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HILLIARD, GRAY, & Co.
PROPOSE TO PUBLISH THE
WORKS OF BENJAMIN FRANKLIN ;
WITH
A LIFE OF THE AUTHOR, NOTES, AND ILLUSTRATIONS,
Br JARED SPARKS.

This work will be printed in the same style of
execution as the Writings of Washington. The
whole of the first volume will be taken up with an
original Life of Franklin, written expressly for
this edition, and containing many new particulars re-.
specting the political transactions of Franklin in the
course of his long residence in Europe. The re-;
searches of the editor in the public archives of Eng-.
land and France have brought into his possession a.
mass of valuable materials on this subject, which have
not hitherto been published. Nor have any pains been
spared to procure, from every source, whatever can
give truth and interest to the narrative of his life.
The work is intended to embrace a complete coU
lection of Dr. Franklin's writings, which will be me^
thodically arranged, carefully revised, and illustrated
with occasional notes and explanations, It will ex^
tend to six or seven volumes, which will be published
at different times till the whole shall be finished.
It is believed, that uniform editions of the writings
of Washington and Franklin, executed in a hand-,
some style of typography, and edited with care and
fidelity, will be regared by every person, as an hon
orable tribute of respect and gratitude to the two
greatest American names, and as worthy of a patron
age adequate to the magnitude and expense of the
undertaking,

THE WRITINGS

GEORGE WASHINGTON

VOL. III.

WA\§-miM<WrT©M

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Xrj;5,ia.vr?.i;L uy" -/Il.13 JJ m: eunxl .1.833

THE

WRITINGS OF «
GEORGE WASHINGTON; BEING HIS
CORRESPONDENCE, ADDRESSES, MESSAGES, AND OTHER
PAPERS, OFFICIAL AND PRIVATE,
SELECTED AND PUBLISHED FROM THE ORIGINAL MANUSCRIPTS ;
WITH
A LIFE OF THE AUTHOR,
NOTES, AND ILLUSTRATIONS.

By JARED SPARKS.

VOLUME III.

BOSTON:
RUSSELL, ODIORNE, AND METCALF,
AND
HILLIARD, GRAY, AND CO.
1834.

Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year one thousand eight
hundred and thirty-three, by Jared Sparks, in the Clerk's Office of the
District Court ofthe District of Massachusetts.

CAMBRIDGE:
CHARLES FOLSOM, PRINTER TO THE UNIVERSITY.

PART SECOND;

COMPRISING

CORRESPONDENCE

MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS
RELATING TO
THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

INTRODUCTION
TO THE SECOND PART.

This division of the work is intended to embrace the
period of the American Revolution, and to include such
of the letters and other writings of Washington, as have
been selected for publication, from the time he was ap
pointed Commander-in-chief of the army, till he resigned
his commission at the end of the war. Whether re
garded as to the variety, extent, and dignity of the topics
on which they treat, as authentic materials for history,
or as illustrating the character and acts of the great
American patriot, these papers possess an extraordinary
value and interest. They not only present an entire
view of the operations in which Washington was en
gaged, as the military chieftain of the war of indepen
dence, through every stage of the contest, but they
incidentally exhibit the internal condition and resources
of the country, the spirit of the people, the policy, aims,
and doings of the Continental Congress, and the origin
and progress of the new forms of civil government,
which were set up by the States and by smaller com
munities, as circumstances required, and to which the
people, and even Washington at the head of his armies,
rendered implicit obedience.

viii INTRODUCTION. [Part II-
Two complete copies of Washington's revolutionary
correspondence have been preserved at Mount Vernon.
The first consists of the original files, which he always
kept with him for reference and use in camp and in his
campaigns ; the second is a literal transcript from these
originals, recorded in forty-four large volumes, in which
all the letters are classified and arranged according to
their subjects and dates. This transcript was executed
under his own direction near the close of the war, by
secretaries employed for the purpose, who wrote a fair
and handsome hand, and on whose fidelity he could
rely. Even the dimensions of the volumes, the quality
of the paper, and the style of binding, were prescribed
by himself. Each parcel in the files is designated by a
letter of the alphabet, and each paper in the parcel is
numbered. By the aid of corresponding marks in the
margin of the letter-books, a sure and speedy reference
may be had to any original paper in the whole series.
A brief sketch of the plan, as drawn out by Washington,
and a few explanatory remarks, will show at the same
time the principles of the arrangement, and the varied
subjects of his correspondence.
1. Under the first great division were classed letters
to the Congress of the United States ; to Committees
of Congress ; to the Board of War and Ordnance ; to
American Ministers Plenipotentiary at Foreign Courts ;
to individual Members of Congress in their Public Char
acters. As he received his appointment, commission, instruc
tions, and all his powers from Congress, it was neces
sary, that his intercourse with that body should be full,
constant, and of the most confidential kind. In the first
place, the army was new, undisciplined, unprovided; very
few of the members of Congress were military men,
or possessed of any knowledge of military affairs either

Part II.] INTRODUCTION. IX
practical, or theoretical; the burden of organizing and
disciplining the army was at once thrown upon the
Commander-in-chief. But all the arrangements of this
sort, the rules and regulations, and every contemplated
change, were to be approved by Congress before they
could take effect; and Congress reserved wholly to them
selves the appointment of the general officers. Thus it
was not only the duty of Washington to obey instruc
tions and execute orders, but he was obliged to suggest
what these orders should be, and wait till his sugges
tions were passed into resolves by the Congress. This
was frequently a source of delay and embarrassment ; it
was a heavy and perpetual, tax upon the forethought and
reflection of the Commander-in-chief, and made him
virtually the head and soul of the whole military system,
although a jealousy of their civil rights, and a fear of the
tendency of warlike ambition, induced the members of
Congress to keep a salutary check in their own hands.
The condition of the army and an account of all the
principal occurrences were communicated at stated
times to Congress, doubtful cases were referred to their
decision, and returns forwarded respecting the depart
ments of the commissaries, quartermasters, and other
officers engaged in providing for the wants of the army,
and regulating its internal economy. The intimate and
peculiar relations, thus subsisting between Congress and
the army, gave rise to a correspondence, which, although
it necessarily ran into details, was nevertheless of great
importance. For similar purposes he kept up an inter
course by letter with Committees of Congress, the
Board of War, and individual members. By these
means his views were always presented to that assem
bly, and guided them in their deliberations and resolves.
2. Letters to Provincial Congresses, Conventions,
and Committees of Safety ; to Governors, Presidents,
vol. in. b

X INTRODUCTION. [Part II.
and other Executives of States; to Civil Magistrates and
Citizens of every Denomination.
Although the army was under the general control
and pay of the Continental Congress, and the number
of men to be furnished by each State was prescribed
from time to time by that body, yet the mode of raising
the men, and in part the supplying of them with arms
and clothing, were left to the States themselves. It
was the business of the Commander-in-chief to see, that
the men were actually brought into the field at the
proper times and places, as well as to call out the militia
upon emergencies and to dismiss them when their
services were no longer required. This duty opened
a wide field of correspondence with the States, and
some of Washington's best letters are circulars to the
governors, making appeals to the patriotism of the peo
ple, and urging powerful motives for exertion and sacri
fice in the common cause. Wherever the army was
stationed, he was always cautious to keep the military
and civil powers distinct, and to refer to the respective
States all matters of a local nature, which did not clearly
come within the jurisdiction of the army. The delicate
and troublesome concerns of the Tories were of this
description. The safety of the country required him to
use the force he commanded to apprehend suspected
persons ; but he invariably turned them over to the civil
authorities of the State in which they resided, to be
dealt with as the proper tribunals should decide. Oc
casions frequently occurred, likewise, for corresponding
with the committees of towns and smaller districts or
communities. 3. Letters to Officers of the Line of every Rank ; to
Officers of the Staff; and to all other Military Characters.
The correspondence under this head is much more
voluminous, than that under either of the others. It

Part II.] INTRODUCTION. xi
extends to the whole army of the United States, how
ever divided or wherever stationed ; to the commanding
officers in the great departments, to major-generals and
other officers on separate commands at posts or in de
tachments, to officers of every rank engaged in any
special service, such as partisan enterprises, foraging
expeditions, or schemes for attacking the enemy's out
posts, or procuring intelligence. It also includes in
structions to officers from the highest to the lowest ;
directions for the arrangements in camp, as well as the
movements during a campaign ; letters to quartermas
ters, commissaries, contractors, the clothier-general and
his deputies, and all others concerned in providing sup
plies for the army ; to surgeons and superintendents of
the hospitals ; to militia officers while on Continental
service ; and to other persons acting in a military capa
city within the sphere of his command.
4. Letters to Foreign Ministers ; to Subjects of For
eign Nations in the immediate Service of the United
States ; to Foreign Officers.
When the French army came to America, it was, by a
previous stipulation, to be under the command of Wash
ington, while acting in concert with the American army.
This arrangement, as well as the mutual plans for coop
eration, necessarily caused much correspondence be
tween Washington, Count Rochambeau, Count d'Es-
taing, and other commanders of the French army and
navy. In this the ministers from France to Congress
participated, as the French military affairs in the United
States were under their general supervision and guid
ance. 5. Letters to Officers of every Rank and Denomina
tion in the Service of the Enemy ; to British Subjects
of every Description with the Enemy ; to Persons ap
plying for Permission to go to the Enemy.

xii INTRODUCTION. [Part II.
The most important letters under this head are those
to the British commanders on various topics, but chiefly
relating to the exchange of prisoners, in which there
were many difficulties emanating from the peculiar rela
tions of the two contending armies to each other, and
the manner in which the British government regarded
the nature of the contest at the beginning of the war.
6. Private Letters.
In this division is included a long list of letters ; and
although they are classed as private, yet they are mostly
on subjects appertaining to public concerns. They are
not official ; but many of them were written to persons
in public stations, and intended to promote a purpose
by stronger representations and the force of motives
more delicate, than it was expedient to exhibit for gen
eral inspection. In this view they may be considered
as expressing the unreserved sentiments of their author,
and as explaining his designs and conduct on occasions,
where the caution required in his official despatches
must leave much for inference or conjecture. A few
are mere letters of friendship; but even in such cases
the great work in which he was engaged seems to have
absorbed his thoughts, and suggested the principal to
pics for his .pen.
Such is the mode projected and adopted by General
Washington himself for classifying his papers, while
Commander-in-chief of the American army. Such is the
broad outline of the topics to which they extend. The
arrangement is, in the first instance, according to subjects;
and, in the second, according to the order of time ; that
is, the mass of letters is formed into six distinct classes,
and those in each class are brought together consecu
tively by their dates. In preparing them for publication,
it has been thought preferable to throw them all into the
order of time, thus preserving a strict continuity in the

Part II.] INTRODUCTION. xiii
events to which they relate. This method, indeed, is
the only one by which a just understanding of the pa
pers can be obtained, without much trouble in referring
from one part to another; since the subjects upon which
they treat are not of an abstract nature, but commonly
relate to the affairs in which the writer was immedi
ately concerned, and are blended in the general train of
the correspondence.
In selecting the letters for this part of the work, I
have endeavoured to adhere strictly to the same princi
ples, which have already been explained in the Intro
duction to the First Part. The question has been
asked, how far Washington may be considered the ac
tual author of the immense number of letters, to which,
in his official and private capacity, he affixed his name.
This is a question rather of curiosity, than of any essen
tial interest or consequence, and one which it would be
quite impossible at this day to answer, in regard to
every individual case. The letters have been preserved
as they were transcribed into letter-books, and in the
different handwriting of a great many copyists, who
were employed from time to time for this purpose.
The first drafts have been for the most part destroyed ;
for even in the correspondence during the revolution,
which now exists in the files that were used at the time,
the letters thus filed are not in every instance the first
drafts, but copies, so that it is impossible now to tell by
whom they were originally penned. All the Jetters
printed in the First Part of this work, embracing the
period before the revolution, I believe were written by
Washington himself, because a large proportion of them
are still to be found in his own handwriting, either in
the condition of first drafts, or as transcribed by himself;
and because, while acting as an officer in the French
war, he seldom if ever had the services of a secretary,
VOL. III. B

xiv INTRODUCTION. [Part II.
and at Mount Vernon he was certainly his own scribe,
both in his correspondence and in his extensive trans
actions of business.
That he wrote with his own hand all his official letters
during the revolution, it would be as preposterous to
suppose, as that Marlborough, or Bonaparte, or Welling
ton, or any other great commander, was the penman of
all the letters to which he subscribed his name. Com
positions of this kind are not adduced as evidences of
the genius, the rhetorical ingenuity, the brilliant fancy,
the felicitous invention, or the literary accomplishments
ofthe persons, whose names they bear. The value to
be attached to them, and the high consideration, which
they justly claim, are derived from the circumstance of
their being records of great events, expressing the opin
ions and unfolding the designs of men, in whose conduct
and motives the destinies of nations are involved. They
are the highest and purest fountains of history, and by
whatever hand the written language is constructed, the
spirit and substance, the principles, facts, arguments,
and purposes, must necessarily be considered as flow
ing from him, by whose name they are sanctioned ; he
is responsible for the whole ; his character and reputa
tion, as well as the vital interests of the cause entrusted
to him, are at stake. Caution in weighing, and judgment
in adopting the sentiments of others, are often not less
indicative^ of true wisdom and greatness, than the power
to originate and combine. It will be seen, by hints
contained in several of Washington's letters, that his
personal labor in writing was at times intense, even
amidst the harassing cares and oppressive burdens un
der which he struggled in discharging his military duties.
When he resorted to the assistance of his secretary,
aids, or other persons, it was his custom sometimes to
prepare brief minutes of the topics, which he wished to

Part II.] INTRODUCTION. XV
have introduced into a letter, and leave the arrangement
and style to the amanuensis. At other times he would
dictate in detail the substance of a despatch ; and again,
when the subject was of minor importance, he would
give general directions only, which the secretary would
embody in his own language.
There is no feature more remarkable, however, in the
whole series of correspondence, than the similarity which
prevails throughout in the style, the turns of expression,
the habits of thought, and particularly the methods of
stating facts and enforcing arguments. This, will be ob
vious upon a very slight inspection; and no stronger
proof can be required of the pervading influence of one
master-mind, whatever instruments it may have em
ployed to communicate its sentiments and effect its de
signs. It should be stated, moreover, that the originals
of many of the ablest and best written papers, which
will appear in the present work, may still be seen in the
handwriting of the author. It is a mistake, which some
have been too ready to adopt, that he was not accus
tomed to composition. The truth is, he commenced
the habit very early, and practised it assiduously till the
end of his fife. It is equally true, that his defective edu
cation qualified him but indifferently to attain elegance
or even accuracy of style. But he knew when his
thoughts Were clearly and forcibly expressed. To con
vey his meaning with directness and emphasis1 was
his chief study. Though he frequently betrayed a want
of skill in the construction of his sentences, yet he was
fastidious in the use of words, as is manifest from the
numerous verbal erasures and insertions in his original
manuscripts. Indeed he seldom suffered a paper of any
sort to go out of his hands, even an ordinary letter of
friendship or business, without first composing and cor
recting it with studious care, and then transcribing a fair

Xvi INTRODUCTION. [Part II.
copy. Bundles of letters to the managers of his farms,
written in the midst of his weightiest public duties, af
ford a striking testimony to this fact.
The notes and other illustrations, comprised in this
Second Part of the work, have been drawn from mate
rials of the highest authenticity, collected in a wide
range of research, and with much expense of time and
labor. In the first place, the letters received by Wash
ington during the war, amounting to several thousands
in number, the records of councils of war and courts-
martial, the opinions of the general officers on important
subjects, the orderly books, resolves of public bodies,
and reports of committees, all of which are among his
papers, afford a rich treasure of facts, to which I have
constantly resorted. The manuscript papers relating to
the revolution, which are deposited in the office of the
Secretary of State at Washington, containing all that
remains of the proceedings and correspondence of the
Old Continental Congress, I have also personally ex
amined. For the same purpose I have visited the sev
eral States, which belonged to the original Confederation
and took part in the war, and have examined in the
public offices of each State the manuscript papers ap
pertaining to the period under consideration. It has
moreover been my good fortune, through the politeness
of individuals, to gain access to many private collections
of papers, including the entire correspondence of several
of the major and brigadier generals of the army, the
members of the Old Congress, and other civil and mili
tary officers of distinction. The materials thus collected,
being original and perfectly authentic, and proceeding
from the highest sources, possess a value which may
easily be estimated.
In England and France my researches were pursued
with no less perseverance and success. With a fiber-

Part II.] ^INTRODUCTION. xvii
ality on the part of the governments of both these coun
tries, which demands the warmest, acknowledgments, I
was permitted to inspect in the public archives all the
papers, which relate to the American war. The task
occupied nearly twelve months of close application, but
the labor was abundantly rewarded by the results. The
British offices opened to me the complete correspondence
of the ministers, Lord Dartmouth and Lord George Ger
main, with the governors of the colonies at the begin
ning of the contest, and with the commanders in
America during the whole war, namely, Generals Gage,
Howe, Burgoyne, Clinton, Robertson, Carleton, Corn
wallis, and others of subordinate rank. The original
correspondence of the British Commissioners, while ne
gotiating the peace in Paris, was likewise examined ;
and also the original papers presented from time to time
by Lord North to Parliament.
In Paris my researches embraced the voluminous
correspondence between Count Vergennes and the.
French ministers, Gerard and Luzerne, while they
were in the United States, amounting in all to nearly
four hundred despatches, and unfolding the policy and
views of the French government from the beginning to
the end of the war ; also Memoires and other papers on
American affairs, written by members of the cabinet, or
by able jurisconsults employed for that purpose. In the
archives of the Department of War, the despatches of
Count Rochambeau, and other officers commanding the
French army in America, were submitted to my exam
ination, and such copies as I desired were allowed to be
taken. I feel it a duty, as well as a pleasure, to express on
this occasion the very high obligations, which I have
been under to several gentlemen in Europe, who ren
dered most generous and valuable services in promoting
VOL. III. c B*

xviii INTRODUCTION. [Part II.
the object of my inquiries, particularly to Sir James
Mackintosh, the Marquis of Lansdowne, and Lord Hol
land, in London ; to General Lafayette and the Marquis
de Marbois, in Paris ; and to these I may add Mr. Law
rence, at that time Charge d'affaires from the United
States to the Court of Great Britain ; and Mr. Brown,
the American Minister Plenipotentiary in France.
From the large extent and various nature of the
papers above indicated, it is obvious that only a par
tial use can be made of them in illustrating the writings
of Washington ; yet, as they all have a bearing on the
great train of events, in which he acted the most con
spicuous part, they contain many particulars explanatory
of the designs of persons and parties, which could not
be known at the time he wrote, and others that will
throw additional light upon the topics which employed
his pen, and the affairs in which he was engaged. In
preparing the notes, I have relied almost exclusively on
manuscript authorities, and avoided as much as possible
the encumbering of the pages with matter, which is al
ready accessible in printed books. By this process I trust
it will be found, that some valuable accessions have been
made to history, at the same time that the character
and deeds of Washington have received new eluci
dation. The plans of battles and military movements, which
are occasionally inserted for a better understanding of
the text, have been compiled from the best drawings
that could be procured, as well English and French as
American. In this design I have been specially aided
by a series of manuscript drawings in the possession of
General Lafayette, which were taken by a French en
gineer attached to his staff, and which are executed
with scientific accuracy and beauty. Some of the old
drawings, published at the time in London from imper-

Part II.] INTRODUCTION. xix
feet sketches and surveys, I have been able to correct
by the documents, to which I have had access, and by
actual inspection, having personally visited nearly all the
localities, which were the theatre of the chief operations
of the American revolutionary war. No pains have
been spared to give these plans all the accuracy, of
which they are susceptible on so small a scale, and with
the present means of information.

CORRESPONDENCE

AND

MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS

RELATING TO

THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

ANSWER TO CONGRESS ON HIS APPOINTMENT
AS COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. *
In Congress, 16 June, 1775.
Mr. President,
Though I am truly sensible of the high honor done
me, in this appointment, yet I feel great distress, from
a consciousness that my abilities and military experi
ence may not be equal to the extensive and important
trust. However, as the Congress desire it, I will enter
upon the momentous duty, and exert every power I pos
sess in their service, and for the support of the glorious
cause. I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks
for this distinguished testimony of their approbation.
But, lest some unlucky event should happen, unfa
vorable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered
* On the 15th of June, Colonel Washington was chosen unanimously
by the Continental Congress to be General and Commander-in-chief of
the American Army. The election was by ballot. As soon as the Con
gress assembled the next morning, the President informed him officially
of this appointment. Colonel Washington then arose in his place, and
returned the above answer. Before the Congress proceeded to ballot for
a general, it had been resolved, that his pay should be five hundred dollars
a month. See Appendix, No. I.
VOL. III. 1 A

2 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS [.Et. 43.
by every gentleman in the room, that I, this day, de
clare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself
equal to the command I am honored with.
As to pay, Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress,
that, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted
me to accept this arduous employment, at the expense
of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to
make any profit from it. I will keep an exact account of
my expenses. Those, I doubt not, they will discharge ;
and that is all I desire.

TO MRS. MARTHA WASHINGTON.*
Philadelphia, 18 June, 1775.
My Dearest,
I am now set down to write to you on a subject,
which fills me with inexpressible concern, and this con
cern is greatly aggravated and increased, when I reflect
upon the uneasiness I know it will give you. It has
been determined in Congress, that the whole army rais
ed for the defence of the American cause shall be put
under my care, and that it is necessary for me to pro
ceed immediately to Boston to take upon me the com
mand of it.
You may believe me, my dear Patsy, when I assure
you, in the most solemn manner, that, so far from seek
ing this appointment, I have used every endeavour in
my power to avoid it, not only from my unwillingness
to part with you and the family, but from a conscious
ness of its being a trust too great for my capacity, and
that I should enjoy more real happiness in one month
* 'This is the only letter from Washington to his wife, which has
come into my hands. It is understood, that Mrs. Washington destroyed
all his other letters to her a short time before her death.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 3
with you at home, than I have the most distant prospect
of finding abroad, if my stay were to be seven times
seven years. But as it has been a kind of destiny, that
has thrown me upon this service, I shall hope that my
undertaking it is designed to answer some good pur
pose. You might, and I suppose did perceive, from the
tenor of my letters, that I was apprehensive I could not
avoid this appointment, as I did not pretend to intimate
when I should return. That was the case. It was
utterly out of my power to refuse this appointment,
without exposing my character to such censures, as.
would have reflected dishonor upon myself, and given
pain to my friends. This, I am sure, could not, and
ought not, to be pleasing to you, and must have lessened
me considerably in my own esteem. I shall rely, there
fore, confidently on that Providence, which has hereto
fore preserved and been bountiful to me, not doubting
but that I shall return safe to you in the fall. I shall
feel no pain from the toil or the danger of the cam
paign ; my unhappiness will flow from the uneasiness I
know you will feel from being left alone. I therefore
beg, that you will summon your whole fortitude, and
pass your time as agreeably as possible. Nothing will
give me so much sincere satisfaction as to hear this, and
to hear it from your own pen. My earnest and ardent
desire is, that you would pursue any plan that is most
likely to produce content, and a tolerable degree of
tranquillity ; as it must add greatly to my uneasy feel
ings to hear, that you are dissatisfied or complaining at
what I really could not avoid.
As life is always uncertain, and common prudence
dictates to every man the necessity of settling his tem
poral concerns, while it is in his power, and while the
mind is calm and undisturbed, I have, since I came to
this place (for I had not time to do it before I left

4 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. |>Et. 43.
home) got Colonel Pendleton* to draft a will for me,
by the directions I gave him, which will I now enclose.
The provision made for you in case of my death will, I
hope, be agreeable.
I shall add nothing more, as I have several letters to
write, but to desire that you will remember me to your
friends, and to assure you that I am, with the most un
feigned regard, my dear Patsy, your affectionate, &c.

TO THE CAPTAINS OF SEVERAL INDEPENDENT
COMPANIES IN VIRGINIA.
Philadelphia, 20 June, 1775.
Gentlemen,
I am now about to bid adieu to the companies under
your respective commands, at least for a while. I have
launched into a wide and extensive field, too boundless
for my abilities, and far, very far, beyond my experi
ence. I am called, by the unanimous voice of the Colo
nies, to the command of the Continental army; an
honor I did not aspire to ; an honor I was solicitous to
avoid, upon a full conviction of my inadequacy to the
importance of the service. The partiality of the Con
gress, however, assisted by a political motive, rendered
my reasons unavailing, and I shall to-morrow set out
for the camp near Boston.
I have only to beg of you, therefore, before I go,
(est; ecially as you did me the honor to put your compa
nies under my direction, and know not how soon you
may be called upon in Virginia for an exertion of your

* Colonel Edmund Pendleton, at this time a delegate from Virginia to
the Continental Congress.

Part II.'] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 5
military skill,) by no means to relax in the discipline of
your respective companies.*
I have the honor to be, &.c.

TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
Philadelphia, 20 June, 1775.
Dear Brother,
I am now to bid adieu to you, and to every kind of
domestic ease, for a while. I am embarked on a wide
ocean, boundless in its prospect, and in which, perhaps,
no safe harbour is to be found. I have been called upon
by the unanimous voice of the Colonies to take the
command of the Continental army ; an honor I neither
sought after, nor desired, as I am thoroughly convinced,
that it requires greater abilities and much more experi-
* The reply of the Independent Company of Alexandria to this letter
is an evidence of the warm attachment of his friends, at the same time
that it is remarkable for the sentiments it expresses, even at so late a day,
in regard to a conciliation with Great Britain.
" Your favor of the 20th ultimo, notifying us of your intended departure
for the camp, we received, and, after transmitting copies to the different
officers, to whom it was directed, we laid it before a full meeting of your
company this day. At the same time that they deplore the unfortunate "
occasion, that calls you, their patron, friend, and worthy citizen, from' them
and your more tender connexions, they beg your acceptance of their most
hearty congratulations upon your appointment to the supreme military
command of the American confederated forces. Firmly convinced, Sir,
of your zealous attachment to the rights of your country, and those of
mankind, and of your earnest desire, that harmony and good will should
again take place between us and our parent state, we well know, that
your every exertion will be invariably employed to preserve the one and
effect the other.
" We are to inform you, Sh", by desire of the company, that, if at any
time you shall judge it expedient for them to join the troops at Cambridge,
or to march elsewhere, they will cheerfully do it. We now recommend
you to the favor of Him, by whom kings reign and princes decree justice,
wishing all your counsels and operations to be directed by his gracious
providence to a happy and lasting union between us and Great Britain."
A *

6 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mt. 43.
ence, than I am master of, to conduct a business so ex
tensive in its nature, and arduous in the execution. But
the partiality of the Congress, joined to a political mo
tive, really left me without a choice; and I am now
commissioned a General and Commander-in-chief of
all the forces now raised, or to be raised, for the defence
of the United Colonies. That I may discharge the
trust to the satisfaction of my employers, is my first
wish ; that I shall aim to do it, there remains little doubt.
How far I may succeed, is another point ; but this I am
sure of, that, in the worst event, I shall have the conso
lation of knowing, if I act to the best of my judgment,
that the blame ought to lodge upon the appointers,
not the appointed, as it was by no means a thing of
my own seeking, or proceeding from any hint of my
friends. I am at liberty to inform you, that the Congress, in
committee, have consented to a Continental currency,
and have ordered two millions of dollars to be struck
for payment of the troops, and other purposes, and have
voted fifteen thousand men as a Continental army, which
number will be augmented, as the strength of the British
troops will be greater than was expected at the time of
. passing that vote. General Ward, General Lee, Gene
ral Schuyler, and General Putnam are appointed Major-
Generals under me. The Brigadier-Generals are not
yet appointed. Major Gates is made Adjutant-Gene
ral. * I expect to set out to-morrow for Boston, and

* General Ward had already been appointed, by the Provincial Con
gress of Massachusetts, commander of all the forces raised by that colony,
and was now in Cambridge at the head of the army. Generals Lee and
Schuyler were in Philadelphia, and accompanied the Commander-in-chief
to New York. Lee continued with him to head-quarters. Putnam was
in Cambridge, commanding the Connecticut troops. Gates was at his
seat in Berkley County, Virginia, but speedily joined the army.
Lee was a colonel on half-pay in the British army, but he resigned

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 7
hope to be joined there in a little time by ten compa
nies of riflemen from this province, Maryland, and
Virginia. For other articles of intelligence, I shall re
fer you to the papers, as the printers are diligent in
collecting every thing that is stirring.
I shall hope that my friends will visit and endeavour
to keep up the spirits of my wife, as much as they can,
for my departure will, I know, be a cutting stroke upon
her ; and on this account alone I have many disagreea-
able sensations. I hope that you and my sister, al
though the distance is great, will find so much time this
summer as to spend a little of it at Mount Vernon.
My sincere regards attend you both, and the little
ones, and I am your most affectionate brother.
his commission, by a formal letter to the Secretary at War, as soon as he
was appointed major-general by the Congress, and before he received a
commission in the American army. He had been a soldier from his youth,
and had seen much service in America during the French war, and after
wards in Europe. When he received this appointment, he had been only
about eighteen months in the colonies, but that time had mostly been spent
in travelling. He thus formed many acquaintances, and inspired the public
with a high opinion of his military character. His friend Gates had in
duced him to buy lands in Virginia, beyond the Blue Ridge, where he
sometimes resided. Gates, also, had been an officer in the British army.
He was a captain at Braddock's defeat, where he was wounded ; and he
rose afterwards to the rank of major, which he resigned, and retired
from the service, purchasing lands and settling himself as a planter in
Virginia. A friendly intercourse had long subsisted between him and
Washington. He was appointed Adjutant-General by the Congress, at
the express solicitation of the Commander-in-chief, with the rank of
brigadier. General Washington wrote to him immediately after his ap
pointment, and Gates replied in very cordial terms, adding in con
clusion;— "I will not intrude more upon your time, only to assure you,
that I shall not lose a moment in paying you my personal attendance, with
the greatest respect for your character, and the sincerest attachment to
your person." Gates arrived in Cambridge before the middle of July.
Both Lee and Gates had passed several days at Mount Vernon six weeks
previously, just before Washington left home for the Continental Con
gress.

8 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [jEt. 43.
TO THE MEMBERS OF THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS,
PHILADELPHIA.
New York, 25 June, 1775.
Gentlemen,The rain on Friday afternoon and Saturday, the ad
vice of several gentlemen of the Jerseys and this city,
by no means to cross Hudson's River at the lower ferry,
and some other occurrences too trivial to mention, which
happened on the road, prevented my arrival at this
place, until the afternoon of this day.*
# The following is an extract from the Journals of the New York
Provincial Congress.
" June, 25th. — A letter from General Schuyler being read, dated at
New Brunswick, June 24th, informing this Congress that General Wash
ington, with his retinue, would be at Newark this morning, and requesting
this Congress to send some of its members to meet him, and advise the
most proper place for him to cross the Hudson River on his way to New
Fork ;
" Ordered, that Messrs. Smith, Hobart, Gouverneur Morris, and Richard
Montgomery go immediately to Newark, and recommend to General
Washington the place, which they shall think most prudent for him to
cross at."
News came at the same time, that Governor Tryon was in the harbour,
just arrived from England, and would land that day. The Congress were
a good deal embarrassed to determine how to act on this occasion ; for
though they had thrown off all allegiance to the authority of their
governor, yet they professed to maintain loyalty to his person. They
finally ordered a colonel so to dispose of his militia companies, that they
might be in a condition to receive " either the Generals, or Governor
Tryon, whichever should first arrive, and wait on both as well as circum
stances would allow." Events proved less perplexing than had been
apprehended, as General Washington arrived several hours previous to
the landing of Governor Tryon.
Before General Washington left Philadelphia, he reviewed in that city
several companies of infantry, rangers, riflemen, artillery, and a troop of
light-horse, amounting in all to two thousand men under arms. They
escorted him out ofthe city, and the troop of light-horse accompanied him
to New York. He remained in New York till the 26th, when he departed
under the escort of several military companies, passed the night at Kin^s-
bridge, and the next morning proceeded on his journey. The Philadel
phia light-horse left him at Kingsbridge, and returned.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 9
In the morning, after giving General Schuyler such
orders, as, from the result of my inquiry into matters
here, appear necessary, I shall set out on my journey to
the camp at Boston, and shall proceed with all the des
patch in my power. Powder is so essential an article,
that I cannot help again repeating the necessity of a
supply. - The camp at Boston, from the best account I
can get from thence, is but very poorly supplied. At
this place, they have scarce any. How they are provid
ed at General Wooster's camp, I have not been able
yet to learn.*
Governor Tryon is arrived, and General Schuyler
is directed to advise you of the line of conduct he
moves in. I fear it will not be very favorable to the
American cause.
I have only to add, that I am, with the greatest re
spect and regard, gentlemen, your most obedient and
obliged humble servant.
* General Wooster commanded the forces, which had been raised by
Connecticut, and which were stationed on the shores of Long Island
Sound, to protect the southern borders of that colony. On the 15th of
June, a rumor having been spread, that a regiment of British troops
was soon to be landed in the city of New York from Ireland, the Pro
vincial Congress invited General Wooster to march within five miles of
the city for its defence, and while there to be under the command of the
Continental Congress, or that of New York. This request being ap
proved by the government of Connecticut, General Wooster inarched
eighteen hundred men to the neighbourhood of the city, orf the 28th of
June, where he remained several weeks. — MS. Journal of the Neiv
York Provincial Congress.
In reply to General Wooster's letter of consent, the Congress add ; —
" We beg leave to testify to you our high sense of the readiness, which
you show to assist our colony. That honest zeal, which inspirits the
bosom of our countrymen in Connecticut, commands our admiration
and praise."

VOL. III.

10 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [^Et. 43.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, Sunday, 25 June, 1775 ;
5 o'clock, P. M.
Sir,
Upon my arrival here this afternoon, I was informed
that an express was in town, from the provincial camp
in Massachusetts Bay ; and having seen, among the pa
pers in his possession, a letter directed to you as Presi
dent of the Congress, I have taken the liberty to open
it. I was induced to take that liberty by several gen
tlemen of New York, who were anxious to know the
particulars of the affair of the 17th insjtant,* and agree
ably to the orders of many members of the Congress,
who judged it necessary, that I should avail myself of
the best information in the course of my journey.
You will find, Sir, by that letter, a great want of
powder in the provincial army, which I sincerely hope
the Congress will supply as speedily and as effectually
as in their power. One thousand pounds in weight
were sent to the camp at Cambridge, three days ago,
from this city, which has left this place almost destitute
of that necessary article ; there being at this time, from
the best information, not more than four barrels of pow
der in the city of New York. I propose to set off for
the provincial camp to-morrow, and will use all possible
despatch to join the forces there.
Please to make my compliments to the gentlemen of
the Congress ; and believe me to be, Sir, your obliged
friend and humble servant.

The battle of Bunker's Hill.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 11
TO MAJOR-GENERAL PHILIP SCHUYLER.
New York, 25 June, 1775.
Sir,
You are to take upon you the command of all the
troops destined for the New York department,, and see
that the'orders of the Continental Congress are carried
into execution, with as much precision and exactness as
possible. For your better government therein, you are here
with furnished with a copy of the instructions given to
me by that honorable body. Such parts as are within
the line of your duty, you will please to pay particular
attention to. Delay no time in occupying the several
posts, recommended by the Provincial Congress of this
colony, and putting them in a fit posture to answer the
end designed; nor delay any time in securing the stores,
which are, or ought to have been, removed from this city
by order of the Continental Congress.
Keep a watchful eye upon Governor Tryon, and, if
you find him directly or indirectly attempting any meas
ures inimical to the common cause, use every means
in your power to frustrate his designs.* It is not in my
power, at this time, to point out the mode by which this
end is to be accomplished ; but if forcible measures are
judged necessary, respecting the person of the Gover-
* Tryon had been governor of New York since August, 1771, and
recently absent for several months in England. He was known to be
extremely hostile to the movements in the colonies ; arid, possessing much
talent and address, it was feared his influence would have a pernicious
effect on the inhabitants of New York, who already manifested a luke-
warmness and hesitancy by no means encouraging to the ardent champi
ons of liberty. Hence the necessity of keeping an eye on his motions,
and guarding against any schemes he might adopt to promote his aims.
The mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the city congratulated him in a
public address, to which he replied ; but there was no intercourse between
him and the Provincial Congress. — Almon's Remembrancer, Vol. I. p. 180.

12 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
nor, I should have no difficulty in ordering them, if
the Continental Congress were not sitting; but as this is
the case, and the seizing of a governor quite a new
thing, and of great importance, I must refer you to that
body for direction, should his Excellency make any mo
tion towards increasing the strength of the Tory party,
or arming them against the cause in which we are em
barked. In like manner, watch the movements of the
Indian agent, Colonel Guy Johnson, and prevent, as far
as you can, the effect of his influence to our prejudice
with the Indians.* Obtain the best information you
can of the temper and disposition of those people, and
also of the Canadians, that a proper line may be mark
ed out to conciliate their good opinion, or facilitate any
future operation.
The posts on Lake Champlain you will please to
have properly supplied with provisions and ammunition ;
and this I am persuaded you will aim at doing on the
best terms, to prevent our good cause from sinking
under a heavy load of expense. You will be pleased,
also, to make regular returns to me, and to the Continen
tal Congress, once a month, and oftener as occurrences
may require, of the forces under your command, and of
your provisions and stores, and give me the earliest ad
vices of every piece of intelligence, which you shall
judge of importance to be speedily known. Your own
good sense must govern you in all matters not par
ticularly pointed out, as I do not wish to circumscribe
you within narrow limits. I am Sir, &c.
* Guy Johnson resided at Guy Park, near the Mohawk River, at that
time on the frontiers of New York, and had excited a good deal of uneasi
ness among the people, by the part he had taken with the Indians, and by
the influence he was known to have over them. A correspondence of a
pointed nature had already passed between him and the New York Pro
vincial Congress. — MS. Journals of the Congress for 1775. — Also,
Sparks's Life of Gouverneur Morris, Vol. I. p. 41.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 13
ANSWER TO AN ADDRESS OF THE NEW YORK
PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.
New York, 26 June, 1775.
Gentlemen,
At the same time that with you I deplore the un
happy necessity of such an appointment, as that with
which I am now honored, I cannot but feel sentiments
of the highest gratitude for this affecting instance of
distinction and regard.
May your every wish be realized in the success of
America, at this important and interesting period ; and
be assured, that every exertion of my worthy colleagues
and myself will be equally extended to the reestablish-
ment of peace and harmony between the mother coun
try and the colonies, as to the fatal but necessary opera
tions of war. When we assumed the soldier, we did
not lay aside the citizen ; and we shall most sincerely
rejoice with you in that happy hour, when the establish
ment of American liberty, upon the most firm and solid
foundations, shall enable us to return to our private sta
tions in the bosom of a free, peaceful, and happy coun
try. I am, &c*

* The last paragraph of this answer is adapted to the sentiments,
contained in the address of the Congress, to which it is a reply. At this
time the members of the New York Congress, though zealous friends of
their country, were timid and reluctant in adopting measures of resist
ance. Besides, their fears were not a little wrought upon by the British
armed ship Asia, which presented a threatening attitude in the harbour,
and evidently influenced their deliberations. — Life of Gouvemeur Morris,
Vol. I. p. 64.
" Confiding in you, Sir," they say to Washington, " and in the worthy
Generals immediately under your command, we have the most flattering
hopes of success in the glorious struggle for American liberty, and the
fullest assurance, that whenever this important contest shall be decided
by that fondest wish of each American soul, an accommodation with our
mother country, you will cheerfully resign the important deposit commit-
VOL. III. B

14 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr. 43.

