit of the gout, which prevented his going to court on the day of election for a delegate ; and this alone prevented his entering again into public life, the people having almost with one voice solicited his services in the ensuing assembly. I had a letter from him this morning which mentions that he is now much better. Mrs. Bland was very well last week ; but for the same cause which prevented my writing to you, I have hitherto been unable to see her. Our assembly will sit next Monday. The choice of the people in their representatives is much for the better, I am told, through the country generally. The principal changes which I have heard of are certainly so. I wish they may form a house endued with more wis dom, foresight and stability of conduct, than have heretofore charac terized the assemblies of this country ; but from a general misconcep tion of the people, originating partly in their own inattention, and partly to the studied fallacy in the arguments of those who court popularity, I fear the tax law will either be repealed, or so altered as to obviate every benefit which was expected to arise from it. An acquaintance of ours under the signature of the ' Farmer' has caught the popular ear most astonishingly. His arguments, which in my eyes are extremely flimsy, are directed to the inability of the people, and the inequality of the tax. He deduces his support of the latter charge from the not receiving certificates in payment of that tax. What weight this reasoning may have with the assembly, of which he is a member, I know not ; but in my excursion I found him the oracle of the people. In Cumberland they were about instructing their delegates to move for an absolute repeal of that law ; but I be lieve my arguments had some weight with one or two of the leading men, and the instruction was dropped. I fear that such an opinion being cherished by the people, and probably by their representatives, will again involve us in ten thousand difficulties. I shall comply with your injunction relative to the affairs of the 80 THE BLAND PAPERS. Virginia cession. Whatever light you can throw on that subject, you may safely entrust to me, but I am not sufficiently versed in the ques tion to take it myself. I am much pleased with the grounds of the mediation of the two imperial courts ; for I clearly see that they contained nothing which could operate to the prejudice of America, as was industriously pro pagated for a considerable length of time. I am not without hopes that another brilliant campaign would bring about a general pacifica tion on the basis of those articles. Pierce, in a letter to me of the 6th April, mentions that a large fleet of transports, with some broken corps, a number of women, and about 150 officers, had sailed from Charlestown to New York, and that a fleet of empty transports sailed at the same time for Europe. Gen. St. Clair, who passed through town, brought a letter of later date from Pierce to B. R., in which he mentions that it was expected that the British army would soon take the field, Gen. Leslie having been solicited to that effect by all the loyalists in Charlestown. Should this be true, we may soon expect some important stroke. Virginia does not afford an atom of news, that I can now recollect. Adieu, and believe me yours, with great truth, &c. Fanny is very well. Maury's vacation being now very near, I ex pect to see the boys next week. A letter from him gives me the most pleasing hopes of them. Adieu. LETTER LXVH. From James Hunter. Richmond, 5th May, 1782. Dear sir, I am much indebted to your polite attention of the 23d ultimo, and took care to forward on the enclosed to your lady, to whom I repre sented that Mrs. Tucker had received such of the estate tobacco as had come down, I believe only two hogsheads, and tendered it to Mr. Minor, &c, at 22s. 6d. for specie. They had not the amount by them at that moment, and indeed, as the publicly paying such a price would greatly injure their purchase, they said nothing more about it. THE BLAND PAPERS. 81 I hear of some late arrivals at South Quay,* perhaps by them we have some perfect intelligence from the islands ;t but your being at the fountain head will allow me to communicate only what you have first and better intelligence of. Great Britain's obstinacy will, I hope, be the means of rendering us more great, as we need a stimulus to fix us more independently. The stupor which would prevail on our being happy too soon, I dread more than the consequences of any evil they can do us ; and in pro tracting the war, we shall be compelled to make more solid arrange ments internally, than at present prevail. We very much want in our state a branch of your bank. Its consequence would be very advan tageous, were it only to compel us to learn a punctuality in the mu tual intercourse between man and man, really too much neglected. I expect it would also draw together a great assemblage of merchants, and the profits arising from it, being to revert to its mother, I see no objection they can have, but the supposed injury of every state wanting one, which is certainly frivolous. This bank would be as advantageous to the landed as the mercantile interests, and hope your better judgment of these matters will point out to you the means of carrying this into execution. With every sentiment of esteem, I am, dear sir, yours, &c. I shall settle with the auditors, and remit their warrants to your good steward. LETTER LXVIII. v From St. George Tucker. Richmond, May 10th, 1782. My dear friend, Five days have elapsed, and no house yet. This is a bad symptom, you will say, and I fear it is not the only one. Most of the southern delegates seem to talk in a high tone as to the tax law. Richard Henry Lee, I am happy to find, is opposed to any alteration therein. * On the Blackwater river, in Nansemond county, Va. This little place, insig nificant in peace, during war assumes some commercial importance. Its inland advantages recommended it, both in the revolutionary and the late war, as a quay or depot for goods. Gazetteer of Virginia, p. 239. t The West Indies. 11 82 THE BLAND PAPERS. His eloquence perhaps may make some converts. Self-interest, how ever, will operate very powerfully on many who have certificates in their hands. These people reprobate a law which (to use their own words) extorts money out of their pockets, while the public is indebted to them to the full amount of their taxes. These are sentiments which, if not checked, will involve the state in inevitable ruin. The state of public credit cannot possibly be lower than at the present moment. How is government to save the commonwealth from immediate ruin under such circumstances, unless a tax is enforced ? No news at all. Adieu ; for I am hurried by Beverly, to set out with him to Chatsworth,* &c. LETTER LXLX. From Edmund Randolph. •¦ Answered June 4th, 1782." Richmond, May 25th, 1782. * * * Your late campaign in * * seems to have been pretty active, and must have destroyed, in some degree, the equilibrium of a Virginia temper. But I am happy to find that your and my friend M.'sf conduct on this occasion meets, as I am sure it deserves, the approbation of our country. We have not been so fortunate in ano ther instance. The passports granted to the financier, for the trans portation of tobacco from hence to New York, have been determined by the house of delegates to be contrary to the confederation, and the treaty of commerce. How say you ? Can these things be so ? Is it possible that the sole and exclusive right of determining on war and peace, and the right of directing the operations of our army, should not necessarily involve the authority to grant passports for the expor tation of American produce to British ports 1 Does the treaty of com merce do more than restrain the trade of individuals 1 Does it affect the prerogative of a sovereign ally 1 Does it not belong to congress alone to construe treaties 1 If these passports are rendered subservient to private speculations, surely they ought to be crushed. But the de struction of them ought at the same time to come from congress. I confess, for my own part, that not being able to distinguish between these passports and those granted to the Bermudian vessels, to import * A seat of the Randolphs, on James river, 6 or 7 miles below Richmond. f Madison. THE BLAND PAPERS. 83 salt into this country, and take off our provisions, I cannot but think that Virginia has, through her delegates in congress, exercise of this power on the part of congress. A little affair has turned up since the determination of the house of delegates, which with some is an addi tional reason against the power of congress. A flag from * * * the other day, cut out a vessel, and escaped with her. This argument will, if tolerated in its greatest extent, prove that congress ought not to grant a passport at all; and this is a point against which few contend. I once believed that the proceedings of the present assembly would be sullied by the revival of paper credit. But the scarcity of specie seems now to have a different measure proposed for its remedy. I am told that Mr. Henry is desirous to postpone the payment of the taxes imposed in specie. But, I trust, he will not succeed in this in stance of his politics. For without a speedy revenue the war must languish. You will receive instructions as to the western territory, the navi gation of the Mississippi, the fisheries and Vermont. The first articles cause many anxious moments, with those who are emigrants to the new country. It is very much the policy of Virginia, should she wish to retain her chartered territory unmutilated, to suppress the further prosecution of the subject of the back-lands in congress. For many in the counties of Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, Montgomery, Green brier, and Fayette, are attempting the same game that the Vermonters played during the controversy between New York and New Hamp shire. They complain of the uncertainty of their present situation, and think that they cannot protect themselves against being bandied about, between congress and Virginia, more effectually than by the assumption of independence. A proposition which was made to the last assembly for the establishment of a distinct executive for * * * will be revived at this session. It is popular with some, as tending to preserve the entirety of Virginia, but unwelcome to others, as pre cipitating a separation. I am, dear sir, with great respect and esteem, your most obedient servant, &c. 84 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER LXX. From Gen. Spotswood.* "Favored by Mrs. Bland." July 2d, 1782. Dear sir, When I had the pleasure of seeing you last, in Philadelphia, I gave you an account of Simpson the saddler, for saddles, &c, fur nished the cavalry of the United States, together with a certificate of Major Call's, which I wish you to transmit to me by the first safe conveyance. I may probably have made a mistake in saying I gave them to you ; if I have, pray ask some of the other gentlemen. I am just returned from a small excursion with Mrs. Spotswood, and hear that Mrs. Bland is at her brother's. I shall do myself the pleasure to wait on her this evening, and I solicit her company for a few days. We have had various accounts respecting the action on the 12th of April, between de Grasse and Rodney. News just come to hand, that a fleet (of French) and transports, to the amount of 100 sail, passed our capes, a few days ago ; in consequence of which the French troops are moving northerly. Will you be so obliging as to inform me of the event of that day's action, if you have it in your power so to do 7 I am, sir, with regard, your most obedient servant, &c. LETTER LXXI. From Col. John Banisteb. Extract. Richmond, July 4th, 1782. " This universal want of punctuality is chiefly owing to the chan nels of justice being stopped. The assembly were engaged for seve ral weeks in attempting a reform in the mode of administering justice, but, like many other essential measures, it fell through, and we remain still without credit, without the means of obtaining justice, and sub ject to the contempt and ridicule of all other states whose policy is better regulated. • Alexander Spotswood, of Nottingham, near Fredericksburg, Virginia. THE BLAND PAPERS. 85 Soldiers are proposed to be raised here for three years, but I think the means inadequate to the end, which time I fear will evince. I can never learn what became of the remnant of the French fleet, nor what are the prospects of our allies in the West Indies." LETTER LXXII. From Edmund Randolph. Virginia, July 19, 1782. Dear sir, I should certainly have acknowledged your favor of the 2d instant,. by the last post, if I had not been absent from home, at the arrival of the mail. I was drawn down to Williamsburg, in defence of one of the flags from New York. She was charged with having imported a large quantity of merchandise, and carried on an illicit commerce, to. the prostitution of her sacred character. Had the testimony produced against her been adequate, I should not have vindicated her. But nothing more appeared than that many bales of merchandise were landed on the shore of the College creek, and supposed to have come from her, or some other vessel which had recently left a British port. On this imperfection of evidence, it would have been dangerous, per haps, to the United States to suffer her to be condemned. But I really believe, according to what is now generally reported, that she de served some severity. I am resolved, however, not to be imposed on in a second instance, and have therefore undertaken the libelling of another flag in Potomac, which passed beyond the place of her desti nation upward of sixty miles, having on board a plentiful assortment of goods, and four anchors, with proper cables, for ships. Does not this latter circumstance argue an evil intention, perhaps a design to imitate a flag from Charleston, which purloined a vessel in Hampton. Roads, and made off with her to New York 1 If it be true, as you have conceded, that the representative is bound1 to conform himself to the sense of his constituents, the obligation does. not seem to be diminished by the instruction which communicates. that sense, reaching him after he had delivered his own sentiments. For can his knowledge of it_ at so late a season render it less their sense, than if it had been promulgated earlier } Public utility has given rise to the principle, which obliges the representative to regulate 86 THE BLAND PAPERS. himself to the will of his constituent. Is public utility to be less pur sued at one period than at another 1 Constituents, indeed, of a gene rous mind, would always so far indulge their servant in congress, as not to urge him to the injury of his feelings, if the general wish could be enforced without the necessity of his stepping forth. In the present instance, then, I conceive that your right is complete to retire from the debate, if you cannot model your opinion to your instructions. But when I say that your right is complete, I mean no more than that the delicacy of the legislature would prevent them from proceeding to animadversion. This, however, is a matter of mere speculation now, as the assembly have said nothing in the style of instructions. The purity of governments in a great measure depends upon the wisdom and fortitude of the judiciary, and the frame of them can be preserved by no mild means, so effectual, as an exertion of that wis dom and fortitude. An experiment will be made at the next session of the general court, upon the temper of the judges, by which it will probably be decided, whether an act of assembly, contrary to the constitution, is not void, as far as that contrariety goes. Three per sons have been adjudged to die for treason. The act of government vests the power of pardoning in the executive, under two restrictions only : where the prosecution shall have been carried on by the house of delegates, or where the law shall otherwise particularly direct. In these two instances, it is declared that the interposition of mercy is from the house of delegates alone. But by the law of treason, which was enacted at the session immediately following the formation of our constitution, the power of pardoning treason is placed in the general assembly. Hence the peculiar and incommunicable rights of the house of delegates are communicated and shared with the senate. Until the present day no exigency has demanded the discussion of this constitutional question. But these unfortunate men were par doned by the house of delegates ; by whose order their resolution was sent to the senate for concurrence. This concurrence was re fused. But the execution has been postponed, in order to afford an opportunity for determination, how far the mere resolution of the de legates ought to operate, as a pardon, although the senate would not unite in the vote. The diffusion of specie through the lower country, by the residence of the French army there, is by no means so extensive as those at a distance are taught to believe. In my late journey to Williamsburg, the fallacy of this belief struck me in every part of the town, and its neighborhood. The inhabitants had lost so much by the enemy ; the THE BLAND PAPERS. 87" supplies of the French were brought so abundantly from Baltimore, and the other states, and their contracts left so little scope to the en deavors of our countrymen to furnish them, that I can truly say, that the pop-shops alone seemed to me to have acquired any of their crowns. But regret at their departure prevails in every breast. Ne ver was an army so much distinguished by good order, and the spirit of citizenship, as this assemblage of troops has been. The few inju ries which property has sustained inevitably have been repaired by them; and the general officers, in particular, were marked by the most condescending affability, and an utter aversion to oppose civil authority in the most distant manner. Adieu. LETTER LXXm. From James Hunter. Richmond, 27th July, 1782. Dear sir, It is a long time since I had the pleasure of a line from you, and I am sorry to observe to you, that after every attempt to prevail on our sage dons to enter with some spirit on the banking scheme, it cannot be impressed on their minds that it will be in the power of our state to support one. 'Tis true the present prevailing poverty appears gloomy, and our commerce is so closely watched and completely an nihilated, that I see much distress hanging over us this fall for want of the most necessary article, salt. I would wish you, therefore, and your friends in Congress, to take this matter into thought. The small quantity in hand is hoarded up to watch for an exorbitant price ; and if the system is continued of blocking our ports, I am certain our citi zens must suffer. Should the French fleet propose once more visiting our coast, which I much doubt, perhaps the minister might, under their convoy, induce the French merchants to load out large quantities of the alum salt ; or, indeed, the cover of some of their frigates would be sufficient ; and if the minister could enter into the system, I could send out an experienced captain to conduct such ships into Beaufort, N. C, from whence an inland navigation is safe up to South Quay. Cast your eye on the chart, and observe that if a deposite of salt could be made at Providence, how small the passage to Beaufort, over whose bar we may carry 21 feet of water. Observe, also, those dan- 88 THE BLAND PAPERS. gerous shoals which lock up this harbor, and prevent cruisers infest ing the coast. Tar, rice, indigo, small spar and pork, (if the state would allow the French to export it,) may be easily obtained. This or any other plan which your better judgment will dictate, whereby we may be supplied, will be rendering very essential service to this country ; and if I can be useful therein, my best powers shall always be exerted. I have a very fine boat in North Carolina, carries 75 hhds., sails very fast, and an experienced pilot commands her. Should you be able to influence his excellency, she shall be at his service to carry any despatches he may please to order. My best respects to Mrs. Bland. I hope she reached Philadelphia in safety, and found you in perfect health. I am always, dear sir, your most obedient servant, &c. LETTER LXXIV. From Jacob Rubsamen. Manchester, August 2d, 1782. Dear sir, I have received two letters from you : one by Mr. Hylton * * * and another this day, although dated the fourth of June. My neglect in not writing to you admits of no apology. I will, therefore, make no attempt in framing excuses, except this may be allowed for one, that I had nothing material to trouble you with. I have not been able to do any thing either in the sale of your land or town lots. I have been in Blandford five or six times ; have had it advertised ever since you went from here, in Petersburg and Bland ford, but not the least offer has been made me, either for the one or the other, by a really intending purchaser. The reasons in my opi nion are, that most people think the prices too high, but, when I mention the terms of payment, then it is all over, and the matter drops. Nobody seems either able or willing to pay any money down, be the proportion ever so small, but all expect long credit, in hopes the value of the land will rise before the payment becomes due ; and, as long as this is the case, I think you may as well keep it yourself, than suffer somebody else to speculate upon it. Another reason is the drawing of Mr. Charles Duncan's lots in New-Blandford, which was THE BLAND PAPERS. 89 done shortly after your departure from here. Many of these lots are now offering for sale at £20, the best at 40 and £50, which has put it entirely out of my power to dispose of your lots; as yet I have not even had a single offer for them, of any kind. Concerning my papers which I now enclose, it was also out of my power to send them before. In Cornwallis's ramble among us I send some of my effects, and all my papers to Staunton in Augusta. The wagon I sent for them, neglected to bring the little trunk of papers. I write and write fifty times for it without effect, till tired, and fearing they were lost, I send express for it, and was lucky enough to get them home by the 1 8th of last month. Had I done at first what I was obliged to do at last, they would have been in your hands long ago. Judge, therefore, whether it was worth your while to read any of my letters when they could contain nothing of business, but only assurances of my zeal and readiness to execute your orders whene ver an opportunity offered, or could be made by me. You may rely upon it, the moment any proposal is made to me, or any thing mate rial is done as to the sale, you shall be acquainted with it instantly. I send only a copy of one of the original agreements, examined and testified by Mr. Wythe, one of the contracting parties, which I think will be satisfactory, as the original might be lost by the way. The second agreement, (entitling me to receive six pence per pound for the first two ton, four pence per pound for the next two ton, and three pence per pound for all the rest of salt-petre made by me, and under my directions,) is lost to my sorrow, and I see no chance of receiving that gratuity, except it is either found upon the journals of Congress, which Mr. Wythe thinks it will, as he perfectly recollects having made that report from the committee to congress, and which was agreed to, or the congress will trust to the memory of the committee, who I have no doubt will all of them recollect it. I produced that agreement, together with a letter from Mr. Wythe, in January, 1776, at a meeting we had at Col. Banister's. You was present, and perhaps remember something of it. I enclose you the resolutions of that meeting, in which you will find, towards the latter part, the following expression, " Whereby the said Mr. Rubsamen will also be deprived of the gra tuity the congress intended him," which with the foregoing plainly alludes to the above-mentioned lost agreement. Should it be found upon the journals, or Congress will allow the claim from other cir cumstances, as