ANSWER TO AN ADDRESS OF THE PROVINCIAL
CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS.*
4 July, 1775.
Gentlemen,
Your kind congratulations on my appointment and
arrival, demand my warmest acknowledgments, and will
ever be retained in grateful remembrance.
In exchanging the enjoyments of domestic life for
the duties of my present honorable but arduous station,
I only emulate the virtue and public spirit of the whole
province of Massachusetts Bay, which, with a firmness
and patriotism without example in modern history, has
sacrificed all the comforts of social and political life, in
support of the rights of mankind, and the welfare of
our common country. My highest ambition is to be the
happy instrument of vindicating those rights, and to
see this devoted province again restored to peace, liber
ty, and safety.
The short space of time, which has elapsed since my
arrival, does not permit me to decide upon the state of
the army. The course of human affairs forbids an ex
pectation, that troops formed under such circumstances
should at once possess the order, regularity, and disci
pline of veterans. Whatever deficiencies there may
be, will, I doubt not, soon be made up by the activity
ted into your hands, and reassume the character of our worthiest citizen."
This was a broad hint to a military commander-in-chief, but it was
very delicately and appropriately met by Washington in his reply ; and
it is worthy of remark, that this early declaration was literally and cor
dially verified on his part throughout the whole progress of the war, and
especially at its close.
* General Washington arrived in Cambridge on the 2d of July, and
took command of the army on the 3d. The Massachusetts Congress
were at this time convened at Watertown, three miles from Cambridge,
and on his arrival they honored him with a congratulatory address.  See
Appendix, No. II.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 15
and zeal of the officers, and the docility and obedience
of the men. These qualities, united with their native
bravery and spirit, will afford a happy presage of suc
cess, and put a final period to those distresses, which
now overwhelm this once happy country.
I most sincerely thank you, Gentlemen, for your
declarations of readiness at all times to assist me in the
discharge of the duties of my station. They are so
complicated and extended, that I shall need the assist
ance of every good man, and lover of his country. I
therefore repose the utmost confidence in your aid.
In return for your affectionate wishes to myself, permit
me to say, that I earnestly implore that divine Being, in
whose hands are all human events, to make you and
your constituents as distinguished in private and public
happiness, as you have been by ministerial oppression,
and by private and public distress.

TO JAMES WARREN, PRESIDENT OF THE PROVINCIAL
CONGRESS OF MASSACHUSETTS.
Head-Q,uarters, Cambridge, 10 July, 1775.
Sir,
After much difficulty and delay, I have procured
such returns of the state of the army, as will enable us
to form a judgment of its strength. It is with great
concern I find it to be very inadequate to our general
expectations, and the duties that may be required of it.
The number of men fit for duty in the forces raised in
this province, including all the outposts and artillery,
does not amount to nine thousand. The troops raised
in the other colonies are more complete, but yet fall
short of their establishment ; so that, upon the whole, I
cannot estimate the present army at more than fourteen

16 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr. 43
thousand five hundred men capable of duty. I have
the satisfaction to find the troops, both in camp and
quarters, very healthy; so that the deficiency must
arise from the regiments never having been filled up to
the establishment, and from the number of men on fur
lough ; but the former cause is by mueh the most con
siderable. Under all these circumstances, I yesterday
called a council of war, and enclosed I send you an ex
tract of our determination, so far as it respects the prov
ince of Massachusetts Bay.* Your own prudence will
suggest the necessity of secrecy on this subject, as we
have the utmost reason to believe, that the enemy sup
pose our numbers much greater than they are, an error
which it is not our interest to remove.
The great extent of our lines, and the uncertainty
where may be the point of attack, added to the ne
cessity of immediate support, have induced me to order
that horses ready saddled should be kept at several
posts, in order to bring the most early intelligence of
any movement of the enemy. For this purpose, I
should be glad that ten horses may be provided as soon
as possible. I have the honor to be, Sir, &c.t
P. S. As I am informed, that the Congress purposes
to rise immediately, I should be glad to know what
committees are to be left, or upon whom the executive
business will devolve, t
* It had been determined in a council of war, that the army ought to
be increased as soon as possible, that an officer should be sent from
each of the Massachusetts companies to recruit for the regiments to
which they respectively belonged, and that the General should apply to
the Provincial CongTess for a temporary reinforcement
f See Appendix, No. III.
I The Provincial Congress was dissolved on the 19th of July, but the
General Assembly met on the same day, and exercised all the powers of
government, though in a somewhat different form.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 17
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 10 July, 1775.
Sir,
I arrived safe at this place on the 3d instant, after a
journey attended with a good deal of fatigue, and re
tarded by necessary attentions to the successive civili
ties, which accompanied me in my whole route.
Upon my arrival, I immediately visited the several
posts occupied by, our troops; and, as soon as the
weather permitted, reconnoitred those of the enemy.
I found the latter strongly intrenching on Bunker's Hill,
about a mile from Charlestown, and advanced about halt
a mile from the place of the late action, with their sen
tries extended about one hundred and fifty yards on
this side of the narrowest part of the neck leading from
this place to Charlestown. Three floating batteries lie
in Mystic River near their camp, and one twenty-gun
ship below the ferry-place between Boston and Charles
town. They have also a battery on Cops Hill, on the
Boston side, which much annoyed our troops in the late
attack. Upon Roxbury Neck, they are also deeply
intrenched and strongly fortified. Their advanced
guards, till last Saturday, occupied Brown's houses,
about a mile from Roxbury meeting-house, and twenty
rods from their lines ; but, at that time, a party from
General" Thomas's camp surprised the guard, drove
them in, and burned the houses. The bulk of their
army, commanded by General Howe, lies on Bunker's
Hill, and the remainder on Roxbury Neck, except the
light-horse, and a few men in the town of Boston.
On our side, we have thrown up intrenchments on
Winter and Prospect Hills, the enemy's camp in full
view, at the distance of little more than a mile. Such
intermediate points as would admit a landing, I have
vol. in. 3 b *

18 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr. 43.
since my arrival taken care to strengthen, down to
Sewall's farm, where a strong intrenchment has been
thrown up. At Roxbury, General Thomas has thrown
up a strong work on the hill, about two hundred yards
above the meeting-house ; which, with the brokenness
of the ground, and a great number of rocks, has made
that pass very secure. The troops raised in New
Hampshire, with a regiment from Rhode Island, occupy
Winter Hill ; a part of those from Connecticut, under
General Putnam, are on Prospect Hill. The troops in
this town are entirely of the Massachusetts ; the re
mainder of the Rhode Island men are at Sewall's farm.
Two regiments of Connecticut, and nine of the Massa
chusetts, are at Roxbury. The residue of the army, to
the number of about seven hundred, are posted in sev
eral small towns along the coast, to prevent the depre
dations of the enemy.
Upon the whole, I think myself authorized to say,
that, considering the great extent of line and the nature
of the ground, we are as well secured, as could be ex
pected in so short a time, and with the disadvantages
we labor under. These consist in a want of engineers to
construct proper works and direct the men, a want of
tools, and a sufficient number of men to man the works
in case of an attack. You will observe, by the proceed
ings of the council of war, which I have the honor to
enclose, that it is our unanimous opinion, to hold and
defend these works as long as possible. The discour
agement it would give the men, and its contrary effects
on the ministerial troops, thus to abandon our encamp
ment in their face, formed with so much labor and ex
pense, added to the certain destruction of a considerable
and valuable extent of country, and our uncertainty of
finding a place in all respects so capable of making a
stand, are leading reasons for this determination. At

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 19
the same time we are very sensible of the difficulties,
which attend the defence of lines of so great extent,
and the dangers, which may ensue from such a division

ofthe

army

My earnest wish to comply with the instructions of
the Congress, in making an early and complete return
of the state of the army, has led to* an involuntary de
lay of addressing you ; which has given me much con
cern. Having given orders for that purpose immediately
on my arrival, and not then so well apprised of the im
perfect obedience, which had been paid to those of the
like nature from General Ward, I was led from day to
day to expect they would come in, and therefore de
tained the messenger. They are not now so complete
as I could wish ; but much allowance is to be made for
inexperience in forms, and a liberty which had been
taken (not given) on this subject. These reasons, I
flatter myself, will no longer exist ; and, of consequence,
more regularity and exactness will in future prevail.
This, with a necessary attention to the lines, the move
ments of the ministerial troops, and our immediate secu
rity, must be my apology, which I beg you to lay before
Congress with the utmost duty and respect, f
We labor under great disadvantages for want of tents ;

* The first council of war was held at head-quarters on the 9th of July,
attended by the major-generals and the brigadiers. The council decided,
that, from the best information, the number ofthe enemy's forces in Boston
should be estimated at eleven thousand five hundred men. On the ques
tion whether it was expedient to defend the posts now occupied, or retire
farther into the country, it was unanimously determined to defend the
posts. It was also agreed, that twenty-two thousand men at least were
necessary to act against the supposed force ofthe enemy, and that meas
ures ought to be immediately taken to increase the army by recruits. It
was further agreed, that, if. the troops should be attacked, and routed by
the enemy, the place of rendezvous should be Wales's Hill, in the rear
ofthe Roxbury lines.
f See Appendix, No. IV.

20 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [^Et. 43.
for, though they have been helped out by a collection
of sails from the seaport towns, the number is far short
of our necessities. The colleges and houses of this
town are necessarily occupied by the troops; which
affords another reason for keeping our present station.
But I most sincerely wish the whole army was properly
provided to take the field, as I am well assured, that,
besides greater expedition and activity in case of alarm,
it would highly conduce to health and discipline. As
materials are not to be had here, I would beg leave to
recommend the procuring of a farther supply from
Philadelphia, as soon as possible.
I should be extremely deficient in gratitude, as well
as justice, if I did not take the first opportunity to ac
knowledge the readiness and attention, which the Pro
vincial Congress and different committees have shown,
to make every thing as convenient and agreeable as
possible.* But there is a vital and inherent principle
of delay incompatible with military service, in transact
ing business through such numerous and different -chan
nels. I esteem it, therefore, my duty to represent the
inconvenience, which must unavoidably ensue from a
dependence on a number of persons for supplies ; and
submit it to the consideration of Congress, whether the
* Before General Washington left Philadelphia, he requested the Mas
sachusetts delegates in Congress to recommend to him such bodies of
men, and individuals, as he might apply to with confidence in that colony.
They answered him in writing, and referred him particularly to the Com
mittee on the State of the Province, the Committee of Safety, and the
Committee of Supplies. They moreover enumerated the following gen
tlemen, as worthy and trusty friends ofthe cause, on whose judgment and
fidelity he might rely, namely, Bowdoin, Sever, Dexter, Greenleaf, Pitts,
Otis, of the late council; John Winthrop ; Joseph Hawley, of Northamp
ton; James Warren, of Plymouth; Colonel Palmer, of Braintree ; Colonel
Orne and Elbridge Gerry, of Marblehead; Dr. Warren, Dr. Church, John
Pitts, Dr. Chauncy, Dr. Cooper, of Boston ; Dr. Langdon, President
of Harvard College; and Colonel Foster, of Brookfield.— -MS. Letter,
June 22rf.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 21
public service will not be best promoted by appointing a
commissary -general for these purposes. We have a
¦striking instance of the preference of such a mode, in
the establishment of Connecticut, as their troops are
extremely well provided under the direction of Mr.
Trumbull, and he has at different times assisted others
with various articles. Should my sentiments happily
coincide with those of your Honors on this subject, I
beg leave to recommend Mr. Trumbull as a very proper
person for this department. In the arrangement of
troops collected under such circumstances, and upon
the spur of immediate necessity, several appointments
have been omitted, which appear to be indispensably
necessary for the good government of the army, particu
larly a quartermaster-general, a commissary of musters,
and a commissary of artillery. These I must particu
larly recommend to the notice and provision of the
Congress. *
I find myself already much embarrassed, for want of
a military chest. These embarrassments will increase
every day. I must therefore most earnestly request, that
money may be forwarded as soon as possible. The
want of this most necessary article will, I fear, produce
great inconveniences, if not prevented by an early at
tention. I find the army in general, and the troops
raised in Massachusetts in particular, very deficient in
necessary clothing. Upon inquiry, there appears no
probability of obtaining any supplies in this quarter;
and, on the best consideration of this matter I am able
to form, I am of opinion that a number of hunting-shirts,
not less than ten thousand, would in a great degree re
move this difficulty, in the cheapest and quickest man
ner. I. know nothing, in a speculative view, more trivial,
* When this application was considered by Congress, the appointment
ol these officers was left to the Commander-in-chief.

22 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS [Mr. 43.
yet which, if put in practice, would have a happier ten
dency to unite the men, and abolish those provincial
distinctions, that lead to jealousy and dissatisfaction.
In a former part of this letter, I mentioned the want
of engineers. I can hardly express the disappointment
I have experienced on this subject, the skill of those we
have being very imperfect, and confined to the mere
manual exercise of cannon ; whereas the war in which
we are engaged requires a knowledge, comprehending
the duties of the field, and fortification. If any persons
thus qualified are to be found in the southern colonies,
it would be of great public service to forward them with
all expedition.
Upon the article of ammunition, I must reecho the
former complaints on this subject. We are so exceed
ingly destitute, that our artillery will be of little use,
without a supply both large and seasonable. What we
have must be reserved for the small arms, and that
managed with the utmost frugality.
I am very sorry to observe, that the appointment of
general officers, in the provinces of Massachusetts and
Connecticut, has not corresponded with the wishes and
judgment of either the civil or military. The great dis
satisfaction expressed on this subject, and the apparent
danger of throwing the whole army into the utmost dis
order, together with the strong representations made by
the Provincial Congress, have induced me to retain the
commissions in my hands until the pleasure of the Con
tinental Congress should be further known, except
General Putnam's, which was given the day I came to
the camp, and before I was apprized of these disgusts.
In such a step, I must beg the Congress will do me the
justice to believe, that I have been actuated solely by a
regard to the public good.
I have not, nor could I have, any private attachments;

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 23
every gentleman in appointment was a stranger to me,
but from character; I must, therefore, rely upon the
candor and indulgence of Congress, for their most fa
vorable construction of my conduct in this particular.
General Spencer's disgust was so great at General Put
nam's promotion, that he left the army without visiting
me, or making known his intention in any respect.
General Pomroy had also retired before my arrival,
occasioned, as it is said, by some disappointment from
the Provincial Congress. General Thomas is much es
teemed, and most earnestly desired to continue in the
service ; and, as far as my opportunities have enabled
me to judge, I must join in the general opinion, that he
is an able, good officer ; and his resignation would be a
public loss. The postponing of him to Pomroy and
Heath, whom he has commanded, would make his con
tinuance very difficult, and probably operate on his
mind, as the like circumstance did on that of Spencer.*
The state of the army you will find ascertained with
tolerable precision in the returns, which accompany this
letter. Upon finding the number of men to fall so far

* Eight brigadier-generals for the Continental army were chosen by
Congress on the 22d of June, in the following order. Seth Pomroy, of
Massachusetts ; Richard Montgomery, of New York ; David Wooster, of
Connecticut; William Heath, of Massachusetts ; Joseph Spencer, of Con
necticut ; John Thomas, of Massachusetts ; John Sullivan, of New Hamp
shire ; Nathanael Greene, of Rhode Island. The commissions for these offi
cers had been brought to camp by General Washington. He found great
uneasiness prevailing, as to the comparative rank conferred by these ap
pointments. The difficulties were in some degree removed by Pomroy's
declining to serve, and by Spencer's consenting to take rank after Putnam.
By this arrangement Thomas was made the first brigadier-general. —
Journal of Congress, July. 19th. — Pomroy behaved with great courage
at the battle of Bunker's Hill, and although he declined joining the Conti
nental army, yet he headed the militia of his neighbourhood, who marched
to the Hudson River, when New Jersey was overrun by the enemy. He
never returned from that expedition. He died at Peekskill in New York.
— Swett's History of Bunker-rHitt Battle, 2d ed. pp. 8, 53.

24 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mt.43.
short of the establishment, and below all expectation, I
immediately called a council of the general officers,
whose opinion, as to the mode of filling up the regi
ments, and providing for the present exigency, I have the
honor of enclosing, together with the best judgment we
are able to form of the ministerial troops. From the
number of boys, deserters, and negroes, that have been
enlisted in the troops of this province, I entertain some
doubts whether the number required can be raised
here ; and all the general officers agree, that no depend
ence can be put on the militia, for a continuance in
camp, or regularity and discipline during the short time
they may stay. This unhappy and devoted province
has been so long in a state of anarchy, and the yoke of
ministerial oppression has been laid so heavily on it, that
great allowances are to be made for troops raised under
such circumstances. The deficiency of numbers, disci
pline, and stores, can only lead to this conclusion, that
their spirit has exceeded their strength. But, at the
same time, I would humbly submit to the consideration
of Congress the propriety of making some further pro
vision of men from the other colonies. If these regi
ments should be completed to their establishment, the
dismission of those unfit for duty, on account of their age
and character, would occasion a considerable reduction;
and, at all events, they have been enlisted upon such
terms, that they may be disbanded when other troops
arrive. But should my apprehensions be realized, and
the regiments here not be filled up, the public cause
would suffer by an absolute dependence upon so doubt
ful an event, unless some provision is made against such
a disappointment. It requires no military skill to judge of the difficulty
of introducing proper discipline and subordination into
an army, while we have the enemy in view, and are in

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 25
daily expectation of an attack ; but it is of so much im
portance, that every effort will be made to this end,
which time and circumstances will admit. In the mean
time, I have a sincere pleasure in observing, that there
are materials for a good army, a great number of able-
bodied men, active, zealous in the cause, and of un
questionable courage.
I am now, Sir, to acknowledge the receipt of your
favor of the 28th of June, enclosing the resolutions of
Congress of the 27th, and a copy of a letter from the
Committee of Albany ; to all which I shall pay due
attention. Generals Gates and Sullivan have both arrived in
good health.
My best abilities are at all times devoted to the ser
vice of my country ; but I feel the weight, importance,
and variety of my present duties too sensibly, not to
wish a more immediate and frequent communication
with the Congress. I fear it may often happen, in the
course of our present operations, that I shall need that
assistance and direction from them, which time and
distance will not allow me to receive. «
Since writing the above, I have also to acknowledge
your favor of the 4th instant by Fessenden, and the
receipt of the commissions and articles of war. Among
the other returns, I have also sent one of our killed,
wounded, and missing, in the late action ;* but have
been able to procure no certain account of the loss of the
* At Bunker's Hill, on the 17th of June. According to a return
published by the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, the loss was one
hundred and forty-five killed and missing, and three hundred and four
wounded. About thirty of the first number were wounded and taken
prisoners. By General Gage's official return, the killed and missing of
the British were two hundred and twenty-six, and the wounded eight hun
dred and twenty-eight, in all one thousand and fifty four. — Almorts Re
membrancer, Vol. I. pp. 99, 179.
VOL. III. 4 c

26 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [jEt. 43.
ministerial troops. My best intelligence fixes it at about
five hundred killed and six or seven hundred wounded ;
but it is no more than conjecture, the utmost pains
being taken on their side to conceal their loss.
Having ordered the commanding officer to give me
the earliest intelligence of every motion of the enemy
by land or water, discernible from the heights of his
camp, I this instant, as I was closing my letter, received
the enclosed from the brigade-major. The design ot
this manoeuvre I know not; perhaps it may be to
make a descent somewhere along the coast ; it may be
for New York ; or it may be practised as a deception
on us. I thought it not improper however to mention
the matter to you ; I have done the same to the com
manding officer at New-York ; and I shall let it be.
known to the Committee. of Safety here, so that intelli
gence may be communicated, as they shall think best,
along the sea-coast of this government.
I have the honor to be, &c.

TO RICHARD HENRY LEE, IN CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 10 July, 1775.
Dear Sir,
I was exceeding glad to receive a letter from you, as
I always shall be whenever it is convenient; though;
perhaps my hurry, till such time as matters are drawn
a little out of the chaos they appear in at present, will
not suffer me to write you such full and satisfactory an
swers, or give such clear and precise accounts of our
situation and views, as I could wish, or you might ex
pect. After a journey, a good deal retarded, principal
ly by the desire of the different townships through
¦»rtich I travelled of showing respect to the general of

.1. II!. -

!£3 0 ryi1 D g
ith^il^ilMUitrons ]
m.r>*i7fo.

jjj ;--•: ¦' • .

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 27
your armies, I arrived here on this day week ; since
which I have been laboring with as much assiduity by
fair and threatening means, to obtain returns of our
strength in this camp and Roxbury and their depen
dencies, as a man could do, and never have been able
to accomplish the matter till this day ; and now, I will
not answer for the correctness of them, although I have
sent several of the regimental returns back more than
once to have mistakes rectified.
. I do not doubt but the Congress will think me very
remiss in not writing to them sooner ; but you may rely
on it yourself, and I beg you to assure them, that it has
never been in my power till this day to comply with
their orders. Could I have conceived, that what -ought,
and, in a regular army, would have. been done in an hour,
would employ eight days, I should have sent an ex
press on the second morning after I arrived, with a
general account of things ; but expecting in the morning
to receive the returns in the evening, and in the evening
surely to find them in the morning, and at last getting
them full of imperfections, I have been drilled on from
day to day, till I am ashamed to look back at the time,
which has elapsed since my arrival here. You will per
ceive by the returns, that we have but about sixteen
thousand effective men in all this department, whereas,
by the accounts which I received from even the first
officers in command, I had no doubt of finding between
eighteen and twenty thousand ; out of these there are
only fourteen thousand fit for duty. So soon as I was
able to get this state of the army, and came to the
knowledge of our weakness, I immediately summoned
a council of war, the result of which you will see, as it
is enclosed to the Congress. Between you and me, I
think we are in an exceedingly dangerous situation, as
our numbers are not much larger than we suppose those

28 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mt. 43.
of the enemy to be, from the best accounts we are able to
get. They are situated in such a manner, as to be drawn
to any point of attack, without our having an hour's
previous notice of it, if the General will keep his own
counsel ; whereas we are obliged to be guarded at all
points, and know not where, with precision, to look for
them. I should not, I think, have made choice of the pres
ent posts, in the first instance, although I believe the
communication between the town and country could
not have been so well cut off without them; and, as
much labor has been bestowed in throwing up lines, and
making redoubts ; as Cambridge, Roxbury, and Water-
town must be immediately exposed to the mercy of the
enemy, were we to retreat a little further into the coun
try ; as it would give a general dissatisfaction to this
colony, dispirit our own people, and encourage the
enemy, to remove at this time to another place ; we have
for these reasons resolved in council to maintain our
ground if we can. Our lines on Winter and Prospec!
Hills, and those of the enemy on Bunker's Hill, are in
full view of each other, a mile distant, our advance
guards much nearer, and the sentries almost near
enough to converse ; at Roxbury and Boston Neck it
is the same. Between these, we are obliged to guard
several of the places at which the enemy may land.
They have strongly fortified, or will fortify in a few
days, their camps and Bunker's Hill ; after which, and
when their newly landed troops have got a little re
freshed, we shall look for a visit, if they mean, as we
are told they do, to come out of their lines. Their
great command of artillery, and adequate stores of pow
der, give them advantages, which we have only to la
ment the want of.
The abuses in this army, I fear, are considerable, and

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 29
the new modelling of it, in the face of an enemy, from
whom we every hour expect an attack, is exceedingly
difficult and dangerous. If things therefore should not
turn out as the Congress would wish, I hope they will
make proper allowances. I can only promise and as
sure them, that my whole time is devoted to their ser
vice, and that as far as my judgment goes, they shall
have no cause to complain. I need not tell you, that
this letter is written in much haste ; the fact will suffi
ciently appear from the face of it. I thought a hasty
letter would please you better than no letter, and, there
fore, I shall offer no further apology, but assure you,
that, with sincere regard for my fellow laborers with
you, and Dr. Shippen's family, I am, dear Sir, your
most affectionate servant.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL PHILIP SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 10 July, 1775.
Sir,
I ' received your favor of the 1 st instant by express
from New York ; but as I am exceedingly hurried in
making out my despatches for the Congress at Phila
delphia, it is not in my power to answer it in so full a
manner as I wish.
Notwithstanding Governor Tryon's plausible' beha
viour, I recommend it to you to watch him narrowly ;
and as any unlucky change of affairs on our part may
produce a change in him, of his present unexceptiona
ble conduct, I expect you will, on the first appearance
of such a change, pursue the advice given in my last
letter. The like advice I give you respecting General
Haldiman, who is supposed by some to have gone to
New York, with a design to counteract us in that prov-
c*

30 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
ince. The commissions, which have been forwarded to
me, are not sufficient to answer the demand I have for
them, there being at least one thousand officers in this
department, and not more than five hundred commis
sions in my possession. As you are so much nearer to
Philadelphia than I am, I request you to apply to Con
gress for as many as you may want.
The dispersing of hand-bills amongst the troops in New
York has my most hearty approbation, and may have a
good effect here. Our enemies have attempted nothing
against us since my arrival here. They are strongly
posted on Bunker's Hill, and are still busy in throwing
up additional works. We have thrown up several lines
and redoubts between Mystic River and Dorchester
Point, to prevent their making way into the country,
and in a few days we shall be well prepared to receive
them, in case a sortie is attempted.
I sincerely thank you for your attention to the direc
tions of the Congress, and for your kind wishes ; and
am, with much regard, Sir, your obedient friend and
very humble servant.
P. S. I herewith enclose a report this minute re
ceived from the camp at Dorchester. The design of
this manoeuvre I am at a loss to know, but suppose it
may be intended as a diversion to our forces here. It
however behooves you to keep a good look-out, to pre
vent any surprise your way.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 31
TO JONATHAN TRUMBULL, GOVERNOR OF
CONNECTICUT.
Cambridge, 18 July, 1775.
Sir,
Allow me to return you my sincere thanks, for the
kind wishes and favorable sentiments expressed in
yours of the 13th instant As the cause of our com
mon country calls us both to an active and dangerous
duty, I trust that Divine Providenee, which wisely or
ders the affairs of men, will enable us to discharge it
with fidelity and success. The uncorrupted choice of
a brave and free people has raised you to deserved
eminence. That the blessings of health, and the still
greater blessing of long continuing to govern such a
people, may be yours, is the sincere wish of, Sir,
your, &c*
* Governor Trumbull was one of the firmest patriots and best men,
that his country has produced. He was at this time sixty-five years old,
having been born in the year 1710, yet no man engaged with more zeal
and activity in the common cause. So true was he to the principles of
liberty, and such was the confidence of his fellow citizens in his talents
and integrity, that, although first appointed Governor in 1769, several
years before the breaking out of the war, he was constantly chosen with
great unanimity to the same station till the end of the revolution, when, at
the age of seventy-three, he declined a further election. His services
were of very great importance throughout the whole war, not only in
regulating the civil affairs of Connecticut, but in keeping alive a military
ardor among the people, and thus promoting efficiency and promptness of
action in the forces contributed from time to time by that state. General
Washington relied on him as one of his main pillars of support. The
following extracts from Governor Trumbull's letter, to which the above is
an answer, will show something ofthe spirit prevailing at that day, as well
as the religious cast ol the writer's mind ;
" Suffer me to join in congratulating you, on your appointment to be
General arid Commander-in-chief of the troops raised or to be raised for
the defence of American liberty. Men, who have tasted of freedom, and
who have felt their personal rights, are not easily taught to bear with en
croachments on either, or brought to submit to oppression. Virtue ought

32 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr. 43.
TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
Cambridge, 18 July, 1775.
Sir,
It is with no small concern, that I find the arrange
ment of general officers, made by the Continental Con
gress, has produced much dissatisfaction. As the army
is upon a general establishment, their right, to super
sede and control a Provincial one, must be unquestion
able ; and, in such a cause, I should hope every post
would be deemed honorable, which gave a man an op
portunity to serve his country.
A representation from the Congress of this province,
with such remarks as occurred to me on this subject, is
now before the Continental Congress. In the mean
time, I beg leave to assure you, that, unbiassed by any
private attachments, I shall studiously endeavour to
reconcile their pretensions to their duty, and so dispose
them, as to prevent, as far as possible, any inconvenien
ces to the public service from this competition. I have
the honor to be, &c.

always to be made the object of government ; justice is firm and per
manent. " His Majesty's ministers have artfully induced the Parliament to join
in their measures, to prosecute the dangerous and increasing difference
between Great Britain and these colonies with rigor and military force ;
whereby the latter are driven to an absolute necessity to defend their
rights and properties, by raising forces for their security. The honorable
Congress have, with one united voice, appointed you to the high station
you possess. The Supreme Director of all events has caused a wonderful
union of hearts and counsels to subsist amongst us. Now, therefore, be
strong and very courageous. May the God of the armies of Israel show
er down the blessings of his divine providence on you, give you wisdom
and fortitude, cover your head in the day of battle and danger, add suc
cess, convince our enemies of their mistaken measures, and that all their
attempts to deprive these colonies of their inestimable constitutional rights
and liberties are injurious and vain.''

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 33
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 20 July, 1775.
Sir,
Since I did myself the honor of addressing you the
14th instant, I have received advice from Governor
Trumbull, that the Assembly of Connecticut had voted,
and that they are now raising, two regiments of seven
hundred men each, to join this army in consequence of
an application from the Provincial Congress of Massa
chusetts Bay. The Rhode Island Assembly has also
made an augmentation for this purpose. These rein
forcements, with the riflemen who are daily expected,
and such recruits as may come in to fill up the regi
ments here, will, I apprehend, compose an army suffi
ciently strong to oppose any force, which may be brought
against us at present. I am very sensible, that the heavy
expense, necessarily attendant upon this campaign, will
call for the utmost frugality and care, and I would there
fore, if possible, avoid enlisting one unnecessary man.
As this is the first certain account of the destination of
these new-raised troops, I thought proper to communi
cate my sentiments as early as possible, lest the Con
gress should act upon my letter of the 10th, and raise
troops in the southern colonies, which, in my present
judgment, may be dispensed with.
Next to the more immediate and pressing duties of
putting our lines in as secure a state as possible, atten
ding to the movements of the enemy, and gaining in
telligence, my great concern is to establish order, regu
larity, and discipline, without which, our numbers would
embarrass us, and, in case of action, general confusion
must infallibly ensue. In order to this, I propose to
divide the army into three divisions. At the head of
each will be a general officer ; these divisions to be again
vol. in. 5

34 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43,
subdivided into brigades, under their respective briga
diers. But the difficulty arising from the arrangement
of the general officers, and waiting the farther proceed
ings of the Congress on this subject, have much retarded
my progress in this most necessary work. I should be
very happy to receive their final commands, as any de
termination would enable me to proceed in my plan.
General Spencer returned to the camp two days ago,
and has agreed to serve under Putnam rather than leave
the army entirely. I have heard nothing from General
Pomroy ; should he wholly retire, I apprehend it will
be necessary to supply his place as soon as possible.
General Folsom proposed also to retire.
My instructions from the honorable Congress direct,
that no troops are to be disbanded without their ex
press direction, nor to be recruited to more than double
the number of the enemy. Upon this subject I beg
leave to represent, that, unless the regiments in this
province are more successful in recruiting than I have
reason to expect, a reduction of some of them will be
highly necessary, as the public is put to the whole ex
pense of an establishment of officers, while the real
strength of the regiment, which consists in the rank and
file, is defective. In case of such a reduction, doubt
less some of the privates and all the officers would re
turn home ; but many of the former would go into the
remaining regiments, and, having had some experience
of service, would fill them up with useful men. I so
plainly perceive the expense of this campaign will ex
ceed any calculation hitherto made, that I am particular
ly anxious to strike off every unnecessary charge. You
will therefore, Sir, be pleased to favor me with explicit
directions from the Congress, on the mode of this re
duction, if it shall appear necessary, that no time may
be lost when such necessity appears.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 35
You will please to present me to the Congress, with
the utmost duty and respect ; and believe me to be, &,c.
P. S. Captain Derby's stay in England was so short,
that he brings no other information, than what the en
closed letter and the newspapers, which will accompany
this, contain. General Gage's despatches had not arriv
ed ; and the ministry affected to disbelieve the whole
account, treating it as a fiction, or, at most, an affair of
little consequence. The fall of stocks was very incon
siderable. *
July 2\st, 5 o'clock, P. M. Since closing the letters,
which accompany this, I have received an account of
* By a vote of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress (April 26th),
Mr. Richard Derby of Salem was empowered to fit out his vessel, as a
packet, to carry intelligence of the Lexington battle to England, and
all charges were to be paid by the colony. It was commanded by Cap
tain John Derby, who arrived in London on the 29th of May, having
taken with him several copies of the Essex Gazette, in which was con
tained the first published account of the affair at Lexington and Concord.
This was reprinted and circulated in London the day after his arrival, and
gave the first notice of that event to the English public. Captain
Derby was summoned before the Privy Council, arid examined, the
ministry having received no despatches from General Gage confirming
such a report. Nor did his letters arrive, till eleven days afterwards,
although the vessel conveying them sailed four days previous to the de
parture of Captain Derby. Great excitement was produced throughout
England, and the clamor grew loud against the ministers', because it was
presumed that they concealed the official accounts, and wished to keep
the people in ignorance. On the 10th of June, however, as soon as
General Gage's official report reached Whitehall, it was published. —
MS. Journal of Massachusetts Provincial Congress. — MS. Papers in the
State Paper Office, London.
Captain Derby took with him the original affidavits ofthe people in Lex
ington and Concord, respecting the battle, and a letter from the Provincial
Congress to Dr. Franklin, agent in England for Massachusetts. These
identical papers are now in the Library of Harvard College. When
Captain Derby arrived in London, Dr. Franklin had sailed for America,
and he was at sea when the affair at Lexington took place. The papers
were, therefore, handed to Arthur Lee, who was Dr. Franklin's successor.
He retained them, and recently they have been deposited in the Library
of the College, with other manuscripts, by Mr. R. H. Lee, of Virginia.

36 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
the destruction of the light-house ; a «Opy of which I
have the honor to enclose,*
I have also received a more authentic account of the
loss of the enemy in the late battle, than any yet re
ceived. Dr. Winthrop, wfio lodged in the same house
with an officer of the marines, assures me they had
exactly one thousand and forty-three killed and woun
ded, of whom three hundred fell on the field, or died
within a few hours. Many of the wounded are since
dead.

TO COLONEL JOHN HANCOCK. Cambridge, 21 July, 1775.
Dear Sir,
I am particularly to acknowledge that part of your
favor of the 10th instant, wherein you do me the honor
of determining to join the army under my command.
I need certainly make no professions of the pleasure I
shall have in seeing you. At the same time I have to
regret, that so little is in my power to offer equal to
Colonel Hancock's merits, and worthy of his accept
ance. I shall be happy in every opportunity to show
the regard and esteem with which,
I am, Sir, your most obedient and very humble ser
vant.! * A party of the American troops set fire to the light-house, which
stood on an island about nine miles from Boston. It was considered an
enterprise of some merit, as a British man-of-war was stationed within a
mile of the place.
f Mr. Hancock had written; — "I must beg the favor, that you will
reserve some berth for me, in such department as you may judge most
proper ; for I am determined to act under you, if it be to take the firelock
and join the ranks as a volunteer." The company of Cadets in Boston
had been commanded by Mr. Hancock, with the rank of Colonel. He

P-artjU.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 37
TO GEORGE WILLIAM FAIRFAX, ENGLAND.
Camp at Cambridge, 25 July, 1775.
Dear Sir,
On the other side you will receive a copy of my last,
dated, at Philadelphia the 3 1st of May, and to which I
refer. I shall say very little in this letter, for two reasons ;
first, because I have received no letter from you since
the one dated in June, 1774, and therefore, having writ
ten often, can have nothing to answer ; but, principally,
because I do not know whether it may ever get to your
hands. If it should, the principal, indeed only design
is to cover the seconds of those bills forwarded in my
last.

was dismissed from that command by General Gage. A curious corre
spondence on the subject is contained in the Boston Gazette, August 29th,
1774. It does not appear, that he joined' the army under Washington in
any military capacity, as above proposed.
An error of some consequence has crept into history, respecting the
poximate cause, which influenced the members of the Continental Con
gress in choosing Mr. Hancock to be president of that bady. In;Belsham's
Memoirs of the Reign of George the Third (Vol. I. p. 318), it is intimated,
that his proscription by General Gage procured him this honor. Mrs. War
ren, in ner History of the Revolution (Vol. I. p. 214), speaks with still more
confidence, and says, " He was chosen to preside in the respectable as
sembly of delegates, avowedly on the sole principle of his having been
proscribed by General Gage." But Hancock was chosen president of the
Continental Congress on the 24th of May, two weeks before Gage's
proclamation, proscribing him and Samuel Adams, was issued, that instru
ment having first appeared on the 12th of June following. It is probable,
that a main reason of his being chosen, in addition to the notoriety ac
quired by the zealous part he had acted, was the circumstance of his
winning personal; address, and his having been for some time president of
the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, byf Wfhich he had become fa
miliar with the forms of business in a public body. This latter office he
continued to hold, after joining the Continental Congress. Dr. Joseph
Warren was elected president pro tempore, and discharged the duties of
the station, till the day on which, he w^s slain at Bunker's Hilh —
MS. Journal of ijhe. Masspclyus-etts; Proj^ncifd. Congress, for May qpd
June, 1775.
VOL. III. D

38 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr.43.
You will, I presume, before this letter gets to hand,
hear of my appointment to the command of the Conti
nental army. I arrived at this camp the 2d instant.
You must, no doubt, also have heard of the engager
ment on Bunker's Hill the 17th ultimo; but as I am
persuaded you will have a very erroneous account
transmitted of the loss sustained on the side of the
Provincials, I do assure you, upon my word, that our
loss, as appears by the returns made to me since I came
here, amounts to no more than one hundred and thirty-
nine killed, thirty-six missing, and two hundred and
seventy-eight wounded ; nor had we, if I can credit the
most solemn assurances of the officers, who were in
the action, above one thousand five hundred men en
gaged on that day. The loss on the side of the minis
terial troops, as I am informed from good authority,
consisted of one thousand and forty-three killed and
wounded, whereof ninety-two were officers.*
Enclosed I send you a second address from the Con
gress to the inhabitants of Great Britain; as also a
declaration setting forth the causes and necessity of
their taking up arms.
With my affectionate and respectful compliments to
Mrs. Fairfax, I am, &c.

TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
Camp at Cambridge, 27 July, 1775.
Dear Brother,
On the 2nd instant I arrived at this place, after pass
ing through a great deal of delightful country, covered
* This result varies a little from the official returns afterwards made
out.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 39
with grass, (although the season has been dry) in a
manner very different from our lands in Virginia.
I found a mixed multitude of people here, under very
little discipline, order, or government ; the enemy in
possession of a place called Bunker's Hill, on Charles
town Neck, strongly intrenched, and fortifying them
selves ; part of our own army on two hills, called
Winter and Prospect Hills, about a mile and a quarter
from the enemy on Bunker's Hill, in a very insecure
state ; another part at this village ; and a third part at
Roxbury, guarding the entrance in and out of Boston.
My whole time, since I came here, has been employed
in throwing up lines of defence at these three several
places, to secure, in the first instance, our own troops
from any attempts of the enemy ; and, in the next
place, to cut off all communication between their troops
and the country. To do this, and to prevent them from
penetrating into the country with fire and sword, and to
harass them if they do, is all that is expected of me.
If effected, it must totally overthrow the designs of
administration, as the whole, force of Great Britain in
the town and harbour of Boston can answer no other
end, than to sink her under the disgrace and Aveight of
the expense. The enemy's strength, including marine
forces, is computed, from the best accounts I can get,
at about twelve thousand men; ours, including sick
and absent, at about sixteen thousand; but then we
have to guard a semicircle of eight or nine miles, to
every part of which we are obliged to be equally atten
tive ; whilst they, situated as it were in the centre of
the semicircle, and having the entire command of the
water, can bend their whole force against any one part
of it with equal facility. This renders our situation not
very agreeable, though necessary. However, by in
cessant labor, Sundays not excepted, we are in a much

40 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43
better posture of defence now, than when I first came.
The enclosed, though rough, will give you some small
idea of Boston and the Bay on this side, as also of the
post they have taken on Charlestown Neck at Bunker's
Hill, and of our posts.
The enemy are sickly, and in want of fresh pro
visions. Beef, which is chiefly got by slaughtering their
milch cows in Boston, sells from one shilling to eighteen
pence sterling per pound ; and that it may not become
cheaper, or more plenty, I have driven all the stock,
within a considerable distance of this place, back into
the country, out of the way of the men-of-war's boats.
In short, I have done, and shall continue to do, every
thing in my power to distress them. The transports
have all arrived, and their whole reinforcement is landed,
so that I can see no reason why they should not, if they
ever attempt it, come boldly out, and put the matter to
issue at once. If they think themselves not strong
enough to do this, they surely will carry their arms
(having ships of war and transports ready) to some
other part of the continent, or relinquish the dispute ;
the last of which the ministry, unless compelled, will
never agree to do. Our works, and those of the
enemy are so near and the space between is so open,
that each sees every thing the other is doing.
I recollect nothing more worth mentioning. I shall
therefore conclude, with my best wishes and love to my
sister and the family, and compliments to any inquiring
friends, your most affectionate brother.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 41
TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Camp at Cambridge, 28 July, 1775.
Sir,
I wrote you yesterday by way of New York, and in
two hours afterwards was favored with yours of the
15th and 18th instant, with their respective enclosures.
I was extremely glad to find, that your first apprehen
sions of an incursion by the Indians were in some de
gree removed by the late advices. At the same time,
I think it is evident from the spirit and tenor of Colonel
Johnson's letter, that no art or influence will be left un
tried by him to engage them in such an enterprise.
Should he once prevail upon them to dip their hands in
blood, mutual hostilities will most probably ensue, and
they may be led to take a more decisive part. All ac
counts I think agree, that the Canadians are very averse
to engaging in this unnatural contest ; but I am persuaded
you will not abate in the least your vigilance to expedite
every movement in that quarter, notwithstanding their
present pacific appearances.*
* The Indians began to be restless in the western parts of New York,
and there were strong indications that Guy Johnson, the Indian agent,
was stirring them up against the colonies. Reports came, also, that Gen
eral Carleton was fortifying St. John's, building boats, and preparing to
make a descent on Lake Champlain, and attack Crown Point and Ticonde
roga. This intelligence reached Congress after Washington's departure
for the camp, and produced a change in the public counsels. It had pre
viously been the determination not to make any hostile attempts upon
Canada, and a resolve of Congress to that effect was passed on the 1st of
June. But after the above intelligence reached Congress from a com
mittee in Albany, a set of resolutions was immediately adopted, June 27th,
bearing a very different complexion, and instructing General Schuyler to
repair without delay to Ticonderoga, and "if he found it practicable.
and it would not be disagreeable to the Canadians, immediately to take
possession of St. John's and Montreal, and pursue any other measures
in Canada, which might have a tendency to promote the peace and securi
ty of these colonies." The resolutions from which this extract is taken
were not printed in the Journals, but they afford a key to the subsequent
operations on Lake Champlain. — See Appendix, No. V.
VOL. III. 6 D *

42 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
I am much easier with respect to the public interest
since your arrival at Ticonderoga, as I am persuaded
those abilities and that zeal for the common welfare,
which have led your country to repose such confidence
in you, will be fully exerted. From my own experi
ence I can easily judge of your difficulties in introducing
order and discipline into troops, who have from their
infancy imbibed ideas of the most contrary kind. It
would be far beyond the compass of a letter, for me to
describe the situation of things here on my arrival.
Perhaps you will only be able to judge of it from my
assuring you, that mine must be a portrait at full length
of what you have had in miniature. Confusion and
discord reigned in every department, which, in a little
time, must have ended either in the separation of the
army, or fatal contests with one another. The better
genius of America has prevailed, and most happily the
ministerial troops have not availed themselves of their
advantages, till I trust the opportunity is in a great meas
ure past over. The arrangement of the general offi
cers in Massachusetts and Connecticut has been very
unpopular, indeed I may say injudicious. It is returned
to the Congress for further consideration, and has much
retarded my plan of discipline. However, we mend
every day, and I flatter myself that in a little time we
shall work up these raw materials into a good manufac
ture. I must recommend to you, what I endeavour to
practise myself, patience and perseverance. As to your
operations, my dear Sir, I can suggest nothing, which
your own good judgment will not either anticipate, or
control, from your immediate view of things, and the
instructions of the Continental Congress.
The express from hence to England, with the ac
count of the commencement of hostilities at Lexington,
has returned. It was far from making the impression

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 43
generally expected here. Stocks fell but one and a
half per cent. General Gage's account had not arrived,
and the enemy affected to treat it as a fiction. Parlia
ment had been prorogued two days, but it was reported
that it would be immediately recalled. Our enemy
continues strongly posted about a mile from us, both at
Bunker's Hill and Roxbury, but we are not able to get
any information of their future intentions. Part of the
riflemen are come in, and the rest daily expected.
I did not suppose your returns would be very com
plete at first ; but I must ask your attention to reform
ing them as soon as possible ; and I beg leave to add,
that I would have you scrutinize with exactness into
the application of provisions and stores.* I have the
utmost reason to suspect irregularities and impositions
here. You will be fortunate if the contagion does not
reach you. General Lee has removed about four miles
from me, but I will take the first opportunity to make
your kind wishes known to him. f I am, dear Sir,
yours, &c.
* By a return sent in the letter of the 15th, the forces under General
Schuyler in the Northern Department were represented as follows ;
1. Connecticut troops under General Wooster . . . 1505
2. " " under Colonel Hinman, at Ticonderoga,
Crown Point, and Fort George  973
3. New York troops at Fort George  205
4. Massachusetts troops at Ticonderoga, Crown Point, and Fort
George  174
Total 2857
Sick and absent  . 73
Present fit for duty  2784
\ General Lee was now stationed at Winter Hill, near Medford, in
command of the left wing of the army. — See Appendix, No. VI.

44 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
TO THE SPEAKER OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF
MASSACHUSETTS BAY.*
Camp at Cambridge, 31 July, 1775.
Sir,
I have considered the application made to me yester
day from the General Court, with all the attention due
to the situation of the people, in whose behalf it is.
made, and the respect due to such a recommendation.
* General Gage, as governor of the colony, summoned in the usual way
a meeting of the General Assembly to be held at Salem, on the 5th of
October, 1774. After issuing precepts for the election, he was induced by
the current of events to suspend the meeting of the members chosen.
They met, however, to the number of ninety, at the time and place ap
pointed ; and receiving no message from the governor, and questioning,
the legality of his proclamation, they formed themselves into a Provinciai
Congress, and proceeded to take into consideration the affairs of the colo
ny. They adjourned to Cambridge, where, except an intermission of
three or four weeks, by adjournment, they continued in session till the
10th of December, when the Congress was dissolved, having previously
recommended a new election to the people, and appointed a Committee of
Safety from their own members to manage the public concerns, till a new
Congress should be assembled. The second Congress met on the 1st of
February, 1775, at Cambridge, but adjourned to Concord, and afterwards
to Watertown ; it was dissolved on the 23d of May. A third Congress
met at Watertown, May 31st, and continued till July 19th, when the
government by Provincial Congresses ceased, and the General Assembly,
or, as it was otherwise called, General Court, convened at Watertown.'
This was the body, which Washington now addressed. It differed from the
old mode, by having a Council, and thus acting in two separate branches.
The Provincial Congress, had, on the 16th of May, written to the Con
tinental Congress requesting their advice on the expediency of establish
ing a more efficient system, or, as it was termed, taking up civil govern
ment. In their letter it was stated, — "As the sword should, in all free
states, be subservient to the civil powers, and as it is the duty of the
magistrate to support it for the people's necessary defence, we tremble at
having an army, although consisting of our own countrymen, established
here, without a civil power to provide for and control them." In conse
quence of this representation, the Continental Congress, on the 9th of
June, passed a resolve, recommending the adoption of the old form of an
Assembly, according to the spirit and substance of the charter, as far as
it could be effected without the agency of a governor. A new election
was immediately ordered, and the Assembly convened as above stated.—
MS. Journal of the Massachusetts Congress, for May and June.

PartH.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 45
Upon referring to my instructions, and consulting with
those members of Congress, who are present, as well
as the general officers, they all agree, that it would not
be consistent with my duty to detach any part of the
army now here on any particular provincial service. It
has been debated in Congress and settled, that the mili
tia, or other internal strength of each province, is to be
applied for defence against those small and particular
depredations, which were to be expected, and to which
they were supposed to be competent. This will appear
the more proper, when it is considered, that every town
and indeed every part of our sea-coast, which is ex
posed to these depredations, would have an equal claim
upon this army.
It is the misfortune of our situation, which exposes
us to these ravages, and against which, in my judgment,
no such temporary relief could possibly secure us. The
great advantage the enemy have of transporting troops,
by being masters of the sea, will enable them to harass
us by diversions of this kind ; and should we be tempt
ed to pursue them upon every alarm, the army must
either be so weakened as to expose it to destruction, or
a great part of the coast be still left unprotected. Nor,
indeed, does it appear to me, that such a pursuit would
be attended with the least effect. The first notice of
such an excursion would be its actual execution ; and
long before any troops could reach the scene of action,
the enemy would have an opportunity to accomplish
their purpose and retire. It would give me great
pleasure to have it in my power to extend protection
and safety to every individual ; but the wisdom of the
General Court will anticipate me in the necessity of
conducting our operations on a general and impartial
scale, so as to exclude any just cause of complaint and
jealousy.

46 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
I beg, Sir, you will do me the honor to communi
cate these sentiments to the General Court, and to
apologize for my involuntary delay, as we were alarmed
this morning by the enemy, and my time was taken
up in giving the necessary directions.
I shall be happy in every opportunity of showing my
very great respect and regard for the General Court of
Massachusetts Bay, and am, Sir, &c.

TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
Cambridge, 4 August, 1775.
Sir,
I am favored with yours of the 31st of July, informing
me, that the new levies are coming forward with all
expedition.* As the enemy has lain much longer inac
tive than I expected, I hope they will arrive in time to
give us their assistance.
My last letter from the honorable Continental Con
gress recommends my procuring, from the colonies of
Rhode Island and Connecticut, a quantity of tow cloth,
for the purpose of making Indian or hunting-shirts for
the men, many of whom are destitute of clothing. A
pattern is herewith sent you ; and I must request you
to give the necessary directions throughout your govern
ment, that all the cloth of this kind may be bought up
for this use, and suitable persons set to work to make it
up. As soon as any number is made, worth the con
veyance, you will please to direct them to be forwarded.
It is designed as a species of uniform, both cheap and
convenient. The express, having left his horse at Hartford, is
under the necessity of going that way. I am, Sir, &c.

* Connecticut had recently determined to send fourteen hundred addi
tional men to the camp. These were called new levies.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 47
TO GOVERNOR COOKE, OF RHODE ISLAND.
Camp at Cambridge, 4 August, 1775.
Sir,
I was yesterday favored with yours of the 31st of
July. We have yet no certain accounts of the fleet,
which sailed out of Boston on the 25 th ; but if our con
jectures and information are just, we may expect to
hear of it every hour.
I am now, Sir, in strict confidence, to acquaint you, that
our necessities in the articles of powder and lead are so
great, as to require an immediate supply. I must earnestly
entreat, that you will fall upon some measure to forward
every pound of each in your colony, that can possibly
be spared. It is not within the propriety or safety of such
a correspondence to say what I might on this subject.
It is sufficient, that the case calls loudly for the most
strenuous exertions of every friend of his country, and
does not admit of the least delay. No quantity, how
ever small, is beneath notice, and, should any arrive, I
beg it may be forwarded as soon as possible.
But a supply of this kind is so precarious, not only
from the danger of the enemy, but the opportunity of
purchasing, that I have revolved in my mind every other
possible chance, and listened to every proposition on
the subject, which could give the smallest hope.
Among others, I have had one mentioned, which has
some weight with me, as well as the general officers to
whom I have proposed it. A Mr. Harris has lately
come from Bermuda, where there is a very considerable
magazine of powder in a remote part of the island ; and
the inhabitants are well disposed not only to our cause
in general, but to assist in this enterprise in particular.
We understand there are two armed vessels in your
province, commanded by men of known activity and

48 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.<Et. 43.
spirit; one of which, it is proposed to despatch on this
errand with such assistance as may be requisite. Harris
is to go along, as the conductor of the enterprise, that
we may avail ourselves of his knowledge of the island ;
but without any command. I am very sensible, that at
first view the project may appear hazardous ; and its
success must depend on the concurrence of many cir
cumstances ; but we are in a situation, which requires
us to run all risks. No danger is to be considered,
when put in competition with the magnitude of the
cause, and the absolute necessity we are under of in
creasing our stock. Enterprises, which appear chimeri
cal, often prove successful from that very circumstance.
Common sense and prudence will suggest vigilance and
care, where the danger is plain and obvious ; but, where
little danger is apprehended, the more the enemy will
be unprepared, and consequently there is the fairest
prospect of success.
Mr. Brown has been mentioned to me as a very
proper person to be consulted upon this occasion. You
will judge of the propriety of communicating it to him
in part or the whole, and as soon as possible favor me
with your sentiments, and the steps you may have taken
to forward it. If no immediate and safe opportunity offers,
you will please to do it by express. Should it be in
convenient to part with one of the armed vessels, per
haps some other might be fitted out, or you could de
vise some other mode of executing this plan ; so that, in
case of a disappointment, the vessel might proceed tc
some other island to purchase.
We have had no transactions in either camp since
my last, but what are in the public papers, and related
with tolerable accuracy. The enemy still continue to
strengthen their lines, and, we. have reason to believe,
intend to bombard ours, with the hope of forcing us out

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 49
of them. Our poverty in ammunition prevents our
making a suitable return.
Since writing the above, Colonel Porter has under
taken to assist in the matter, or to provide some suitable
person to accompany Harris to you, who will communi
cate all the circumstances. I am, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 4 August, 1775.
Sir,
I am to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of
the 24th of July, accompanied by two hundred and
eighty-four commissions, which are yet much short
of the necessary number. I am much honored by the
confidence reposed in me, of appointing the several
officers recommended in mine of the 10th ultimo; and
shall endeavour to select such persons as are best
qualified to fill these important posts.
General Thomas has accepted his commission, and I
have heard nothing of his retirement since, so that I
hope that he is satisfied.
In the renewal of these commissions some difficulties
occur, in which I should be glad to know the pleasure
of the honorable Congress. The general officers of
the Massachusetts have regiments ; those of Connecticut
have both regiments and companies ; and the other field-
officers have companies each. In New Hampshire, the
general officers have no regiments ; nor the field-officers
companies. In Rhode Island, the general officers have
no regiments, but the field-officers have companies ;
though I do not find that they have or expect pay under
more than one commission. Should the commissions,
now to be delivered, pursue these different establish-
VOL. III. 7 E

50 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
ments, there will be a distinction between the general
and field officers of the same rank. In order to put
New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island
upon a line with Connecticut, it would be necessary to
dismiss a number of officers in possession of commis
sions, without any fault of theirs. On the other hand,
to bring the Connecticut general and field officers to the
same scale with the others, will add to the number of
officers, and may be deemed inconsistent with the terms
on which they entered into the service, although you
add nothing to the expense, except in the article of
provisions. Upon the whole, it is a case which I would
wish the honorable Congress to consider and determine.
Colonel Gridley of this province, who is at the head
of the artillery, has the rank of major-general from the
Provincial Congress. Will it be proper to renew his
commission here in the same manner? It is proper
here to remark, that, in this case, he will take rank of
all the brigadier-generals, and even the major-generals
whose commissions are subsequent in date ; and this
can answer no good purpose, but may be productive of
many bad consequences.
These are matters of some importance ; but I am
embarrassed with a difficulty of a superior nature. The
estimate, made in Congress, supposed all the regiments
to be formed upon one establishment; but they are
different in different provinces, and even vary in the
same province, in some particulars. In Massachusetts,
some regiments have ten companies, others eleven ; the
establishment of the former is five hundred and ninety
men, officers included ; of the latter, six hundred and
forty-nine. The establishment of Rhode ¦ Island and
New Hampshire is five hundred and ninety to a
regiment, officers included; Connecticut has a thou
sand men to a regiment. Should these regiments

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 51
be completed, with the new' levies from Rhode Island
and Connecticut, and the riflemen, the number will
exceed twenty-two thousand. If they should not be
completed, as each regiment is fully officered, there will
be a heavy expense to the public without any ade
quate service. The reduction of some of them seems
to be necessary, and yet is a matter of much delicacy,
as we are situated. I most earnestly request it may be
taken into immediate consideration, and the time and
mode of doing it pointed out by the honorable Con
gress. By an estimate I have made from the general
return, when the new levies arrive, and the regiments
are completed, there will be twenty-four thousand five
hundred and fifty men on the pay and provision of the
United Colonies. Some of the recruiting-officers, who
have been out on that service, have returned with very
little success ; so that we may safely conclude, the number
of two thousand and sixty -four, now wanting to complete
them, will rather increase than diminish. There are
the regiment of artillery, consisting of four hundred and
ninety-three men, and one under Colonel Sergeant (who
has not received any commission, although he had or
ders to raise a regiment, from the Provincial Congress
here), which are not included in the above estimate.
This last regiment consists of two hundred and thirty-
four men by the last return ; but a company has since
joined. *
* Symptoms of fear, concerning the influence of a military power, be
gan to appear in Congress very soon after the appointment of the Com
mander-in-chief. It was resolved, on the 21st of July, " That such a body
of troops be kept up in the Massachusetts Bay, as General Washington
shall think necessary, provided they do not exceed twenty-two thousand men."
There was a slender probability, perhaps, that the forces would soon go
beyond this number, and indeed it had been decided by a council of war,
that in the present state of things no more were necessary ; but it was an
excess of caution, and very dubious policy, to say the least, thus to limit

52 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
In adverting to the general return, which I have the
honor of enclosing, it will be seen, what regiments are
most deficient.
If the Congress does not choose to point out the
particular regiments, but the provinces in which the re
duction is to be made, the several Congresses and As
semblies may be the proper channel to conduct this
business, which I should also conceive the most advisa
ble, from their better acquaintance with the merits,
terms, and time of service, of the respective officers.
Reducing some regiments, and with the privates thereof
filling up others, would certainly be the best method of
accomplishing this work if it were practicable ; but the
experiment is dangerous, as the Massachusetts men,
under the privilege of choosing their own officers, do
not conceive themselves bound, if those officers are
disbanded. As General Gage is making preparations for winter
by contracting for quantities of coal, it will suggest to
us the propriety of extending our views to that season.
I have directed, that such huts as have been lately made
of boards should be done in such a manner, that, if
necessary, they may serve for covering during the win-

the number of forces foB defence, when no foresight could determine the
strength of the enemy at any future moment. This resolve was the be
ginning of a series of acts in Congress bearing a similar complexion,
which ultimately caused much anxiety to the Commander-in-chief, fo
mented party dissensions within the walls of Congress, encouraged in
trigue in the army, and retarded the successful progress of the war. It is
remarkable, that the president of Congress, in communicating the above
resolve to General Washington, should say it was passed in consequence
of the " confidence reposed in his prudence." From the tenor of the re
solve itself, a contrary reason would seem rather to have been the true
one. It is probable, however, that it had its origin in the timid apprehen
sions of some ofthe members, whose historical recollections inspired them
with no favorable hopes from an overgrown military establisment, even
under the watchful control of the representatives of the people.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 53
ter. But I need not enlarge upon the variety of ne
cessities, such as clothing and fuel (both exceedingly
scarce, and difficult to be procured), which that season
must bring with it, if the army or any considerable part
of it is to remain embodied.
From the inactivity of the enemy, since the arrival of
their whole reinforcement, their continual addition to
their lines, and many other circumstances, I am inclined
to think, that, finding us so well prepared to receive
them, the plan of operations is varied, and they mean,
by regular approaches, to bombard us out of our present
line of defence, or are waiting in expectation, that the
colonies must sink under the weight of the expense, or
the prospect of a winter campaign so discourage our
troops, as to break up our army. If they have not some
such expectations, the issue of which they are deter
mined to wait, I cannot account for the delay, when
their strength is lessened every day by sickness, deser
tions, and little skirmishes.
Since I had the honor of addressing you last, I have
been applied to by a committee of the General Court,
for a detachment of the army, to protect the inhabitants
of the eastern parts of this province from some appre
hended depredations on their coasts. I could have
wished to comply with their request ; but after due con
sideration, and consulting the general officers, together
with those members of Congress who are here, I
thought it my duty to excuse myself. The application
and my answer are enclosed, which I hope will be ap
proved by the honorable Congress.
Since I began this letter, the original, of which the
enclosed is a copy, fell into my hands. As the writer
is a person of some note in Boston, and it contains some
advices of importance not mentioned by others, I
thought proper to forward it as I received it. By com-
E*

54 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
paring it with the handwriting of another letter, it ap
pears the writer is one Belcher Noyes, a person proba
bly known to some of the gentlemen, delegates from
this province, who can determine from his principles
and character what credit is due to him.
The army is now formed into three grand divisions,
under the command of the Generals Ward, Lee, and
Putnam ; each division into two brigades, consisting of
about six regiments each, commanded by Generals
Thomas and Spencer at Roxbury ; Heath at Cambridge ;
Sullivan and Greene at Winter Hill. By this, you will
please to observe, there is a deficiency of one brigadier-
general, occasioned by Mr. Pomroy's refusal to accept
his commission, which I beg may be filled up as soon as
possible. I observe the honorable Congress have also
favored me with the appointment of three brigade-
majors. I presume they have appointed, or intend to ap
point, the rest soon, as they cannot be unacquainted that
one is necessary to each brigade ; and, in a new-raised
army, it will be an office of great duty and service.
General Gage has at length liberated the people of
Boston, who land in numbers at Chelsea every day.
The terms on which the passes are granted, as to
money, effects, and provisions, correspond with Mr.
Noyes's letter.
We have several reports that General Gage is dis
mantling Castle William, and bringing all the cannon up
to town ; but, upon a very particular inquiry, accounts
are so various, that I cannot ascertain the truth of it.
On the first instant, a chief of the Caghnawaga tribe,
who lives about six miles from Montreal, came in here,
accompanied by a Colonel Bayley of Coos. His ac
counts of the temper and disposition of the Indians are
very favorable. He says they have been strongly so
licited by Governor Carleton to engage against us, but

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 55
his nation is totally averse ; that threats, as well as en
treaties, have been used without effect ; that the Cana
dians are well-disposed to the English colonies ; and, if
any expedition is meditated against Canada, the Indians
in that quarter will give all their assistance. I have en
deavoured to cherish these favorable dispositions, and
have recommended to him to cultivate them on his re
turn. What I have said, I enforced with a present,
which I understood would be agreeable to him ; and as
he is represented to be a man of weight and conse
quence in his own tribe, I flatter myself his visit will
have a good effect. His accounts of General Carleton's
force and situation at St. John's correspond with what
we have already had from that quarter.
The accession of Georgia to the measures of the
Congress is a happy event, and must give sincere plea
sure to every friend of America. I am, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL OF MASSA
CHUSETTS BAY.
Head-Quarters, 7 August, 1775.
Sir,
By the general return made to me for last week, I
find there are great numbers of soldiers and non-com
missioned officers, who absent themselves from duty,
the greater part of whom, I have reason to believe, are
at their respective homes in different parts of the coun
try ; some employed by their officers on their farms,
and others drawing pay from the public, while they are
working on their own plantations or for hire. My ut
most exertions have not been able to prevent this base
and pernicious conduct. I must, therefore, beg the as
sistance of the General Court to cooperate with me in

56 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
such measures, as may remedy this mischief. I am of
opinion it might be done, either wholly or in part, by the
committees in your several towns making strict and im
partial inquiry of such as are found absent from the
army, upon whose account they have left it, by whose
leave, and for what time ; requiring such, as have no im
pediment of sickness or other good reason, to return to
their duty immediately, or, in case of failure sending an
account of their names, and the company and regiment
to which they belong, that I may be able to make ex
amples of such delinquents.
I need not enlarge upon the ruinous consequences of
suffering such infamous deserters and defrauders of the
public to go unnoticed or unpunished, nor use any argu
ments to induce the General Court to give it immediate
attention. The necessity of the case does not permit
me to doubt the continued exertions of that zeal, which
has distinguished the General Court upon less important
occasions. I have the honor to be, &c.

TO THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF NEW YORK.
Camp at Cambridge, 8 August, 1775.
Gentlemen,
It must give great concern to any considerate mind,
that, when this whole continent, at a vast expense of
blood and treasure, is endeavouring to establish its liber
ties on the most secure and solid foundations, not only
by a laudable opposition of force to force, but denying
itself the usual advantages of trade, there are men
among us so basely sordid, as to counteract all our ex
ertions, for the sake of a little gain. You cannot but
have heard, that the distresses of the ministerial troops

PartII.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 57
for fresh provisions and many other necessaries at Bos
ton were very great. It is a policy, justifiable by all
the laws of war, to endeavour to increase them. Deser
tions, discouragement, and a dissatisfaction with the ser
vice, besides weakening their strength, are some of the
natural consequences of such a situation ; and, if con
tinued, might afford the fairest hope of success, without
further effusion of human blood.
A vessel, cleared lately out of New York for St. Croix,
with fresh provisions and other articles, has just gone
into Boston, instead of pursuing her voyage to the West
Indies. I have endeavoured to discover the name of
the captain, or owner, but as yet without success. The
owner it is said, went to St. Croix before the vessel ;
from which, and her late arrival, I make no doubt you
will be able to discover and expose the villain. And, if
you could fall upon some effectual measures, to prevent
the like in future, it would be doing a signal service to
our common country.
I have been endeavouring, by every means in my
power, to discover the future intentions of our enemy
here. I find a general idea prevailing, throughout the
army and in the town of Boston, that the troops are
soon to leave the town and go to some other part of the
continent. New York is generally mentioned, as the
place of their destination. I should think a rumor or
suggestion of this kind worthy of very little notice, if it
were not confirmed by some corresponding circumstan
ces. But four weeks of total inactivity, with all their re
inforcements arrived and recruited, the daily diminution
by desertions, sickness, and small skirmishes, induce an
opinion, that any effort they propose to make will be
directed elsewhere.
I thought it proper just to hint to you what is proba
bly intended, and you will then consider what regard is
vol. in. 8

58 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
to be paid to it, and what steps it will be expedient for
you to take, if any. I am, with great respect and re
gard, Gentlemen, &c.

TO A COMMITTEE OF THE GENERAL COURT OF
MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Camp at Cambridge, 11 August, 1775.
Gentlemen,
I have considered the papers you left with me yes
terday. As to the expedition proposed against Nova Scotia,
by the inhabitants of Machias, I cannot but applaud
their spirit and zeal ; but, after considering the reasons
offered for it, several objections occur, which seem to
me unanswerable. I apprehend such an enterprise to
be inconsistent with the general principle upon which
the colonies have proceeded. That province has not
acceded, it is true, to the measures of Congress ; and,
therefore, it has been excluded from all commercial in
tercourse with the other colonies ; but it has not com
menced hostilities against them, nor are any to be appre
hended. To attack it, therefore, is a measure of con
quest, rather than defence, and may be attended with
very dangerous consequences. It might, perhaps, be
easy, with the force proposed to make an incursion, into
the province and overawe those of the inhabitants, who
are inimical to our cause, and, for a short time, prevent
their supplying the enemy with provisions ; but, to pro
duce any lasting effects, the same force must continue.
As to the furnishing vessels of force, you, Gentlemen,
will anticipate me, in pointing out our weakness and the
enemy's strength at sea. There would be great dan
ger, that, with the best preparations we could make,

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 59
they would fall an easy prey, either to the men-of-war
on that station, or to some which would be detached
from Boston. I have been thus particular, to satisfy any
gentlemen of the Court, who should incline to adopt the
measure. I could offer many other reasons against it,
some of which, I doubt not, will suggest themselves to
the honorable Board. But it is unnecessary to enumerate
them, when our situation as to ammunition absolutely
forbids our sending a single ounce of it out of the camp
at present. I am, Gentlemen, &,c.

TO LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GAGE.
Head-Quarters, Cambridge, 11 August, 1775.
Sir,
I understand that the officers engaged in the cause
of liberty and their country, who by the fortune of war
have fallen into your hands, have been thrown, indis
criminately, into a common gaol appropriated for felons ;
that no consideration has been had for those of the most
respectable rank, when languishing with wounds and
sickness ; and that some have been even amputated in
this unworthy situation.
Let your opinion, Sir, of the principle which actuates
them be what it may, they suppose that they act from
the noblest of all principles, a love of freedom and their
country. But political principles, I conceive, are foreign
to this point. The obligations arising from the rights of
humanity and claims of rank are universally binding and
extensive, except in case of retaliation. These, I should
have hoped, would have dictated a more tender treat
ment of those individuals, whom chance or war had put
in your power. Nor can I forbear suggesting its fatal
tendency to widen that unhappy breach, which you, and

60 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [^Et. 43.
those ministers under whom you act, have repeatedly
declared your wish is to see for ever closed.
My duty now makes it necessary to apprize you, that,
for the future, I shall regulate all my conduct towards
those gentlemen, who are or may be in our possession,
exactly by the rule you shall observe towards those of
ours now in your custody.
If severity and hardship mark the line of your con
duct, painful as it may be to me, your prisoners will feel
its effects. But if kindness and humanity are shown
to ours, I shall with pleasure consider those in our hands
only as unfortunate, and they shall receive from me that
treatment to which the unfortunate are ever entitled.
I beg to be favored with an answer as soon as possi
ble, and am, Sir, your very humble servant.*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Camp at Cambridge, 15 August, 1775.
Sir,
I received your favor of the 31st of July, informing
me of your preparations to cross the Lake, and enclos
ing the affidavits of John Shatforth, and John Duguid. f
Several Indians of the tribe of St. Francis came in here
yesterday, and confirm the former accounts of the good
dispositions of the Indian nations and Canadians to the
interest of America; a most happy circumstance, on
which I sincerely congratulate you.
* See the answer in the Appendix, No. VII.
f In consequence of the resolve of Congress (June 27th), authorizing
General Schuyler to take possession of St John's and Montreal, as soon
as he should find it practicable, he had been making preparations for such
an enterprise. He wrote to General Washington on the 31st of July,
from Ticonderoga ; —
" Since my last, I have been most assiduously employed in preparing

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 61
I am glad to relieve you from your anxiety, respecting
troops being sent from Boston to Quebec. These re
ports, I apprehend, took their rise from a fleet being
fitted out about fourteen days ago to plunder the islands
in the Sound of their live stock ; an expedition, which
they have executed with some success, and are just re
turning ; but you may depend on it no troops have been
detached from Boston for Canada or elsewhere.
Among other wants, of which I find you have your
proportion, we feel that of lead most sensibly ; and as we
have no expectation of a supply from the southward, I
have concluded to draw upon the stock found at Ticonde
roga when it fell into our hands. I am informed, that it
is considerable, and that a part of it may be spared,
without exposing you to any inconvenience. In con
sequence of this I have written to Governor Trumbull
to take the direction of the transportation of it, suppos
ing the conveyance through Connecticut the most safe
and expeditious. I expect he will write you on this
subject by this opportunity.
I have nothing new, my dear Sir, to write to you.
We are precisely in the same situation, as to the enemy,
as when I wrote last, nor can I gain any certain intelli
gence of their future intentions. The troops from the
southward are come in very healthy and in good order.
To-morrow I expect a supply of powder from Philadel
phia, which will be a most seasonable relief in our pres
ent necessity.
materials for building boats to convey me across the Lake. The progress
has hitherto been slow, as with few hands I had all the timber to cut, and
mills to repair for sawing the plank ; and my draft cattle extremely weak
for want of feed, the drought having scorched up every kind of herbage.
I have now one boat on the stocks, which I hope will carry near three hun
dred men. Another is putting up to-day. Provisions of the bread kind are
scarce with me, and, therefore, I have not dared to order up a thousand
men, that are at Albany, lest we should starve here."
VOL. III. F

62 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
God grant you health and success, equal to your
merit and wishes. Favor me with intelligence as often
as you can, and believe me with very sincere regard,
dear Sir, yours, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Head-Quarters, Cambridge, 20 August, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Since my last of the 15th instant I have been favored
with yours of the 6 th. I am much concerned to find,
that the supplies ordered have been so much delayed.
By this time I hope Colonel McDougall, whose zeal is
unquestionable, has joined you with every thing neces
sary for prosecuting your plan.
Several of the delegates from Philadelphia, who have
visited our camp,* assure me that powder is forwarded
to you ; and the daily arrivals of that article give us rea
son to hope, that we shall soon have a very ample sup
ply. Animated with the goodness of our cause, and
the best wishes of our countrymen, I am sure you will
not let any difficulties, not insuperable, damp your ardor.
Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages.f

* The Continental Congress adjourned on the 1st of August till the
5th of September. In the mean time, several of the delegates visited the
camp, particularly those from the eastern colonies.
f In a letter of the 6th of August, General Schuyler complains of the
tardiness of the New' York Provincial Congress in raising men. He
says; — -"Not a man from this colony has yet joined me, except those
raised and paid by the Committee of Albany ; nor have I yet received the
necessary supplies, which I begged the New York Provincial Congress to
send me, as long ago as the 3d of last month, and which the Continen
tal Congress had desired them to do."
As soon as Ticonderoga was taken, the Albany Committee enlisted men
to aid in holding that post. Two hundred and five men of this descrip
tion were in service, when General Schuyler took command. Connecti-

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 63
In my last-, a copy of which is enclosed, I sent you
an account of the arrival of several St. Francis Indians
in our camp, and their friendly dispositions. You have
also a copy of the resolution of Congress, by which you
will find it is their intention to seek only a neutrality of
the Indian nations, unless the ministerial agents should
engage them in hostilities, or enter into an offensive alli
ance with them. I have been, therefore, embarrassed
in giving them an answer, when they have tendered
their services and assistance. As your situation enables
you best to know the motions of the Governor* and the
agents, I proposed to the chief to go home by way of
Ticonderoga, referring him to you for an answer, which
you will give according to the intelligence you have had,
and the judgment you have formed of the transactions
among the Indians ; but as he does not seem in any
hurry to leave our camp, your answer by the return of
this express may possibly reach me, before he re
turns, and alter his route. Four of his company still
remain in our camp, and propose to stay some time
with us.
The design of this express is to communicate to you
a plan of an expedition, which has engaged my thoughts
for several days. It is to penetrate into Canada, by
way of Kennebec River, and so to Quebec by a route
ninety miles below Montreal. I can very well spare a
detachment for this purpose of one thousand, or twelve
hundred men, and the land-carriage by the route pro
posed is too inconsiderable to make an objection. If
cut had sent a thousand troops under Colonel Hinman, who succeeded
Ethan Allen and Arnold in the command, which he retained till the arrival
of General Schuyler. By a mutual stipulation, Connecticut was to fur
nish troops, and New York provisions. — See Life of Gouverneur Morris,
Vol. I. pp. 53-60. MS. Journal of the N. Y. Prov. Congress for June
and July, 1775.
* General Carleton, Governor of Canada.

64 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
you are resolved to proceed, which I gather from your
last letter is your intention, it would make a diversion,
that would distract Carleton, and facilitate your views.
He must either break up and follow this party to Que
bec, by which he will leave you a free passage, or he
must suffer that important place to fall into our hands ;
an event that would have a decisive effect and influence
on the public interests. There may be some danger,
that such a sudden incursion might alarm the Canadians,
and detach them from that neutrality which they have
hitherto observed ; but I should hope, that, with suitable
precautions, and a strict discipline, any apprehensions
and jealousies might be removed. The few, whom I
have consulted upon it, approve it much ; but the final
determination is deferred until I hear from you. You
will, therefore, by the return of this messenger, inform
me of your ultimate resolution. If you mean to pro
ceed, acquaint me as particularly as you can with the
time and force, what late accounts you have had from
Canada, and your opinion as to the sentiments of the in
habitants, as well as those of the Indians upon a pene
tration into their country ; what number of troops are
at Quebec, and whether any men-of-war ; with all other
circumstances, which may be material in the considera
tion of a step of such importance. Not a moment's
time is to be lost in the preparations for this enterprise,
if the advices received from you favor it. With the
utmost expedition, the season will be considerably ad
vanced, so that you will dismiss the express as soon as
possible. While the three New Hampshire companies remain
in their present station, they will not be considered as
composing a part of the Continental army, but as a
militia under the direction and pay of the colony, whose
inhabitants they are, or for whose defence they are sta-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 65
tioned ; so that it will not be proper for me to give any
orders respecting them. *
We still continue in the same situation, as to the ene
my, as when I wrote you last ; but we have had six tons
and a half of powder from the southward, which is a
very seasonable supply. We are not able to learn any
thing further of the intentions of the enemy, and they
are too strongly posted for us to attempt any thing upon
them at present.
My best wishes attend you; and believe me, with
much truth and regard, my dear Sir, your very obedi
ent humble servant.

to lieutenant-general gage.
Head-Quarters, Cambridge, 20 August, 1775.
Sir,
I addressed you, on the 11th instant, in terms which
gave the fairest scope for that humanity and politeness,
which were supposed to form a part of your character.
I remonstrated with you on the unworthy treatment
shown to the officers and citizens of America, whom
the fortune of war, chance, or a mistaken confidence
had thrown into your hands. Whether British or
American mercy, fortitude, and patience are most pre
eminent ; whether our virtuous citizens, whom the hand
* These three companies were stationed on the Connecticut River, at
Coos, under the command of Captains Bedel, Osgood, and Parker, for the
protection of the New Hampshire frontier. A deputation of the New
Hampshire Congress had recently waited on General Washington, pro
posing that these companies should be taken into the Continental estab
lishment. But he, considering them in the light of troops employed ex
clusively for the benefit of that province, did not think it proper to take
them into the pay of the continent or to rank them as part of the Conti
nental forces.
VOL. III. 9 F *

66 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
of tyranny has forced into arms to defend their wives,
their children, and their property, or the mercenary in
struments of lawless domination, avarice, and revenge,
best deserve the appellation of rebels, and the punish
ment of that cord, which your affected clemency has
forborne to inflict ; whether the authority under which I
act is usurped, or founded upon the genuine principles
of liberty, were altogether foreign to the subject. I
purposely avoided all political disquisition ; nor shall 1
now avail myself of those advantages, which the sacred
cause of my country, of liberty, and of human nature,
give me over you ; much less shall I stoop to retort and
invective ; but the intelligence you say you have receiv
ed from our army requires a reply. I have taken time,
Sir, to make a strict inquiry, and find it has not the least
foundation in truth. Not only your officers and soldiers
have been treated with the tenderness due to fellow citi
zens and brethren, but even those execrable parricides,
whose counsels and aid have deluged their country with
blood, have been protected from the fury of a justly en
raged people. Far from compelling or permitting their
assistance, I am embarrassed with the numbers, who
crowd to our camp, animated with the purest principles
of virtue and love to their country.
You advise me to give free operation to truth, and to
punish misrepresentation and falsehood. If experience
stamps value upon counsel, yours must have a weight,
which few can claim. You best can tell how far the
convulsion, which has brought such ruin on both coun
tries, and shaken the mighty empire of Britain to its
foundation, may be traced to these malignant causes.
You affect, Sir, to despise all rank not derived from
the same source with your own. I cannot conceive
one more honorable, than that which flows from the un-
corrupted choice of a brave and free people, the purest

PartII.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 67
source and original fountain of all power. Far from
making it a plea for, cruelty, a mind of true magnanimity
and enlarged ideas would comprehend and respect it.
What may have been the ministerial views, which
have precipitated the present crisis, Lexington, Con
cord, and Charlestown can best declare. May that
God, to whom you then appeal, judge between Ameri
ca and you. Under his providence, those who influ
ence the counsels of America, and all the other inhabi
tants of the United Colonies, at the hazard of their lives,
are determined to hand down to posterity those just
and invaluable privileges, which they received from their
ancestors. «
I shall now, Sir, close my correspondence with you,
perhaps for ever. If your officers, our prisoners, re
ceive a treatment from me different from that, which I
wished to show them, they and you will remember the
occasion of it. I am Sir, your very humble servant. *

TO SIR WILLIAM HOWE.f
Camp at Cambridge, 23 August, 1775.
Sir,
I flatter myself you have been misinformed, as to the
conduct of the men under my command, complained of
* General Washington's first letter to General Gage (August 11th),
and his answer, were published by the British government in the London
Gazette, about six weeks after they were written ; but the above reply
was withheld. — Remembrancer, Vol. I. p. 179 ; II. 60. The three letters
were published together by order of Congress in October.
f This letter is in reply to the following. It relates merely to the
camp at Charlestown, then under the command of General Howe, and
not to the British lines generally. " Charlestown Camp, 22 August, 1775.
"Sir,
" The men under your command, having repeatedly fired upon the offi
cers of his Majesty's troops, before they were returned to the outworks of

68 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
in yours of yesterday. It is what I should highly dis
approve and condemn.
I have not the least objection to put a stop to the
intercourse between the two camps, either totally or
partially. It obtained through the pressing solicitations
of persons cruelly separated from their friends and con
nexions, and I understood was mutually convenient.
I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant.