the memory of the gentlemen concerned, it will I sup pose be required that certificates shall be produced of the quantity of salt-petre made, and delivered. How this is to be done I cannot tell; 12 90 THE BLAND PAPERS. as all the salt-petre (as you well know) went through my own hands in the manufacture of gun-powder, part of which has been disposed of to the state, great part towards fitting out privateers and other vessels, a great deal of salt-petre has been used by me in reclaiming upwards of thirty thousand weight of damaged gunpowder, from the slate and continental magazines. I enclose you, however, the result of a council held in Williamsburg, in December, 1776, in which you will find the quantity of five thousand weight certified at so early a period. Since that I have carried it on to a greater extent, particular ly in Greenbrier county. The manufacture of salt-petre is now so well established in our back settlements, that our hunters and frontier inhabitants have never been in want of powder of their own making since the year 1776. To the contrary, they have brought down con siderable quantities for sale among us. The upper parts of both Carolinas are in a great measure supplied with powder from our set tlements. How unhappy it is, that there is not that spirit of patriot ism prevailing now that we were possessed of five or six years ago, else that article never could be wanted again in a country that so much abounds with the constituent parts of salt-petre. Is it not as tonishing, indeed it almost surpasses belief, with those that have not been eye-witnesses of it, that Nature should form such vast caverns in Greenbrier, seemingly for no other apparent use but the production of nitre. You know what pains I have taken to make the manufac ture general. The reasons why I have not succeeded so well in our lower parts as in the upper, I need not repeat to you, who are so well acquainted with them yourself. Indeed, were it not that the inhabit ants of Greenbrier found they can make more money by making salt petre than any thing else, I am fully persuaded it would have dropped in that part also. How it is carried on in North Carolina I do not know. You remember the assembly of that state deputed two per sons to me to be instructed in the method of making saltpetre. I took all the pains a man could do, to qualify them for the task ; they suc ceeded. Their house had passed a vote of a gratuity in my favor, sent me by the speaker, the sum not expressed, however. I never heard of them since, nor they of me, as I thought it mean to make application. Should congress think fit not to allow me my just claim, for want of the document, I shall be but indifferently off, as the two dollars per day allowed me for my expenses, will not by far be sufficient to make me amends for the money I have spent in establishing that manufac ture. Had I not very early entered into some commercial connex- THE BLAND PAPERS. 91 ions, added to the profits arising from the powder-mill, two dollars a day never would have enabled me to serve the continent as well as I trust I have done, particularly if I had thought fit to draw for it in the depreciated state of the currency. The blowing up of the mills, by that arch-fiend, Arnold, (just after they wholly belonged to me, by an agreement with Col. Cary,) together with a considerable quantity of powder, a larger of salt-petre, and four thousand weight of brimstone, with all and every utensil, was a terrible stroke, too great indeed for a man of my slender fortune not to be sensibly affected by it. Had I not met with that misfortune, I should not have minded any little mat ters I am obliged now to be anxious about. I make not the least doubt but you will do every thing in your power towards a settle ment and getting the money. Should any obstacle be thrown in your way respecting the lost agreement, some recourse must be had to the memory of the gentlemen that composed the committee. Mr. Robert Treat Payne from New England was one of the most active in it. This, however, need not protract the settlement of the other agree ment entitling me to receive two dollars per day from the 4th of De cember, 1775. You will be pleased to have an account drawn out in such a form and manner as is requisite, and either sign it with my name, or make use of the enclosed blank, as you think best. Should you be lucky enough to get the money, I would wish you to receive it in Mr. Morris' notes-of-hand, as they will pass as cash in our trea sury for taxes. As for putting money in the funds, and receive inte rest for it, will not answer my purpose at all. Neither do I think a draft upon our treasury will do, as we have no money in it yet, and I understand several such orders have been refused to be paid already. I am determined to rebuild the powder-mill, provided I receive this money due me from Congress, otherwise it is impossible for me to do it. A large quantity of damaged powder in the magazine here at Manchester, makes it absolutely necessary there should be a powder- mill somewhere hereabout. A considerable quantity of salt-petre I have in Greenbrier, would make it beneficial to me, but want of money has obliged me to decline the repeated applications made to me for that purpose. Should you receive the money, I beg you will make use of as much for yourself as you please, and we can settle that some other time. If there is a pretty strong probability of re ceiving it soon, I will be much obliged to you to favor me with a line, as I am setting out for Greenbrier in a few weeks, that I may take proper measures to get salt-petre down against the rebuilding of the works. 92 THE BLAND PAPERS. I once went to Congress when they were sitting in Baltimore, 1 think it was in February, 1 777, with an intention to settle my account, but their papers were at that time in such a state that nothing could be done in it. Superadded to that, not one member of the former salt-petre committee, nor any one that knew the least syllable about it, except Mr. Mann Page, were in Congress. Finding I was obliged to return as I came, I complained to Mr. Page of the hardship of spend ing my money in travelling back and forwards, and begged he would move in Congress to have at least my expenses defrayed. He did so, and got a vote passed for six hundred dollars to be paid me, which I received, although I did not much like the footing it was granted upon, which, if I remember right, was " for my diligence in establishing the manufacture of salt-petre, and making my method as general as I could," or something to that effect, instead of expressing it to be for my travelling expenses; but, wanting money to carry me back, I ac cepted of it, particularly as I was assured it could have no effect upon my claim, which I was told might be settled as soon as things were in a quieter state than they were at that time. It is happy for me that you, who are so well acquainted with my transactions, and who was so much concerned for the success of the salt-petre works, are now a member of Congress. Many things that may want explaining, or certifying, can be done by you, full as well, and better than if I was present. I have therefore not the least doubt but every thing will be settled to my entire satisfaction. Wishing you health and happiness, I remain, with perfect esteem, your obliged hum ble servant, &c. Lucy begs to be remembered to her cousins, and my respects at tend your lady. LETTER LXXV. From James Hunteb. Richmond, 2d August, 1782. Dear sir, Since my last, Mrs. Hunter has received a letter from a lady of her acquaintance, in Paris, whom Dr. Franklin permits to correspond through him, and I beg your favor to take the trouble of conveying the enclosed by first opportunity, and you will very much oblige us. THE BLAND PAPERS. 93 It gives me great pleasure to hear the Dutch have entered spiritedly into the confederation ; their commerce will be far more agreeable to the States than the French. I hope it will be cultivated. As I for merly endeavored at the consulate with the French, I beg your friendly advice with respect to Holland. I wish to form large Euro pean connexions, and if you think my being established in Holland would render service to the commerce of this state, and the rest gene rally, I will thank you for your interposition in my behalf, though I expect the eastern powers will never let a Virginian take post in the commercial line. I can only affirm that no one will serve them with more fidelity. I have a twenty-gun ship in North Carolina nearly ready, and if congress will give me the appointment, she will be very conveniently situated for me, and perhaps very useful in conveying either funds or despatches for them. Herein I pray you to act as I hope you always do for your friend and servant. Be pleased to put a cover with proper address to Dr. Franklin, as I am not acquainted with it. LETTER LXXVI. From Edmund Randolph. Richmond, September 20, 1782. Dear sir, Although you would not commit to my care the negotiation of your draft on the treasury, I requested Mr. Ambler to set apart for you the same sum which had been paid to the other members of the delega tion. The inclosed is the humble fruit of his and my endeavors to give you a momentary existence in Philadelphia. I shall remit a du plicate of the bill by the next post. But I understand, from a member of the council, that an order was yesterday made for the sale of some flour, in order to put one hundred pounds more into your hands. You may be assured that I shall not delay the remittance of that sum, a minute after the receipt of it. This place is so tranquil, and war so little agitates it, that except for the interruption of trade, and the scarcity of money, it would en joy all the appendages of peace. Hence it is, that it is barren of every interesting event, or even rumor. I am, dear sir, with great esteem and regard, &c. 94 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER LXXVII. From Col. John Banister. Richmond, 19th October, 1782. Dear sir, I have omitted writing to you for two posts, owing to my being at Hatcher's run, and not being in time for the post. Indeed we are bar ren of matter of moment, in this place, except that of a melancholy cast. Col. Laurens, you will by this time have heard, hath fallen a sacrifice to his noble patriotism and bravery, being killed in a skirmish near Charleston.* A very disastrous action has also happened in the Kentucky country; wherein were slain Colonels Todd and Trigg, with eighty privates. Your friends are all well in this country, except the old gentleman, who declines fast, being at present laid up with the gout. * * * I visited him some time ago, and found him * * * If this is the case, I think there are little hopes of his surviving long. Having it in my intention to write you soon when there, I inquired into the state of your crop. The tobacco was good and promising, but the corn only tolerable. The drought has been so great here, that it is matter of surprise to me how vegetables of any kind could live in it. The scarcity of corn will be greater than has ever been ex perienced. In your next you will do me the favor to direct to Petersburg, as I shall immediately quit this place, having not been able to furnish myself with a habitation. I should be much obliged by your opinion on the approaching pacification, and what are our prospects on that subject. I wrote Jack last post a very long letter. If he studies the law, Williamsburg is the place most calculated for instruction. If that is his purpose, when do you think he should properly come here, or should he go to Europe first 1 Dear sir, I am, with great regard, your friend and servant, &c. Compliments and best wishes to Mrs. Bland. * Col. John Laurens, August 27, 1782, in opposing a British foraging party near Combahee river, South Carolina, mortally wounded ; died aged 29. Blake's Biog. Die. THE BLAND PAPERS, 95 LETTER LXXVIII. (Anonymous.) Baltimore, 17th November, 1782, Dear sir, I beg leave to refer the enclosed to your attention, and will take it as a very great favor if you will give me your opinion candidly on it by the next post. The author has, at the request of several members of our Assembly, written and published it, in order, if possible, to in duce them to take speedy and effectual steps to accomplish the pur poses therein specified. A few copies are distributed among them ; and the remainder I shall send to my acquaintances in the different parts of the continent, Pennsylvania, Jersey, New York and Delaware excepted, which states, it is natural to suppose, will be averse to the measure. The author did not insert the piece in the paper, because the mere commonalty cannot understand the subject; and he is averse to run the hazard of being involved in disputation, being in his noviciate as a writer. You are to consider the piece is addressed to a Legislature, in which undoubtedly there must be many weak men, and therefore must be adapted to their genius and capacity ; consequently many things are in it which would not have been, had none but men of understanding been expected to peruse it. The matter will come before the Assembly during their present ses sion, and I have not the least doubt of success, if they think Congress are disposed to accept their offers. It is certainly the duty of our Assembly to make the first advances ; but the pride of many of the members is piqued, lest Congress would not close in with them. I could wish your body to be sounded upon the subject, and a judgment may with some certainty be formed whether the powers granted them, and an elegant Stadthouse, will prompt them to render Annapolis the per manent metropolis of America. Perhaps the powers therein specified will not be approved of; and I could wish to know in what points. I think the city of Annapolis ought to be laid off as a distinct inde pendent territory, totally under the government of Congress ; but so narrow in that respect are the prejudices of most of the states, that I think such a measure cannot be effected in any one of them. I sup pose it could be so managed that Congress can have every real and substantial power, only reserving to Maryland a mere nominal super intending control in Annapolis. Congress were cruelly treated by the 96 THE BLAND PAPERS. state of Pennsylvania in 1779, in regard to the sloop Active; and, for want of efficient local powers in Philadelphia, were liable to be insult ed by the mob in regard to the payment of the interest of Joan-office certificates. Mr. Sergeant in 1776 was beaten by Mr. Gunning Bedford for something that he did in Congress; which honorable body, by remaining in the capital of any state, must be ever exposed to the danger of jangling with the executive branch of it, and I al ways wish to obviate any possible jealousies between the continental and state governments. Four years ago I was pretty generally acquainted with all the mem bers of Congress, but now with very few of them. I have a slight acquaintance with Mr. Daniel Carroll, but know not any other dele gate from Maryland, even by sight. Were I well acquainted with any of our delegates, I should have written to him on the subject ; but I re quest you will show them all this letter and the enclosed. I transmit three copies to be by you given to any of your acquaintances among the eastern and southern delegates of Congress ; and shall take it as a very great favor if you will candidly inform me whether you think Congress will accept, in case Maryland offers Annapolis, with substan tial local powers. I am confident, from what I have heard from our assembly, that they would in such case be enacted, and granted with very little opposition. From what I can learn, Annapolis is one of the most central places in the union in point of distance ; and, though it is not in the relative situation of the different states, yet it would be but just that the inconveniences in attending Congress should be shared among the different states as equally as may be. The southern states have suf fered more than any others by the ravages of the enemy, and arc entitled to more consideration from those to the eastward than to be put to greater inconveniences than they, merely because they are un fortunately the minority. I have a better opinion of their patriotism and liberality of soul, than to suspect that they would be actuated by local selfish views, when it is their duty to promote the general good of the continent. The constitution of Maryland being stable, agreeable to all ranks of its inhabitants, and opposite to every principle of anarchy and levelism, Congress would be more agreeably fixed in it than in Penn sylvania, where an unlimited democracy (the most horrid of all governments) prevails, and of course no one can be secure of personal safety under it. Annapolis being but a small place, Maryland could safely grant the Congress local and substantial powers in it, without THE BLAND PAPERS. 97 missing them ; whereas in Philadelphia they are ciphers, and cannot have the powers requisite to render them respectable, without injuring the commerce of the place. And, to every thinking man on the con tinent, the prospect must be very disagreeable, when it is considered that congress may possibly be in danger of being mobbed, if they do not flatter the prejudices of the majority of the lower class of citi zens, and the measures they may wish to be adopted, may not con stantly be right and proper. Our delegates can describe the situation of Annapolis, its advan tages and disadvantages. I will just observe, that under our old go vernment, it was chiefly inhabited by men of fortune, who held lucra tive posts, and the most eminent practising lawyers in the state; most of whom since the present revolution, not having the same inducements to continue there, have removed elsewhere ; and a num ber of elegant houses are thereby in some measure rendered useless ; which might be purchased by the ministers of finance, foreign affairs, war, and marine, and the other leading officers on the general civil establishment, rhuch cheaper than they could be built in any part of the continent. The market would be well supplied when there was a constant demand for provisions; and fish and oysters would be brought thither in great abundance, as well as all kinds of wild fowl. I have scribbled a long letter to you, chiefly upon the motive of promoting the general good, and therefore I am confident you will excuse a liberty I have taken, and answer candidly and fully as soon as leisure from your public duties will permit * * * We all join in our best compliments to Mrs. Bland and yourself. I am, with esteem and regard, dear sir, your most obedient and hum ble servant, &c. LETTER LXXIX. From Gen. George Weedon. Fredericksburg, April 1st, 1783. My dear colonel, Ten thousand pardons do I beg of you for not answering your pre vious letter, inclosing Mr. Morris's notes for Mrs. Mercer, and ten thousand thanks to you for your politeness and friendship in that business — and ten times ten thousand congratulations on this late, 13 98 THE BLAND PAPERS. most glorious and important blessing of peace. When I look back I can scarcely believe it yet— however, so it is, and with wisdom now among ourselves, we shall be the greatest and happiest nation on earth. And I trust we shall have gratitude enough to hold in remem brance the extraordinary exertions and favors of our eminently ac tive and great ally. It is my prayer that we may, as a nation, strictly and religiously adhere to our engagements with them — and, as an individual, I am sure no time or circumstance can ever eradicate from my breast, while I have life, the bountiful influences of Louis XVI. No steps are yet taken to locate and survey our lands — we are upon apian of adopting something for that purpose this next assembly, and rest assured I shall particularly attend to your interest in this busi ness — it will now be a pretty thing, and with our five years full pay, will enable us poor continentals to tell our stories and drink our cider with a cheerful mind. A propos, what becomes of the land congress promised us 1 We have a demand on that honorable body, for a cer tain proportion to each rank, as you may see by their resolutions (I think) in 1776. If any thing is done, or will be done in it, be so obliging as to advise me, and act for me there. I have loan-office certificates issued in 1776 and '77, from the office in Philadelphia, amounting to 1,600 dollars — has any measure been adopted to liqui date them, or what is the mode by which I may draw the interest? I have always counted upon those as my stand-by — am fearful, howe ver, they will deceive me. This place affords no news worthy your attention, or I would com municate it — whenever leisure and inclination concur, I shall esteem it a favor to hear from you. Pray make my compliments to your good lady, and believe me, my dear colonel, with every sentiment of esteem, your obedient servant, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. 99 LETTER LXXX. From the Chevalier de Dubuysson.* (The original in French.) Paris, April 1st, 1783. My dear colonel, I have received the letter which you had the goodness to write me, dated the 8th of August, which has afforded me the more pleasure since I have formed for you the most sincere friendship, and because all the assurances of yours are always infinitely flattering to me. I congratulate you most sincerely upon the glorious peace which the United States have concluded. Their cause was too good, and entrusted to too good hands, for it to have resulted otherwise. I ima gine that many Americans will now visit France. I should like very much indeed that you should be of the number ; and it would give me great pleasure to convince you in person of the high regard which I have expressed for you. I believe that at this time congress is occupied in framing new ordi nances, which give a constitution and solid form to the thirteen states. If, in your moments of leisure, you will give me a detail of them, you will oblige me extremely. Although I receive from time to time the news of your country, I am informed of nothing, or at least very imper fectly. Send me ^specially an account of the new measures which con gress may have taken, both military, civil and financial. Whether there are any new laws of interest, whether the army remains on foot, and of what sort it is. Let me know also the treatment which has been shown to the officers who served in that country. In short, my dear colonel, enter into all the particulars, and you will infinitely oblige one who is entirely devoted to you. Since the peace France is very barren of news, and we occupy • The Chevalier de Dubuysson was a French officer, engaged in the American service during the revolution ; in the course of which he was made prisoner by the enemy. The following mention is made of him by General Henry Lee. "De Kalb [at Camden, S. C, August 16th, 1780] sustaining by his splendid example the courageous efforts of our inferior force, in his last resolute attempt to seize victory, received eleven wounds, and was made prisoner. His yet lin gering life was rescued from immediate death, by the brave interposition of Lieute nant-colonel Dubuysson, one of his aids-de-camp ; who, embracing the prostrate general, received into his own body the bayonets pointed at his friend. * • • Feeling the pressure of death, he stretched out his quivering hand to his friend, Dubuysson, proud of his generous wounds, and breathed his last in benedictions on his faithful brave division." Lee's Memoirs, vol. 1, pp. 183-4 100 THE BLAND PAPERS. ourselves here in nothing but pleasure and festivity. M. de Rocham- beau and his staff have arrived ; the king gave this general a very gracious reception. Monseigneur said to him, " I have read, in the Commentaries of Cssar, that a small army, commanded by a great general, can achieve wonders, and you are a proof of it." We are daily in expectation of Messrs. D'Estaing, Crillon, and La Fayette, who are still in Spain. They talk of reorganizing all the old military ordinances, from the time of Louis XIV; and there is to appear a new military code. Im portant changes in the navy are