TO RICHARD HENRY LEE.
Camp at Cambridge, 29 August, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 1st instant, by Mr. Randolph, came
safe to hand. The merits of this young gentleman,
added to your recommendation, and my own knowledge
of his character, induced me to take him into my family,
as an aid-de-camp, in the room of Mr. Mifflin, whom I
have appointed quartermaster-general, from a thorough
persuasion of his integrity, my own experience of his
activity, and, finally, because he stands unconnected
with either of these governments, or with this, that, or
the other man ; for, between you and me, there is more
in this than you can easily imagine.
1 submit it, therefore, to your consideration, whether
there is, or is not, a propriety in that resolution of the
Congress, which leaves the ultimate appointment of all
officers below the rank of generals, to the governments
where the regiments originated, now the army is become
this camp from parleys, that have been brought on by your desire, I am tc
request all further intercourse between the two camps may be at an end
your own letters excepted, which will be received, if you are pleased t<
send them by a drummer. I am, Sir, your most obedient servant.
«W. Howe."
" George Washington, Esq. Cambridge.''

Part IT.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. G9
Continental. To me it appears improper, in two points
of view ; first, it is giving that power and weight to an
individual colony, which ought, of right, to belong only
to the whole ; and next, it damps the spirit and ardor
of volunteers from all but the four New England
governments, as none but their people have the least
chance of getting into office. Would it not be better,
therefore, to have the warrants, which the Commander-
in-chief is authorized to give pro tempore, approved or
disapproved by the Continental Congress, or a committee
of their body, which I should suppose,, in any long
recess, must always sit. In this case every gentleman
will stand an equal chance of being promoted, according
to his merit ; in the other, all offices will be confined to
the inhabitants of the four New England governments,
which, in my opinion, is impolitic to a great degree.
I have not been unmindful of that part of your letter
respecting Point Alderton; before the receipt of it, it
had become an object of my particular inquiry, but- the
accounts of its situation differ exceedingly, in respect to
the command it has of the ship-channel. But my
knowledge of this matter would not have been confined
to inquiries only, if I had ever been in a condition,
since my arrival here, to take possession of such a
post ; but you well know, my good Sir, that it becomes
the duty of an officer to consider some other matters,
as well as a situation, namely, what number of men
are necessary to defend a place, how it can be support
ed, and how furnished with ammunition. In respect
to the first, I conceive our defence of this place (Point
Alderton) must be proportioned to the attack of Gene
ral Gage's whole force, leaving him just enough to man
his lines on Boston and Charlestown Necks ; and with
regard to the second, and most important, as well as
alarming object, we have only one hundred and eighty-

70 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
four barrels of powder in all (including the late sup
ply from Philadelphia), which is not sufficient to give
twenty-five musket cartridges to each man, and scarcely
to serve the artillery in any brisk action one single
day. Under these circumstances, I dare say you will
agree with me, that it would not be very eligible to take
a post thirty miles distant, by land, from this place,
when we have already a line of circumvallation round
Boston, of at least ten miles in extent, to defend, any
part of which may be attacked, without our having (if
the enemy will keep their own counsel) an hour's pre
vious notice of it ; and that it would not be prudent in
me to attempt a measure, which would necessarily bring-
on a consumption of all the ammunition we have, there
by leaving the army at the mercy of the enemy, or to
disperse, and the country to be ravaged and laid waste
at discretion. To you, Sir, I may account for my con
duct ; but I cannot declare the motives of it to every
one, notwithstanding I know, by not doing it, that I shall
stand in a very unfavorable light in the opinion of those,
who expect much, and will find little done, without
understanding, or, perhaps, giving themselves the trou
ble of inquiring into the cause. Such, however, is the
fate of all those, who are obliged to act the part I do ; I
must, therefore, submit to it, under a consciousness of
having done my duty to the best of my abilities. *
* To this part of the letter Mr. Lee replied as follows ;
" I am greatly obliged to you for your favor of August the 29th, and
you may be assured I shall pay great attention to it. When I mentioned
securing the entrance of the harbour of Boston, it was more in the way
of wishing it could be done, than as conceiving it very practicable. How
ever, the reasons you assign are most conclusive against the attempt. T
assure you, that so far as I can judge from the conversation of men, in
stead of there being any, who think you have not done enough, the won
der seems to be, that you have done so much. I believe there is not a
man of common sense, and who is void of prejudice, in the world, but
greatly approves the discipline you have introduced into the camp ; since

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 71
On Saturday night last, we took possession of a hill
in advance of our lines, and within point-blank shot of.
the enemy on Charlestown Neck. We worked inces
santly the whole night one thousand two hundred men,
and, before morning, got an intrenchment in such
forwardness, as to bid defiance to their cannon. About
nine o'clock, on Sunday, they began a heavy cannon
ade, which continued through the day, without any in
jury to our work, and with the loss of four men only ;
two of whom were killed through their own folly. To
the insult of the cannonade, however, we were obliged
to submit with impunity, not daring to make use of
artillery on account of the consumption of powder,
except one nine pounder, placed on a point, with
which we silenced, and indeed sunk one of their float
ing batteries. This move of ours was made to prevent
the enemy from gaining this hill, and we thought was
giving them a fair challenge to dispute it, as we had
been told by various people, who had. just left Boston,
that they were preparing to come out ; but, instead of
accepting it, we learn that it has thrown them into
the greatest consternation, which might be improved, if
we had the means of doing it. Yesterday afternoon
they began a bombardment, without any effect as yet.
As I expect this letter will meet you in Philadelphia, I

reason and experience join in proving, that, without discipline, armies are
fit only for the contempt and slaughter of their enemies. Your labors are
no doubt great, both of mind and body ; but if the praise of the present
and future times can be any compensation, you will have a plentiful por
tion of that. Of one thing you may certainly rest assured, that the Con
gress will do every thing in their power to make your most weighty busi
ness easy to you.
"I think you could not possibly have appointed a better man to his
present office than Mr. Mifflin. He is a singular man, and you certainly
will meet with the applause and support of all good men by promoting
and countenancing real merit and public virtue, in opposition to all private
interests and partial affection."

72 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
must request the favor of you to present my affection
ate and respectful compliments to Dr. Shippen, his lady
and family, my brothers of the delegation, and any
other inquiring friends ; and, at the same time, do me
the justice to believe that I am, with a sincere regard,
Your affectionate friend and obedient servant.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 31 August, 1775.
Sir,
As the filling up the vacant place of brigadier-gene
ral will probably be of the first business of the honora
ble Congress, I flatter myself it will not be deemed
assuming, to mention the names of two gentlemen,
whose former services, rank, and age, may be thought
worthy of attention on this occasion. Of the one, I can
speak from my own knowledge, of the other only from
character. The former is Colonel John Armstrong, of
Pennsylvania ; he served during the last war, in most
of the campaigns to the southward, was honored with
the command of the Pennsylvania forces, and his gene
ral military conduct and spirit much approved by all
who served with him ; besides which, his character was
distinguished by an enterprise against the Indians, which
he planned with great judgment, and executed with
equal courage and success.* It was not till lately that
I had reason to believe he would enter again on public
service ; and it is now wholly unsolicited and unknown
* An attack on the Indian town of Kittaning, in Pennsylvania, Septem
ber 8th, 1756. A silver medal and piece of plate were presented to
Colonel Armstrong, by the Corporation of Philadelphia, for his bravery and
good conduct on this occasion. An intimacy of many years' standing
subsisted between him and Washington.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 73
on his part. The other gentleman is Colonel Frye of
Massachusetts Bay. He, entered into the service as
early as 1745, and rose through, the different military
ranks, in the succeeding wars, to that of colonel, until
last June, when he was appointed a major-general by
the Congress of this province.* From these circum
stances, together with the favorable report made to me
of him, I presume he sustained the character of a good
officer, though I do not find it distinguished by any pe
culiar service.
Either of these gentlemen, or any other whom the
honorable Congress shall please to favor with this ap
pointment, will be received by me with the utmost
deference and respect.
Last Saturday night we took possession of a hill
considerably advanced beyond our former lines ; which
brought, on a very heavy cannonade from Bunker's Hill,
and afterwards a bombardment, which has been since
kept up with little spirit on their part, or damage on
ours. The work, having been continued ever since, is
now so advanced, and the men so well covered, as to
leave us under no apprehensions of much farther loss.
In this affair we had killed one adjutant, one volunteer,
and two privates. The scarcity of ammunition does
not admit of our availing ourselves of the situation, as
we otherwise might do; but this evil, I hope, will soon
be remedied, as I have been informed of the arrival of
a large quantity at New York, of some at New London,
and of more expected hourly at different places. I need
not add to what I have already said on this subject.
Our late supply was very seasonable, but far short of

* He had been at the siege of Louisburg, and was taken prisoner at
Fort William Henry. Both he and Colonel Armstrong were appointed
brigadier-generals in the Continental army, according to the recommenda
tion of the Commander-in-chief.
VOL. III.' 10 G

74 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
our necessities. The treatment of our officers, prison
ers in Boston, induced me to write to General Gage on
that subject. His answer and my reply I have the
honor to lay before the Congress ; since which I have
heard nothing from him. I remain, with the greatest
respect and regard, &c.

TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
Camp at Cambridge, 2 September, 1775.
Sir,
By the time you receive this letter, you will be able
to judge with some certainty whether the fleet, which
sailed last from Boston, was destined for your coast. If
it has not yet arrived, we may conclude it has sailed to
the eastward ; if it has arrived, the issue will be known
immediately ; so that in either case the continuance of
the new raised levies along the coast is unnecessary.
You will, therefore, on receipt of this be pleased to
order them to march immediately to this camp, direct
ing the commanding officer, at the same time, to give me
two or three days' notice of the time, in which the troops
will arrive, that suitable accommodations may be pre
pared. Their presence is the more necessary, as I
may in confidence inform you, that I am about to
detach one thousand or twelve hundred men on an
expedition into Canada, by way of Kennebec River;
from which I have the greatest reason to expect, either
that Quebec will fall into our hands a very easy prey,
or such a diversion be made as will open an easy pas
sage to General Schuyler.
We are now so well secured in our late advanced post
on the hill, that the enemy have discontinued their can
nonade. The men continue in good health and spirits.
I am, with much regard and esteem, &c.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 75
TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL WOOSTER.*
Camp at Cambridge, 2 September, 1775.
Sir,
I have just received your favor of the 29 th ultimo by
express. I am very sensible, that the situation of the
inhabitants of Long Island, as well as of all those on
the coast, exposes them greatly to the ravages of the
enemy, and it is to be wished that general protection
could be extended to them, consistent with the prose
cution of those great plans, which have been adopted for
the common safety. This was early foreseen, and the
danger provided for by a resolution of Congress, that
each province should depend on its own internal
strength against these incursions, the prejudice arising
from them, even if successful, not being equal to that
of separating the army into a number of small detach
ments, which would be harassed in fruitless marches
and countermarches after an enemy, whose conveyance
by shipping is so advantageous, that they might keep
the whole coast in constant alarm, without our being
able, perhaps, at any time to give them vigorous oppo
sition. Upon this principle I have invariably rejected

* General Wooster had been stationed with a regiment of Connecticut
troops at Haerlem. Recently he had gone over to Long Island, at the re
quest of the New York Provincial Congress, with four hundred and fifty
men, for the purpose .of protecting the inhabitants of that quarter from
the threatened depredations of the British from Boston, who were sent
out to procure from the island cattle and other provisions, which were
accessible to their boats. Three companies had been raised on Long
Island, as a part of the regiments voted by the New York Congress, which
were placed on the Continental establishment. General Schuyler had
ordered these companies to the northward ; and as the people were thus
left exposed to the ravages of the enemy, General Wooster wrote to the
Commander-in-chief, suggesting that the detachment of his own regiment
should be allowed to remain there, or be replaced by other troops.

76 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
every application made to me here,' to keep any detach
ments on the coast for these purposes.
I should, therefore, most probably have thought it my
duty to order the three companies, mentioned in
your letter as having joined your army, to aid in the
general service, had they not been under command
from General Schuyler to join him ; but as it is, I can by
no means interfere. He is engaged in a service of the
greatest importance to the whole continent, his strength
and appointments being far short of his expectations, and
to give any counter orders may not only defeat his whole
plan, but must make me responsible to the public for
the failure. Instead, therefore, of their further stay, 1
would have them march immediately. I fear the delay
of the ten days may have very bad effects, as, by my
last advice from Ticonderoga, General Schuyler was to
inarch in a few days for Canada ; and it is highly proba
ble he may depend upon these companies to occupy the
posts of communication, which otherwise he must
weaken his army to do. No Provincial Congress can,
with any propriety, interfere with the disposition of
troops on the Continental establishment, much less con
trol the orders of any general officer ; so that in this in
stance the Congress at New York have judged proper
ly, in declining to counteract General Schuyler's orders.
I wish I could extend my approbation equally to the
whole line of their conduct. Before you receive this
letter, you will most probably be able to judge how far
your continuance on Long Island will be farther neces
sary. If the fleet, which last sailed, was destined for
those coasts, it must be arrived. If it is not, it is
certainly gone to the eastward, and your present station
is no longer necessary. The importance of preserving
the communication of the North River, and many other
reasons, induce me to wish you were returned to your

PartII.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 77
former post. The late transactions at New York furnish
additional reasons for your being as near that city, as is
consistent with the discipline and convenience of your
troops. Your next, therefore, I flatter myself, . will in
form me of your having resumed your former station.
I am, Sir, with much regard and esteem, &c*

TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE ISLAND OF BERMUDA, f
Camp at Cambridge, 6 September, 1775.
Gentlemen,
In the great conflict, which agitates this continent, I
cannot doubt but the assertors of freedom and the rights
* General Wooster replied on the 28th of September, at Haerlem. —
" I returned to this place immediately upon the receipt of your favor of
the 2d instant ; and, in pursuance of an order from the Continental Con
gress, I shall this afternoon embark with all the troops under my com
mand for Albany, there to wait the orders of General Schuyler."
f In a letter to Governor Cooke, dated the 4th of August, it has been
seen, that Washington suggested to him a plan for procuring powder from
Bermuda. Two small armed vessels had already been fitted out by Rhode
Island, and put under the command of Captain Abraham Whipple, with
the design of protecting the bay and coast of that province from the
depredations of the enemy. The plan was approved by the Governor and
Committee of that province, and Captain Whipple agreed to engage in
the affair, provided General Washington would give him a certificate
under his own hand, that, in case the Bermudians would assist the under
taking, he would recommend to the Continental Congress to permit the
exportation of provisions to those islands from the colonies ; the captain
pledging himself at the same time, that he would make no use of such a
paper, unless he should be opposed by the inhabitants.
Captain Whipple sailed in the larger of the Rhode Island vessels,
manned with sixty-one seamen. Governor Cooke applied to General
Washington to draft seamen from the army ; but this he declined, for the
double reason, that he doubted his power to employ the soldiers at sea,
and that it would at any rate be attended with too much publicity. The
vessel was manned, therefore, by the agency of the Rhode Island Com
mittee, and at the charge of that province. At this time a packet from
England was daily expected at New York. It was thought desirable to
intercept- that packet, and Governor Cooke ordered Captain Whipple to
cruise for it off the harbour of New York fourteen days, and, if he should

78 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
of the constitution are possessed of your most favorable
regards and wishes for success. As descendants of
freemen, and heirs with us of the same glorious inheri
tance, we flatter ourselves, that, though divided by our
situation, we are firmly united in sentiment. The cause
of virtue and liberty is confined to no continent or cli
mate. It comprehends, within its capacious limits, the
wise and good, however dispersed and separated in
space or distance.
You need not be informed, that the violence and ra
pacity of a tyrannic ministry have forced the citizens of
America, your brother colonists, into arms. We equally
detest and lament the prevalence of those counsels,
not fall in with it during that period, then to proceed immediately on his
voyage to Bermuda. But he had scarcely sailed from Providence, before
an account appeared in the newspapers of one hundred barrels of powder
having been taken from Bermuda, by a vessel supposed to be from Philadel
phia, and another from South Carolina. The facts were such, as to make
it in the highest degree probable, that this was the same powder, which
Captain Whipple had gone to procure. General Washington and Gover
nor Cooke were both of opinion, that it was best to countermand his in
structions. The other armed vessel of Rhode Island was immediately
despatched in search of the captain, with orders, that, when he had
finished the cruise in quest of the packet, he should return to Providence.
But it was too late. Captain Whipple had heard of the arrival of the
packet at New York, and proceeded on his voyage to Bermuda.
He put in at the west end of the island. The inhabitants were at first
alarmed, supposing him to command a King's armed vessel, and the
women and children fled into the country ; but, when he showed his com
mission and instructions, they treated him with much cordiality and friend
ship. They had assisted in removing the powder, which was made known
to General Gage, and he had sent a sloop of war to take away all the
superfluous provisions from the island. They professed themselves hearty
friends to the American cause, but as Captain Whipple was defeated in
the object of his voyage he returned speedily to Providence.' — Gov.
Cooke's MS. Letters.
Soon afterwards the inhabitants of Bermuda petitioned CongTess for
relief, representing their gTeat distress, in consequence of the non-impor
tation agreement, which deprived them of the supplies, that usually came
from the colonies. In consideration of their being friendly to the cause
of America, it was resolved by Congress, that provisions in certain quanti
ties might be exported to them. — Journ. of Cong. Nov. 22rf.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 79
which have led to the effusion of so much human blood,
and left us no alternative but a civil war, or a base sub
mission. The wise Disposer of all events has hitherto
smiled upon our virtuous efforts. Those mercenary
troops, a few of whom lately boasted of subjugating
this vast continent, have been checked in their earliest
ravages, and are now actually encircled within a small
space ; their arms disgraced, and themselves suffering
all the calamities of a siege. The virtue, spirit, and
union of the provinces leave them nothing to fear, but
the want of ammunition. The application of our ene
mies to foreign states, and their vigilance upon our
coasts, are the only efforts they have made against us
with success.
Under these circumstances, and with these senti
ments, we have turned our eyes to you, Gentlemen, for
relief. We are informed, that there is a very large
magazine in your island under a very feeble guard.
We would not wish to involve you in an opposition, in
which, from your situation, we should be unable to sup
port you ; we knew not, therefore, to what extent to
solicit your assistance, in availing ourselves of this
supply; but, if your favor and friendship to North
America and its liberties have not been misrepresented,
I persuade myself you may, consistently with your own
safety, promote and further this scheme, so as to give it
the fairest prospect of success. Be assured, that, in
this case, the whole power and exertion of my influ
ence will be made with the honorable Continental Con
gress, that your island may not only be supplied with
provisions, but experience every other mark of affection
and friendship, which the grateful citizens of a free
country can bestow on its brethren and benefactors. I
am, &c.

80 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
TO THE MAJOR AND BRIGADIER GENERALS.
Circular.
Camp at Cambridge, 8 September, 1775.
Gentlemen,
As I mean to call upon you in a day or two for your
opinions upon a point of very great importance to the
welfare of this continent in general, and this colony in
particular, I think it proper, indeed an incumbent duty
on me, previous to this meeting to intimate to you the
end and design of it, that you may have time to con
sider the matter with that deliberation and attention,
which the importance of it requires.
It is to know, whether, in your judgment, we cannot
make a successful attack upon the troops at Boston by
means of boats, in cooperation with an attempt upon their
lines at Roxbury. The success of such an enterprise
depends, I well know, upon the All-wise Disposer of
events, and it is not within the reach of human wisdom
to foretell the issue ; but if the prospect is fair, the un
dertaking is justifiable for the following, among other
reasons, which might be assigned.
The season is now fast approaching, when warm and
comfortable barracks must be erected for the security
of the troops against the inclemency of winter. Large
and costly provision must be made in the orticle of
wood for the supply of the army ; and after all that can
be done in this way, it is but too probable that fences,
woods, orchards, and even houses themselves will fall a
sacrifice to the want of fuel before the end of winter.
A very considerable difficulty, if not expense, must ac
crue on account of clothing for the men now engaged in
the service ; and if they do not enlist again, this difficulty
will be increased to an almost insurmountable degree.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 81
Blankets, I am informed, are now much wanted, and
not to be got. How then shall we be able to keep sol
diers to their duty, already impatient to get home, when
they come to feel the severity of winter without proper
covering 1 If this army should not feel inclined to en
gage for a longer time than the 1st of January, what
consequences more certainly can follow, than that you
must either be obliged to levy new troops and thereby
have two sets, or partly so, in pay at the same time, or
by disbanding one before you get the other, expose the
country to desolation and the cause perhaps to irretriev
able ruin. These things are not unknown to the en
emy ; perhaps it is the very ground they are building
on, if they "are not waiting for a large reinforcement ; and
if they are waiting for succours, ought it not to give a
spur to the attempt 7 Our powder, not much of which
will be consumed in such an enterprise, without any
certainty of a supply, is daily wasting ; and, to sum up
the whole, the expense of supporting this army wiU
so far exceed any idea, that was formed in Congress
of it, that I do not know what will be the conse
quences. These, among other reasons, which might be as
signed, induce me to wish a speedy termination of the
dispute ; but to avoid these evils we are not to lose sight
of the difficulties, the hazard, and the loss, that may
accompany the attempt, nor what will be the probable
consequences of a failure.
That every circumstance for and against this measure
may be duly weighed, that there may be time for doing
it, and nothing of this importance resolved on, but after
mature deliberation, I give this previous notice of the
intention of calling you together on Monday next at
nine o'clock, at which time you are requested to attend
at head-quarters. It is unnecessary, I am persuaded,
vol. in. 1 1

82 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
to recommend secrecy. The success of the enterprise,
if undertaken, must depend in a great measure upon the
suddenness of the stroke. I am with great esteem, &c*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Camp at Cambridge, 8 September, 1775.
Dear Sir,
I have received your favor of the 31st of August. I
am much engaged in sending off the detachment under
Colonel Arnold, upon the plan contained in mine of the
20th ultimo. A variety of obstacles have retarded us,
since the express returned with yours of the 27th from
Albany ; but we are now in such forwardness, that I
expect they will set out by Sunday next at farthest. I
shall take care in my instructions to Colonel Arnold,
that, in case there should be a junction of the detach
ment with your army, you shall have no difficulty in ad
justing the scale of command.
You seem so sensible of the absolute necessity of
preserving the friendship of the Canadians, that I need
say nothing on that subject ; except that a strict disci
pline, and punctual payment for all necessaries brought
to your camp, will be the most certain means of attain
ing so valuable and important an end. I shall inculcate
the same principle most strongly on our troops, who go
from hence, as that on which their safety, success, and
honor entirely depend.
I am truly concerned, that your supplies and appoint-
* The council of war met, in conformity with this notice, on the 11th of
September, and after duly considering the proposition, and the reasons
assigned, it was unanimously agreed, that, " considering the state of the
enemy's lines, and the expectation of soon receiving' some important ad
vices from England, it was not expedient to make the attempt."

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 83
ments are so far short of your expectations ; but I trust
you will have a feeble enemy to contend with, and a
whole province on your side, two circumstances of great
weight in the scale. Your situation for some time must
be so critical and interesting, that I hope you will not
fail to give me constant information of your motions and
success. Believe me, with much truth and regard, dear Sir,
your obedient and humble servant.

TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
Camp at Cambridge, 8 September, 1775.
Sir,
Upon the receipt of this you will please to give direc
tions, that all the new levies march immediately to this
camp. By a resolution of Congress, the troops on the
Continental establishment were not to be employed for
the defence of the coasts, or of any particular province,
the militia being deemed competent to that service.
When I directed these troops to remain in their own
province, I had some reason to expect a remove from
Boston to New York, in which case they would have
been able to give the enemy a more speedy opposition ;
but as that suspicion now appears groundless, there will
be an impropriety in continuing them where they now
are, considering the above resolve.
The detachment, which I mentioned in my last, will
march in two days, and I shall have occasion for the
troops from you to fill their places. The ministerial ex
pedition must, I apprehend, by this time have come to
some issue ; they are either returned with disappoint
ment, or have succeeded in their errand ; in either case
the men can be spared without danger to the country.

84 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 13.
But should this not be the case, and they are still hov
ering on the coast, it is to make no difference in their
march ; so that I shall at all events expect them here
next week, for which you will please to give the neces
sary orders. I am, &,c.

TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
Camp at Cambridge, 10 September, 1775.
Dear Brother,
So little has happened since the date of my last, that
I should scarcely have given you the trouble of reading
this letter, did I not imagine that it might be some satis
faction to you to know, that we are well, and in no fear
or dread of the enemy ; being, in our own opinion at
least, very securely intrenched, and wishing for nothing
more than to see the enemy out of their strong-holds,
that the dispute may come to an issue. The inactive
state we lie in is extremely disagreeable, especially as
we can see no end to it, having had no advices lately
from Great Britain to form a judgment upon.
In taking possession, about a fortnight ago, of a hill
within point-blank cannon-shot of the enemy's lines on
Charlestown Neck, we expected to bring on a general
action, especially as we had been threatened by reports
from Boston several days before, that the enemy in
tended an attack upon our intrenchments. Nothing,
however, followed but a severe cannonade for a day or
two, and a bombardment afterwards for the like time;
which, however, did us no other damage, than to kill
two or three men, and to wound as many more. Both
are now at an end, as they found that we disregarded
their fire, and continued our works till we had got them
completed.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 85
Unless the ministerial troops in Boston are waiting
for reinforcements, I cannot devise what they are stay
ing there for, nor why, as they affect to' despise the
Americans, they do not come forth, and put an end to
the contest at once. They suffer greatly for want of
fresh provisions, notwithstanding they have pillaged
from several islands a good many sheep and cattle.
They are also scarce of fuel, unless, according to the
account of one of their deserters, they mean to pull
down houses for that article. In short, they are, from
all accounts, suffering all the inconveniences of a siege.
It is true, from their having the entire command of the
sea, and a powerful navy, and, moreover, as they are now
beginning to take all vessels indiscriminately, we cannot
stop their supplies through that channel ; but their suc
cours in this way have not been so powerful, as to ena
ble them to give the common soldiers much fresh meat
as yet. By an account from Boston, of the 4th instant,
the cattle lately brought in there sold at public auction
from fifteen to thirty-four pounds ten shillings sterling
apiece ; and the sheep from thirty to thirty -six shillings
each ; and fowls and every other species of fresh pro
visions went in proportion. The expense of this, one
would think, must soon tire them, were it not, that
they intend to fix all the expense of this war upon the
colonies, — if they can, I suppose we shall add.
I am just sending off a detachment of one thousand
men to Quebec, by the way of Kennebec River, to co
operate with General Schuyler, who by this time is, I
expect, at or near St. John's, on the north end of Lake
Champlain; and may, for aught Iknow, have deter
mined the fate of his army and that of-Canada, as he left
Crown Point the 31st of last month for the the Isle-aux-
Noix, within twelve miles of St. John's, where Governor
Carleton's principal force lay. If he should succeed
vol. in. h

86 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43
there, he will soon after be in Montreal without oppo
sition ; and if the detachment I am sending from hence,
though late in the season, should be able to get posses
sion of Quebec, the ministry's plan, in respect to that
government, will be defeated.
I have only to add my love to my sister and the little
ones, and that I am, with the greatest truth, your most
affectionate brother.

TO COLONEL BENEDICT ARNOLD.
Instructions.
1. You are immediately on their march from Cam
bridge to take the command of the detachment from
the Continental army against Quebec, and use all pos
sible expedition, as the winter season is now advancing,
and the success of this enterprise, under God, depends
wholly upon the spirit with which it is pushed, and the
favorable dispositions of the Canadians and Indians.
2. When you come to Newburyport you are to
make all possible inquiry, what men-of-war or cruis
ers there may be on the coast, to which this detach
ment may be exposed on their voyage to Kennebec
River ; and, if you should find that there is danger of
your being intercepted, you are not to proceed by
water, but by land, taking care on the one hand not to
be diverted by light and vague reports, and on the
other not to expose the troops rashly to a danger,
which by many judicious persons has been deemed
very considerable.
3. You are, by every means in your power, to en
deavour to discover the real sentiments of the Cana
dians towards our cause, and particularly as to this

PartII.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 87
expedition, bearing in mind, that if they are averse to it
and will not cooperate, or at least willingly acquiesce, it
must fail of success. In this case you are by no means
to prosecute the attempt ; the expense of the expedi
tion, and the disappointment, are not to be put in com
petition with the dangerous consequences, which may
ensue from irritating them against us, and detaching
them from that neutrality, which they have adopted.
4. In order to cherish those favorable sentiments
to the American cause, that they have manifested, you
are, as soon as you arrive in their country, to disperse a
number of the addresses you will have with you, par
ticularly in those parts, where your route shall lie ; and
observe the strictest discipline and good order, by no
means suffering any inhabitant to be abused, or in any
manner injured, either in his person or property, pun
ishing with exemplary severity every person, who shall
transgress, and making ample compensation to the party
injured. 5. You are to endeavour, on the other hand, to
conciliate the affections of those people, and such In
dians as you may meet with, by every means in your
poWer; convincing them, that we come, at the request
of many of their principal people, not as robbers or to
make war upon them, but as the friends and supporters
of their liberties as well as ours. And to give efficacy
to these sentiments, you must carefully inculcate upon
the officers and soldiers under your command, that, not
only the good of their country and their honor, but
their safety, depend upon the treatment of these people.
6. Check every idea and crush in its earliest stage
every attempt to plunder even those, who are known
to be enemies to our cause. It will create dread
ful apprehensions in our friends, and, when it is once
begun, no one can tell where it will stop. I there-

88 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43,
fore again most expressly order, that it be discouraged
and punished in every instance without distinction.
7. Any King's stores, which you shall be so fortu
nate as to possess yourself of, are to be secured for the
Continental use, agreeably to the rules and regulations
of war published by the honorable Congress. The
officers and men may be assured, that any extraordinary
services performed by them will be suitably rewarded.
8. Spare neither pains nor expense to gain all
possible intelligence on your march, to prevent surprises
and accidents of every kind, and endeavour if possible
to correspond with General Schuyler, so that you may
act in concert with him. This, I think, may be done by
means of the St. Francis Indians.
9. In case of a union with General Schuyler, or
if he should be in Canada upon your arrival there, you
are by no means to consider yourself as upon a separate
and independent command, but are to put yourself un
der him and follow his directions. Upon this occasion,
and all others, I recommend most earnestly to avoid all
contention about rank. In such a cause every post is
honorable, in which a man can serve his country.
10. If Lord Chatham's son should be in Canada,
and in any way should fall into your power, you are en
joined to treat him with all possible deference and re
spect. You cannot err in paying too much honor to
the son of so illustrious a character, and so true a friend
to America. Any other prisoners, who may fall into
your hands, you will treat with as much humanity and
kindness, as may be consistent with your own safety
and the public interest. Be very particular in restrain
ing, not only your own troops, but the Indians, from all
acts of cruelty and insult, which will disgrace the
American arms, and irritate our fellow subjects against
us.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 89
11. You will be particularly careful to pay the
full value for all provisions, or other accommodations,
which the Canadians may provide for you on your
march. By no means press them or any of their cattle
into your service, but amply compensate those, who
voluntarily assist you. For this purpose you are pro
vided with a sum of money in specie, which you will
use with as much frugality and economy, as your ne
cessities and good policy will admit, keeping as exact
an account as possible of your disbursements.
12. You are by every opportunity to inform me
of your progress, your prospects, and intelligence, and
upon any important occurrence to send an express.
13. As the season is now far advanced, you are
to make all possible despatch; but if unforeseen difficul
ties should arise, or if the weather should become so
severe, as to render it hazardous to proceed, in your
own judgment and that of your principal officers, whom
you are to consult, — in that case you are to return, giv
ing me as early notice as .possible, that I may render
you such assistance as may be necessary.
14. As the contempt of the religion of a country
by ridiculing any of its ceremonies, or affronting its min
isters or votaries, has ever been deeply resented, you
are to be particularly careful to restrain every officer
and soldier from such imprudence and folly, and to
punish every instance of it. On the other hand, as far
as lies in your power, you are to protect and support the
free exercise of the religion of the country, and the un
disturbed enjoyment of the rights of conscience in re
ligious matters, with your utmost influence and authority.
Given under my hand, at head-quarters, Cambridge,
this 14th day of September, 1775.*
* A full account of this expedition, containing many of Arnold's letters,
VOL. III. 12 H*

90 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
TO COLONEL BENEDICT ARNOLD.
Camp at Cambridge, 14 September, 1775.
Sir,
You are entrusted with a command of the utmost
consequence to the interest and liberties of America.
Upon your conduct and courage, and that of the officers
and soldiers detached on this expedition, not only the
success of the present enterprise, and your own honor,
but the safety and welfare of the whole continent may
depend. I charge you, therefore, and the officers and
soldiers under your command, as you value your own
safety and honor, and the favor and esteem of your
country, that you consider yourselves, as marching not
through the country of an enemy, but of our friends and
brethren, for such the inhabitants of Canada, and the
Indian nations, have approved themselves in this un
happy contest between Great Britain and America;
and that you check, by every motive of duty and fear of
punishment, every attempt to plunder or insult the in
habitants of Canada. Should any American soldier be
so. base and infamous as to injure any Canadian or In
dian, in his person or property, I do most earnestly en
join you to bring him to such severe and exemplary
punishment, as the enormity of the crime may require.
Should it extend to death itself, it will not be dispro-
portioned to its guilt, at such a time and in such a cause.
But I hope and trust, that the brave men, who have
voluntarily engaged in this expedition, will be governed
and the names and rank of the principal officers engaged, may be seen in
the Collections ofthe Maine Historical Society, Vol. I. pp. 341-416.
Colonel Arnold was much assisted by a set of plans and a journal fur
nished by Mr. Samuel Goodwin, of Pownalborough in Maine, who had
resided twenty-five years in that country as a surveyor, and was well ac
quainted with the waters ofthe Kennebec, and the route to the ChaudWre
River in Canada.

PartII.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 91
by far different views ; and that order, discipline, and
regularity of behaviour, will be as conspicuous as their
valor. I also give it in charge to you to avoid all disre
spect of the religion of the country, and its ceremonies.
Prudence, policy, and a true Christian spirit, will lead
us to look with compassion upon their errors without
insulting them. While we are contending for our own
liberty, we should be very cautious not to violate the
rights of conscience in others, ever considering that God
alone is the judge of the hearts of men, and to him only
in this case they are answerable.
Upon the whole, Sir, I beg you to inculcate upon the
officers and soldiers the necessity of preserving the
strictest order during the march through Canada; to
represent to them the shame, disgrace, and ruin to them
selves and their country, if they should by their conduct
turn the hearts of our brethren in Canada against us ;
and, on the other hand, the honors and rewards, which
await them, if by their prudence and good behaviour
they conciliate the affections of the Canadians and In
dians to the great interests of America, and convert
those favorable dispositions they have shown into a last
ing union and affection. Thus wishing you, and the
officers and soldiers under your command, all honor,
safety, and success, I remain, Sir, your most obedient
humble servant.

92 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.

to the inhabitants of canada.*
Friends and Brethren,
The unnatural contest between the English colonies
and Great Britain has now risen to such a height, that
arms alone must decide it. The colonies, confiding in
the justice of their cause, and the purity of their inten
tions, have reluctantly appealed to that Being, in whose
hands are all human events. He has hitherto smiled
upon their virtuous efforts, the hand of tyranny has
been arrested in its ravages, and the British arms, which
have shone with so much splendor in every part of the
globe, are now tarnished with disgrace and disappoint
ment. Generals of approved experience, who boasted
of subduing this great continent, find themselves cir
cumscribed within the limits of a single city and its sub
urbs, suffering all the shame and distress of a siege,
while the free-born sons of America, animated by the
genuine principles of liberty and love of their country,
with increasing union, firmness, and discipline, repel
every attack, and despise every danger.
Above all we rejoice, that our enemies have been
deceived with regard to you. They have persuaded
themselves, they have even dared to say, that the Ca
nadians were not capable of distinguishing between the
blessings of liberty, and the wretchedness of slavery;
that gratifying the vanity of a little circle of nobility
would blind the people of Canada. By such artifices
they hoped to bend you to their views, but they have
been deceived; instead of finding in you a poverty
of soul and baseness of spirit, they see with a chagrin,
* This paper was printed in hand-bills before Arnold left Cambridge,
with the view of having the copies distributed as soon as he should ar
rive in Canada.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 93
equal to our joy, that you are enlightened, generous,
and virtuous ; that you will not renounce your own
rights, or serve as instruments to deprive your fellow
subjects of theirs. Come then, my brethren, unite with
us in an indissoluble union, let us run together to the
same goal. We have taken up arms in defence of our
liberty, our property, our wives, and our children ; we
are determined to preserve them, or die. We look, for
ward with pleasure to that day, not far remote, we
hope, when the inhabitants of America shall have one
sentiment, and the full enjoyment of the blessings of a
free government.
Incited by these motives, and encouraged by the ad
vice of many friends of liberty among you, the grand
American Congress have sent an army into your prov
ince, under the command of General Schuyler, not to
plunder, but to protect you; to animate, and bring
into action those sentiments of freedom you have dis
closed, and which the tools of despotism would extin
guish through the whole creation. To cooperate with
this design, and to frustrate those cruel and perfidious
schemes, which would deluge our frontiers with the
blood of women and children, I have detached Colonel
Arnold into your country, with a part of the army under
my command. I have enjoined it upon him, and I am
certain that he will consider himself, and act, as in the
country of his patrons and best friends. Necessaries
and accommodations of every kind, which you may fur
nish, he will thankfully receive, and render the full
value. I invite you therefore as friends and brethren,
to provide him with such supplies as your country af
fords ; and I pledge myself, not only for your safety and
security, but for an ample compensation. Let no man
desert his habitation ; let no one flee as before an enemy.
The cause of America, and of liberty, is the cause of

94 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
every virtuous American citizen ; whatever may be his
religion or descent, the United Colonies know no dis
tinction but such as slavery, corruption, and arbitrary
dominion may create. Come, then, ye generous citi
zens, range yourselves under the standard of general
liberty, against which all the force and artifices of tyr
anny will never be able to prevail.