announced, and many councils of war. M. de Vergennes has been made president of the board of finance, which brings him an income of 60,000 francs. We are as sured here that Mr. Fox goes in as prime minister of England. That able man was not willing it should be said that it was he who made the peace ; and he resumes the reins of government now that it is done. The north has caused us a little uneasiness for some time, and we had strong fears of a new war. The emperor, and empress of Rus sia entertained grand designs against the Turks, our allies. But, thanks to M. de Vergennes, all is settled. The Turks make some concessions, and the emperor has written M. de Vergennes a very flattering letter ; the empress has made him a knight of the order of the Holy Ghost, to the tune of 100,000 francs. Such, my dear colonel, is all the news which I am able to send you. I regret that I can give you no information of M. Lanneau. Since I have been in Paris, I have written seven or eight times on this sub ject, and can receive no answer. I only know that M. Duval is a great Jew. However, one of our commodores, whom I have seen at a watering-place, and who is his fellow countryman, has undertaken to make him pay. I am in daily expectation of intelligence from him. M. Francisse, who is here, and who is dying of consumption, tells me that he likewise has applied to him for this money, without being able to succeed. I beg, my dear colonel, you will believe that there is no negligence on my part, and that I have nothing more at heart than to seize every occasion which will enable me to demonstrate my gratitude, and to convince you of the entire unfeigned attachment which I have formed for you during life, and with which I have the honor to be, dear colonel, your very humble and obedient servant, &c. I pray you will be kind enough to present my regards to Mrs. Bland, and assure her of the desire I feel to see her in France. At the residence of Madame the Marchioness de Monestay, Rue Bourbon, Faubourg St. Germain. THE BLAND PAPERS. 101 P. S. I have at length within two days received a letter from one of our commodores, who tells me that he has taken all imaginable pains to make the Tricquet family settle with you. He informs me that they pass generally for people of very bad character, on whom you cannot rely with any certainty. They have said that the bill had been paid a long time since in goods which Mrs. Bland purchased of them. But they have been able to produce neither order nor receipt for the said goods. He concludes by advising me to apply to the naval commander at Rochefort. If this meets your wishes, send me forthwith all the pa pers which can attest the said debt, and I will endeavor by every means in my power here to succeed in obtaining for you your money. LETTER LXXXII. From General Washington. Newburgh, N. Y., 4th of April, 1783. Dear sir, On Sunday last, the Baron de Steuben handed me your obliging favor of the 22d of March. Permit me to offer you my unfeigned thanks, for the clear and candid opinions which you have given me of European politics. Your reasoning upon the conduct of the differ ent powers at war, would have appeared conclusive, had not the happy event which has since been announced to us, and on which I most sincerely congratulate you, proved how well they were founded. Peace has given rest to speculative opinions, respecting the time and terms of it. The first has come as soon as we could well have ex pected it, with the disadvantages under which we labored ; and the latter is abundantly satisfactory. It is now the bounden duty of every one to make the blessings thereof as diffusive as possible. Nothing would so effectually bring this to pass, as the removal of those local prejudices which intrude upon, and embarrass that great line of policy, which alone can make us a free, happy and powerful peo ple. Unless our union can be fixed upon such a basis, as to accom plish these, certain I am we have toiled, bled, and spent our treasure, to very little purpose. We have now a national character to esta blish ; and it is of the utmost importance to stamp favorable impres sions upon it ; let justice then be one of its characteristics, and grati- 102 THE BLAND PAPERS. set out for Virginia, about the 1st of September, unless something ex traordinary should occur. I am, my dear sir, with the greatest re gard, your friend, &c. LETTER LX. From General Washington. White [Plains, August,] 1778. Dear sir, [I have understood] by a letter from Col. Baylor, of 13th July, that horses had got to such extravagant prices, that it was in vain to think of procuring but very few more for dragoon service. I have there fore desired him to desist from purchasing, and to come immediately to the army with [his] men and horses. I desire you may do the same. It is probable that some of both men and horses may be unfit to travel, when this order reaches you, and that some of the arms and accou trements, which you may have bespoke, may be unfinished. I therefore desire you to leave an active, diligent officer to wait until they are ready, and then bring them on. It is my wish to draw the whole of the cavalry speedily together, that we may endeavor to confine the enemy to as strict bounds as possible. I am, dear sir, your most obe dient servant, &c. Col. Bland. LETTER LXI. From Colonel John Banister Head-quarters, September 11th, 1778. Dear sir, The committee of arrangement request you would transmit to head-quarters, either to the commander-in-chief or them, an exact re turn of your regiment, and, if possible, an arrangement of it pursuant to the new regulation of congress, specifying in the return the parti cular state from which each recruit was raised. If any disputes sub sist among the captains or subalterns, they are to be settled by a board THE BLAND PAPERS. 103 to be appointed for that purpose ; and if any such prevail among the field officers, you will please to make a state and report thereof to this committee ; and as no claims, not represented before the commit tee make their report, can be admitted, without an application to con gress, they wish the utmost despatch. With a return of the officers' names, send the dates of their commissions. I am, in behalf of the committee, your most obedient servant, &c. Inclosed is a copy of the new arrangement prescribed by congress for your direction. LETTER LXII. From Col. Bland. Jb. to Mrs. Bland, his lady, at Farmingdell. Baltimore, September 13th, 1778. My dearest Patsy, Left alone in Grant's tavern, I do not think I can better employ my time than in conversing with my Patsy ; although I wrote you yester day by Mr. Bolling, my heart dictates, and its admonitions I will fol low. As I hardly expect to hear from you before I arrive at camp, I shall employ every leisure moment in writing to you, that when they are passed, you may in turn console me, for my absence and my fa tigues, with your agreeable chat. If possible, my dear, let there be, no repining, or nothing to aggravate that lively sense of pain, which a separation from you gives me ; let your letters to me be calculated to alleviate and not to cause distress. Remember 'tis for you, for my country, for my honor, that I endure this separation, the dangers and the hardships of war. Let Spartan fortitude inflame your breast; and remember that America cannot be free, and therefore cannot be of her sons and the heroism of her - „:™„i ¦- ~ j— ~JJy well; and the farther north I advance the more I find my constitution invigorated. I fear I was not cal culated for the meridian of Virginia, where fortune has cast my lot. * * * I wrote to Davis from Alexandria, and in his letter in closed one for Peachy, Poythress, Bate & Co. Pray ask Dick Bate whether he received it, and press an immediate answer to it ; it was a letter of great consequence. If he has not, tell him where to ap ply. There is one Mr. Constable gone on to Virginia ; let him know 104 THE BLAND PAPERS. tude another. Public creditors of every denomination will be com prehended in the first ; the army in a particular manner will have a claim to the latter. To say that no distinction can be made between the claims of public creditors, is to declare that there is no difference in circumstances, or that the services of all men are equally alike. This army is of near eight years' standing, six of which they have spent in the field, without any other shelter from the inclemency of the seasons than tents, or such houses as they could build for them selves without expense to the public. They have encountered hun ger, cold, and nakedness. They have fought many battles and bled freely. They have lived without pay ; and in consequence of it, officers, as well as men, have subsisted upon their rations. They have often, very often, been reduced to the necessity of eating salt pork or beef, not for a day, or a week only, but months together, without vegetables, or money to buy them ; or a cloth to wipe on. Many of them, to do better, and to dress as officers, have contracted heavy debts, or spent their patrimonies ; the first see the doors of jails open to receive them ; whilst those of the latter are shut against them. Is there no discrimination, then, no further exertion to be made in favor of men under these peculiar circumstances, in the mo ment of their military dissolution 1 Or if no worse cometh of it, are they to be turned adrift soured and discontented, complaining of the ingratitude of their country, and, under the influence of these pas sions, to become fit subjects for unfavorable impressions and unhappy dissensions'? For, permit me to add, though every man in the army feels his distress, it is not every one that will reason to the cause of it. I would not, from the observations here made, be understood to mean, that congress should (because I know they cannot, nor does the army expect it,) pay the full arrearages due to them,- till conti nental or state funds are established for the purpose. They would, from what I can learn, go home contented, nay, thankful, to receive what I have mentioned in a more public letter of this date, and in the manner there expressed ; and surely this may be effected with proper exertions ; or what possibility was there of keeping the army toge ther, if the war had continued, when the victualling, clothing, and other expenses of it were to have been added 1 Another thing, sir, (as I mean to be frank and free in my communi cations, on this subject,) I will not conceal from you. It is the invi dious dissimilarity in the payments to men in civil and military life. The first receive every thing ; the other get nothing but bare subsist ence. They ask what this is owing to ? And reasons have been THE BLAND PAPERS. 105 assigned, which, say they, amount to this, that men in civil life have stronger passions, and better pretensions to indulge them, or less vir tue and regard to their country than we. Otherwise, as we are all contending for the same prize, and equally interested in the attain ment of it, why do we not bear the burthen equally 1 These, and other comparisons, which are unnecessary to enume rate, give a keener edge to their feelings, and contribute not a little to sour their tempers. As it is the first wish of my soul to see the war happily and speedily terminated, and those who are now in arms return to citizenship, with good dispositions, I think it a duty which I owe to candor and to friendship, to point you to such things as my opportunities have given me reason to believe will have a tendency to harmony, and bring them to pass. I shall only add that, with much esteem and regard, I am, dear sir, your most obedient and humble servant, &c. The Honorable Theodorick Bland. LETTER LXXXI. From Col. Bland to his Excellency Gen. Washington, " in answer to his of the 31st of March, and 4th of April." " A rough draft." [April, 1783.] Sir, I have been honored with your excellency's two favors of the 31st' ultimo, and the 4th instant, the latter accompanied with your full and explicit answer on the subject on which I addressed your excellency in my last, at the request of the committee ; it has been according to your desire communicated to Col. Hamilton and the other members who compose the committee confidentially, and is now under consi deration. We have conferred with the superintendant of finance, and, be assured, our utmost endeavors shall not be wanting to bring the objects your excellency has pointed to with so much clearness, energy and candor, to a speedy and I hope a happy conclusion. Con fident I am that there is every disposition in congress to appreciate the services and sufferings of the army (unquestionably the most meritorious class of American citizens) in this long and at length suc cessful contest ; and I am not less persuaded in my own mind, that 106 THE BLAND PAPERS. what depends Upon the states respectively, to put the finishing hand to a complete compensation for their long and meritorious services, will be cheerfully complied with, when so practicable a mode as that you recommend is pursued. But these, sir, are only the expectations or opinions of an individual strongly impressed and ardently (perhaps too sanguinely) hoping for that desirable event ; in which expectation, if I am disappointed, I shall with you. sir, have to lament the most fatal infatuation, and the grossest ingratitude that ever seized the heads, or corrupted the hearts of a nation and its councils, towards a body of men to whom they owe their political existence, and all the blessings that every good man wishes to see flow from our happy union and independence. We hope to have the answer to-morrow from the superintendant of finance, on the practicability of the measure, and, should it be in the affirmative, I think I can assure your excellency that such is the inte rest the committee take in the welfare of the army, that they will not stop in their endeavors to devise such measures as may in the end prove so beneficial and satisfactory as those which your excellency .has thought of, in their power. Your excellency's observations on the necessity of establishing a national character, stamped with the indelible and unalterable traits of justice, gratitude and faith, carry with them the irresistible force of con viction, and meet with my most cordial concurrence. Nor have I a doubt, that when the tumult of war has subsided, that this enlighten ed country, though at present young in politics, will soon discover the truth of your observation, and adopt it as the surest basis on which to found the future prosperity of these rising and important states. 'Tis with infinite pleasure that I think I have observed such ideas suc ceeding rapidly to those principles of chicane which so strongly marked the councils as well as the manners of the people at large in the days of paper and depreciation. I am led from these considera tions and obseravtions to form the most pleasing augury of our future greatness and respectability among nations, which has in a great measure dispelled those fears and bodings of evil that a jarring of interests among so many sovereignties, united in one federal chain, seemed to threaten. And I am happy to think that local interests and prejudices will always give way to a great and general good, when it is made clearly to be seen and understood, and prudently and consti tutionally pursued. These, sir, are, in my apprehension, the grand objects of our gene ral council ; a steady pursuit of which principles, without turning to THE BLAND PAPERS. 107 the right or left, from local prejudices, party animosity, partial views, or corrupt influence, will certainly guide the vessel of state, charged with the interests of each individual state, to a safe anchorage, and reward them with the estimation and applause of their fellow citizens, and the admiration and respect of foreign powers. I am happy to inform your excellency that the requisition to the states, on such principles as the constitution will authorize if adopted, and on such liberal principles as I hope will facilitate if not ensure their adoption, is now so far in forwardness as to be on the point of its passage through congress, which will be the means of providing ample and permanent funds for the payment of the interest not only of pur army, but of foreign and domestic creditors, as well as for sinking the principal. I cannot omit suggesting that your personal influence with some of the leading members of our legislature, and perhaps with some of the other states, might give a happy turn to those requisitions when they are laid before the assemblies, especially if grounded on the feelings and true situation of the army, with which you, sir, are acknowledged to be the best acquainted, and more conversant than any other person can possibly be. Embarked in the same cause, and I flatter myself on the same prin ciple as your excellency, I hope I need not apologize for the length of my letter, as its contents will fully demonstrate the interest I have in the successful issue of our common endeavors, and be an additional proof of the entire confidence and esteem with which I am your most obliged and obedient servant, &c. LETTER LXXXII1. From Arthur Lee to Theodorick Blind, Esq., near Petersburg, Va. Annapolis, April 7th, 1 784. Dear Bland, How comes it that I have not received one line from you though I have written so often? Has the uncommon rigor of the winter frozen up all the genial currents of friendship's soul ? Has the frost also reached Mrs. Bland's heart 1 We have wanted some of the effu sions both of friendship and fancy to console us here. Why will you keep them all to yourselves ? The Chevalier de la Luzerne is here. I asked him whether he in- 14 108 THE BLAND PAPERS. tended visiting you. He says it will be impracticable. He leaves America for Europe in August. I believe M. de M. has not treated him fairly, and that he has been undermined. We have appointed the Generals Clarke, Wolcott, Greene and But ler, and Mr. Higginson, commissioners to treat with the Indians. The treaty to be held as soon as possible— Gen. Schuyler will be added to-day. A plan is preparing to put the department of finance into commission, and regulate its powers. The superintendant pro fesses his intention of resigning in May. But I observe his partizans are much against the report. Therefore either he is insincere, or they servile, perhaps both. We talk of adjourning in May, and leaving a committee of the states. It will, I think, be wrong ; but some members are so afraid of a southern climate in the summer, that they take it for granted they shall die unless they adjourn. My love to Mrs. Bland, and compliments to Mr. Tucker — Adieu. LETTER LXXXIV. From Arthur Lee. Dumfries, {Prince William co., Va.,] April 8th, 1 783. Dear friend, In a fortnight I hope to see your patriotic eyes again, and pay my devoirs to Madame. The expectation of peace has had little apparent effect here as yet. There is so little money in this part of the state at least, that little tobacco is purchased, and ho higher price than 20 shillings offered. The refugees have quitted our rivers, I hope never more to return. The elections for Prince William and King George are over : Lee and Bullet for the former, Pollard and Jones for the latter. Carter, Gar ret and Mercer are candidates for Stafford, which elects next Monday. It is supposed that Garrett and Mercer will run each other hard. These are all the politics of these parts. I hope you will not ratify the peace till I return to partake in the joy of that splendid event. Be so good as to give the enclosed to my nephew, and to save my papers for me. I called on Mrs. Custis in my way, and think she is a most tempting widow, independent of the jointure land. Remember me to all friends ; lay me at the feet of Mrs. Bland and in the bosom of your friendship. Adieu, &c. THE BLAND PAPERS. 109 LETTER LXXXV. From Benjamin Harrison, Governor.* Virginia, in council, May 31st, 1783. Gentlemen, A few days ago an express from Baylor's regiment delivered the enclosed, by which you will find that they have mutinied, and the cause which they assign for their conduct. General Morgan, and two of the supernumerary officers of the corps, were sent, the next day, to meet them, and carry them to Winchester ; which, we understand from Doctor Lee,f was agreeable to the determination of congress, who proposed to order them into the state to be disbanded. You will please to lay the letter before them, for their directions. I wrote to the mutineers, and sharply reprimanded them for their conduct, but promised, in consideration of their past services, to overlook it, as far as it related to me. They are really a band of heroes, who have performed great and meritorious services, and I am satisfied would not have taken this rash step, if their sufferings had not been very great. Enclosed you have an answer to Coulougnac, and * * * in answer to one written to you, which you'll please to forward, with the one to M. Mazzei, I am, with great respect, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. P. S. You have enclosed a resolve of the General Assembly, ap proving of a treaty of commerce with Great Britain. LETTER LXXXVI. From Arthur Lee. Richmond, June ISth, 1783. Dear Bland, A person, arrived here since the date of your last, affirms that the definite treaty was actually arrived at Philadelphia. The house of delegates have unanimously agreed that the proposition of congress * For an account of this person while governor see Travels of Chastellux. t Arthur Lee. HO THE BLAND PAPERS. for laying taxes within this state, &c. is inadmissible. A bill is order ed in for levying the 5 per cent, impost, and appropriating it to con gress, for 25 years, and that the deficiency of the requisition shall be made up out of the taxes on land, and negroes and polls. The state is resolved to pay its portion of the debt incurred by the war, faith fully and truly, but not to suffer the exercise of any foreign power or influence within it. My opinion is, that congress would do well to dismiss all these visionary projects of power, for, most assuredly, they never will succeed. There was great manoeuvring on the election of delegates for congress. When it was found that you and Mr. Madison, being in the nomination, interfered with some of their candidates, they per suaded the members that you should not be balloted for ; and a reso lution to that purpose being obtained, both were withdrawn. The next manoeuvre was against me. The party having seen the tickets, on the day appointed for the ballot, and finding my name upon almost every one, got one of their friends to move, and obtain a sudden ad journment of the senate, which put off the ballot till next day. Mr. Zane* was then added to the nomination, that the back members, where his interest lay, might be induced to put his name in the place of mine ; which succeeded so well that one of the examiners told me there were fifteen tickets in which my name was scratched out and his inserted. They next applied to my brother,! to persuade him to agree to serve if elected. They nominated him, and Mr. H. made the most fulsome speech in his praise that he could utter. In the mean time they were busy in whispering that there would be a great impro priety in electing two brothers at the same time. But my brother declining, that scheme failed, and they had the mortification to see me elected by 76 votes. But they have excluded me from the assembly, after next session, if I accept to serve in congress, after the present. Three weeks at farthest will end this session, and I shall leave this place next week on my way. Tobacco rather falls here, I believe for want of specie, and from the vengeance threatened against refugees ; which prevents those at New York from coming hither with money to purchase, and leaves the planters in the power of a few. Izard has not written me one line ; I hope Mrs. Izard is arrived, and that she has occupied all his time. Farewell, &c. * General Isaac Zane, of Frederick county. f Richard Henry Lee. THE BLAND PAPERS. HI LETTER LXXXVII. From Jacob Morris. New York, 17th July, 1783. Dear sir, In compliance with your request I called immediately on my arri val last evening