TO THOMAS EVERARD, VIRGINIA.
Camp at Cambridge, 17 September, 1775.
Dear Sir,
As I believe it will be three years next December
since some of my Ohio lands (under the proclamation of
1754) were patented ; and as they are not yet improved
agreeably to the express letter of the law, it behoves
me to have recourse, in time, to the common expedient
of saving them by means of a friendly petition. My
distance from Williamsburg, and my ignorance of the
mode of doing this, lays me under the necessity of call
ing upon some friend for assistance. Will you, then,
my good Sir, aid me in this work ? I shall acknowledge
it as a singular favor if you will, and, unless you discour
age me, I shall rely on it.
I have already been at as much expense in attempt
ing to seat and improve these lands, as would nearly if
not quite have saved them, agreeably to our act of As
sembly, had it been laid out thereon. In March, 1774,
I sent out more than twenty servants and hirelings, with
a great number of tools, nails, and necessaries for this
purpose ; but, hostilities commencing with the Indians,
they got no further than the Red-stone settlement,
where the people dispersed, my goods were seized and
lost, and the whole expedition, which I suppose stood

Part 11.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 95
me in at least three hundred pounds, came to nothing.
In March last, I again purchased servants, and hired
men at considerable wages, and sent out a second time ;
but what they have done, I neither know nor have
heard, further than that, after buying tools and pro
visions at most exorbitant prices, and not being able to
procure a sufficiency of the latter, my servants, for the
most part, had run away, and the manager with a few
negroes and hirelings was left in an almost starving con
dition. This, Sir, is my situation ; and to avoid a total loss
of the lands (as I conceive there are some peculiar cir
cumstances attending the matter, on account of other
claims), and to prevent involving myself in any disa
greeable controversy in defence of my property, having
already had a great deal of trouble about it, I am de
sirous of adopting in proper time the method of peti
tioning. The enemy and we are very near neighbours. Our
advanced works are not more than five or six hundred
yards from theirs, and the main bodies of the two armies
scarcely ajnile apart. We see every thing that passes,
and that is all we can do, as they keep close on the two
peninsulas of Boston and Charlestown, both of which
are surrounded by ships of war and floating batteries ;
and the narrow necks of land leading into them are for
tified in such a manner as not to be forced, without a
very considerable slaughter, if practicable at all.
I am, with esteem, dear Sir, &c.

96 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
Cambridge, 21 September, 1775.*
Sir,
It gives me real concern to observe by yours of the
15th instant, that you should think it necessary to dis
tinguish between my personal and public character, and
confine your esteem to the former. Upon a reperusal
of mine of the 8th instant, I cannot think it bears the
construction you have put upon it; and, unless that con
struction was the most obvious, I should have hoped
that the respect I really have for you, and which I
flattered myself I had manifested, would have called
for the most favorable. In the disposition of the Con-
* The British men-of-war had been menacing the coasts of Connecti
cut, and Governor Trumbull, in addition to the militia near the seaboard,
had ordered several companies ofthe new levies, raised for the Continental
army, to be retained in the province, and stationed at places where the
greatest danger was apprehended. Of this he had given notice to Wash
ington in a letter of the 5th, but on the 8th the General sent an express
order to have all the new levies marched to the army. The Governor
complied with the order, though apparently not well pleased with the
manner in which it was given. In his answer, dated the 15th, he says ; —
" I am surprised that mine of the 5th instant was not received, or not
judged worthy of notice, as no mention is made of it. Stonington had
been attacked, and severely cannonaded, and by Divine Providence mar
vellously protected. New London and Norwich are still so menaced by
the ministerial ships and troops, that the militia cannot be thought suffi
cient for their security, and it is necessary to throw up some intrench-
ments. We are obliged actually to raise more men for their security, and
for the towns of New Haven and Lyme. I hoped some of the new levies
might have been left here, till these dangers were over, without injury to
any of your operations. I own that it must be left to your judgment. Yet
it would have given me pleasure to have been acquainted that you con
sidered it. I thank Divine Providence and you for this early warning to
great care and watchfulness, that so the union of the colonies may be set
tled on a permanent and happy basis.
" You may depend on our utmost exertions for the defence and security
of the constitutional rights and liberty of the colonies, and of our own in
particular. None has shown greater forwardness, and thereby rendered
itself more the object of ministerial vengeance. I am, with great esteem
and regard for your personal character," &c.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 97
tinental troops, I have long been sensible that it would
be impossible to please, not individuals merely, but
particular provinces, whose partial necessities would
occasionally call for assistance. I therefore thought
myself happy, that the Congress had settled the point,
and apprehended I should stand excused to all, for act
ing in the line, which not only appeared to me to be
that of policy and propriety, but of express and positive
duty. If, to the other fatigues and cares of my station,
that is to be added of giving reasons for all orders, and
explaining the grounds and principles on which they are
formed, my personal trouble would perhaps be of the
least concern. The public would be most affected.
You may be assured, Sir, nothing was intended that
might be construed into disrespect ; and, at so interest
ing a period, nothing less ought to disturb the harmony
so necessary for the happy success of our public opera
tions. The omission of acknowledging, in precise terms,
the receipt of your favor of the 5 th instant was purely
accidental. The subject was not so new to me as to
require long consideration. I had had occasion fully to
deliberate upon it, in consequence of applications for
troops from Cape Ann, Machias, New Hampshire, and
Long Island, where the same necessity was as strongly
pleaded, and, in the two last instances, the most pe
remptory orders were necessary to prevent the troops
from being detained. I foresaw the same difficulty here.
I am by no means insensible to the situation of the
people on the coast. I wish I could extend protection
to all; but the numerous detachments, necessary to
remedy the evil, would amount to the dissolution of the
army, or make the most important operations of the
campaign depend upon the piratical expeditions of two
or three men-of-war and transports.
VOL. III. 13 i

98 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
The spirit and zeal of the colony of Connecticut
are unquestionable ; and whatever may be the hostile
intentions of the men-of-war, I hope their utmost ef
forts can do little more than alarm the coast.
I am, with great esteem and regard for both your
personal and public character, Sir, &c*

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 21 September, 1775.
Sir,
The mode in which the present army has been col
lected has occasioned some difficulty, in procuring the
subscription of both officers and soldiers to the Conti
nental articles of war. Their principal objection has
been, that it might subject them to a longer service,
than that for which they engaged under their several
provincial establishments. It is in vain to attempt to
reason away the prejudices of a whole army, often in
stilled, and in this instance at least encouraged, by the
officers from private and narrow views. I have there
fore forborne pressing them, as I did not experience any
such inconvenience from their adherence to their former
rules, as would warrrant the risk of entering into a con
test upon it ; more especially as the restraints, necessary
for the establishment of essential discipline and subordi-
• In reply, Governor Trumbull wrote ; — "I have no disposition to in
crease the weight of your burdens, which, in the multiplicity of your
business, must be sufficiently heavy, nor inclination to disturb the harmony
so necessary to the happy success of our public operations. I am per
suaded no such difficulty wjll any more happen. It is unhappy, that
jealousies should be excited, or disputes of any sort litigated, between
any of the colonies, to disunite them at a time, when our liberty, our
property, our all is at stake. If our enemies prevail, which our disunion
may occasion, our jealousies will then appear frivolous, and all our dispu
ted claims of no value to either side."

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 99
nation, indisposed their minds to every change, and
made it both duty and policy to introduce as little novel
ty as possible. With the present army, I fear such a
subscription is impracticable; but the difficulty will
cease with this army. *
The Connecticut and Rhode Island troops stand en
gaged to the 1st of December only; and none longer
than the 1st of January. A dissolution of the present
army therefore will take place, unless some early pro
vision is made against such an event. Most of the
general officers are of opinion, that the greater part of
them may be reenlisted for the winter, or another cam
paign, with the indulgence of a furlough to visit their
friends, which may be regulated so as not to endanger
the service. How far it may be proper to form the
new army entirely out of the old, for another campaign,
rather than from the contingents of the several provin
ces, is a question which involves in it too many con
siderations of policy and prudence, for me to undertake
to decide. It appears to be impossible to draw it from
any other source than the old army, for this winter;
and, as the pay is ample, I hope a sufficient number will
engage in the service for that time at least. But there
are various opinions of the temper of the men on the
subject ; and there may be great hazard in deferring the
trial too long.
In the Continental establishment no provision has been
made for the pay of artificers, distinct from that of the
common soldiers; whereas, under the provincial such
as found their own tools were allowed one shilling per
diem advance, and particular artisans more. The pay
of the artillery, also, now differs from that of the prov-
* The Continental Articles of War, or, as they were otherwise called,
" Rules and Regulations for the Army," may be seen in the Journals of
Congress, for June 30th, 1775.

100 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
ince ; the men have less, the officers more ; and, for
some ranks, no provision is made, as the Congress will
please to observe by the list, which I have the honor to
enclose. These particulars, though seemingly incon
siderable, are the source of much complaint and dis
satisfaction, which I endeavour to compose in the best
manner I am able.
By the returns of the rifle companies, and that battal
ion, they appear to exceed their establishment very
considerably. I doubt my authority to pay these extra
men without the direction of the Congress ; but it would
be deemed a great hardship wholly to refuse them, as
they have been encouraged to come.*
The necessities of the troops having required pay, I
directed that those of the Massachusetts should receive
for one month, upon their being mustered, and returning
a proper roll ; but a claim was immediately made for
pay by lunar months ; and several regiments have de
clined taking up their warrants on this account. As
this practice was entirely new to me, though said to be
* The Continental Congress resolved on the 14th of June, the day
before the appointment of the Commander-in-chief, that six companies of
expert riflemen should be raised in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and
two in Virginia. On the 22d, it was again resolved, that two more com
panies should be raised in Pennsylvania, and that the eight together should
make a battalion, to be commanded by such field-officers, captains, and
lieutenants, as should be recommended by the Assembly or Convention of
the colony. The above twelve companies were all filled up with surpris
ing celerity. One company arrived in Cambridge on the 25th of July,
and eight others before the 14th of August, so that within two months
orders had gone out, the men had been enlisted and equipped, and the
whole had marched from four to seven hundred miles to camp. Captain
Daniel Morgan, so much celebrated during the war, commanded one of
these companies. He marched his men from Frederic county in Virginia,
a distance of six hundred miles, in three weeks.
Congress had fixed the number of each company at eighty-two. When
they arrived at Cambridge, the number considerably exceeded that limit,
and the Commander doubted whether he was authorized to pay the super
numeraries. When the committee of Congress afterwards visited the

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 101
warranted by former usage here, the matter now waits
the determination of the honorable Congress. I find,
in Connecticut and Rhode Island, this point was settled
by calendar months; in Massachusetts, though men
tioned in the Congress, it was left undetermined ; which
is also the case of New Hampshire.
Enclosed is a petition from the subalterns, respecting
their pay. 'Where there are only two of these in a
company, I have considered one as an ensign, and
ordered him pay as such, as in the Connecticut forces.
I must beg leave to recommend this petition to the fa
vor of the Congress, as I am of opinion the allowance
is inadequate to their rank and service, and is one great
source of that familiarity between the officers and men,
which is so incompatible with subordination and disci
pline. Many valuable officers of those ranks, finding
themselves unable to support the character and appear
ance of officers, I am informed, will retire as soon as
the term of service is expired, if there is no alteration.
For the better regulation of duty; I found it neces
sary to settle the rank of the officers, and to number
the regiments ; and, as I had not received the com
mands of the Congress on the subject, and the exigence
of the service forbade any farther delay, the general
officers were considered as having no regiments ; an

camp, and this subject was referred to them, it was decided that they should
all receive pay, but that the General should select from- each company
such as were not marksmen, and dismiss them, with an allowance of pay
to go home. Dr. Gordon says (Hist. Vol. II. p. 69), that all these men
were embodied and brought to camp " without a farthing advanced from
the Continental treasury." This is an error. Accounts were forwarded
to General Washington from Congress, amounting to more than six thou
sand pounds, Pennsylvania currency, for money and articles advanced to
them, which sum was deducted from their future pay. These riflemen
were enlisted for one year, and were the first troops ordered to be raised
by the Continental Congress. "" The Pennsylvania battalion was comman
ded by Colonel William Thompson.

102 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
alteration, which, I understand, is not pleasing to some
of them, but appeared to me and others to be proper,
when it was considered, that, by this means, the whole
army is put upon one footing, and all particular attach
ments are dissolved.*
1 am now to inform the honorable Congress, that,
encouraged by the repeated declarations of the Cana
dians and Indians, and urged by their requests, I have
detached Colonel Arnold with a thousand men, to pene
trate into Canada by way of Kennebec River, and, if
possible, to make himself master of Quebec. By this
manoeuvre, I proposed either to divert Carleton from
St. John's, which would leave a free passage to Gene
ral Schuyler ; or, if this did not take effect, Quebec, in
its present defenceless state, must fall into his hands an
easy prey. I made all possible inquiry, as to the dis
tance, the safety of the route, and the danger of the
season being too far advanced ; but found nothing in
either to deter me from proceeding, more especially as
it met with very general approbation from all whom I
consulted upon it. But, that nothing might be omitted,
to enable me to judge of its propriety and probable
consequences, I communicated it by express to General
Schuyler, who approved of it in such terms, that I re
solved to put it in immediate execution. They have
now left this place seven days ; and, if favored with a
good wind, I hope soon to hear of their being safe in
Kennebec River. For the satisfaction of the Congress,
I here enclose a copy of the proposed route. I also do
myself the honor of enclosing a manifesto, which I

* The Continental commissions were issued on the 20th. It was
published in the orders, that " no person is to presume to demand a
Continental commission, who is not in actual possession of the like
commission from the proper authority of the colony, which he is engaged
to serve."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 103
caused to be printed here, and of which Colonel Ar
nold has taken a suitable number with him. I have
also forwarded a copy of his instructions. From all
which, I hope the Congress will have a clear view of
the motives, plan, and intended execution of this enter
prise, and that I shall be so happy as to meet with their
approbation in it.
I was the more induced to make this detachment, as
it is my clear opinion, from a careful observation of the
movements of the enemy, corroborated by all the intelli
gence we receive by deserters and others (of the for
mer of whom we have some every day), that the enemy
have no intention to come out, until they are reinforced.
They have been wholly employed for some time past in
procuring materials for barracks, fuel, and making other
preparations for. winter. These circumstances, with the
constant additions to their works, which are apparently
defensive, have led to the above conclusion, and enabled
me to spare this body of men where I hope they will
be usefully and successfully employed.
The state of inactivity, in which this army has lain
for some time, by no means corresponds -with my wish
es to relieve my country, by some decisive stroke,
from the heavy expense its subsistence must create.
After frequently reconnoitring the situation of the ene
my in the town of Boston, collecting all possible intelli
gence, and .digesting the whole, a surprise did not ap
pear to me wholly impracticable, though hazardous. I
communicated it to the general officers some clays be
fore I called them to a council, that they might be pre
pared with their opinions. The result I have the honor
of enclosing. I cannot say that I have wholly laid it
aside; but new events may occasion new measures.
Of this I hope the honorable Congress can need no as
surance, that there is not a man in America, who more

104 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
earnestly wishes such a termination of the campaign, as
to make the army no longer necessary.
I have filled up the office of quartermaster-general,
which the Congress was pleased to leave to me, by the
appointment of Major Mifflin, which I hope and believe
will be universally acceptable.
It gives me great pain to be obliged to solicit the
attention of the honorable Congress to the state of this
army, in terms which imply the slightest apprehension
of being neglected. But my situation is inexpressibly
distressing, to see 'the winter fast approaching upon a
naked army, the time of their service within a few
weeks of expiring, and no provision yet made for such
important events. Added to these, the military chest is
totally exhausted ; the paymaster has not a single dollar
in hand; the commissary-general assures me he has
strained his credit, for the subsistence of the army, to
the utmost. The quartermaster-general is precisely
in the same situation ; and the greater part of the troops
are in a state not far from mutiny, upon the deduction
from their stated allowance. I know not to whom I am
to impute this failure ; but I am of opinion, if the evil
is not immediately remedied, and more punctuality ob
served in future, the army must absolutely break up. I
hoped I had so fully expressed myself on this subject,
both by letter, and to those members of the Con
gress, who honored the camp with a visit, that no dis
appointment could possibly happen. I therefore hourly
expected advice from the paymaster, that he had receiv
ed a fresh supply, in addition to the hundred and sev
enty-two thousand dollars delivered to him in August ;
and thought myself warranted to assure the public
creditors, that in a few days they should be satisfied.
But the delay has brought matters to such a crisis, as
admits of no farther uncertain expectation. I have

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 105
therefore sent off this express with orders to make all
possible despatch. It is my most earnest request, that
he may be returned with all possible expedition, unless
the honorable Congress have already forwarded what is
so indispensably necessary. I have the honor to be, &c.

TO MAJOR CHRISTOPHER FRENCH.
Camp at Cambridge, 26 September, 1775.
Sir,
Your favor of the 18th instant is now. before me, as
well as that from the Committee of Hartford on the
same subject. When I compare the treatment you
have received with that, which has been shown to those
brave American officers, who were taken fighting gallant
ly in defence of the liberties of their country, I cannot
help expressing some surprise, that you should thus
earnestly contest points of mere punctilio. The appel
lation of Rebel has been deemed sufficient to sanctify
every species of cruelty to them ; while the ministerial
officers, the voluntary instruments of an avaricious and
vindictive ministry, claim, upon all occasions, the benefit
of those military rules, which can only be binding where
they are mutual. We have shown, on our part, the
strongest disposition to observe them, during the
present contest ; but I should ill support my country's
honor, and my own character, if I did not show a
proper sense of their sufferings, by making the con
dition of the ministerial officers in some degree depen
dent upon theirs.
My disposition does not allow me to follow the un
worthy example set me by General Gage to its fullest
* A British officer, who was a prisoner at Hartford, having been sent
there on parole by the Committee of Safety in Philadelphia.
VOL. III. 14

106 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
extent. You possess all the essential comforts of life ;
why should you press for indulgences of a ceremonious
kind, which give general offence 1
I have looked over all the papers sent me from Phila
delphia. I find nothing in them upon the present sub
ject, nor do I know whether the liberty of wearing your
sword was given or taken. But I flatter myself, that,
when you come to consider all circumstances, you will
save me the trouble of giving any positive directions.
You will easily conceive howr much more grateful a
compliance with the wishes of the people, among
whom your residence may be longer than you ex
pect, will appear, when it is the result of your prudence
and good sense, rather than of a determination from
me. I therefore should be unwilling to deprive you of
an opportunity of cultivating their esteem by so small
a concession as this must be.
As I suppose your several letters to me have been
communicated to others, I cannot forbear considering
your conduct in "declaring, in a high tone, that, had you
joined your regiment, you would have acted vigorously
against this country, and done all in your power to re
duce it,"* as a deviation from the line of propriety and
prudence, which I should have expected to distinguish
the conduct of so old and experienced an officer. Your
' That Major French was a man of spirit, and something of a Hotspur,
is evident from this extract, as well as other parts of his letters. It is but
fair, however, to introduce his reply to this paragraph. — "I was asked by
Mr. Paine," says he, " if I would not fight against the colonies if set at
liberty, and I answered that I would, in which might have been included,
that I would endeavour to reduce them, but I did not say so ; and I must
appeal to you, Sir, if the question need or should have been asked. The
answer was obvious, and therefore it could only be asked with a design to
have something to say. I told them, therefore, that I gloried in serving
my king and country, and should always do so, and I glory even in repeat
ing it to you. I am convinced, Sir, you will not think the worse of
me for supporting my honor as a man, and a British officer, which, in all

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 107
being so entirely in our power may extinguish the re
sentment, which a generous and enlightened mind would
otherwise feel; but I cannot commend the conduct,
which puts such a mind to the trial.
I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF HARTFORD.
Camp at Cambridge, 26 September, 1775.
Gentlemen,
Your favor of the 18th instant, and one from Major
French on the same subject, have come safely to hand.
From the general character of this gentleman, and the
acknowledged politeness and attention of the Com
mittee of Hartford to the gentlemen intrusted to their
care, I flattered myself, that there would be a mutual
emulation of civility, which would have resulted in the
ease and convenience of both. I am extremely sorry
to find it otherwise ; and, upon a reperusal of former
letters and papers, respecting these gentlemen, I cannot
think there is any thing particular in their situation,
which can claim a distinction. If the circumstance of
wearing their swords had created no dissatisfaction, I
should not have interfered, considering it, in itself, as a
matter of indifference ; but, as it has become sp, partly,
perhaps, by the inadvertent expressions, which have
dropped on this occasion, I persuade myself, that Major
French, for the sake of his own convenience and ease,
and to save me further trouble, will consider what is not

situations, I am determined to do." — There was a spice of impudence, as
well as bravado, in Major French's letters, but they evinced honorable
feelings, and were answered with respect and kindness . by Washington.
The Major assumed it as a title to consideration, and perhaps justly, that
he was an officer of thirty-three years' service.

108 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
essential to either his comfort or happiness, except as
mere opinion makes it so.
On the other hand, allow me to recommend a gentle
ness, even to forbearance, with persons so entirely in
our power. We know not what the chance of war may
be ; but, let it be what it will, the duties of humanity
and kindness will demand from us such a treatment, as
we should expect from others, the case being reversed.
I am, Gentlemen, &c.

TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL JOSEPH SPENCER.
Head-Quarters, 26 September, 1775.
Sir,
I have perused and considered a petition, or rather a
remonstrance, directed to you and signed by several
captains and subalterns, on the appointment of Mr.
Huntington to the lieutenancy of Captain Chester's
company. The decent representation of officers, or even of
common soldiers, through the channel of their Colonel,
or other superior officers, I shall always encourage and
attend to ; but I must declare my disapprobation of
this mode of associating and combining, as subversive of
all subordination, discipline, and order.
Should the proper officers refuse or neglect to re
ceive their complaints, an immediate application to their
general officer would be proper. Much as I disap
prove the mode of opposition to this gentleman, I dis
approve the opposition itself still more. To yield to it
would be in effect to surrender the command of the
army to those, whose duty it is, and whose honor it
ought to be, to obey. Commissions should be ever the
reward of merit, not of age, and I am determined never

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 109
to put it out of the proper power to reward a deserving,
active officer, whatsoever may be his standing in the army,
or the pretensions of those, who have no other merit
than that of having been born or enlisted before him.
In an army so young as ours, the claims arising from
real service are very few, and the accidental circum
stance of obtaining a commission a month or two sooner
can with no reasonable person claim any superior re
gard, or make such a scrutiny of any consequence.
This army is supported by the whole continent; the
establishment is entirely new. All provincial customs,
therefore, which are different in different provinces,
must be laid out of the question. The power, which
has established and which pays this army, has alone the
right to judge, who shall command in it, from the gene
ral to the ensign. To put it into any other hands would
be a high breach of my trust, and would give birth to
such factions and cabals, as must soon end in the disso
lution of the army, and the ruin of our country.
As no objections are made to Mr. Huntington's char
acter, nor any other reason assigned, than his not rising
by gradation, I can make no alteration in his appoint
ment. At the same time I declare, that I shall upon all
occasions pay a proper respect to long service, and as
far as lies in my power give it all the preference, which
is consistent with the welfare of the army and the du
ties of my station. I make no doubt, therefore, when
these and all other officers (who, in such cases, are both
parties and judges) divest themselves of prejudice and
partiality, they will cheerfully acquiesce in such appoint
ments as are made, and manifest their sincere attach
ment to their country, and the great cause in which we
are engaged, by a ready and hearty obedience to all
orders and rules judged necessary for the general
interest. I am, Sir, &.c.
VOL. III. J

110 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 30 September, 1775.
Sir,
The Rev. Mr. Kirkland, * the bearer of this, having
been introduced to the honorable Congress, can need
no particular recommendation from me. But as he now
wishes to have the affairs of his mission and public
employ put upon some suitable footing, I cannot but inti
mate my sense of the importance of his station, and the
great advantages which may result to the United Colo
nies, from his situation being made respectable.
All accounts agree, that much of the favorable dispo
sition, shown by the Indians, may be ascribed to his la
bor and influence. He has accompanied a chief of the
Oneidas to this camp, which I have endeavoured to
make agreeable to him, both by civility and some small
presents. Mr. Kirkland being also in some necessity
for money to bear his travelling charges and other ex
penses, I have supplied him with thirty-two pounds law
ful money.
I cannot but congratulate the honorable Congress on
the happy temper of the Canadians and Indians, our
accounts of which are now fully confirmed by some
intercepted letters from officers in Canada to General
Gage and others in Boston, which were found on board
the vessel lately taken, going into Boston with a dona
tion of cattle and other fresh provisions for the ministe
rial army. I have the honor to be, &c.f
* The Rev. Samuel Kirkland was missionary to the Oneida Indians,
among whom he resided many years. — See Life of Ledyard, 2d. ed. p. 9.
t In a letter from General Carleton to General Gage, dated at Mont
real, September 16th, he gives an account ofthe landing ofthe Americans
in the woods near St. John's, and says they were driven back to their
boats by a party of Indians, and adds ; —
" They then retired to the Isle aux Noix, where they remain, and send

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. Ill
TO CAPTAIN DANIEL AI0RGAM.
Camp at Cambridge, 4 October, 1775.
Sir,
I write to you in consequence of information I have re
ceived, that you and the captains of the rifle companies
on the detachment against Quebec, claim an exemption
from the command of all the field-officers, except
Colonel Arnold. I understand this claim is founded
upon some expressions of mine ; but, if you understood
me in this way, you are much mistaken in my meaning.
My intention is, and ever was, that every officer should
command according to his rank. To do otherwise
would subvert all military order arid authority, which, I
am sure, you could not wish or expect.
Now the mistake is rectified, I trust you will exert
yourself to support my intentions, ever remembering
that by the same rule by which you claim an indepen
dent command, and break in upon military authority,
others will do the same in regard to you, and, of conse
quence, the expedition must terminate in shame and
disgrace to yourselves, and the reproach and detriment
of your country. To a man of true spirit and military
character, farther argument is unnecessary. I shall,
therefore, recommend to you to preserve the utmost har-

out emissaries to the Canadians and Indians, among whom they have been
too successful. Many Indians have gone over to them, and large numbers
of Canadians are with them at Chamblee. The people in general seem
inclined that way, though the gentlemen, the clergy, and most of the
bourgeois have manifested a fidelity to the King's service. We have suc
ceeded in raising only fourscore militia.
" Thus we are on the very eve of being overrun and subdued. I had
great hopes of holding out for this year, though I seem abandoned by all
the earth, had the savages remained firm. I cannot blame these poor
people for securing themselves, as they see multitudes of the enemy at
hand, and no succour from any part, though it is now four months since
their operations against us first began." — MS. Letter.

112 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43
mony among yourselves, to which a due subordination
will much contribute ; and, wishing you health and suc
cess, I remain your very humble servant.*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Camp at Cambridge, 4 October, 1775.
Sir,
Your favor of the 20th ultimo came safely to hand, and
I should have despatched the express much sooner, but
Colonel Arnold's expedition is so connected with your
operations, that I thought it most proper to detain him,
until I could give you the fullest account of his pro
gress. This morning the express, whom I sent to him,
returned, and one of the enclosures is a copy of his
letter to me, and another a copy of a paper forwarded
to me, being the report of a reconnoitring party sent
out some time ago.f
You will certainly hear from him soon, as I have
given him the strongest injunctions on this head. I
send you a copy of his instructions, and a Manifesto, of
which I have furnished him a number to disperse
throughout Canada. He is supplied with one thousand

¦* The rifle companies were raised by an express order of the Conti
nental Congress, and on this ground the captains had an impression, that
they were not to be commanded by officers in the provincial ranks.
f This party consisted of two persons, named Getchell and Berry, who
set off from Fort Western, on the Kennebec, September 1st. They ad
vanced as far as the head-waters of the Dead River, where they met
several Indians, who gave them such exaggerated accounts of the enemy
on the Chaudiere, that they did not venture to proceed farther. Natanis,
the last of the Norridgewocks, had a cabin in this quarter, and was in the
interest of Governor Carleton. The intelligence brought back by these
persons, in regard to the carrying-places and condition of the river, was
of some service to Arnold.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 113
pounds lawful money in specie, to answer his contingent
charges. About eight days ago a brig from Quebec to Boston
was taken and brought into Cape Ann. By some
intercepted letters from Captain Gamble to General
Gage and Major Sheriff, the account of the temper of
the Canadians in the American cause is fully confirmed.
The Captain says, that if Quebec should be attacked
before Carleton can throw himself into it, there will be
a surrender without firing a shot. We most anxiously
hope you will find sufficient employ for Carleton at
St. John's and its neighbourhood.
We at last have the echo of Bunker's Hill from
England. The number of killed and wounded by
General Gage's account nearly corresponds with what
we had ascertained. There does not seem the least
probability of a change of measures or of ministers.
General Gage is recalled from Boston, and sails to-mor
row; he is succeeded by General Howe. We have
had no material occurrences since I had the pleasure of
writing to you last. Our principal employment now is
preparing for the winter, as there seems to be no proba
bility of an accommodation, or any such decision as to
make the present army less necessary. *

* Lord Dartmouth had early suggested to General Gage the importance
of taking possession of Rhode Island, as a means of keeping up a commu
nication between Boston and New York, and as a place easy to be de
fended, and one from which, in any exigency, succours might be derived.
He had, also, expressed an opinion, that New York should be occupied.
General Gage replied ; — "As the King's forces are too weak to act in
more than one point, New York is the most eligible situation to hold.
The friends of government could rally there, and, from every account,
numbers would join them. That city could be easily defended, and sup
plied by a water communication. But there is much difficulty in leaving
Boston. It requires secrecy and is of great detail. It is too important a.
step to be put in execution without knowing his Majesty's pleasure.
Preparations will however be made for it, not knowing but instructions to
VOL. III. 15 J*

114 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
I also send you a copy of a letter written to Colonel
Arnold to be communicated to the officers and soldiers.
The information we have of your health gives us great
concern, not only on your own account, but on that of
the public service, which must suffer in consequence.
I shall most sincerely rejoice to hear of your perfect
recovery ; and now, most fervently wishing you all
possible success, honor, and safety, I am, dear Sir, &c.
this effect may be given, in consequence of intimations in a former letter
from me." — MS. Letter, August 20th.
Lord Dartmouth wrote again on the 5th of September, before he could
have received the above letter, and recommended to General Gage to
abandon Boston, dismantle Castle William, and repair with the troops
either to New York, or some other port to the southward, where the ships
could lie in safety, and cany on operations securely during the winter.
Many advantages, he thought, would result from such a change. This was
answered by General Howe with arguments similar to those already ad
vanced by General Gage, and his reasons for not complying with the
recommendation of the minister were approved.
Another plan in agitation was to divide the forces, and endeavour to
hold New York and Boston at the same time. General Howe discouraged
this scheme, as in his opinion impracticable ; and he said that Gage, Clin
ton, and Burgoyne agreed with him. Such a movement would require an
additional force of not less than five thousand men to be left in Boston,
' and twelve thousand at New York, the latter to be employed in opening a
communication with Canada, leaving five battalions for the defence of
New York. Three thousand regulars would then remain for Quebec,
who, with three or four thousand Canadians, and some hundreds of In
dians, would compose the army of Canada ; but he could not say whether
such a force would be sufficient in that quarter. The primary object of a
communication with Canada by the Hudson being thus accomplished, and
secured by posts, troops might take separate routes into Massachusetts
and other parts of New England, as circumstances should point out.
It was the opinion of General Howe, at the same time, that Boston
should be evacuated, and the force designed for that place removed to
Rhode Island. The project of penetrating the country could more easily
be executed from that point than from Boston, where little else could be
done than to defend the post. The possession of Rhode Island would,
moreover, put Connecticut in jeopardy, and induce that colony to keep its
army at home for self-defence. Boston harbour might be blockaded after
the evacuation by a small naval force, aided by a land party intrenched in
the neighbourhood of Nantasket Road. — MS. Letter to Lord Dart
mouth, October 9th.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 115
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 5 October, 1775.
Sir,
I was honored with your favor of the 26th ultimo,
late the night before last ; and a meeting of the gene
ral officers having been called upon a business, which
will make a considerable part of this letter, I took
the opportunity of laying before them those parts
of yours, which respect the continuance and new-
modelling of the 4army, the fuel, clothing, and other
preparations for the ensuing winter. They have taken
two or three days to consider ; and, as soon as I am
possessed of their opinions, I shall lose no time in trans
mitting the result, not only on the above subjects, but
the number of troops necessary to be kept up.
I have also directed the commissary-general and the
quartermaster-general to prepare estimates of the ex
pense of their departments for a certain given number
of men, from which a judgment may be made, when
the number of men to be kept in pay is determined ;
all which I shall do myself the honor to lay before the
Congress," as soon as they are ready.
I have now a painful though a necessary duty to per
form, respecting Dr. Church, director-general of the
hospital. About a week ago, Mr. Secretary Ward of
Providence sent up to me one Wainwood, an inhabitant
of Newport, with a letter directed to Major Cane in
Boston, in characters ; which he said had been left with
Wainwood some time ago, by a woman who was kept
by Dr. Church. She had before pressed Wainwood to
take her to Captain Wallace,* Mr. Dudley the collector,
or George Rome, which he declined. She then gave
him a letter, with a strict charge to deliver it to either
* Commander of his Majesty's ship Rose, at Newport.

116 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
of those gentlemen. He, suspecting some improper
correspondence, kept the letter, and after some time
opened it ; but, not being able to read it, laid it up, where
it remained until he received an obscure letter from the
woman, expressing an anxiety after the original letter.
He then communicated the whole matter to Mr. Ward,
who sent him up with the papers to me. I immediate*-
ly secured the woman ; but for a long time she was
proof against every threat and persuasion to discover
the author. However, at length she was brought to a
confession, and named Dr. Church. I then immediately
secured him and all his papers. Upon his first exami
nation, he readily acknowledged the letter, said it was
designed for his brother Fleming, and, when decipher
ed, would be found to contain nothing criminal. He
acknowledged his never having communicated the cor
respondence to any person here but the girl, and made
many protestations of the purity of his intentions
Having found a person capable of deciphering the letter,
I in the mean time had all his papers searched, but
found nothing criminal among them. But it appeared,
on inquiry, that a confidant had been among the papers
before my messenger arrived. I then called the gene
ral officers together for their advice, the result of which
you will find enclosed. The deciphered letter is also
enclosed. The army and country are exceedingly irri
tated ; and, upon a free discussion of the nature, cir
cumstances, and consequence of this matter, it has been
unanimously agreed to lay it before the honorable Con
gress for their special advice and direction ; at the same
time suggesting to their consideration, whether an
alteration of the twenty-eighth article of war may not
be necessary. *
* See Appenoix, No. VIII. — By the twenty-eighth article of war,
whoever was convicted of holding correspondence with the enemy, or of

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 117
As I shall reserve all farther remarks upon the state
of the army till my next, I shall now beg leave to re
quest the determination of Congress, as to the property
and disposal of such vessels and cargoes, as are designed
for the supply of the enemy, and may fall into our
hands. There has been an event of this kind at Ports
mouth, in which I have directed the cargo to be brought
hither for the use of the army, reserving the settlement
of any claims of capture to the decision of Congress.
As there are many unfortunate individuals, whose
property has been confiscated by the enemy, I would
humbly suggest to the consideration of Congress the
' humanity of applying, in part or in the whole, such cap
tures to the relief of those sufferers, after compensating
the captors for any expense, and for their activity and
spirit. I am the more induced to request, that this de
termination may be speedy, as I have directed three ves
sels to be equipped in order to cut off the supplies ; and,
from the number of vessels hourly arriving, it may be
come an object of some importance. In the disposal
of these captures, for the encouragement of the officers
and men, I have allowed them one third of the cargoes,
except military stores, which, with the vessels, are to
be reserved for the public use. I hope my plan, as well
as the execution, will be favored with the approbation
of Congress.
One Mr. Fisk, an intelligent person, came out of
Boston on the 3d instant, and gives" us the following
advices ; that a fleet, consisting of a sixty-four, and a
twenty-gun ship, two sloops of eighteen guns, and two
transports with six hundred men, were to sail from
Boston yesterday ; that they took on board two mor-
giving intelligence, was to suffer such punishment as should be ordered
by a general court-martial. There was no provision for referring such
cases to Congress, or other civil authorities.