on Mr. King ; he was not then at home, but I have since seen him. Your man Isaac I have seen, but Kit, who is a ser vant to Captain Squires, of a British ship of war, is gone to Halifax with that gentleman. However, as Captain S. was sent with de spatches, and ordered to return directly, Kit will probably be here again in a few days. I am, however, sorry to inform you that I am fearful neither Isaac nor Kit will be prevailed upon to return to their duty, as the former tells me that by intelligence from Virginia he finds the negroes have been treated with very great severity by their former masters after they returned. I persuaded him to call on me at twelve o'clock to-morrow, and have some further conversation with me on the subject ; not any thing shall be wanting on my part, you may rely on it, to induce him to return again to your service. I cannot avoid mentioning to you that if you are fortunate enough to get your negroes again, you will, unless they are fellows of uncom mon virtue, find them vastly altered for the worse. The blacks at present in this town are, I think, the most worthless, profiigate set of scoundrels in the world. I would for my own part scarcely accept of them as a gift. I shall be here when Kit returns ; I shall see him, and inform you of my proceedings with regard to them both. I remain, with great respect, your most obedient, humble servant, &c. LETTER LXXXVIH. From David Ramsay. Charleston, August 8th, 1783. Dear sir, I should have written to you sooner on the subject of your negroes, but Mr. Ferguson and Mr. Bee were both out of town. I have in- 112 THE BLAND PAPERS. quired of them both. Mr. Ferguson knows nothing of them. Mr. Bee says that they are both in New York ; that, if they ever should return here, he will take care to have them secured for you. Our assembly will not pass the five per cent, agreeably to the re commendations of congress ; they contend for separate credit. The doctrine here is, we will pay our full annual quota, but no more. I wish that this may re-establish our injured credit ; but I have my fears of the inefficiency of every thing short of permanent general reve nue. But I have done with these subjects, and at present confine myself to the more humble, but much more lucrative business of the practice of physic. Assure yourself of my continued regards. Mrs. Ramsay joins with me in presenting our most respectful compli ments to Mrs. Bland. I have the honor to be your most obedient hum ble servant, &c. LETTER LXXXIX. From Archibald McAlisteb.* Baltimore, December 20th, 1783. Dear sir, As I hope and believe you and Mrs. Bland are arrived safe among your friends ere this reaches you, I use this occasion to pay my re spects, and congratulate you on your return and interview with your consanguine friends. It would have afforded me much pleasure to have waited on you and Mrs. Bland the morning of your departure from Baltimore, but Mrs. McAlister being then much indisposed, pre vented me enjoying it. * "Lieutenant McAlister, who will have the honor of delivering these de spatches, will present congress with the standard of the garrison which fell into his possession during the attack. Major Lee speaks of this gentleman's conduct in the handsomest terms. Sparks' Washington's Writings, vol. 6, p. 332. Letter to the president of congress. " Sir, " I have received your report of the attack of Paulus Hook, transmitted by Captain Rudulph, which I have forwarded to congress, by Lieutenant McAlister. * * * My motives for sending Lieutenant McAlister with the despatches were, that he commanded a forlorn hope, and got possession of the standard. * * * You will send a small escort of dragoons with Lieutenant McAlister." Letter to Major Henry Lee, p. 333. " The brevet rank and pay of a captain were given to Lieutenants McAlister and Rudulph respectively."— p. 376—7, in note. THE BLAND PAPERS. 113 Since your departure the honorable the congress have generally passed through town, on their way to assemble at our capitol ; though I believe they have not yet made a house. On Thursday evening arrived in town our most illustrious chief, his excellent excellency, General Washington. He was escorted to town by a number of respectable gentlemen ; and a brilliant collection of ladies assembled to entertain him through the evening. Yesterday he honored us with his company at a public dinner ; previously we paid our respects to him through an address ; and in the evening he led and mingled in the joyous dance. This morning he set out for Annapolis, to make his last bow to congress ; unbend his mind from the important charge of public business ; receive the applause of the present and succeeding world ; and while on earth to be enfolded in the arms of domestic felicity. He stands engaged to dine with Mrs. Washington on Christmas day ; this prevented his longer stay. * * * LETTER LC. From Stephen Higginson.* Boston, January, 1784. Dear sir, You returned home, I imagine, with much greater satisfaction, hav ing given your voice in favor of the alternate residence of congress. That decision of congress was, in my opinion, founded on the best of policy ; it has long been my wish to see the southern and eastern states united. Their common safety and interest must be increased by that decision ; for the middle states had certainly laid such plans, and acquired such an influence, as would soon have given them the entire direction of the great national concerns. Pennsylvania, or rather a junto of ambitious individuals in it, had conceived the idea of lording it over the other states ; and nothing but a coalition of the extremities could have prevented their succeeding. They always exerted themselves to keep up a high degree of jealousy between the southern and eastern states ; and while their attention was engaged in watching each other, these would-be despots were ever concerting and executing their plans for the subjugation of both. But their schemes are now entirely defeated ; their web is broken, which they have with * Member of congress from Massachusetts in 1788. 114 THE BLAND PAPERS. so much art and industry been for several years spinning. Hence their great chagrin ; they now see their fond hopes of trampling on the rights of others, their strong lust for domination totally disap pointed. There cannot I conceive be but one source of hope to them ; and that is, to persuade the southern states, that they may secure to themselves the permanent residence of congress, by refusing to vote for the adjournment northward, and to excite a jealousy in us, that such are the views of the southern states. Having urged you to such a conduct, and raised an apprehension as to your intentions, they may bring us to join them in removing congress to Trenton, and fix ing them there permanently. Great care will be necessary, I appre hend, to guard against their schemes for dividing us, and renewing our jealousies of each other. The southern states must be cautious that by such a lure they are not enticed into a measure of that kind, which would certainly give just ground for complaint and apprehen sion on our part ; and we ought to take great care that we entertain no ill-founded jealousy of unfair views in them, and be thereby hur ried into a union with Pennsylvania, and for fixing congress perma nently in Trenton. I mention this to you, because I am informed that they mean to play this game, and by this means to break up the present happy coalition. Cannot your state be induced to give their delegates similar instruc tions to ours, viz., to insist that all officers shall be annually elected ; that the treasury shall be put into commission, and be managed by three persons, one from the southward, one from the northward, and one from the middle states ; that no moneys shall by the commission ers be applied to any use, till ft shall have been first appropriated thereto by congress, either by a general or special appropriation, &c. Such instructions from two or three large states would certainly pro duce a great change ; were our great officers annually elected, they would not venture upon such plans as we have seen operating for several years. Our servants would then be upon their good behavior, for none but a right conduct would secure their election. Mr. Dana has returned from Russia, without having effected any thing. He had removed every obstacle to his reception ; had settled every point with that court ; and waited only the news of the definite treaty be ing signed, to perfect his business : when he received a letter from our secretary of foreign affairs, which I have seen, telling him that con gress did not wish him to form a treaty; and, farther, that his commission did not, in the opinion of congress, authorize him to complete one, but only to treat upon the terms proper to found one THE BLAND PAPERS. 115 upon. This induced Mr. Dana to return with the best grace he could ; for he knew that, after what he had stated to that court, he must have given them great offence, and rendered congress and himself very ridiculous, to have told them at the last moment that his powers were not sufficient for the business upon which he was sent thither. He therefore availed himself of his then ill state of health, and stated that as the cause of his departure. Mr. Secretary certainly wrote that which was false ; for congress had, when Madison's report for calling him home was under consideration last spring, thoroughly at tended to his commission, and even Mr. Madison determined that his powers were plenary. This was done when the secretary was pre sent, and Mr. Madison's report was rejected ; but the junto had de termined that Mr. Dana should come home, and that no treaty should be made with Russia, perhaps by the order of the Count de Vergen nes, and the views of the junto must not be defeated ; if congress could not be brought to order him home, Mr. Secretary would do it himself. But I hope soon to see better times, when no great officer shall dare to act counter to the sense of congress ; when every servant to the public shall feel that he is to respond ; and that if his conduct has not been fair and honest, he shall apprehend on just ground disgrace and punishment. When this shall be the case, then we may expect to see that our great officers demean themselves as they ought. * * * LETTER LCI. From Henry Lee, Jr. Fredericksburg, October 5th, 1784. Dear sir, As you did not give us the pleasure of your company at the meet ing of our society,* I have subscribed your name. I have some faint recollection that you authorized me so to do, when I saw you in Richmond. If I have done wrong, attribute it to my zeal to serve you ;- if right, you will be pleased to confirm it by a letter addressed to me whenever an opportunity may offer. I am, my dear sir, with every sentiment of respect and esteem, yours, &c. * Probably the " Cincinnati." 15 116 THE BLAND PAPERS. LETTER LCII. From Stephen Higginson. Boston, March 31st, 1785. Dear sir, Yours I received dated January 29th. With much pleasure I hear of your welfare and Mrs. B's. ; with still more, should I spend a day with you both either here or in Virginia ; but neither your situation nor mine will well admit of the voyage which is necessary thereto. The kind offer of Mrs. Bland would go far with me in deciding upon the voyage. The song she mentions is with me a favorite one ; with much pleasure have I heard her sing it, and highly should I be grati fied to hear her again. I have two girls that have good voices, and sing not badly. I wish for the notes and song, if you have them, that they may learn it ; no one this way that I can find has got the notes, nor have I yet met with any one who can sing the tune. I am surprised you had not received the fish and beef mentioned in my last. They went in my own vessel to James river, and Captain Dyer, the master, had particular directions about them. They must be in Mr. Paine's store at Richmond, and being directed for you, they ought to have been sent to you by Mr. Paine. I wish you would write to him about them ; the sloop Dusbury was the vessel that car ried them. The brandy and flour I should have acknowledged the receipt of; they came to hand in good order and were fine. The potatoes you lost I had much rather should have come to hand ; they are to us a luxury. Though the intercourse between this state and yours is great, it is not easy to get things to and from you. What you send to me by vessels bound here, I am sure of, and without any difficulty come at them ; but as you live distant from the great marts on your river, you are not so certain of receiving them in time. You have repeatedly mentioned your apprehension of getting into my debt. Lest this should prevent your mentioning such things as you wish to have from here, I will in future send you a memorandum of the cost of the articles ; and that you may feel no such uneasiness with respect to the past, I now send you a memorandum of the arti cles sent you the year past, which my cash account enables me to do. But that our exchange of conveniences may be perfectly equal, you will send me of your articles only such quantities as the relative prices of yours and mine with you shall balance. This I should have THE BLAND PAPERS. 