118 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
tars, four howitzers, and other artillery calculated for
the bombardment of a town ; their destination was kept
a profound secret ; that an express sloop of war, which
left England the 8th of August, arrived four days ago ;
that General Gage is recalled, and last Sunday resigned
his command to General Howe; that Lord Percy,
Colonel Smith, and other officers, who were at Lexing
ton, are ordered home with Gage ; that six ships of the
line and two cutters were coming out under Sir Peter
Dennis ; that five regiments and a thousand marines are
ordered out, and may be expected in three or four
weeks ; no prospect of an accommodation, but the
ministry determined to push the war to the utmost. *
I have an express from Colonel Arnold, and herewith
send a copy of his letter and an enclosure. I am hap
py in finding he meets with no discouragement. The
claim of the rifle officers to be independent of all the
superior officers, except Colonel Arnold, is without any
countenance or authority from me, as I have signified in
my last despatch, both to Colonel Arnold and Captain
Morgan. The captain of the brig from Quebec for
Boston informs me, that there is no suspicion of any
such expedition; and that, if Carleton is not driven
from St. John's, so as to be obliged to throw himself,
into Quebec, it must fall into our hands, as it is left
without a regular soldier, and many of the inhabitants
are most favorably disposed to the American cause;
and that there is the largest stock of ammunition ever
collected in America.
In the above vessel some letters were also found,
from an officer at Quebec to General Gage and Major
Sheriff at Boston, containing such an account of the
* General Howe took command of the army in Boston on the 1st of
October, and General Gage sailed within a week afterwards for Eng
land. — See AppENnix, No. IX.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 119
temper of the Canadians, as cannot but afford the high
est satisfaction. I have thought it best to forward
them. I am, with the greatest respect, &,c*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
if
Camp at Cambridge, 5 October, 1775.
Dear Sir,
_I wrote to you yesterday, since which I have been in
formed, that your illness has obliged you to quit the
army, and General Wooster as the eldest Brigadier will
take rank and command of Mr. Montgomery. General
Wooster, I am informed, is not of such activity as to
press through difficulties, with which that service is en
vironed. I am therefore much alarmed for Arnold,
whose expedition was built upon yours, and who will
infallibly perish, if the invasion and entry into Canada
are abandoned by your successor.!
* General Gage wrote to Lord Dartmouth, on the 20th of August, that
General Carleton did not find the Canadians so ready for war as he had
hoped, and that some of the Indian tribes were backward. He said the
minds of the Canadians had been poisoned by the enemy, but that a good
force there would set them all in motion. He advised, that General
Carleton should be reinforced with four thousand men, a supply of arms,
military stores, and Indian goods. — MS. Letter.
f General Wooster was now advanced in life. He had served in the
two preceding wars, having been present at the capture of Louisburg in
1745, and commanded a Connecticut regiment nearly the whole of the
last French war. When the Connecticut troops were raised, in 1775, he
was appointed to the command of the whole. The continental appoint
ment, therefore, by which he was placed the third on the list of briga
diers, and Putnam raised over him to the rank of major-general, was by
no means satisfactory. Yet he accepted the commission in a spirit, which
reflected much credit upon his character.
When he went to the northward, General Washington had the impres
sion, that he would assume the command in Canada, as higher in rank than
Montgomery. But the fact was, he stood one degree lower, so that this
difficulty was obviated. To prevent all chance of dispute, General Schuy
ler resolved to keep Wooster at Ticonderoga, and send forward his regi-

120 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
I hope by this time the penetration into Canada by
your army is effected ; but if it is not, and there are
any intentions to lay it aside, I beg it may be done in
such a manner, that Arnold may be saved by giving him
notice, and in the mean time your army may keep up
such appearances as to fix Carleton, and prevent the
force of Canada being turned wholly upon Arnold. He
expected to be at Quebec in twenty days from the
26th of September, so that I hope you will have no
difficulty in regulating your motions with respect to
him. Should this find you at Albany, and General
Wooster about taking the command, I intreat you
to impress him strongly with the importance and
necessity of proceeding, or so to conduct, that Arnold
may have time to retreat.

ment. But the officers and men, who sympathized with their commander
in his complaint of injustice, would not go without him. They had al
ready refused , o sign the articles of war, sent out by the Continental Con
gress, and their general was obliged to govern them by the military laws
of Connecticut. This aspect of things gave some concern to General
Schuyler, when the regiment arrived at Ticonderoga, and he wrote to
. General Wooster requesting to know precisely on what ground he con
sidered himself to stand. The reply was that of an honorable and gene
rous soldier, as weD as a true patriot.
" My appointment in the Continental Army," said General Wooster,
" you are sensible could not be very agreeable to me ; notwithstanding
which, I never should have continued in the service, had I not determined
to observe the rules of the army. No, Sir ; I have the cause of my coun
try too much at heart, to attempt to make any difficulty or uneasiness in
the army, upon whom the success of an enterprise of almost infinite im
portance to the country is now depending. I shall consider my rank in
the army what my commission from the Continental Congress makes it,
and shall not attempt to dispute the command with General Montgomery
at St. John's. You may depend, Sir, that I shall exert myself as much
as possible to promote the strictest union and harmony among both officers
and soldiers, and use every means in my power to give success to the
expedition." He went forward with his regiment into Canada, put himself under
General Montgomery, and verified this declaration by his conduct, which
was not marked, however, with much enterprise or efficiency.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 121
Nothing new has occurred since yesterday deserving
your notice. Our next accounts of your health I hope
will be more favorable. Ten thousand good wishes
attend you from this quarter; none more sincere and
fervent than those of, dear Sir, your most obedient, &c.

TO ROBERT CARTER NICHOLAS, VIRGINIA.
Camp at Cambridge, 5 October, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 8th ultimo came to my hands on
the 2d instant by Mr. Byrd. I return you my sincere
thanks for your kind congratulation on my appointment
to the honorable and important post I now hold, by the
suffrages of this great continent. My heart will ever
bear testimony of my gratitude for the distinguished
mark of honor, which has been conferred on me by this
appointment ; as it also will of my wishes, that so im
portant a trust had been placed in the hands of a per
son of greater experience and abilities than mine. I
feel the weight of my charge too sensibly not to make
this declaration. At the same time, I must add, that I
do not wish to withdraw any services, within the com
pass of my power, from the cause we are nobly en
gaged in.
Mr. Byrd shall not want for his pay, whilst he is in
this camp ; although, as I have no cash of my own here,
and charge the public with my expenses only, I shall be
a little at a loss to know in what manner to advance it
with propriety. Bills of exchange would answer no end
here, as we have not the means of negotiating them ;
but, if you would place the money in the hands of
Messrs. Willing and Morris of Philadelphia, either in
specie, continental, Maryland, or Pennsylvania paper,
VOL. III. 16 K

122 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
they could easily remit or draw for it. But, at any rate,
make yourself easy, as Mr. Byrd shall not want the
amount of his pay.
The enemy in Boston and on the heights at Charles
town (two peninsulas surrounded in a manner by ships
of war and floating batteries) are so strongly fortified,
as to render it almost impossible to force their lines,
thrown up at the head of each neck. Without great
slaughter on our side, or cowardice on theirs, it is abso
lutely so. We therefore can do no more, than keep
them besieged, which they are, to all intents and pur
poses, as closely as any troops on earth can be, who
have an opening to the sea. Our advanced works and
theirs are within musket-shot. We daily undergo a
cannonade, which has done no injury to our works, and
very little hurt to our men. These insults we are com
pelled to submit to for want of powder, being obliged,
except now and then giving them a shot, to reserve
what we have for closer work than cannon-distance.
My respectful compliments to Mrs. Nicholas and the
rest of your fireside, and to any inquiring friends. With
grateful thanks for the prayers and good wishes you are
pleased to offer on my account, I am, dear Sir, your
most affectionate, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 12 October, 1775.
Sir,
I am honored with your several favors of the 26th
and 30th of September, and 5th of October, the contents
of which I shall beg leave to notice in their respective
order. Previous to the direction of Congress to consult the

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 123
general officers on the best mode of continuing and
providing for the army during the winter, I had desired
them to turn their thoughts upon these subjects, and to
favor me with the result, by a particular day, in writing.
In this interval, the appointment of Dr. Franklin, Mr.
Lynch, and Colonel Harrison, was communicated, an
event which has given me the highest satisfaction, as
the subject was too weighty and complex for a discus
sion by letter. This appointment made any conclusion
here unnecessary, as it is not probable any such arrange
ment would be agreed on, as would not be altered in
some respects, upon a full and free conference. This
good effect will arise from the step already taken, that
every officer will be prepared to give his sentiments
upon these important subjects.*
* By the resolution of Congress appointing the committee, they were
to confer with General Washington, and the respective governments of
Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, on the
most effectual method of continuing, supporting, and regulating a? Con
tinental army. The committee were likewise furnished with detailed in
structions. The members of the committee, and delegates from the four colonies
above mentioned, met in convention at Cambridge on the 18th of October,
and continued*their sittings daily till the 22d. The persons present, be
sides the committee, were Griswold and Wales from Connecticut ; Gover
nor Cooke from Rhode Island ; Bowdoin, Otis, Sever, and Spooner from
Massachusetts ; Matthew Thornton from New Hampshire. General
Washington was president of the board.
In a council of war, which had been assembled but a short time before,
several of the points, put in charge of the committee by Congress, had
been considered, and the opinions of the officers upon them expressed.
These were generally confirmed and adopted by the delegates in confer
ence. The mode of raising, arranging, clothing, and supplying a new
army was determined. While the enemy remained in the same strength
at Boston, it was unanimously agreed, that the American army ought not
to consist of less than twenty thousand three hundred and seventy-two
men, making twenty-six regiments, exclusive of riflemen and artillery,
each regiment to be divided into eight companies. Efforts were to be
made to reenlist as many soldiers as possible among those already on the
ground, and the vacancies were to be filled up by new levies. The dele
gates of the four colonies were respectively of opinion, that twenty thou-

124 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
The estimates of the commissary and quartermaster
general I have now the honor of enclosing.
With respect to the reduction of the pay of the men,
which may enter into the consideration of their support,
it is the unanimous opinion of the general officers,, that
it cannot be touched with safety at present.
Before I was honored with your favor of the 5th in
stant, I had given orders for the equipment of some
armed vessels, to intercept the enemy's supplies of pro
visions and ammunition. One of them was on a cruise
between Cape Ann and Cape Cod, when the express
arrived. The others will be fit for the sea in a few days,
under the command of officers of the Continental army,
who are well recommended, as persons acquainted with
the sea, and capable of such a service. Two of these
will be immediately despatched on this duty, and every
particular, mentioned in your favor of the 5th instant,
literally complied with.*
sand men might be raised in Massachusetts, eight thousand in Connecti
cut, three thousand in New Hampshire, and fifteen hundred in Rhode
Island, if the pay remained the same as heretofore, and the time of service
one year. — Minutes of the Conference.
After settling what pertained to the army, the conference broke up, but
the committee from Congress remained two or three days longer, and took
many other topics into consideration, which had been suggested in Gene
ral Washington's letters to Congress. The articles of war were revised,
and changes recommended to Congress. Regulations for disposing of
prizes and provisions captured at sea, exchange of prisoners, employment
of Indians, local details in regard to the army, and many other particulars,
were discussed, and certain definite principles or rules established. The
conference was of great moment to General Washington, since the com
mittee and the delegates from the colonies would be bound to sustain the
measures there agreed upon. The affairs of the army were brought into
a more systematic train, and the Commander-in-chief could act with more
precision and confidence. The doings ofthe committee were confirmed by
Congress, in a series of resolves after their return.
* In the letter here mentioned, President Hancock had written, that
intelligence had just been received by Congress of the sailing of two
brigantines from England on the 11th of August, bound for Quebec, laden
with powder and other stores, without convoy and of no force. Further-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 125
That the honorable Congress may have a more com
plete idea of the plan on which these vessels are
equipped, I enclose a copy of the instructions given to
the captains now out. These, with the additional in
structions directed, will be given to the captains, who
go into the mouth of St. Lawrence's River. As both
officers and men most cheerfully engage in the service,
on the terms mentioned in these instructions, I fear
that the proposed increase will create some difficulty,
by making a difference among men engaged on similar
service. I have therefore not yet communicated this
part of the plan, but reserved an extra bounty as a re
ward for extraordinary activity. There are no armed
vessels in this province ; and Governor Cooke informs
me, that the enterprise can receive no assistance from
him, as one of the armed vessels of Rhode Island is on
a long cruise, and the other unfit for the service. Noth
ing shall be omitted to secure success. A fortunate
capture of an ordnance ship would give new life to the
camp, and an immediate turn to the issue of this cam
paign. *
Our last accounts from Colonel Arnold are very favo
rable. He was proceeding with all expedition ; and I
flatter myself, making all allowances, that he will be at
Quebec the 20th instant,, where a gentleman from Cana
da, Mr. Price, assures me he will meet with no resist
ance, f From the various accounts received from Europe,
more the letter conveyed the instructions of Congress to Washington,
that he should with all possible despatch fit out two armed vessels, at the
Continental expense, to sail for the St. Lawrence, with the view of inter
cepting these brigantines. He was directed to procure the vessels from
the government of Massachusetts ; but, as there were no armed vessels
belonging to that province, he equipped and sent off two of those, which
were already employed in the public service.
* See Appendix, No. X.
f Mr. Price was a merchant of Montreal. When that place capitulated
to General Montgomery, he wrote ; — "I have found Mr. Price so active
K*

126 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
there may be reason to expect troops will be landed at
New York, or some other middle colony. I should be
glad to know the pleasure of the Congress, whether,
upon such an event, it would be expected that a part of
this army should be detached, or the internal force of
such colony and its neighbourhood be deemed suffi
cient ; or whether, in such case, I am to wait the
particular direction of Congress.
The fleet, mentioned in my last, has been seen stand
ing to the north-east ; so that we apprehend it is in
tended for some part of this province, or New Hamp
shire, or possibly Quebec.
The latest and best accounts we have from the ene
my are, that they are engaged in their new work across
the south end of Boston, and preparing their barracks for
winter ; that it is proposed to keep from five hundred to
a thousand men on Bunker's Hill all winter, who are to
be relieved once a week ; the rest to be drawn into Bos
ton. A person, who has lately been a servant to Major
Connolly, a tool of Lord Dunmore's, has given an ac
count of a scheme to distress the southern provinces,
which appeared to me of sufficient consequence to be
immediately transmitted. I have therefore got it at
tested, and do myself the honor of enclosing it.
The new levies from Connecticut have lately marched
into camp, and are a body of as good troops as any we
have ; so that we have now the same strength, as be
fore the detachment made under Colonel Arnold. I
am, &c.
and intelligent, and so warm a friend to the measures adopted by Con
gress, that I wish to have him mentioned in the strongest terms to Con
gress." He was appointed deputy commissary-general of the army in
Canada the spring following.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 127
TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
Camp at Cambridge, 13 October, 1775.
Dear Brother,
Your favor of the 12th ultimo came to hand a few
days ago. By it I gladly learned, that your family were
recovered of the two complaints, which had seized
many of them and confined my sister. I am very glad
to hear, also, that the Convention had come to resolu
tions of arming the people, and preparing vigorously for
the defence of the colony ; which, by the latest accounts
from England, will prove a salutary measure. I am also
pleased to find, that the manufacture of arms and
ammunition has been attended to with so much care.
A plenty of these, and unanimity and fortitude among
ourselves, must defeat every attempt, that the ministry
can invent to enslave this great continent. In the
manufacturing of arms for public use, great care should
be taken to make the bores of the same size, that the-
same balls may answer, otherwise great disadvantages
may arise from a mixture of cartridges.
The enemy, by their not coming out, are, I suppose,
afraid of us ; whilst their situation renders any attempts
of ours upon them in a manner impracticable. * Noth-
* On the 18th of October, the officers were convened a second time to
hold a council respecting an attack on Boston. There was a unanimous
voice against it.
It is a little remarkable, that each party had conclusive reasons for
avoiding to attack the other. " It is inadvisable ," said General Gage in
a letter to Lord Dartmouth, "to attempt penetrating the country from
Boston. The enemy's forces are numerous, and such an attempt must be
made under very great disadvantages ; and even if successful, little would
be gained by it, as neither horses, carriages, nor other means for moving
forward could be procured. Our force is too small to be divided into de
tachments for this purpose, and success would . answer no other end than
to drive the rebels out of one strong-hold into another." — MS. Letter,
August Wth. General Howe used the same arguments on the 9th of
October.

128 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
ing new has happened, since my last, worth communi
cating. Since finishing our own lines of defence, we,
as well as the enemy, have been busily employed in"
putting our men under proper cover for the winter.
Our advanced works, and theirs, are within musket-shot
of each other. We are obliged to submit to an almost
daily cannonade without returning a shot, from our
scarcity of powder, which we are necessitated to keep
for closer work than cannon-distance, whenever the red
coat gentry please to step out of their intrenchments.
Seeing no prospect of this, I sent a detachment, about
a month ago, into Canada, by the way of Kennebec
River, under the command of a Colonel Arnold. This
detachment consisted of one thousand men, and was
ordered to take possession of Quebec if possible ; but,
at any rate, to make a diversion in favor of General
Schuyler, who by this time is in possession, I trust,
of Montreal and St. John's, as I am not altogether
without hopes that Colonel Arnold may be of the capi
tal. Finding that we were in no danger of a visit from
our neighbours, I have fitted out and am fitting out
several privateers with soldiers, who have been bred to
the sea, and I have no doubt of making captures of
several of their transports, some of which have already
fallen into our hands, laden with provisions.
I am obliged to you for your advice to my wife, and
for your intention of visiting her. Seeing no great pros
pect of returning to my family and friends this winter,
I have sent an invitation to Mrs. Washington to come
to me, although I fear the season is too far advanced
to admit this with any tolerable degree of convenience,
especially if she should, when my letters get home, be
in New Kent, as I believe the case will be. I have
laid before her a state of the difficulties, however, which
must attend the journey, and left it to her own choice.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 129
My love to my sister and the little ones is sincerely
tendered, and I am, with true regard, your most affec
tionate brother.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 24 October, 1775.
Sir,
My conjecture of the destination of the late squad
ron from Boston, in my last, has been unhappily veri
fied by an outrage, exceeding in barbarity and cruelty
every hostile act practised among civilized nations. I
have enclosed the account given me by Mr. Jones, a
gentleman of the town of Falmouth, of the destruction
of that increasing and flourishing village. He is a very
great sufferer, and informs me that the time allowed for
the removal of effects was so small, that valuable
property of all kinds, and to a great amount, has been
destroyed. The orders shown by the captain for this
horrid procedure, by which it appears the same deso
lation is meditated upon all the towns on the coast,
made it my duty to communicate it as quickly and ex
tensively as possible. As Portsmouth was the next
place to which he proposed to go, General Sullivan was
permitted to go up, and give them his assistance and
advice to ward off the blow. I flatter myself the like
event will not happen there, as they have a fortification
of some strength, and a vessel has arrived at a place
called Sheepscot, with fifteen hundred pounds of
powder. The gentlemen of the Congress have nearly finished
their business ; but, as they write by this opportunity, I
must beg leave to refer you to their letter, for what con
cerns their commission.
VOL. III. 17

130 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi.43.
We have had no occurrence of any consequence in
the camp, since I had the honor of addressing you last ;
but expect every hour to hear that Newport has shared
the fate of unhappy Falmouth.*
I have the honor to be, &,c.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF FALMOUTH, CASCO BAY.
Camp at Cambridge, 24 October, 1775.
Gentlemen,
The desolation and misery, which ministerial ven
geance had planned, f in contempt of every principle of
humanity, and so lately brought on the town of Fal
mouth, I know not how sufficiently to commiserate.
Nor can my compassion for the general suffering be
conceived beyond the true measure of my feelings.
But my readiness to relieve you, by complying with
your request, signified in your favor of the 21st instant,
is circumscribed by my inability. The immediate ne
cessities of the army under my command require all
the powder and ball, that can be collected with the ut
most industry and trouble. The authority of my sta
tion does not extend so far, as to empower me to send
a detachment of men down to your assistance. Thus
circumstanced, I can only add my wishes and ex
hortations, that you may repel every future attempt to
perpetrate the like savage cruelties.
* A detailed account of the burning of Falmouth by Lieutenant
Mowat, may be found in Williamson's History of Maine, Vol. II. pp. 422,
434. — See Appendix, No. XI.
f This expression was founded on Mowat's declaration to the Commit
tee of Falmouth, that orders had been given for burning seaport towns.
That the declaration was not true, in regard to the ministry, is shown in
the Appendix. The public at that day was much deceived on this subject,
and historians have perpetuated the error.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 131
I have given liberty to several officers in Colonel
Phinny's regiment to visit their connexions, who may
now stand in need of their presence and assistance, by
reason of this new exertion of despotic barbarity. I
am, Gentlemen, &c.

TO MAJOR CHRISTOPHER FRENCH.*
Head-Quarters, Cambridge, 25 October, 1775.
Sir,
I now sit down to give a final answer to your applica
tion respecting your sword. Dr. Franklin confirms,
what I before mentioned, that the privilege claimed was
no part of the stipulation made at Philadelphia, as it
was not discussed.
Having made inquiry, I find the rule with regard to
the indulgence in question is, that prisoners do not wear
their swords. I therefore cannot approve of it, more
especially as it gives such general dissatisfaction to the
good people of the country.
To your other request of removing to some place,
where you can have the benefit of attending public
worship in the church of England, I have not the least
objection, provided the place is approved by Governor
Trumbull, to whom, in this case, you will be pleased to
apply. I wish you all the happiness consistent with your
situation ; and while the inhabitants of America treat
you with humanity and kindness, I trust you will make
a suitable return. It is not grateful to me to hear the
respectable citizens of any town treated with incivility
or contempt. I am, Sir, your very humble servant.
* A prisoner at Hartford, in Connecticut, to which place he had been
sent from Philadelphia.

132 WASHINGTON'S .WRITINGS. [Mi.43.
TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Camp at Cambridge, 26 October, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your several favors of the 12th and 14th instant
came safe to hand, though not in the proper order of
time, with their several enclosures. You do me justice
in believing, that I feel the utmost anxiety for your
situation, that I sympathize with you in all your dis
tresses, and shall most heartily share in the joy of your
success.* My anxiety extends itself to poor Arnold,
whose fate depends upon the issue of your campaign.
Besides your other difficulties, I fear you have those
of the season added, which will increase every day.
In the article of powder, we are in danger of suffering
equally with you. Our distresses on this head are mu
tual ; but I hope they are short-lived, as every measure
of relief has been pursued, which human invention could
suggest. When you write to General Montgomery, be pleased
to convey my best wishes and regards to him.f It has
* General Schuyler had written from Ticonderoga ; — " The vexation
of spirit under which I labor, that a barbarous complication of disorders
should prevent me from reaping those laurels for which I have unwearied-
ly wrought since I was honored with this command ; the anxiety I have
suffered since my arrival here, lest the army should starve, occasioned by
a scandalous want of subordination and inattention to my orders in some
of the officers, that I left to command at the different posts; the vast
variety of vexations and disagreeable incidents, that almost every hour
arise in some department or other ; not only retard my cure, but have put
me considerably back for some days past. If Job had been a general in
my situation, his memory had not been so famous for patience. But the
glorious end we have in view, and which I have a Confident hope will
be attained, will atone for all."
f General Montgomery had likewise met with his full share of troubles.
On the 13th of October, while investing the fort at St. John's, he wrote to
General Schuyler ; —
" I had had a road cut to the intended ground, and some fascines made,
when I was informed by Major Brown, that a general dissatisfaction pre-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 133
been equally unfortunate for our country and yourself,
that your ill health has deprived the active part of your
army of your presence. God Almighty restore you,
and crown you with happiness and success.
Colonel Allen's misfortune will, I hope, teach a lesson
of prudence and subordination to others, who may be
too ambitious to outshine their general officers, and, re
gardless of order and duty, rush into enterprises, which
have unfavorable effects on the public, and are destruc
tive to themselves. *
Dr. Franklin, Mr. Lynch, and Colonel Harrison, dele
gates from the Congress, have been in the camp for
several days, in order to settle the plan for continuing
and supporting the army.f This commission extended
vailed ; that unless something was undertaken in a few days, there would
be a mutiny ; and that the universal sense of the army was to direct all
our attention to the east side. The impatience of the troops to get home
has prevented their seeing the impossibility of undertaking this business
sooner, the duty being hard for the troops in the present confined state
of operations.
" When I mentioned my intentions, I did not consider that I was at the
head of troops, who carry the spirit of freedom into the field, and think
for themselves. Upon considering the fatal consequences, which might
flow from a want of subordination and discipline, should this ill-humor
continue, my unstable authority over troops of different colonies, the in
sufficiency of the military law, and my own want of powers to enforce it,
weak as it is, I thought it expedient to call the field-officers together.
Enclosed I send you the result of our deliberations.
" I cannot help observing to how little purpose I am here. Were I not
afraid the example would be too generally followed, and that the public
service might suffer, I would not stay an hour at the head of troops, whose
operations I cannot direct. I must say I have no hope of success, unless
from the garrison's wantmg provision."
* Ethan Allen crossed the St. Lawrence with a small party below
Montreal, where he was defeated and taken prisoner, after maintaining
for some time, and with great courage, a very unequal conflict. He was
put in irons and sent to Quebec, and thence to England. After being a
prisoner for nearly three years, transported from place to place, he was
exchanged. He published, in 1779, a.JVarrative of the events of his cap
ture and imprisonment.
f While Dr. Franklin was in camp, he naid over to a committee of the
VOL. III. L

134 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
to your department ; but, upon consideration, it appeared
so difficult to form any rational plan, that nothing was
done in that respect. If your time and health will ad
mit, I should think it highly proper to turn your
thoughts to this subject, and communicate the result to
the Congress as early as possible. We have had no
event of any consequence in our camp for some time,
our whole attention being taken up with preparations for
the winter, and forming the new army, in which many
difficulties occur. The enemy expect a considerable
reinforcement this winter, and from all accounts are
garrisoning Gibraltar and other places with foreign
troops, in order to bring the former garrison to America.
The ministry have begun the destruction of our sea
port towns, by burning a flourishing town of about three
hundred houses to the eastward, called Falmouth. This
they effected with every circumstance of cruelty and
barbarity, which revenge and malice could suggest.
We expect every moment to hear other places have
been attempted, which are better prepared for their
reception. The more I reflect upon the importance of your ex
pedition, the greater is my concern, lest it should sink
under insuperable difficulties. I look upon the interests
and salvation of our bleeding country in a great degree
as depending upon your success. I know you feel its
importance, as connected not only with your own honor
and happiness, but the public welfare ; so that you can
want no incitements to press on, if it be possible. My
anxiety suggests some doubts, which your better ac-

Massachusetts Assembly one hundred pounds sterling, which had been
forwarded to him as a charitable donation from persons in England for the
relief of those, who had been wounded in the battle of Lexington, and of
the widows and children of those, who had been slain  Journal of the
Assembly, October 25th.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 135
quaintance with the country will enable you to remove.
Would it not have been practicable to pass St. John's,
leaving force enough for a blockade ; or, if you could
not spare the men, passing it wholly, possessing your
selves of Montreal, and the surrounding country?
Would not St. John's have fallen of course, or what
would have been the probable consequence ? Believe
me, dear General, I do not mean to imply the smallest
doubt of the propriety of your operations, or of those
of Mr. Montgomery, for whom I have a great respect.
I too well know the absurdity of judging upon a military
operation, when you are without the knowledge of its
concomitant circumstances. I only mean it as a matter
of curiosity, and to suggest to you my imperfect idea on
the subject. I am, with the utmost truth and regard,
dear Sir, your most obedient servant. *

TO GOVERNOR COOKE.
Camp at Cambridge, 29 October, 1775.
Sir,
Your favor of the 25th instant came safely to hand.
Captain Whipple's voyage has been unfortunate, but it
is not in our power to command success, though it is
always our duty to deserve it. I hope he will be more
successful in his intended voyage, if it is proposed in
consequence of the direction of the Congress. I think
it proper you should apprize him, that two schooners
have sailed from hence to the mouth of St. Lawrence
River upon the same service, commanded by Captain
Broughton and Captain Sellman. The signal which
they have agreed on to distinguish each other and to be
known to their friends, is the ensign up to the main
topping-lift. I agree with you, that the attachment of

136 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
our Bermudian brethren ought to recommend them to
the favorable regards of their friends of America, and I
doubt not it will. I shall certainly take a proper oppor
tunity to make their case known to the honorable Con
tinental Congress.
I shall be happy in every opportunity to show the
esteem and regard with which I am, your Honor's most
obedient and very humble servant.

TO RICHARD HENRY LEE.
Camp at Cambridge, 29 October, 1775.
Dear Sir,
As you will be fully informed of every matter and
thing relative to the army, by your own committee, I
should not have given you the trouble of a letter at this
time, were it not on Colonel Reed's account.* He is,
as I presume you may have heard, concerned in many
of the principal causes now depending in the courts of
Pennsylvania ; and should those causes be pressed for
trial by his brethren of the profession, it will not only do
him a manifest injury in his practice and future pros
pects, but afford room for complaint of his having neg-
* Colonel Joseph Jteed was secretary to General Washington. He
left the camp for Philadelphia, on the 30th of October, and was absent till
after the removal of the army to New York. During this period a con
stant and confidential correspondence was kept up between him and the
Commander-in-chief. Robert Hanson Harrison, of Alexandria, a. lawyer
by profession, with whom Washington had been much acquainted, and
who had been invited by him to become one of his aids, arrived in Cam
bridge shortly after the departure of Colonel Reed. He was immediately
announced in the public orders as an aid to the Commander-in-chief. He
received a colonel's commission, and served as secretary to the General
during a large portion of the war. No person possessed the confidence
of Washington more entirely than Colonel Harrison, and to few was he
indebted for more valuable services.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 137
lected his business as a lawyer. This he thinks may
be avoided, if some of you gentlemen of the Congress,
in the course of conversation with the chief-justice and
others, would represent the disadvantages, which must
result to him, in case his causes should be hurried to
trial. That Colonel Reed is clever in his business and use
ful to me, is too apparent to mention. I should do equal
injustice, therefore, to his abilities and merit, were I not
to add, that his services here are too important to be
lost, and that I could wish to have him considered in
this point of view by your honorable body, when occa
sion shall tavor.
I shall take it kind of you to give me, from time to
time, such authentic intelligence of the manoeuvres of
the ministry, as you think may be relied on. We get
none but newspaper accounts here, and these very im
perfect. I am, with sincere esteem and regard, dear
Sir, your affectionate friend and countryman.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 30 October, 1775.
Sir,
The information, which the gentlemen who have
lately gone from hence can give the Congress, of the
state and situation of the army, would have made a let
ter unnecessary, if I did not suppose there would be
some anxiety to know the intentions of the army on the
subject of the reenlistment.
Agreeably to the advice of those gentlemen, and my
own opinion, I immediately began by directing all such
officers, as proposed to continue, to signify their inten
tions as soon as possible. A great number of the re-
vol. in. 18 L*

138 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
turns are come in, from which I find, that a very great
proportion of the officers of the rank of captain, and
under, will retire ; from present appearances I may say
half; but at least one third. It is with some concern
also that I observe, that many of the officers, who retire,
discourage the continuance of the men, and, I fear, will
communicate the infection to them. Some have ad
vised, that those officers, who decline the service, should
be immediately dismissed ; but this would be very dan
gerous and inconvenient. I confess I have great anxie
ties upon the subject, though I still hope the pay and
terms are so advantageous, that interest, and I trust
also a regard to their country, will retain a greater pro
portion of the privates than of their officers. In so im
portant a matter, I shall esteem it my indispensable
duty, not only to act with all possible prudence, but to
give the most early and constant advice of my progress.
I have the honor to be, &.c.

TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
Camp at Cambridge, 2 November, 1775.
Sir,
I have been honored with your favor of the 30th ul
timo by Mr. Trumbull. I sincerely wish this camp
could furnish a good engineer. The Commissary-general
can inform you how exceedingly deficient the army is
of gentlemen skilled in that branch of business, and that
most of the works, which have been thrown up for the
defence of our several encampments, have been planned
by a few of the principal officers of this army, assisted
by Mr. Knox, a gentleman of Worcester. Could I af
ford you the desired assistance in this way, I should do
it with pleasure.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 139
Herewith you will receive a copy of the proceedings
Held with the committee of Congress from Philadelphia.
It ought to have been sent sooner, but I am at present
without a secretary; Colonel Reed, having a call at.
home, left this place on Sunday last. I heartily congrat
ulate you on the recovery of the Commissary-general,*
Whose return, so soon as he can travel with safety, is
much wished for. I am, with the greatest esteem and
regard, &,c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 2 November, 1775.
Sir,
I could not suffer Mr. Randolph! to quit this camp,
without bearing some testimony of my duty to the Con
gress; although his sudden departure (occasioned by
the death of his worthy relative, { whose loss, as a good
* Mr. Joseph Trumbull, son of the Governor, who had been for some
time ill in Connecticut.
f Edmund Randolph, who had served for a short time as an aid to Gen
eral Washington.
| Peyton Randolph, president of the first Continental Congress. He
died suddenly at Philadelphia on the 22d of October. A long and intimate
friendship had existed between him and Washington. He had lately been
absent from Congress to preside in the Virginia Convention, and his last
letter to Washington was dated September 6th. It begins with the fol
lowing paragraph.
" I have it in command to transmit to you the thanks of the Convention
of Virginia for your faithful discharge of the important trust reposed in
you, as one of their delegates to the Continental Congress. Your ap
pointment to an office of so much consequence to America, and incompat
ible with your attendance on this duty, was the only reason that could
have induced them not to call you to the same service. Your brother
delegates were unanimous in their acknowledgments, and you will believe
it gives me the greatest satisfaction to convey to you the" sentiments of
your countrymen, and at the same time to give you every testimony of my
approbation and esteem."
Richard Henry Lee wrote to Washington on the 23d of October; — "It

140 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr. 43.
citizen and valuable member of society, is much to be
regretted) does not allow me time to be particular.
The enclosed return shows, at one view, what reli
ance we have upon the officers of this army, and how
deficient we are likely to be in subaltern officers. A few
days more will enable me to inform the Congress what
they have to expect from the soldiery, as I shall issue
recruiting-orders for this purpose, so soon as the officers
are appointed, which will be done this day, I having sent
for the general officers, to consult them in the choice.
I must beg leave to recall the attention of the Con
gress to the appointment of a brigadier-general, an offi
cer as necessary to a brigade, as a colonel is to a regi
ment, and one that will be exceedingly wanted in the
new arrangement.
The proclamations and association, herewith enclosed,
came out of Boston on Monday last.* I thought it my
duty to send them to you. Nothing of moment has
happened since my last.
With respectful compliments to the members of Con
gress, I have the honor to be, &c.
is with infinite concern I inform you, that our good old speaker, Peyton
Randolph, went yesterday to dine with Mr. Harry Hill, was taken during
dinner with the palsy, and at nine o'clock at night died without a groan.
Thus has American liberty lost a powerful advocate, and human nature a
sincere friend."
* Proclamations issued by General Howe, on the 28th of October.
The first was for prohibiting any person from leaving Boston, in which he
says ; " I do, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me by his
Majesty, forbid any person or persons whatever, not belonging to the navy,
to pass from hence by water or otherwise, without my order or permission
given in writing. Any person or persons detected in the attempt, or who
may be taken on sufficient proof thereof, shall be liable to military execu
tion, and those who escape shall be treated as traitors by confiscation of
their goods and effects." The second proclamation prohibited any person
from carrying more than five pounds in specie away from the city. The
association was for embodying the citizens to defend the town. — See
Remembrancer, Vol. II. p. 191. Boston Gazette, November 6th, 1775.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 141

TO JOSIAH QUINCY. *
Cambridge, 4 November, 1775
Sir,
Your favor of the 31st ultimo was presented to me
yesterday. I thank you, as I shall do every gentleman,
for suggesting any measure, which you conceive to be
conducive to the public service ; but, in the adoption of a
plan, many things are to be considered to decide upon
the utility of it. In the one proposed by you, I shall
not undertake to determine whether it be good, or
whether it be bad; but thus much I can say, that if
there is any spot upon the main, which has an equal
command of the ship-channel to Boston harbour (and
give me leave to add that Point Alderton is not without
its advocates), in all other respects it must have infi
nitely the preference ; because the expense of so many
batteries as you propose, with the necessary defences to
secure the channel, the communication, and a retreat in
the dernier resort from the east end of Long Island, are
capital objections. Not, I confess, of such importance
as to weigh against the object in view, if the scheme is
practicable. But what signifies Long Island, Point Al
derton, and Dorchester, while we are in a manner des
titute of cannon, and compelled to keep the little powder
we have for the use of the musketry. The knowledge
* Mr. Quiney, father of Josiah Quincy, Junior, an interesting memoir of
whose life has recently been published, resided in Braintree, and had sug
gested to General Washington a plan for blocking up Boston harbour, and
taking the whole British army and fleet. Being thoroughly acquainted
with the islands in the harbour, and the ship-channels, he conceived it
practicable to construct such works at suitable points, as would prevent
the egress of the shipping. He communicated his scheme to Dr. Franklin,
who paid him a visit while attending the committee of conference at camp,
and by whose advice he wrote at large on the subject to Washington.
Want of cannon and powder was an insuperable objection to making the
attempt, however feasible in itself.

142 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
of this fact is an unanswerable argument against every
place, and may serve to account for my not having
viewed the several spots, which have been so advan
tageously spoken of. I am not without intentions of
making them a visit, and shall assuredly do myself the
honor of calling upon you. In the mean while, permit
me to thank you most cordially for your polite invitation,
and to assure you that I am, Sir, your most obedient
humble servant.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 5 November, 1775.
Dear Sir, >
Your favor of the 26th ultimo with the enclosures,
containing an account of the surrender of Fort Cham-
blee, was an excellent repast, but somewhat incomplete
for want of Montgomery's letter, a copy of which you
omitted to enclose. On the success of your enterprise
so far, I congratulate you, as the acquisition of Canada
is of immeasurable importance to the cause we are en
gaged in. No account of Arnold since my last. I am
exceedingly anxious to hear from him, but flatter myself,
that all goes well with him, as he was expressly ordered,
in case of any discouraging event, to advertise me of it
immediately.* * The situation of affairs in Canada at this time may be understood by
the following extract from a letter, dated at Montreal, October 19th, and
written by Brook Watson, an eminent merchant of that city, to Governor
Franklin of New Jersey. The letter was intercepted by General Mont
gomery, and forwarded by him to General Schuyler.
" Such is the wretched state of this unhappy province," says the writer,
" that Colonel Allen, with a few despicable wretches, would have taken
this city on the 25th ultimo, had not its inhabitants marched out to give
them battle. They fought, conquered, and thereby saved the province for
a while. Allen and his banditti were mostly taken prisoners. He is now

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 143
I much approve your conduct in regard to Wooster.
My fears are at an end, as he acts in a subordinate
character. Intimate this to General Montgomery, with
my congratulations on his success, and the seasonable
supply of powder, and wishes that his next letter may
be dated from Montreal. If you carry your arms to
Montreal, should not the garrisons of Niagara and De
troit be called upon to surrender, or threatened with the
consequences of a refusal 1 They may indeed destroy
their stores, and, if the Indians are aiding, escape to
Fprt Chartres, but it is not very probable.
The enclosed gazette exhibits sundry specimens of
the skill of the new commander in issuing proclama
tions, and a proof, in the destruction of Falmouth, of the
barbarous designs of the ministry. Nothing new has
happened in this camp. Finding the ministerial troops
resolved to keep themselves close within their lines, and
that it was judged impracticable to get at them, I have
fitted out six armed vessels, with the design to pick up
some of their store-ships and transports. The rest of
our men are busily employed in erecting barracks. I
hope, as you have said nothing of the state of your
health, that it is much amended, and that the cold
weather will restore it perfectly. That it may do so,
and that you may enjoy the fruit of your summer's labor
and fatigue, is the sincere wish, dear Sir, of yours, &.c.

in chains on board the Gaspee. This little action has changed the face
of things. The Canadians before were nine tenths for the Bostonians.
They are now returned to their duty ; many in arms for the King and the
parishes, who had been otherwise, and daily demanding their pardon and
taking arms for the crown."
This Mr. Watson went over to England in the same vessel, in which
Allen and his associates were transported as prisoners and in irons. Al
len's wrists and ankles were heavily manacled. In his Narrative he
speaks of having received much ill treatment from Watson during the
voyage. Watson was afterwards Lord Mayor of London.