117 done before, in compliance with your request, when the tariff was agreed upon generally, but I really felt a kind of shame at letting you know how extravagant all orders of people are here in their demands. We have not yet got rid of the effects of the war as to prices in any degree scarcely. I shall not introduce to you many of our Yankey captains for va rious reasons ; indeed I find that without my assistance you come at an acquaintance with them. I have heard a number of them mention your great civilities to them. My brother Harry has not yet ventured to put on the yoke of matrimony. He fears it will gall his neck, I ima gine, for though he has most seriously thought of it, and at times manfully resolved upon it, his courage fails him upon a realizing view of it. He is now in Virginia, and I suppose not agreeably situated. We hear very lately that he has lost his vessel upon your capes. This cannot be very pleasing to him ; his affections, for want of a more fit object, were in a good degree placed upon her. The losses you mention of commissions, are such we all are inces santly called to experience ; it is our business to prepare for them, and sure I am your philosophy will lead you to proper reflections on the occasion. When a good opportunity presents for this place, (and the return of the sloop in which Captain Turner takes passage, will be one,) the potatoes and hams will be very acceptable. Was it not for the gulph that lies between us, or the still more frightful distance of road, I should entertain the pleasing idea of again being happy in the enjoyment of a few social hours with you and Mrs. Bland. I wish you to tell her I shall the first leisure hour prepare for her mortifica tion a long letter to her, in which I may state many little things de scriptive of us and our manners. Please also to make my most respectful compliments, and thank her for her kind offer to regale me with " one fond kiss." I am the more obliged by the extension of the enjoyment ; from sun to sun is a long season to be gratified with such rapturous delight ; few of us have a capacity for enjoyments so exces sive and for so long a time. * * Retired from politics, and immersed in business, I know not how the world goes. I have done attending to the motions of the great political wheel. My taste for public life was always very inadequate to urge me to wish for it, at any past period, and now, though daily urged to engage in it, I am not to be wrought upon or drawn into it. Gerry* and Lowelf are this day to eat with me part of a leg of mutton ; * Elbridge Gerry. t J°nn Lowel. 118 THE BLAND PAPERS. when the table shall be cleared, I expect from Gerry the history of the last session, or rather the present session thus far of congress ; to hear of all their manoeuvres and little paltry arts to carry points. I wish you could be one of our party ; we would scrutinize and charac terise every action and all their conduct. You will have rather a hard task to read thus far. My hand shakes so I can scarcely write, and yet am obliged to write much. In ten derness to you I will stop, and subscribe yours affectionately, &c. APPENDIX. (A) MATOAX. This place is on the north side of the Appomattox river, above the falls, and about a mile from Petersburg. The name Matoax (or Matoaca) is borrowed from the individual appellation of Pocahontas. The father of John Randolph of Roanoke, (the orator,) John Randolph, Sen., of Roanoke, resided at Matoax, and there died in 1775. His relict (whose maiden name was Frances Bland) married secondly St. George Tucker, whereby Matoax fell into his possession, and he came to live there. Of the Matoax house nothing remains at present. It is com monly supposed that John Randolph of Roanoke (the orator) was born there ; but there is good reason to believe that the place of his nativity is Cawson's, (in Prince county,) the family seat of his maternal grandfather, Theodorick Bland, Sen. The years of his boyhood, however, it is certain that he passed at Matoax. He is said, in after life, when involved in the turmoil of politics, to have recurred with fond regret to his early days at Matoax, and in particular to his angling amusements there. Indeed, it is said to be a capital fishing spot to this day. Numerous arrow-heads, stone tomahawks, and other Indian relics found there, would seem to indicate it as formerly a favorite haunt of the natives. The ledges of rock at the rapids forming a kind of natural bridge across the river, its vicinity to the falls, and its piscatory advantages may perhaps have rendered Matoax, in the eye of the aborigines, an eligible spot for habitation. Farther up the river are some flourishing factories, of late years erected, which have adopted the name "Matoaca." A specimen of their fabrics may be seen injthe paper on'which this workis'printed. To the east of the site of Matoax house, on a rising ground, under a clump of oaks, are to be seen three tombstones, with Latin inscriptions, which are subjoined. JOHANNES RANDOLPH, Arm. Ob. xxviii Octo. MDCCLXXV. iEt. xxxiv. Non ossibus urna, nee mens Virtutibus absit. "John Randolph, Esq., died 28th October, 1775, aged 34. Let not a tomb be wanting to his ashes, nor memory .to his virtues." 120 THE BLAND PAPERS. I. H. S. FRANCESCO TUCKER BLANDS, Conjugis STL GEORGII TUCKER, Quis desiderio sit modus ? Obiit xviii Januarii, MDCCLXXXVIII. MT. XXXVI. "Jesus, the Savior of mankind. When shall we cease to mourn for Frances Bland Tucker, wife of St. George Tucker? She died 18th January, 1788, aged 36." MARTHA HALL, Ob. iv Non. Mart. MDCCLXXXIV. Quam sprevit Hymen, Pollux Phcebusque coluere. " Martha Hall died 4th of March, 1784. Whom Hymen slighted, Pollux and Apollo courted." (B) ANBUREY'S TRAVELS. " The Travels through the interior parts of North America," by Thomas An- burey, contain a full and entertaining account of the stay of the British troops of convention at Charlottesville. This work was published at London in 1789, and is very rare in the United States. Anburey was himself an officer of the con vention troops. His observations on Virginia are not confined to the barracks at Charlottesville, but extend to a variety of places which he was permitted to visit on parole. He descants on plantations, negroes, roads, fences, tobacco, hunting rabbits and opossums, quarter racing, Virginia riflemen, duels among the officers, otc. Among the illustrations of his work is a view of the barracks of the conven tion troops, a few miles from Charlottesville. He gives a burlesque account of Col. Bland, riding about with two tatterdemallion dragoons in front and two in rear, with drawn swords. He however admits that the colonel treated the prison- ers-of-war in gentlemanly style. Anburey, in company of some other British officers, visited Richmond. They visited also Col. Randolph, of Tuckahoe, Col. Cary, of Warwick, Chesterfield, and Col. Goode, of the same county. At War wick Col. Cary proposed to his guests to take a ride to Petersburg. This they expressed a strong desire to do, but thought themselves debarred by their parole ; upon which the colonel drew from his pocket a letter from the American com mandant at Charlottesville, granting them permission to go there — Col. Cary hav ing requested it for them. They accordingly rode to Petersburg, and their host amused them on the way with stories of Pocahontas and Powhatan. In return for this hospitality, Phillips and Arnold afterwards burnt Col. Cary's fine mills. THE BLAND PAPERS. 121 Anburey's Travels contain much matter peculiarly interesting to the Virginia reader. The following extracts are taken fiom the work. " But on our arrival at Charlottesville, no pen can describe the scene of misery and confusion that ensued ; the officers of the flrst and second brigade were in the town, and our arrival added to their distress ; this famous place we had heard so much of, consisted only of a court-house, one tavern, and about a dozen houses; all of which were crowded with officers, those of our brigade therefore were obliged to ride about the country, and entreat the inhabitants to take us in. " As to the men, the situation was truly horrible, after the hard shins they had experienced in their march from the Potomack, they were, instead of comfortable barracks, conducted into a wood, where a few log huts were just begun to be built, the most part not covered over, and all of them full of snow ; these the men were obliged to clear out, and cover over to secure themselves from the in clemency of the weather as quick as they could, and in the course of two or three days rendered them a habitable, but by no means a comfortable retirement ; what added greatly to the distresses of the men, was the want of provisions, as none had as yet arrived for the troops, and for six days they subsisted on the meal of In dian corn made into cakes. The person who had the management of every thing, informed us that we were not expected till spring. " Never was a country so destitute of every comfort ; provisions were not to be purchased for ten days ; the officers subsisted upon salt pork, and Indian corn made into cakes ; not a drop of any kind of spirit, what little there had been, was alrea dy consumed by the first and second brigade ; many officers, to comfort them selves, put red pepper into water, to drink by way of cordial. " Upon a representation of our situation, by Brigadier General Hamilton, to Colonel Bland, who commanded the American troops, he promised to render the situation of the men as comfortable as possible, and with all expedition. As to the officers, upon signing a parole, they might go to Richmond and other adjacent towns, to procure themselves quarters; accordingly a parole was signed, which allowed a circuit of near one hundred miles. And after the officers had drawn lots, as three were to remain in the barracks with the men, or at Charlottesville, the principal part of them set off for Richmond, many of them are at plantations, twenty or thirty miles from the barracks. I am quartered with Major Master and four other officers of our regiment, at this plantation, about twenty miles from the barracks ; the owner has given up his house, and gone to reside at his overseer's, and for the use of his house, we pay him two guineas a week. " On the arrival of the troops at Charlottesville, the officers, what with vexa tion, and to keep out the cold, drank rather freely of an abominable liquor, called peach brandy, which, if drunk to excess, the fumes raise an absolute delirium, and in their cups, several were guilty of deeds that would admit of no apology ; the .inhabitants must have actually thought us mad, for in the course of three or four days, there were no less than six or seven duels fought. " Colonel Bland, whojiommands the American troops, was formerly a physi cian, at a place called Petersburg, on the James River, but on the commence ment of the war, as being some way related to Bland, who wrote a military trea tise, he felt a martial