144 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
TO THE COMMITTEE OF FALMOUTH.
Cambridge, 6 November, 1775.
Gentlemen,
I received your favor of the 2d instant, and am very
sorry it is not in my power to supply the necessities of
the town of Falmouth. I have referred the gentlemen,
who brought me your letter, to the General Court of
this province, who, I hope, will fall upon some method
for your assistance. The arrival of the Cerberus man-
of-war is very alarming ; I do not apprehend they will
attempt to penetrate into the country, as you seem to
fear. If they should attempt to land any of their
men, I would have the good people of the country, by
all means, make every opposition in their power; for
it will be much easier to prevent their making a logd-
ment, than to force them from it, when they have got
possession. I write by this conveyance to Colonel Phinny, who
will give you every advice and assistance in his power.
I sincerely sympathize with the people in the distress
they are driven to ; but it is in such times, that they
should exert themselves in the noble cause of liberty
and their country. I am, &,c. *

* The following curious order claims insertion for its singularity, and as
marking a peculiar custom of the New England people of that day.
" November 5th. — As the Commander-in-chief has been apprised of a
design, formed for the observance of that ridiculous and childish custom of
burning the effigy ofthe Pope, he cannot help expressing his surprise, that
there should be officers and soldiers in this army so void of common sense,
as not to see the impropriety of such a step at this juncture ; at a time
when we are soliciting and have really obtained the friendship and alli
ance of the people of Canada, whom we ought to consider as brethren em
barked in the same cause, the defence of the general liberty of America.
At such a juncture and in such circumstances, to be insulting their reli
gion is so monstrous, as not to be suffered or excused ; indeed, instead of
offering the most remote insult, it is our duty to address public thanks to

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 145
TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL JOHN SULLIVAN.
Instructions.
, Sir,
-You are to proceed immediately to Portsmouth in
New Hampshire, and complete the works already be
gun, to secure that and the other towns, at the entrance
of Piscataqua River, from any attacks by ships of war.
For this purpose, you are to fix fire-ships and fire-rafts
in such places, as you find most convenient to prevent
the enemy from passing up the river.
As great calamities and distress are brought upon our
seaport towns, through the malicious endeavours and
false representations of many persons, holding commis
sions under the crown, who, not content with bringing
destruction upon some of our principal towns, are yet
using every art that malice can devise to reduce others
to the same unhappy state, in hopes by such cruel con
duct to please an arbitrary and tyrannical ministry, and
to receive from them in return a continuance of such
places and pensions, as they now hold at the expense
of the blood and treasure of this distressed continent ;
you are, therefore, immediately upon your arrival in that
province, to seize such persons as hold commissions
under the crown, and are acting as open and avowed
enemies to their country, and hold them as hostages for
the security of those towns, which our ministerial ene
mies threaten to invade. In case any attack should be
made upon Portsmouth, or other seaports in that quar
ter, you are immediately to collect such force as can be
raised to repel the invasion, and, at all hazards, to pre
vent the enemy from landing and taking possession of
these our brethren, as to them we are so much indebted for every late
happy success over the common enemy in Canada." — Orderly Book.
VOL. III. 19 M

146 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
any posts in that quarter. When you have completed
the works at Portsmouth, and secured the passage of
the river there, you are to return without delay to the
army, unless you find the enemy are about to make an
immediate attack upon that or the neighbouring towns.
The above is rather to be considered as matter of ad
vice than orders, as I do not conceive myself authorized
to involve the continent in any expense for the defence
of Portsmouth, or other place, out ofthe line of the great
American defence, particular colonies being called upon
by the Congress to prepare for their own internal secu
rity. Given under my hand, this 7th day of November,
1775.*

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 8 November, 1775.
Sir,
The immediate occasion of my giving the Congress
the trouble of a letter at this time is to inform them,
that, in consequence of their order signified in your let
ter of the 20th ultimo, I laid myself under a solemn tie
of secrecy to Captain Macpherson, and proceeded to
examine his plan for the destruction of the fleet in the
harbour of Boston, with all that care and attention,
which the importance of it deserved, and my judgment
could lead to. But not being happy enough to coincide
in opinion with that gentleman, and finding that his
scheme would involve greater expense, than, under my
doubts of its success, I thought myself justified in giving
* General Sullivan had already been employed several days at Ports
mouth in giving directions about fortifying the town and harbour, having
been sent there in consequence ofthe threat of Lieutenant Mowat at Fal
mouth, that all the towns on the sea-coast to the eastward of Boston would
be burned.

"PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 147
into, I prevailed upon him to communicate his plan to
three gentlemen of the artillery in this army-, well
versed in the knowledge and practice of gunnery.
By them he has been convinced, that, inasmuch as he
set out upon wrong principles, the scheme would prove
abortive. Unwilling, however, to relinquish his favorite
project of reducing the naval force of Great Britain, he
is very desirous of building a number of row-galleys for
this purpose. But as the Congress alone are competent
to the adoption of this measure, I have advised him (al
though he offered to go on with the building of them at
his own expense, till the Congress should decide) to
repair immediately to Philadelphia with his proposals ;
where, if they should be agreed to, or vessels of supe
rior force, agreeably to the wishes of most others, should
be resolved on, he may set instantly about them, with
all the materials upon the spot ; here, they are to be
collected. To him, therefore, I refer for further infor
mation on this head.
Our prisoners, by the reduction of Fort Chamblee
(on which happy event I most sincerely congratulate the
Congress), being considerably augmented, and. likely to
be increased, I submit it to the wisdom of Congress,
whether some convenient inland towns, remote from the
post-roads, ought not to be assigned them ; the manner
of their treatment, and their subsistence defined ; and a
commissary or agent appointed, to see that justice is
done both to them and the public, and proper accounts
rendered. Unless a mode of this sort is adopted, I fear
there will be sad confusion hereafter, as there are great
complaints at present.
I reckoned without my host, when I informed the
Congress in my last, that I should in a day or two be
able to acquaint them with the disposition of the soldiery
towards a new enlistment. I have been in consultation

148 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
with the generals of this army ever since Thursday last,
endeavouring to establish new corps of officers ; but I
find so many doubts and difficulties to reconcile, that I
cannot say when they are to end, or what may be the
consequences ; as there appears to be such an unwil
lingness in the officers of one government to mix in the
same regiment with those of another ; and, without this,
many must be dismissed, who are willing to serve, not
withstanding we are deficient on the whole. I am to
have another meeting to-day upon this business, and
shall inform you of the result.
The council of officers are unanimously of opinion,
that the command of the artillery should no longer con
tinue in Colonel Gridley ; * and, knowing of no person
better qualified to supply his place, or whose appoint
ment will give more general satisfaction, I have taken the
liberty of recommending Henry Knox to the considera
tion of Congress, thinking it indispensably necessary, at
the same time, that this regiment should consist of two
* Colonel Gridley had been appointed by the Provincial Congress of
Massachusetts, April 26th, chief engineer in the army then 'beginning to
be organized, with a salary of one hundred and seventy pounds a year
while in service ; and after the army should be disbanded, he was to re
ceive annually one hundred and twenty-three pounds for life. — MS. Jour
nal of Prov. Congress. ¦ — ¦ The same provision of a life annuity was ex
tended to the assistant-engineer. On the 20th of September, Colonel
Gridley was commissioned to take command of the artillery of the Conti
nental army, but was superseded by Colonel Knox in November. His
advanced age was assigned by Congress, as a reason for superseding him.
At the battle of Bunker's Hill he fought with conspicuous bravery in the
intrenchments, which he had planned under Prescott, and in which he was
wounded. Colonel Gridley was a soldier of long experience, having
served in the two last wars, and been present at the taking of Louisburg,
and in Wolfe's battle on the Plains of Abraham. — Swett's Hist, of Bunker-
Hill Battle, pp. 11, 44, 54. — Before the Revolution he received half-pay
as a British officer. When Colonel Knox was appointed to his place in
the artillery, Congress voted to indemnify him for any loss of half-pay,
which he might sustain in consequence of having been in the service of
the United Colonies.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 149
lieutenant-colonels, two majors, and twelve companies,
agreeably to the plan and estimate handed in; con
cerning which, as it differs from the last establishment, I
should be "glad to be instructed.
I have heard nothing of Colonel Arnold since the 13th
ultimo. His letter of, and journal to, that date, will
convey all the information I am able to give of him. I
think he must be in Quebec. If any mischance had
happened to him, he would, as directed, have forwarded
an express. No account yet of the armed vessels sent
to the St. Lawrence. I think they will meet the stores
inward or outward bound.
Captain Symons, in the Cerberus, lately sent from
Boston to Falmouth, has published the enclosed decla
ration at that place ; and* it is suspected he intends to
make some kind of a lodgment there. I wrote imme
diately to Colonel Phinny of this army, who went up
there upon the last alarm, to spirit up the people and
oppose it at all events. Falmouth is about a hundred
and thirty miles from this camp. *
I have the honor to be, &c.
P. S. I send a general return of the troops, and
manifests of the cargoes and vessels, taken at Plymouth.

* The town of Falmouth seemed destined to suffer more than the usual
calamities of war, as the victim of resentment, or the object of a bitter en
mity. It had been burnt to the ground by the commander of one armed
ship, and a fortnight afterwards its ashes were insulted by the following
menace of another.
" Captain John Symons, commander of his Majesty's ship Cerberus,
causeth it to be signified and made known to all persons whatever, in the
town of Falmouth as well as the country adjacent ; that, if after this public
notice, any violences shall be offered to any officers ofthe crown, or other
peaceably disposed subjects of his Majesty ; or, if any bodies of men shall
be raised and armed in the said town and country adjacent ; or any mili
tary works erected, otherwise than by order of his Majesty, or those acting
under his authority ; or if any attempts shall be made to seize or destroy

150 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
TO JOSEPH REED, PHILADELPHIA.
Cambridge, 8 November, 1775.
Dear Sir,
The shipwreck of a vessel, said to be from Philadel
phia to Boston, near Plymouth, with one hundred and
twenty pipes of wine, of which one hundred and eighteen
are' saved ; of another, from Boston to Halifax, near
Beverly, with about two hundred and forty pounds'
worth of dry goods ; the taking of a wood-vessel bound
to Boston by Captain Adams ; and the sudden depar
ture of Mr. Randolph, occasioned by the death of his
uncle, are all the occurrences worth noticing, which
have happened since your departure. I have ordered
the wine and goods to this place for sale ; as also the
papers. The latter may unfold secrets, that may not be
pleasing to some of your townsmen, and which, so soon
as known, will be communicated. I have convinced
Captain Macpherson, as he says, of the propriety of re
turning to the Congress. He sets out this day, and I
am happy in his having an opportunity of laying before
them a scheme for the destruction of the naval force of
Great Britain. A letter and journal of Colonel Arnold's,
to the 1 3th ultimo, are come to hand, a copy of which I
enclose to the Congress, and by application to Mr.
Thomson you can see it. I think he is in Quebec. If
I hear nothing more of him in five days, I shall be sure
of it,
I had like to have forgotten what sits heaviest upon
my mind, the new arrangement of officers. Although
any public magazines of arms, ammunition, or other stores, it will be indis
pensably my duty to proceed with the most vigorous efforts against the
said town, as in open rebellion against the King ; and if after this signifi
cation the town shall persist in the rebellious acts above mentioned, they
may depend on my proceeding accordingly."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 151
we have now enough to constitute the new corps, it has
employed the general officers and myself ever since
Thursday last, and we are nearly as we began. Con
necticut wants no Massachusetts man in her corps ;
Massachusetts thinks there is no necessity for a Rhode-
Islander to be introduced into hers ; and New Hamp
shire says, it is very hard, that her valuable and experi
enced officers, who are willing to serve, should be dis
carded, because her own regiments, under the new
establishment, cannot provide for them. In short, after
a few days' labor, I expect that numbers of officers, who
have given in their names to serve, must be discarded
from the Massachusetts corps, where the regiments have
been numerous, and the number in them small, and that
of Connecticut will be completed with a fresh recruit of
officers from her own government. This will be de
parting, not only from principles of common justice, but
from the letter of the resolve agreed on at this place ;
but, at present, I see no help for it. We are to have
another meeting upon the matter, this day, when some
thing must be hit upon, as time is slipping off. My
compliments to Mrs. Reed and to all inquiring friends.
I am, with sincerity and truth, dear Sir, your affectionate
humble servant.

TO COLONEL WILLIAM WOODFORD.*
Cambridge, 10 November, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 18th of September came to my
hands on Wednesday last, through Boston, and open,
* The Virginia Convention had met on the 17th of July, and passed an
ordinance for raising two regiments to act in defence of the colony, and
two additional companies for protecting the western frontiers. By the

152 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
as you may suppose. It might be well to recollect by
whom you sent it, in order to discover if there has not
been some treachery practised.
I do not mean to flatter, when I assure you, that I
highly approve of your appointment. The inexperi
ence you complain of is a common case, and only to be
remedied by practice and close attention. The best
general advice I can give, and which I am sure you
stand in no need of, is to be strict in your discipline ;
that is, to require nothing unreasonable of your officers
and men, but see that whatever is required be punctual
ly complied with. Reward and punish every man ac
cording to his merit, without partiality or prejudice ;
hear his complaints ; if well founded, redress them ; if
otherwise, discourage them, in order to prevent frivolous
same ordinance the province was divided into sixteen districts, and regula
tions were adopted for exercising all the militia as minute-men, and prepar
ing for public service at a moment's call. — See Hening's Stat. Vol. IX.
p. 9. Patrick Henry was appointed colonel of the first regiment, and com-
'mander of all the forces to be raised for the defence of the colony. Wil
liam Woodford was colonel ot the second regiment.
The following letter from George Mason to Washington, dated October
14th, is characteristic of the writer, and contains some curious particulars
in regard to the doings of the Convention.
" I hinted to you in my last the parties and factions, which prevailed
at Richmond. I never was in so disagreeable a situation, and almost
despaired of a cause, which I saw so ill conducted. During the first part
of the Convention, parties ran so high, that we had frequently no other
way of preventing improper measures, than by procrastination, urging the
previous question, and giving men time to reflect. However, after some
weeks, the babblers were pretty well silenced, a few weighty members
began to take the lead, several wholesome regulations were made, and, if
the Convention had continued to sit a few days longer, I think the public
safety would have been as well provided for, as our present circumstances
permit. The Convention, not thinking this a time to rely upon resolves
and recommendations only, and to give obligatory force to their proceed
ings, adopted the style and form of legislation, changing the word enact
into ordain. Their ordinances were all introduced in the form of bills,
were regularly referred to a committee of the whole house, and under
went three readings before they were passed.
" I enclose you the ordinance for raising an armed force for the defence

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 153
ones. Discourage vice in every shape, and impress
upon the mind of every man, from the first to the low
est, the importance of the cause, and what it is they
are contending for. For ever keep in view the necessi
ty of guarding against surprises. In all your marches,
at times, at least, even when there is no possible dan
ger, move with front, rear, and flank guards, that they
may be familiarized to the use ; and be regular in your
encampments, appointing necessary guards for the se
curity of your camp. In short, whether you expect an
enemy or not, this should be practised ; otherwise your
attempts will be confused and awkward, when neces
sary. Be plain and precise in your orders, and keep
copies of them to refer to, that no mistakes may happen.
Be easy and condescending in your deportment to your
and protection of this colony. It is a little defaced by being handled at
our district committee, but it is the only copy I have at present by me.
You will find some little inaccuracies in it, but, upon the whole, I hope it
will merit your approbation. The minute-plan I think is a wise one, and
will in a short time furnish eight thousand good troops, ready for action,
and composed of men in whose hands the sword may be safely trusted.
To defray the expense of the provisions made by this ordinance, and to
pay the charge of the last year's Indian war, we are now emitting the
sum of three hundred and fifty thousand pounds in paper currency. I
have great apprehensions, that the large sums in bills of credit now issu
ing all over the continent may have fatal effects in depreciating the value ;
and, therefore, I opposed any suspension of taxation, and urged the ne
cessity of immediately laying such taxes as the people could bear, to sink
the sum emitted as soon as possible ; but I was able only to reduce the
proposed suspension from three years to one.
" Our friend, the treasurer, was the warmest man in the convention for
immediately raising a standing army of not less than four thousand men,
upon constant pay. They stood a considerable time at -three thousand,
exclusive ofthe troops upon the western frontiers ; but, at the last reading,
as you will see by the ordinance, they were reduced to one thousand and
twenty rank and file. In my opinion, a well judged reduction, not only
from our inability to furnish at present such a number with arms and am
munition, but I think it extremely imprudent to exhaust ourselves before
we know when we are to be attacked. The part we have to act at pres
ent seems to require our laying in good magazines, training our people,
and having a good number of them ready for action."
vol. in. 20

154 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
officers, but not too familiar, lest you subject yourself
to a want of that respect, which is necessary to support
a proper command. These, Sir, not because I think
you need the advice, but because you have been con
descending enough to ask it, I have presumed to give
as the great outlines of your conduct.
As to the manual exercise, the evolutions and ma
noeuvres of a regiment, with other knowledge necessary
to the soldier, you will acquire them from those authors,
who have treated upon these subjects, among whom
Bland (the newest edition) stands foremost; also an
Essay on the Art of War; Instructions for Officers,
lately published at Philadelphia ; the Partisan ; Young ;
and others.
My compliments to Mrs. Woodford ; and that every
success may attend you, in this glorious struggle, is the
sincere and ardent wish of, dear Sir, your affectionate
humble servant.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 11 November, 1775.
Sir,
Enclosed you have a copy of an act passed this ses
sion, by the honorable Council and House of Repre
sentatives of this province. * It respects such captures
* This act is remarkable as having been the first, which was passed by
any of the colonies, for fitting out vessels of marque and reprisal, and for
establishing a court to try and condemn the captured vessels of the enemy.
See the Act, and some interesting remarks on the subject, in Austin's Life
of Gerry, Vol. I. pp. 92, 505.
The following extract from the Orderly Book is indicative of the spirit
that prevailed in enlisting the new army.
" November 12th. To prevent such contentions, as have arisen from the
same person being enlisted by different officers and for different regi
ments, it is positively ordered, upon pain of being cashiered, that no offi-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 155
as may be made by vessels fitted out by the province,
or by individuals thereof. As the armed vessels, fitted
out at the Continental expense, do not come under this
law, I would have it submitted to the consideration of
Congress, to point out a more summary way of proceed
ing, to determine the property and mode of condemna
tion of such prizes, as have been or hereafter may be
made, than is specified in this act.
Should not a court be established by authority of
Congress, to take cognizance of prizes made by the
Continental vessels ? Whatever the mode is, which they
are pleased to adopt, there is an absolute necessity of
its being speedily determined on ; for I cannot spare
time from military affairs, to give proper attention to
these matters.
The inhabitants of Plymouth have taken a sloop,
laden with provisions, from Halifax, bound to Boston ;
and the inhabitants of Beverly have, under cover of one
of the armed schooners, taken a vessel from Ireland,
laden with beef, pork, butter, &c. for the same place.
The latter brings papers and letters of a very interest
ing nature, which are in the hands of the honorable
Council, who informed me they will transmit them to
you by this conveyance. To the contents of these
papers and letters I must beg leave to refer you and
the honorable Congress, who will now see the absolute
cer knowingly presume to enlist any soldier, who has been previously
enlisted by another officer. When such a mistake happens undesignedly,
the first enlistment is to take place. The officers are to be careful not to
enlist any person suspected of being unfriendly to the liberties of Ameri
ca, or any abandoned vagabond to whom all causes and countries are
equal and alike indifferent. The rights of mankind and the freedom of
America will have numbers sufficient to support them, without resorting
to such wretched assistance. Let those, who wish to put shackles upon
freemen, fill their ranks with such miscreants, and place their confidence
in them. Neither negroes, boys unable to bear arms, nor old men unfit
to endure the fatigues of the campaign, are to be enlisted."

156 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
necessity of exerting all their wisdom, to withstand the
mighty efforts of our enemies.
The trouble I have in the arrangement of the army is
really inconceivable. Many of the officers sent in their
names to serve, in expectation of promotion; others
stood aloof to see what advantage they could make for
themselves ; whilst a number, who had declined, have
again sent in their names to serve. So great has the
confusion, arising from these and many other perplexing
circumstances, been, that I found it absolutely impossible
to fix this very interesting business exactly on the plan
resolved on in the conference, though I have kept up to
the spirit of it, as near as the nature and necessity of the
case would admit. The difficulty with the soldiers is as
great, indeed more so, if possible, than with the offi
cers. They will not enlist, until they know their
colonel, lieutenant-colonel, major, and captain ; so that it
was necessary to fix the officers the first thing ; which
is, at last, in some manner done ; and I have given out
enlisting orders.
You, Sir, can much easier judge, than I can express,
the anxiety of. mind I must labor under on the occasion,
especially at this time, when we may expect the enemy
will begin to act on the arrival of their reinforcement,
part of which is already come, and the remainder daily
dropping in.
I have other distresses of a very alarming nature.
The arms of our soldiery are so exceedingly bad, that
I assure you, Sir, I cannot place a proper confidence
in them. Our powder is wasting fast, notwithstanding
the strictest care, economy, and attention are paid to it.
The long series of wet weather, which we have had,
renders the greater part of what has been served out to
the men of no use. Yesterday I had a proof of it, as a
party of the enemy, about four or five hundred, taking

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 157
the advantage of a high tide, landed at Lechmere's
Point ; we were alarmed, and of course ordered every
man to examine his cartouch-box, when the melancholy
truth appeared; and we were obliged to furnish the
greater part of them with fresh ammunition.
The damage done at the Point v/as the taking of a
man, who watched a few horses and cows ; ten of the
latter they carried off. Colonel Thompson marched
down with his regiment. of riflemen, and was joined by
Colonel Woodbridge, with a part of his and a part of
Patterson's regiment, who gallantly waded through the
water, and soon obliged' the enemy to embark under
cover of a man-of-war, a floating battery, and the fire
of a battery on Charlestown Neck. We have two of
our men dangerously wounded by grape-shot from the
man-of-war ; and, by a flag sent out this day, we are
informed the enemy lost two of their men.* I have
the honor to be, &c.
* In writing to Colonel Reed a few days afterwards, Washington spoke
in the following manner of this affair. " The alacrity of the riflemen .and
officers upon that occasion did them honor, to which Colonel Patterson's
regiment and some others were equally entitled, except in a few instan
ces ; but the tide, at that time, was so exceedingly high as to compel a
large circuit before our men could get to the causeway, by which means
the enemy, except a small covering party, distant from the dry land on
this side near four hundred yards, had retreated, or were about to embark.
All the shot, therefore, that passed were at a great distance ; however,
the men went to and over the causeway spiritedly enough. This little
manoeuvre of the enemy is nothing more than a prelude. We have cer
tain advice of a scoundrel from Marblehead, a man of property, having
carried to General Howe a true state of the temper and disposition of the
troops towards the new enlistment, and given him the strongest assuran
ces of the practicability of making himself master of these lines in a very
short time, from the disaffection of the soldiers to the service. I am en
deavouring to counteract him ; how effectually, time alone can show. I
began our bomb-battery at Lechmere's Point last night ; the working
party came off in the morning without having met with any interruption.
The weather favored our operations, the earth being clear of frost. There
is not an officer in the army, who does not look for an attack. This has
no effect upon the Connecticut regiments ; they are resolved to go off."
VOL. III. N

158 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43-

TO WILLIAM PALFREY, PORTSMOUTH.*
Cambridge, 12 November, 1775.
Sir,
At a time when some of our seaport towns are
cruelly laid in ashes, and ruin and devastation de
nounced against others ; when the arms are demanded
of the inhabitants, and hostages required, in effect, for
the surrender of their liberties ; when General Howe by
proclamation, under the threat of military execution,
has forbidden the inhabitants of Boston to leave the
town without his permission first had and obtained in
writing ; when, by another proclamation, he strictly
forbids any persons bringing out of that place more
* William Palfrey was a native of Boston, born in 1741, and educated
a merchant under the auspices of John Hancock. Before the revolution
he was engaged in mercantile affairs in Boston, and towards the close of
the year 1774 he sailed on a voyage to South Carolina, and thence to
England, in a vessel belonging to Hancock. From a journal, which he
kept during his stay in London, and which I have seen, he appears to have
been on terms of intimacy with some of the leaders of the high Whig
party, and it is probable, that his visit to the metropolis of Great Britain
had a political as well as commercial object. He returned to Massachu
setts a few days before General Washington took command of the army,
and was immediately employed on business of trust and importance.
Assuming a military character, he was for some time aid to General
Charles Lee, and afterwards to General Washington, and received a lieu
tenant-colonel's commission. On the 27th of April, 1776, he was by Con
gress appointed paymaster-general of the army, a, station of great re
sponsibility, which, for more than four years and a half, he filled in such a
manner as to give universal satisfaction. During this period he had ex
hibited such proofs of his talents for business, fidelity, and devotedness to
the cause of his country, that, on the 4th of November, 1780, he was
elected Consul-General from the United States to France, an office at this
time of much consideration, as it involved the duties of making extensive
purchases of military and other supplies for the country, and an examina
tion and settlement of all the accounts, in which the United States were
concerned with public and private agents in Europe, and which had been
multiplying and accumulating since the commencement of the war. He
sailed for France, but the vessel in which he took passage was lost at sea,
and every one on board was supposed to have perished.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 159
than five pounds sterling of their property in specie,
because truly the ministerial army under his command
may be injured by it ; and when, by a third proclama
tion, after leaving the inhabitants no alternative, he calls
upon them to take arms under officers of his appoint
ing ; it is evident, that the most tyrannical and cruel
system is adopted for the destruction of the rights and
liberties of this continent, that ever disgraced the most
despotic ministry, and ought to be opposed by every
means in our power. I therefore desire, that you will
delay no time in causing the seizure of every officer of
government at Portsmouth, who has given proofs of his
¦unfriendly disposition to the cause we are engaged in ;
and when you have secured all such,, take the opinion
of the provincial Congress, or Committee of Safety, in
what manner to dispose of them in that government.
I do not mean that they should be kept in close con
finement. If either of these bodies should incline to
send them to any interior towns, upon their parole not
to leave them until released, it will meet with my con
currence. For the present I shall avoid giving you the
like order in respect to the Tories in Portsmouth ; but
the day is not far off, when they will meet with this or
a worse fate, if there is not a considerable reformation
in their conduct. Of this they may be assured from,
Sir, your most humble servant*
* To Governor Trumbull he wrote at the same time ; — "As it is now
very apparent, that we have nothing to depend on in the present contest,
but our own strength, care, firmness, and union ; should not the same mea
sures be adopted in your and every other government on the continent ?
Would it not be prudent to seize on those Tories, who have been, are, and
that we know will be, active against us ? Why should persons, who are
preying upon the vitals of their country, be suffered to stalk at large,
whilst we know they will do us every mischief in their power ? These,
Sir, are points I beg to submit to your serious consideration."

160 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43
TO HENRY KNOX.
Instructions.
Sir,
You are immediately to examine into the state of the
artillery of this army, and take an account of the
cannon, mortars, shells, lead, and ammunition, that are
wanting. When you have done that, you are to pro
ceed in the most expeditious manner to New York,
there to apply to the President of the Provincial Con
gress, and learn of him, whether Colonel Reed did any
thing, or left any orders respecting these articles, and
get him to procure such of them as can possibly be
had there.
The President, if he can, will have them immediately
sent hither ; if he cannot, you must put them in a
proper channel for being transported to this camp with
despatch, before you leave New York. After you have
procured as many of these necessaries as you can there,
you must go to Major-General Schuyler, and get the re
mainder from Ticonderoga, Crown Point, or St. John's ;
if it should be necessary, from Quebec, if in our hands.
The want of them is so great, that no trouble or ex
pense must be spared to obtain them. I have written
to General Schuyler ; he will give every necessary
assistance, that they may be had and forwarded to this
place with the utmost despatch. I have given you a
warrant to the paymaster-general of the Continental
army for a thousand dollars, to defray the expense at
tending your journey and procuring these articles ; an
account of which you are to keep and render upon
your return. Given under my hand at Head-Quarters,
Cambridge, this 16th day of November, 1775.*
* The following order is so curious in itself, and so honorable to the
persons concerned, that it deserves to be perpetuated. Colonel Whitcomb

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 161
TO MAJOR-GENERAL ARTEMAS WARD.
Camp at Cambridge, 17 November, 1775.
Sir,
As the season is fast approaching, when the bay
between us and Boston will in all probability be close
shut up, thereby rendering any movement upon the ice
as easy as if no water was there ; and as it is more
than probable, that General Howe, when he gets the
expected reinforcement, will endeavour to relieve him
self from the disgraceful confinement in which the
ministerial troops have been all this summer; common
prudence dictates the necessity of guarding our camps
wherever they are most assailable. For this purpose,
I wish you, General Thomas, General Spencer, and
had served in the former war, in which he had borne a part in several en
gagements, and was a gentleman highly respected. He commanded one
of the Massachusetts regiments, but, on account of his advanced age, he
was omitted in arranging the new army. The soldiers of his .regiment
were so much dissatisfied, that they resolved not to enlist under any other
officer. He exhorted them not to be influenced by such a motive, in a
cause so important ; and, to induce them to remain, he proposed to join
them in the ranks.
"November 16th. Motives of economy rendering it indispensably ne-.
cessary, that many of the regiments should be reduced, and the whole
put upon a different establishment, several deserving officers, not from any
demerit, but .pure necessity, have been excluded in the new arrange
ment of the army. Among these was Colonel Whitcomb ; but the noble
sentiments disclosed by that gentleman upon this occasion, the zeal he
has shown in exhorting the men not to abandon the interest of their coun
try at this important crisis, and his determination to continue in the ser
vice, even as a private soldier, rather than by a bad example, when the
enemy are gathering strength, to put the public affairs to hazard ; when an
example of this kind is set, it not only entitles a gentleman to particular
thanks, but to particular rewards. Colonel Jonathan Brewer is entitled to
no small share of credit, in readily giving up to Colonel Whitcomb the
regiment, which he was appointed to command. Colonel Whitcomb,
therefore, is henceforward to be considered as Colonel of that regiment,
which was intended for Colonel Brewer; and Colonel Brewer will be
appointed Barrack-Master, until something better worth his acceptance
can be provided." — Orderly Book.
VOL. III. 21 N *

162 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. .[.Et. 43.
Colonel Putnam, to meet me at your quarters to
morrow at 10 o'clock, that we may examine the ground
between your work at the Mill and Sewall's Point, and
direct such batteries, as shall appear necessary for the
security of your camp on that side, to be thrown up
without loss of time.
I have long had it upon my mind, that a successful
attempt might be made by way of surprise on Castle
William. From every account, there are not more than
three hundred men in that place. The whale-boats,
therefore, which you have, and such as could be sent to
you, would easily transport eight hundred or one thou
sand men, who, with a very moderate share of conduct
and resolution, might, I should think, bring off the
garrison, if not the stores. I wish you to discuss this
matter, under the rose, with officers on whose judg-
men and spirit you can rely. Something of this sort
may show how far the men may be depended upon. I
am, with great respect, Sir, your very humble servant. *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 19 November, 1775.
Sir,
I received your favors of the 7th and 10th instant,
with the resolves of the honorable Congress, to which
I will pay all due attention. As soon as two capable
* Three companies of Loyalists were embodied in Boston on the 17th
of November. The following is an extract from General Howe's Orderly
Book of that date.
" Many of his Majesty's loyal American subjects in Boston, with their
adherents, having offered their service for the defence of the place, the
Commander-in-chief has ordered them to be armed, and formed into three
companies under the command of the honorable Brigadier-General Timo
thy Ruggles, to be called the ' Loyal American Associators.1 They will
be distinguished by a white sash around the left arm."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 163
persons can be found, I will despatch them to Nova
Scotia, on the service resolved on by Congress.
The resolve to raise two battalions of marines will, if
practicable in this army, entirely derange what has been
done. It is therein mentioned, "one colonel for the
two battalions ; " of course, a colonel must be dismissed.
One of the many difficulties, which attended the new
arrangement, was in reconciling the different inter
ests, and judging of the merits of the different colonels.
In the dismission of this one, the same difficulties will
occur. The officers and men must be acquainted with
maritime affairs ; to comply with which, they must be
picked out of the whole army, one from this corps, one
from another, so as to break through the whole system,
which it has cost us so much time, anxiety, and pains, to
bring into any tolerable form. Notwithstanding any
difficulties which will arise, you may be assured, Sir, that
I will use every endeavour to comply with their resolve.
I beg leave to submit it to the consideration of Con
gress, if those two battalions can be formed out of this
army, whether this is a time to weaken our lines, by
employing any of the officers appointed to defend them
on any other service ? The gentlemen, who were here
from Congress, know their vast extent ; they must know,
that we shall have occasion for our whole force for that
purpose, more now than at any past time, as we may
expect the enemy will take the advantage of the first
•hard weather, and attempt to make an impression
somewhere. As there is every appearance, that this contest will
not be soon decided, and of course that there must be
an augmentation of the Continental army, would it not
be eligible to raise two battalions of marines in New
York and Philadelphia, where there must be numbers of
sailors now unemployed ? This, however, is matter of

164 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
opinion, which I mention with all due deference to the
superior judgment of the Congress.
Enclosed you have copies of two letters, one from
Colonel Arnold, the other from Colonel Enos. I can
form no judgment on the tetter's conduct, until I see
him.* Notwithstanding the great defection, I do not
despair of Colonel Arnold's success. He will have, in
all probability, many more difficulties to encounter, than
if he had been a fortnight sooner ; as it is likely that
Governor Carleton will, with what forces he can collect
after the surrender of the rest of Canada, throw him
self into Quebec, and there make his last effort.
There is no late account from Captains Broughton and
Sellman, sent to the River St. Lawrence. The other
cruisers have been chiefly confined to harbours, by the
badness of the weather. The same reason has caused
great delay in the building of our barracks ; which, with
a most mortifying scarcity of firewood, discourages the
men from enlisting. The last, I am afraid, is an insu
perable obstacle. I have applied to the honorable
House of Representatives of this province, who were
* Colonel Enos commanded the rear division ofthe army under Arnold.
When he arrived at the great Carrying-Place, between the Kennebec and
Dead Rivers, he wrote to Colonel Arnold, who was then in advance,
making inquiry about provisions. Arnold replied, that the stock was
sufficient for twenty-five days. But before Enos got over the Carrying-
Place, Major Bigelow was sent back from Colonel Greene's division with
ninety men for provisions. Enos supplied them, and marched onward till
he overtook Colonel Greene fifty miles up the Dead River. Here he re
ceived orders from Arnold to furnish Colonel Greene with provisions,
enough for his men in their march to the settlements on the Chaudiere
River. After executing this order, he had no more than six days' pre
vious left for his own troops. In this condition it was the opinion of the
officers, that the rear division ought to return.
Such is Colonel Enos's account, in his letter to Washington, and the
court-martial acquitted him on the ground here assigned. But from Ar
nold's letters since published, it would appear, that he did not represent
the matter with perfect accuracy. On the 15th of October, Arnold wrote
to him, that there were twenty-five days' provisions. Arnold went

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 165
pleased to appoint a committee to negotiate this busi
ness ; and, notwithstanding all the pains they have taken,
and are taking, they find it impossible to supply our ne
cessities. The want of a sufficient number of teams I
understand to be the chief impediment.
I got returns this day from eleven colonels, of the
numbers enlisted in their regiments. The whole amount
is nine hundred and sixty-six men. There must be
some other stimulus, besides love for their country, to
make men fond of the service. It would be a great
encouragement, and no additional expense to the conti
nent, were they to receive pay for the months of Octo
ber and November ; also a month's pay in advance. . The
present state of the military chest will not admit of this.
The sooner it is enabled to do so the better.
The commissary-general is daily expected in camp.
I cannot send you the estimate of the clerks in his de
partment, until he arrives.
I sincerely congratulate you upon the success of your
arms, in the surrender of St. John's, which I hope is a
happy presage of the reduction of the rest of Canada.
I have the honor to be, &c.
forward, and wrote again on the 24th, from Chaudiere Pond, that, oh ac
count of heavy rains, there had been a delay, and it would take twelve or
fifteen days for the army to reach the inhabited country. He ordered
Enos, therefore, and Greene, to select such a number of their best men, as
could be supplied with fifteen days' provisions, and send the others, with
the sick, back to the commissary at Norridgewock. Instead of obeying
this order, Enos gave his provisions to Greene, except enough for his
division of the troops on their return to Norridgewock, and immediately
retraced his steps with all his men.
Although he was acquitted by the court-martial, and received a lieu
tenant-colonel's commission in the new army, yet he was not satisfied with
the evidences he received of the good opinion of the Commander-in-chief,
and in January he asked leave to resign. He removed to Vermont, and
in 1781 was appointed a general and commander of the militia of that
state, and became somewhat conspicuous as an actor in public affairs. —
Collections of the Maine Hist. Soe. Vol. I. p. 364. — Ira Allen's Hist, of
Vermont, pp. 189, 206.

166 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Camp at Cambridge, 20 November, 1775.
Dear Sir,
The hint contained in the last of your letters, respect
ing your continuance in my family, in other words, your
wish that I could dispense with it, gives me pain. You
already, my dear Sir, know my sentiments on this
matter ; you cannot but be sensible of your importance
to me ; at the same time I shall again repeat, what I
have observed to you before, that I can never think of
promoting my convenience at the expense of your
interest and inclination. You can judge, that I feel the
want of you, when I inform you, that the peculiar situa
tion of Mr. Randolph's affairs obliged him to leave this
place soon after you did ; that Mr. Baylor, contrary to
my expectation, is not in the smallest degree a penman,
though spirited and willing; and that Mr. Harrison,
though sensible, clear, and perfectly confidential, has
never yet moved upon so large a scale, as to compre
hend at one view the diversity of matter, which comes
before me, so as to afford that ready assistance, which
every man in my situation must stand more or less in
need of. Mr. Moylan, it is true, is very obliging ; he
gives me what assistance he can ; but other business
must necessarily deprive me of his aid in a very short
time. This is my situation ; judge you, therefore, how much
I wished for your return, especially as the armed vessels,
and the capital change in the state of this army about
to take place, have added a new weight to a burthen,
before too great for me to stand under with the smallest
degree of comfort to my own feelings. My mind is
now fully disclosed to you, with this assurance sincerely
and affectionately accompanying it, that whilst you

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 167
are disposed to continue with me, I shall think myself
too fortunate and happy to wish for a change.
Dr. Morgan, as director of die hospital, is exceeding
ly wanted at this place, and ought not to delay his de
parture for the camp a moment, many regulations being
deferred, and accounts postponed, till his arrival. The
method you have suggested, concerning the advanced
pay, I very much approve, and would adopt it, but for
the unfortunate and qramped state of our treasury,
which keeps us for ever under the hatches. Pray urge
the necessity of this measure to such members as you
may converse with, and the want of cash to pay the
troops for the months of October and November ; as
also to answer the demands of the commissary and
quartermaster, and for contingencies. To do all this,
a considerable sum will be necessary. Do not. neglect
to put that wheel in motion, which is to bring us the
shirts and medicines from New York ; they are much
wanted here, and cannot be had, I should think, upon
better terms than on a loan from the best of Kings, so
anxiously disposed to promote the welfare of his Ameri
can subjects.
Dr. Church is gone to Governor Trumbull, to be dis
posed of in a Connecticut gaol without the use of pen,
ink, or paper, to be conversed with in the presence of
a magistrate only, and in the English language. So
much for indiscretion, the Doctor will say. Your ac
count of our dependence upon the people of Great
Britain, I religiously believe. It has long been my
political creed, that the ministry would not have dared
to go on as they did, but under the firmest persuasion
that the people were with them. The weather has
been unfavorable, however, for the arrival of their trans
ports ; only four companies of the seventeenth regiment
and two of the artillery are yet arrived, by our last ad
vices from Boston.

168 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43
Our privateersmen go on at the old rate, mutinying if
they cannot do as they please. Those at Plymouth,
Beverly, and Portsmouth, have done nothing worth
mentioning in the prize way, and no accounts are yet
received from those farther eastward. Arnold, by a
letter which left him the 27th ultimo, had then only got
to the Chaudiere Pond, and was scarce of provisions.
His rear division, under the command of Colonel Enos,
had, without his privity or consent, left him with three
companies ; and his expedition, inasmuch as it is to be
apprehended, that Carleton, with the remains of such
force as he had been able to raise, would get into Que
bec before him, I fear is in a bad way. For further
particulars I refer you to Mr. Hancock to whom are en
closed copies of Arnold's and Enos's letters. The last-
named person is not yet arrived at this camp.
I thank you for your frequent mention of Mrs. Wash
ington. I expect that she will be in Philadelphia about
the time this letter may reach you, on her way hither.
As she and her conductor, who I- suppose will be
Mr. Custis, her son, are perfect strangers to the road,
the stages, and the proper place to cross Hudson's Riv
er, by all means avoiding New York, I shall be much
obliged by your particular instructions and advice to her.
I imagine, as the roads are bad and the weather cold,
her stages must be short, especially as I presume her
horses will be fatigued ; as when they get to Philadel
phia, they will have performed a journey of at least four
hundred and fifty miles, my express having found her
among her friends near Williamsburg, one hundred and
fifty miles below my own house.
My respectful compliments to Mrs. Reed, and be as
sured that I am, dear Sir, with affectionate regard, &c.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 169
TO AARON WILLARD.
Instructions.
Sir,
The honorable Continental Congress having lately
passed a resolve, expressed in the following words, —
" That two persons be sent, at the expense of these
colonies, to Nova Scotia to inquire into the state of that
colony, the disposition of the inhabitants towards the
American cause, the condition of the fortifications and
dock -yards, the quantity of artillery and warlike stores,
and the number of soldiers, sailors, and ships of
war there, and transmit the earliest intelligence to
General Washington ; " I do hereby constitute and ap
point you, the said Aaron Willard, to be one of the
persons to undertake this business ; and, as the season
is late and this a work of great importance, I entreat
and request, that you will use the utmost despatch, at
tention, and fidelity in the execution of it. The
necessity of acting with a proper degree of caution and
secrecy is too apparent to need recommendation.
You will keep an account of your expenses, and,
upon your return, will be rewarded in a suitable manner
for the fatigue of your journey, and the services you
render your country, by conducting and discharging this
business with expedition and fidelity. Given under my
hand, this 24th day of November, 1775.*
* The associate of Mr. Willard, on this mission, was Moses Child.
These commissioners proceeded by land to the borders of Nova Scotia,
where they were met by two proclamations of the Governor of that prov
ince; the one "warning all persons, that they do not. in any manner, di
rectly or indirectly, aid or assist with any supplies whatever any rebel
or rebels, nor hold intelligence or correspondence with them, nor conceal,
harbour, or protect any such offender, as they would avoid being deemed
rebels and traitors, and proceeded against accordingly ; " and the other.
" forbidding any strangers to be in Halifax more than two hours, without
vol. in. 22 o

170 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.

TO LUND WASHINGTON, MOUNT VERNON.*
Cambridge, 26 November, 1775.
What follows is part of a letter written to Mr. Lund
Washington, the 26th day of November, 1775. A copy
is taken to remind me of my engagements and the exact
purport of them.
" I well know where the difficulty of accomplishing
these things will lie. Overseers are already engaged,
upon shares, to look after my business. Remote ad
vantages to me, however manifest and beneficial, are
nothing to them ; and to engage standing wages, when
I do not know that any thing that I have, or can raise,
will command cash, is attended with hazard ; for which
reason, I hardly know what more to say, than to discov-
making their business known to a justice of the peace, upon the pain and
peril of being treated as spies." The commissioners thought it prudent
to return to Cambridge, where they reported little else, than that, " from
their own knowledge, and the best information from others, about eight
parts in ten of the inhabitants of Nova Scotia would engage in the com
mon cause of America, could they be protected." The grounds upon
which they founded this opinion are not stated.
Another resolve was also passed by Congress, at the same time with
the one cited in the above letter, by which General Washington was di
rected, " in case he should judge it practicable and expedient, to send into
Nova Scotia a sufficient force to take away the cannon and warlike stores,
and to destroy the docks, yards, and magazines, and to take and destroy
any ships of war or transports there, belonging to our enemies." No
attempts were made to put this resolve in execution.
* Mr. Lund Washington was the agent for superintending General
Washington's plantations, and managing his business concerns, during
the revolution. It was not known what degree of family relationship
existed between them, though it was supposed, that they both descended
from the same original stock. Their ancestors came to America at
different times, doubtless emigrating from different parts of England,
and the name is the only evidence of consanguinity, which either branch
of the family possesses.
From the beginning to the end of the revolution, Lund Washington
wrote to the General as often at least as two or three times a month,
and commonly every week, detailing minutely all the events that oc-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 171
er to you my wishes. The same reason, although it
may in appearance have the same tendency in respect
to you, shall not be the same in its operation ; for I will
engage for the year coming, and the year following, if
these troubles and my absence continue, that your wa
ges shall be standing and certain, at the highest amount,
that any one year's crop has produced to you yet. I
do not offer this as any temptation to induce you to go
on more cheerfully in prosecuting these schemes of
mine. I should do injustice to you, were I not to ac
knowledge, that your conduct has ever appeared to me
above every thing sordid ; but I offer it in consideration
of the great charge you have upon your hands, and
my entire dependence upon your fidelity and industry.
" It is the greatest, indeed it is the only comfortable
reflection I enjoy on this score, that my business is in
the hands of a person concerning whose integrity I have
not a doubt, and on whose care I can rely. Were it
not for this, I should feel very unhappy, on account of
the situation of my affairs ; but I am persuaded you
will do for me as you would for yourself, and more than
this I cannot expect.
" Let the hospitality of the house, with respect to the
poor, be kept up. Let no one go hungry away. If any
curred on the plantations, his purchases, sales, and payments of money,
the kinds and quantity of produce, occupations of the laborers, and
whatever else could tend to explain the precise condition and progress
of the business in his hands. These letters were regularly answered
by the General, even when the weight and embarrassment of public
duties pressed most heavily upon him, and full instructions were re
turned for regulating the plans and conduct of the manager. Hardly
any copies of this description of letters were recorded, if retained, and
the originals have been lost or destroyed. But Lund Washington's
letters are preserved, and they give evidence of the extraordinary
attention bestowed by the Commander-in-chief on his domestic affairs,
though several hundred miles from home, and bearing a burden of pub
lic cares, which alone was enough to distract and exhaust the firmest
mind.

172 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
of this kind of people should be in want of corn, supply
their necessities, provided it does not encourage them
in idleness ; and I have no objection to your giving my
money in charity, to the amount of forty or fifty pounds
a year, when you think it well bestowed. What I
mean by having no objection is, that it is my desire that
it should be done. You are to consider, that neither
myself nor wife is now in the way to do these good
offices. In all other respects, I recommend it to you,
and. have no doubt of your observing the greatest
economy and frugality ; as I suppose you know, that I
do not get a farthing for my services here, more than
my expenses. It becomes necessary, therefore, for me
to be saving at home."
The above is copied, not only to remind myself of
my promises and requests, but others also, if any mis
chance happens to me.

TO RICHARD HENRY LEE.
Camp at Cambridge, 27 November, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 13th, with the enclosures, for
which I thank you, came to this place on Wednesday
evening; part of which, that is, the night, I was en
gaged with a party of men throwing up a work upon a
hill, called Cobble Hill, which, in case we should ever
be supplied with such things as we want, may prove
useful to us, and could not be delayed, as the earth
here is getting as hard as a rock. This, and the early
departure of the post, prevented my giving your letter
an answer the next morning.
In answer to your inquiries respecting armed vessels,

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 173
there are none of any tolerable force belonging to this
government. I know of but two of any kind ; those
very small. At the Continental expense I have fitted
out six, as by the enclosed list, two of which are upon
the cruise directed by Congress ; the rest ply about Cape
Cod and Cape Ann, as yet to very little purpose. These
vessels are all manned by officers and soldiers, except
perhaps a master and pilots ; but how far, as they are
upon the old establishment, which has not more than a
month to exist, they can be ordered off this station, I
will not undertake to say, but suppose they might be
engaged anew. Belonging to Providence there are two
armed vessels; and I am told Connecticut has one,
which, with one of those from Providence, is, I believe,
upon the cruise you have directed.
I have no idea that the troops can remove from Bos
ton this winter to a place, where no provision is made
for them ; however, we shall keep the best look-out we
can ; and upon that, and every occasion where practica
ble, give them the best we have. But their situation in
Boston gives them but little to apprehend from a part
ing blow, whilst their ships can move, and floating bat
teries surround the town.
Nothing of importance has happened since my last.
For God's sake hurry the signers of money, that our
wants may be supplied. It is a very singular case, that
their signing cannot keep pace with our demands. I
heartily congratulate you and the Congress on the re
duction of St. John's. I hope all Canada is in our
possession before this. No accounts from Arnold since
those mentioned in my last letter to the Congress.
Would it not be politic to invite them to send mem
bers to Congress? Would it not be also politic to
raise a regiment or two of Canadians, and bring them
out of the country? They are good troops, and this

174 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS [Mi. 43.
would be entering them heartily in the cause.* My
best regards to the good families you are with. I am,
very affectionately, your obedient servant.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Camp at Cambridge, 28 November, 1775.
Sir,
I had the honor of writing to you on the 19th instant.
I have now to inform you that Mr. Henry Knox is gone
to New York, with orders to forward to this place what
cannon and ordnance stores can be there procured.
From thence he will proceed to General Schuyler on
the same business, as you will see by the enclosed copy
of instructions, which I have given him. It would give
me much satisfaction, if this gentleman, or any other
whom you may think qualified, were appointed to the
command of the artillery regiment. In my letter to
you of the 8th instant, I have expressed myself fully
on this subject, which I beg leave to recommend to
* Congress had already provided for these measures, in the instruc
tions given to a committee appointed to proceed to the northern army, for
the purpose of conferring with General Schuyler on the affairs of his
department. It is there stated, that " Congress desire you to exert
your utmost endeavours to induce the Canadians to accede to a union
with these colonies, and that they form from their several parishes a
provincial convention, and send delegates to this Congress," — and that
" you use all the means in your power to perfect the raising of a regi
ment of Canadians." In fact General Montgomery had been beforehand
with Congress in this respect, for he had said to the people, when he took
possession of Montreal, on the 12th of November, that he " hoped to
see such a provincial convention assembled, as would enter with zeal into
every measure, that could contribute to set the civil and religious rights
of that and her sister colonies on a permanent foundation.'' And he did
not fail to use his best endeavours to induce as many Canadians as possi
ble to join his standard. In this, however, he was less successful, than
some sanguine persons had anticipated. Notwithstanding appearances.
the Canadians proved themselves nowise inclined to be conquered into
liberty.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 175
your immediate attention; as the formation of that
corps will be at a stand, until I am honored with your
instructions thereon.
There are two persons engaged to go to Nova Scotia,
on the business recommended in your last. By the
best information • we have from thence, the stores have
been withdrawn some time. Should this not be the
case, it is next to an impossibility to attempt any thing
there, in the present unsettled and precarious state of
the army.
Colonel Enos is arrived, and is under arrest ; he ac
knowledges, that he had no orders for coming away.
His trial cannot come on until I hear from Colonel Ar
nold, from whom there is no account since I wrote you
last. From what I can collect by my inquiries amongst the
officers, it will be impossible to get the men to enlist
for the continuance of the war, which will be an insu
perable obstruction to the formation of the two battal
ions of marines on the plan resolved on by Congress.
As it can make no difference, I propose to proceed on
the new arrangement of the army, and, when completed,
inquire out such officers and men as are best qualified
for that service, and endeavour to form these battalions
out of the whole. This appears to me the best method,
and I hope it will meet with the approbation of Con
gress. As it will be very difficult for the men to work, when
the hard frost sets in, I have thought it necessary,
though of little use at present, to take possession of
Cobble Hill, for the benefit of any future operations.
It was effected, without the least opposition from the
enemy, the 23d instant. Their inactivity on this occa
sion I cannot account for ; it is probable they are medi
tating a blow somewhere.

176 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
About three hundred men, women, and children of
the poor inhabitants of Boston, came out to Point Shir
ley last Friday. They have brought their household
furniture, but are destitute of every other necessary
of life. I have recommended them to the attention
of the committee of the Council of this province, now
sitting at Watertown.
The number enlisted since my last is two thousand
five hundred and forty men. I am sorry to be necessi
tated to mention to you the egregious want of public
spirit, which reigns here. Instead of pressing to be
engaged in the cause of their country, which I vainly
flattered myself would be the case, I find we are likely
to be deserted in a most critical time. Those that have
enlisted must have a furlough, which I have been
obliged to grant to fifty at a time, from each regiment.
The Connecticut troops, upon whom I reckoned, are as
backward, indeed, if possible, more so than the people
of this colony. Our situation is truly alarming; and
of this General Howe is well apprized, it being, the
common topic of conversation, when the people left
Boston last Friday. No doubt, when he is reinforced,
he will avail himself of the information.
I am making the best disposition I can for our de
fence, having thrown up, besides the work on Cobble
Hill, several redoubts and half-moons along the bay;
and I fear I shall be under the necessity of calling in
the militia and minute-men of the country to my assist
ance. I say, I fear it, because, by what I can learn
from the officers in the army belonging to this colony,
it will be next to an impossibility to keep them under
any degree of discipline, and it will be very difficult
to prevail on them to remain a moment longer, than
they themselves choose. It is a mortifying reflection, to
be reduced to this dilemma. There has been nothing

t. t.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 177
wanting on my part to infuse a proper spirit amongst the
officers, that they may exert their influence with the
soldiery. You see, by a fortnight's recruiting amongst
men with arms in their hands, how little has been the
success. As the smallpox is now in Boston, I have used the
precaution of prohibiting such, as lately came out, from
coming near our camp. General Burgoyne, I am in
formed, will soon embark for England.
You doubtless will have heard, before this reaches
you, of General Montgomery's having got possession
of Montreal. I congratulate you thereon. He has
troubles with his troops, as well as I have. All I
can learn of Colonel Arnold is, that he is near Quebec.
I hope Montgomery will be able to proceed to his as
sistance. I shall be very uneasy until I hear they are
joined. My best respects attend the gentlemen in Congress ;
and believe me, Sir, your most obedient, Sec.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge; 28 November, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favors of the 15 th and 17th are come to hand.
In one of them you justly observe, that the sudden de
parture of Mr. Randolph must cause your absence to
be the more sensibly felt. I can truly assure you, that
I miss you exceedingly, and if an express declaration be
wanting to hasten your return, I make it most heartily ;
and with some pleasure, as Mr. Lynch in a letter of the
13th gives this information. "In consequence of your
letter by Colonel Reed, I applied to the chief justice,
who tells me the Supreme Courts are lately held, and
vol. in. 23

178 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
that it will be some time before their term will return ;
that he knows of no capital suit now depending, and
that it is very easy for Colonel Reed to manage matters
so as not to let that prevent his return to you ; I am
sure Mr. Chew is so heartily disposed to oblige you,
and serve the cause, that nothing in his power will be
wanting." I could wish, my good friend, that these
things may give a spur to your inclination to return;
and that I may see you here as soon as convenient, for
I feel the want of your ready pen greatly.
What an astonishing thing it is, that those who are
employed to sign the Continental bills should not be
able, or inclined, to do it as fast as they are wanted.
They will prove the destruction of the army, if they are
not more attentive and diligent.
Such a dearth of public spirit, and such want of vir
tue, such stock -jobbing, and fertility in all the low arts
to obtain advantages of one kind or another, in this
great change of military arrangement, I never saw be
fore, and pray God's mercy that I may never be wit
ness to again. What will be the end of these ma
noeuvres is beyond my scan. I tremble at the pros
pect. We have been till this time enlisting about three
thousand five hundred men. To engage these I have
been obliged to allow furloughs as far as fifty men to a
regiment, and the officers I am persuaded indulge as
many more. The Connecticut troops will not be pre
vailed upon to stay longer than their term, saving those
who have enlisted for the next campaign, and are mostly
on furlough ; and such a mercenary spirit pervades the
whole, that I should not be at all surprised at any disas
ter that may happen. In short, after the last of this
month bur lines will be so weakened, that the minute-
men and militia must be called in for their defence ; and
these, being under no kind of government themselves,

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 179
will destroy the litde subordinatibn I have been laboring
to establish, and run me into one evil whilst I am en
deavouring to avoid another ; but the less must be
chosen. Could I have foreseen what I have experi
enced, and am likely to experience, no consideration upon
earth should have induced me to accept this command.
A regiment or any subordinate department would have
been accompanied with ten times the satisfaction, and
perhaps the honor.
The Congress already know, from the general esti
mate given in for a month, what sum it will take to sup
ply the army ; and that little less than two hundred and
seventy-five thousand dollars will answer the purpose.
Pray impress this upon the members, and the necessity
of forwarding the last sum voted, as one hundred thou
sand dollars will be totally inadequate to our demands
at this time.
I wish that matter respecting the punctilio, hinted at
by you, could come to some decision of Congress. I
have done nothing yet in respect to the proposed ex
change of prisoners, nor shall I, until I hear from them
or you on this subject. I am sorry Mr. White met
with a disappointment in the Jerseys ; as I could wish
not to be under the necessity, from any former en
couragement given him, of taking him into my family.
I find it is absolutely necessary that the aids to the
Commander-in-chief should be ready at their pen,
which I believe he is not, to render that assistance,
which is expected of them. It would give me singular
pleasure to provide for those two gentlemen, mentioned
in your letter ; but, believe me, it is beyond the powers
of conception to realize the absurdities and partiality
of these people, and the trouble and vexation I have
had in the new arrangement of officers. After five, I
think, different meetings of the general officers, I have

180 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
in a manner been obliged to yield to the humor and
whimsies of the people, or get no army. The officers
of one government would not serve in the regiments of
another, although there was to be an entire new crea
tion ; a captain must be in this regiment, a subaltern in
that company. In short, I can scarce tell at this mo
ment in what manner they are fixed. Some time
hence strangers may be brought in ; but it could not be
done now, except in an instance or two, without putting
too much to hazard.
What can your brethren of the law meuan, by saying
your perquisites as secretary must be considerable ? I
am sure they have not amounted to one farthing. Cap
tain Blewer waits, and therefore I shall add no more
than that I am, dear Sir, your most obedient and af
fectionate servant.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 28 November, 1775.
Dear Sir,
You may easily conceive, that I had great pleasure
in perusing your letter of the 18th instant, which, with
the enclosures, I received last evening. It was much
damped by my finding General Montgomery had the
same difficulty to encounter, with the troops under your
command, that I have with those here.* No troops
* General Montgomery wrote as follows to General Schuyler, the day
after the capitulation of Montreal.
" I am exceedingly sorry that Congress have not favored me with a
committee. It would have had great effect with the troops, who are
exceedingly turbulent and even mutinous. My vexation and distress can
only be alleviated by reflecting on the great public advantages, which
must arise from my unparalleled good fortune. I shall clothe the troops
completely, who engage again. I find with pleasure, that my politic^

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 181
were ever better provided, or higher paid; yet their
backwardness to enlist for another year is amazing. It
grieves me to see so little of that patriotic spirit, which
I was taught to believe was characteristic of this people.
Colonel Enos, who had the command of Arnold's
rear division, is returned with the greater part of his
men, which must weaken him so much, as to render
him incapable of making a successful attack on Quebec,
without assistance from General Montgomery. I hope
he will be able to give it him, and, by taking that city,
finish his glorious campaign. I have nothing material to
communicate to you. I am making every disposition
for defence, by throwing up redoubts along the Bay ;
some of which have been constructed under the ene
my's guns, but they have not given us the least disturb
ance. I suppose Mr. Howe waits the arrival of his rein
forcements, when probably he will attempt something.
He sent out about three hundred men, women, and
children last week. They give shocking accounts of the
want of fuel and fresh provisions. General Burgoyne

v have squared with the views of Congress, and shall lose no time in call
ing a convention, when my intended expedition is finished. Will not
your health permit you to reside at Montreal this winter ? I must go
home, if I walk by the side of the lake, this winter. I am weary of
power, and totally want that patience and temper, so requisite for such a
command. I wish some method could be fallen upon of engaging gentle
men to serve. A point of honor, and more knowledge of the world to
be found in that class of men, would greatly reform discipline and ren
der the troops much more tractable.
" The officers of the first regiment of Yorkers and artillery company
were very near a mutiny the other day, because I would not stop the
clothing of the garrison of St. John's. I would not have sullied my own
reputation, nor disgraced the Continental arms, by such a breach of ca
pitulation, for the universe. There was no driving it into their heads,
that the clothing was really the property of the soldier ; that he had paid
for it ; and that every regiment, in this country especially, saved a year's
clothing to have decent clothes to wear on particular occasions."
VOL. III. P

182 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
is gone, or going home. Last evening I received the
agreeable account of one of our armed schooners hav
ing taken a large brigantine, laden with military stores, the
inventory of which I have the pleasure to enclose. But
let not this acquisition prevent your sending what stores
you can spare. We shall want them all. Adieu, my
dear General. I wish you a return of your health,
and am, &,c.

TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL. Cambridge, 2 December, 1775.
Sir,
The reason of my giving you the trouble of this, is
the late extraordinary and reprehensible conduct of
some of the Connecticut troops. Some time ago,
apprehending that some of them might incline to go
home, when the time of their enlistment should be up,
I applied to the officers of the several regiments, to
know whether it would be agreeable to the men to con-
'tinue until the 1st of January, or until a sufficient
number of other forces could be raised to supply their
place, who informed me, that they believed the whole
of them would readily stay, till that could be effected.
Having discovered last week, that they were very un
easy to leave the service, and determined upon it, I
though it expedient to summon the general officers at
head-quarters, and invite a delegation of the General
Court to be present, that suitable measures might be
adopted for the defence and support of our lines. The
result was, that three thousand of the minute -men and
militia of this province, and two thousand men from
New Hampshire, should be called in, by the 10th in
stant, for that purpose. With this determination the

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 183
Connecticut troops were made acquainted, and re
quested and ordered to remain here, as the time of
most of them would not be out before the 10th, when
they would be relieved. Notwithstanding this, yester
day morning most of them resolved to leave the camp.
Many went off, and the utmost vigilance and industry
were used to apprehend them. Several got away with
their arms and ammunition. I have enclosed you a list
of the names of some of them in General Putnam's
regiment only, who escaped, and submit to your judg
ment, whether an example should not be made of
these men, who have basely deserted the cause of their
country at this critical juncture, when the enemy are
receiving reinforcements.
I have the pleasure to inform you, that one of our
armed vessels, the Lee, Captain Manly, took and
brought in the other day a valuable store-ship bound to
Boston. I am, &.c*
* Governor Trumbull wrote in reply; — "The late extraordinary and
reprehensible conduct of some of the troops of this colony impresses
me, and the minds of many of our people, with grief, surprise, and in
dignation ; since the treatment they met with, and the order and request
made to them, were so reasonable, and apparently necessary for the de
fence of our common cause, and safety of our rights and privileges, for
which they freely engaged ; the term they voluntarily enlisted to serve
not expired, and probably would not end much before the time when
they would be relieved, provided their circumstances and inclination should
prevent their undertaking further.
" Indeed, there is great difficulty to support liberty, to exercise govern
ment, "to maintain subordination, and at the same time to prevent the
operation of licentious and levelling principles, which many very easily
imbibe. The pulse of a New England man beats high for liberty ; his
engagement in the service ..he thinks purely voluntary; therefore, when
the time of enlistment is out, he thinks himself not holden without fur
ther engagement. This was the case in the last war. I greatly fear
its operation amongst the soldiers of the other colonies, as I am sensible
this is the genius and spirit of our people. The union of the colonies,
and the internal union of each, are of the utmost importance. I
determine to call the General Assembly of this colony to meet at
New Haven on Thursday, the 14th instant. Please to notify me of any

184 WASHINGTON'S , WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 4 December, 1775.
Sir,
It is some time since I recommended to the Con
gress, that they would institute a court for the trial of
prizes made by the Continental armed vessels, which I
hope they have ere now taken into their consideration ;
otherwise I should again take the liberty of urging it in
the most pressing manner.
The conduct of a great number of the Connecticut
troops has laid me under the necessity of calling in a
body of the militia, much sooner than I apprehended
there would be an occasion for such a step. I was
afraid some time ago, that they would incline to go
home when the time of their enlistment expired. I
called upon the officers of the several regiments, to
know whether they could prevail on the men to remain
until the 1st of January, or till a sufficient number of
other forces could be raised to supply their place. I
suppose they were themselves deceived. I know they
deceived me by assurances, that I need be under no
apprehension on that score, for the men would not
leave the lines. Last Friday showed how much they
were mistaken, as the major part of the troops of
that colony were going away with their arms and am
munition. We have, however, by threats, persuasions,
and the activity of the people of the country, who sent
back many of them, that had set out, prevailed upon

matters you think proper to suggest for consideration. You may depend
on their zeal and ardor to support the common cause, to furnish our
quota, and to exert their utmost strength for the defence of the rights of
these colonies. Your candor and goodness will suggest to your con
sideration, that the conduct of our troops is not a rule whereby to judge
of the temper and spirit of the colony."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 185
the larger part to stay. There are about eighty of
them missing.
I have called in three thousand men from this prov
ince ; and General Sullivan, who lately returned from
the province of New Hampshire, having informed me
that a number of men were there ready at the shortest
notice, I have demanded two thousand from that prov
ince. These two bodies, I expect, will be in by the
tenth instant, to make up the deficiency of the Con
necticut men, whom I have promised to dismiss on that
day, as well as the numbers to whom I was obliged to
grant furloughs before any would enlist. As the same
defection is much to be apprehended, when the time of
the Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, and Rhode
Island forces is expired, I beg the attention of Congress
to this important affair.*
I am informed, that it has been the custom of these
provinces in the last war, for the legislative power to
order every town to provide a certain quota of men for
the campaign. This, or some other mode, should be
at present adopted, as I am satisfied the men cannot be
had without it. This the Congress will please to take
into their immediate consideration. My suspicions on
* Mr. Lynch, who had been one of the committee of conference in camp,
wrote to General Washington, after returning to Congress, in regard to
the state of the army here described ; —
" Providence favors us every where ; our success in every operation
exceeds our most sanguine expectations ; and yet, when God is ready to
deliver our oppressors into our hands, that men cannot be found willing to
receive them, is truly surprising. With grief and shame it must be con
fessed, that the whole blame lies not with the army. You will find your
hands straitened instead of strengthened. What .the event will be, it is
impossible, to foresee ; perhaps it is only intended to force the continent
into their own terms, and to show that neither General nor CongTess shall
be permitted to control the army ; perhaps to mortify the favorites of Con
gress. Be this as it may, resolution and firmness ought to rule our
councils. A step yielded to improper and intemperate demands may be
irretrievable."
vol. in. 24 p *

186 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
this head I shall also communicate to the Governors
Trumbull and Cooke, also to the New Hampshire Con
vention. The number enlisted in the last week is about thir
teen hundred men. By this you see how slow this im
portant work goes on. Enclosed is a letter written to
me by General Putnam, recommending Colonel Babcock
to the brigadier-generalship now vacant in this army. I
know nothing of this gentleman, but I wish the vacancy
were filled, as the want of one is attended with very
great inconveniences. An express is just come in from
General Schuyler, with letters from Colonel Arnold and
General Montgomery, copies of which I have the honor
to enclose. Upon the whole, I think affairs carry a
pleasing aspect in that quarter. The reduction of Que
bec is an object of such great importance, that I doubt
not the Congress will give every assistance in their
power for the accomplishing of it this winter.*
* General Howe wrote to Lord Dartmouth, on the 3d of December,
communicating intelligence of the loss of St. John's and Montreal, and
the retreat of General Carleton to Quebec, and expressing apprehen
sions that the entire province would fall into the hands of the invaders,
as there was little reason to believe the capital would be able to with
stand the expected attack. He added, also, that, supposing it possible
the Americans might be encouraged by their successes in Canada, and
the arms recently taken in the brigantine Nancy, and think of a project
against Halifax, he should immediately send a reinforcement to that place.
As the recovery of Canada was a primary object, he recommended that
the army for effecting it should consist of not less than twelve thousand
fighting men, representing at the same time the inexpediency of abandon
ing the plan heretofore suggested of taking possession of Rhode Island
and New York, since the enemy would be more distressed by an attack
on this vulnerable side, than by any successes against them in Canada.
— MS. Letter.
The following intelligence was contained in a letter from General Howe,
forwarded at the same time as the above. " The enclosed are original
letters found in Mr. Cushing's house. They are from Dr. Franklin and
Mr. Stephen Sayre, and of a nature that points out the train carried on by
these gentlemen to blow up this country into a rebellion."
The troops in Boston suffered much for want of fuel. The following

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 187
By the last accounts from the armed schooners sent
to the River St. Lawrence, I fear we have but little to
expect from them. They were falling short of pro
vision, and mentioned that they would be obliged to
return ; which at this time is particularly unfortunate,
as, if they chose a proper station, all the vessels coming
down that river must fall into their hands. The plague,
trouble, and vexation I have had with the crews of all
the armed vessels, are inexpressible. I do believe there
is not on earth a more disorderly set. Every time they
come into port, we hear of nothing but mutinous com
plaints. Manly's success has lately, and but lately,
quieted his people. The crews of the Washington and
Harrison have actually deserted them ; so that I have
been under the necessity of ordering the agent to lay
the latter up, and get hands for the other on the best
terms he could.
The House of Representatives and the honorable
Board have sent me a vote of theirs relative to the har
bour of Cape Cod, which you have herewith. I shall
send an officer thither to examine what can be done for
its defence, though I do not think I shall be able to give
them such assistance as may be requisite ; for I have at
present neither men, powder, nor cannon to spare.
The great want of powder is what the attention of
Congress should be particularly applied to. I dare pot
attempt any thing offensive, let the temptation or ad
vantage be ever so great, as I have not more of that

extraordinary order will show, that the destruction of houses to supply
this want was far from being approved by the British commander.
" The frequent depredations committed by the soldiers in pulling down
houses and fences, in defiance of repeated orders, have induced the Com
mander-in-chief to direct the Provost to go his rounds attended by the
executioners, with orders to hang up, upon the spot, the first man he shall
detect in the fact, without waiting for further proof by trial." — General
Howe's Orderly Book, December 5th.

188 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
most essential article, than will be absolutely necessary
to defend our lines, should the enemy attempt to attack
them. By recent information from Boston, General Howe is
going to send out a number of the inhabitants, in order,
it is thought, to make more room for his expected rein
forcements. There is one part of the information I can
hardly give credit to. A sailor says, that a number of
those coming out have been inoculated, with the design
of spreading the smallpox through this country and
camp. I have communicated this to the General Court,
and recommended their attention thereto. They are
arming one of the transports in Boston, with which
they mean to decoy some of our armed vessels. As
we are apprized of their design, I hope they will be
disappointed. My best respects wait on the gentlemen
in Congress, and I am, Sir, your most humble, &c.

TO GOVERNOR COOKE.
Cambridge, 5 December, 1775.
Sir,
I have of late met with abundant reason to be con
vinced of the impracticability of recruiting this army to
the new establishment, in any reasonable time by volun
tary enlistments. The causes of such exceeding great
lukewarmness I shall not attempt to point out ; sufficient
it is to know, that the fact is so. Many reasons are
assigned ; one only shall I mention, and that is, that the
present soldiery are in expectation of drawing from the
landed interest and farmers a bounty, equal to that given
at the commencement of this army, and therefore they
keep aloof. Be this as it may, I am satisfied that this is
not a time for trifling, and that the exigency of our af
fairs calls aloud for vigorous exertions.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 189
By sad experience it is found, that the Connecticut
regiments have deserted, and are about to desert, the
noble cause we are engaged in. Nor have I any reason
to believe, that the forces of New Hampshire, this gov
ernment, or Rhode Island, will give stronger proofs of
their attachment to it, when the period arrives that they
may claim their dismission. For after every stimulus
in my power to throw in their way, and near a month's
close endeavour, we have enlisted men, of whom one
thousand five hundred at a time are to be absent on
furlough, until all have gone home to visit and provide
for their families.
Five thousand militia, from this government and the
colony of New Hampshire, are ordered to be at this
place by the 10th instant, to relieve the Connecticut
regiments and supply the deficiency, which will be
occasioned by their departure and the absence of those
on furlough. These men, I have been told by officers,
who were eyewitnesses to their behaviour, are not to be
depended upon for more than a few days ; as they soon
get tired, grow impatient and ungovernable, and of course
leave the service. What will be the consequences, then,
if the greatest part of the army is to be composed of such
men? Upon the new establishment twenty-six regi
ments were ordered to be raised, besides those of the
artillery and riflemen ; of these New Hampshire has
three, Massachusetts sixteen, Rhode Island two, and
Connecticut five. A mode of appointing the officers
was also recommended, and as strictly adhered to as
circumstances would admit. These officers are now
recruiting, with the success I have mentioned.
Thus, Sir, have I given you a true and impartial state
of our situation, and submit it to the wisdom of your
and the other three New England colonies, whether
vigorous measures, if the powers of government are

190 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
adequate, ought not to be adopted, to facilitate the com
pletion of this army without offering a bounty from the
public, which Congress have declared against, thinking
the terms, exclusive thereof, greater than ever soldiers
had before. I have, by this conveyance, laid the matter
before Congress, but the critical situation of our affairs
will not await their deliberation and recommendation ;
something must be done without further delay. I am,
Sir, &c*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 5 December, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your much esteemed favor of the 22d ultimo, cover
ing Colonel Arnold's letter, with a copy of one to
General Montgomery and his to you, I received yester
day morning. It. gave me the highest satisfaction to
hear of Colonel Arnold's being at Point Levi, with his
men in great spirits, after their long and fatiguing march,
attended with almost insuperable difficulties, and the
discouraging circumstance of being left by near one
third of the troops, that went on the expedition. The
merit of this gentleman is certainly great, and I heartily
* At this time the army at Cambridge was suffering much distress for
the want of firewood and hay. The Assembly of Massachusetts under
took to supply these articles, by calling on the towns within twenty miles
of Boston, to furnish at stated times specific quantities, according to the
population of each town, and its distance from camp. This requisition
was generally complied with by the selectmen and committees of the
towns, although it was issued only in the form of a recommendation, and
the wants of the army were effectually relieved. These supplies were
furnished at the charge of the colony. A committee of the Assembly
was likewise authorized to procure wood from such woodlands as they
thought proper, even without the consent of the owner, a reasonable price
being paid for the wood thus taken away. — Journal of the Assembly, De
cember 2d, 16th, and 23d.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 191
wish, that fortune may distinguish him as one of her
favorites. I am convinced, that he will do every thing
that prudence and valor shall suggest, to add to the
success of our arms and for reducing Quebec to our
possession. Should he not be able to accomplish so
desirable a work with the forces he has, I flatter- myself,
that it will be effected when General Montgomery joins
him, and our conquest of Canada be complete.
I am exceedingly sorry to find you so much plagued
and embarrassed by the disregard of discipline, con
fusion, and want of order among the troops, as to have
occasioned you to mention to Congress an inclination to
retire. I know that your complaints are too well
founded ; but I would willingly hope, that nothing will
induce you to quit the service, and that, in time, order
and subordination will take place of confusion, and
command be rendered more agreeable. I have met
with difficulties of the same sort, and such as I never
expected ; but they must be borne with. The cause
we are engaged in is so just and righteous, that we
must try to rise superior to every obstacle in its sup
port ; and, therefore, I beg that you will not think of
resigning, unless you have carried your application to
Congress too far to recede. I am, dear Sir, with great
esteem and regard, yours, &c. *

* General Schuyler had written in the letter to which this is a reply ; —
" Nothing can surpass the impatience of the troops from the New Eng
land eolonies to get to their firesides. Near three hundred of them
arrived a few days ago, unable to do any duty ; but as soon as I adminis
tered that grand specific, a discharge, they instantly acquired health, and
rather than be detained a few days to cross Lake George, they undertook
a march from here of two hundred miles with the greatest alacrity.
" Our army requires to be put on a different footing. Habituated to
order, I cannot, without the most extreme pain, see that disregard of disci
pline, confusion, and inattention, which reign so generally in this quarter,
and I am therefore determined to retire. Of this resolution I have advised
Congress."

192 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. . [.Et. 43,
TO COLONEL BENEDICT ARNOLD.
Cambridge, 5 December, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 8th ultimo, with a postscript of
the 14th from Point Levi, I have had the pleasure to re
ceive. It is not in the power of any man to command
success, but you have done more, you have deserved
it ; and before this time I hope you will have met with
the laurels, which are due to your toils, in the possession
of Quebec. My thanks are due, and sincerely offered
to you, for your enterprising and persevering spirit. To
your brave followers I likewise present them. I was
not unmindful of you, or them, in the establishment of
a new army. One out of twenty-six regiments (lately
General Putnam's) you are appointed to the command
of, and I have ordered all the officers with you to
one or another of these regiments, in the rank they
now bear, that in case they choose to continue in ser
vice, and no appointments take place where they now
are, no disappointment may follow.
Nothing very material has happened in this camp
since you left it. Finding we were not likely to do
much in the land way, I fitted out several privateers, or
rather armed vessels, in behalf of the continent, with
which we have taken several prizes to the amount, it is
supposed, of fifteen thousand pounds sterling. One of
them, a valuable store-ship, but with no powder in it,
contained a fine brass thirteen-inch mortar, two thousand
stand of arms, shot, and other articles.
I have no doubt but a junction of your detachment
with the army under General Montgomery is effected
before this. If so, you will put yourself under his com
mand, and will, I am persuaded, give him all the assist
ance in your power, to finish the glorious work you

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 193
have begun. That the Almighty may preserve and
prosper you in it, is the sincere and fervent prayer of,
dear Sir, &c.
P. S. You could not be more surprised than I was,
at Enos's return with the division under his command.
I immediately put him under arrest, and had him tried
for quitting the detachment without your orders. He is
acquitted on the score of provisions.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 7 December, 1775.
Sir,
I wrote to you, the 4th instant, by express, to which I
beg you will be referred. My fears, that Broughton
and Selman would not effect any good purpose, were
too well founded. They are returned, and brought
with them three of the principal inhabitants from the
island of St. John's. Mr. Callbeck, as president of the
council, acted as governor. They brought the gover
nor's commission and the Province seal. As the cap
tains acted without any warrant for such conduct, I have
thought it but justice to discharge these gentlemen,
whose families were left in the utmost distress. *
* Broughton and Selman commanded the two armed vessels heretofore
mentioned, that had been despatched by Washington, in compliance with
an order of Congress, to intercept in the River St. Lawrence two brigan
tines, which, it had been understood, were to sail from England to Que
bec, laden with arms and ammunition, and without convoy. After a.
cruise of several days, the American captains discovered no such vessels,
but they committed a very unjustifiable act in making a descent on the
island of St. John's, pillaging the defenceless inhabitants, and bringing
away some of them prisoners. The gentlemen thus brought off, among
whom was Mr. Callbeck, presented a memorial to General Washington,
in which they stated, that the governor's house and other private dwellings
vol. in. 25 q

194 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43
I am credibly informed that James Anderson, the
consignee and part owner of the ship Concord and
cargo, is not only unfriendly to American liberty, but
actually in arms against us, being captain of the Scotch
company at Boston. Whether your being acquainted
with this circumstance will operate against the vessel
and cargo, I will not take upon me to say ; but there
are many articles on board, so absolutely necessary for
the army, that whether she is made a prize or not, we
must have them. I have the honor to be, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 11 December, 1775.
Sir,
Captain Manly, of the Lee armed schooner, has taken
and sent into Beverly two prizes since I wrote you last,
which was the 7th instant. One of them is the ship
Jenny, Captain Foster, who left London late in October.
He has very unfortunately thrown all his papers over-
were broken open, and robbed of their plate, carpets, curtains, looking-
glasses, table linen, wearing apparel, and whatever else was of value and
could be taken away. This was done by the captains, of course, without a
shadow of licence from their instructions, though apparently rather through
ignorance of the customary rules of warfare, than by any conscious viola
tion of the laws of equity and honor. Such conduct, however, could not
fail to excite the indignation of the Commander-in-chief, and he released
the captives immediately, treating them with all possible kindness and
respect. Orders were given for restoring the goods, which had been
pillaged, and from the following note, written by Mr. Callbeck, it may be
presumed, that he at least was satisfied.
" I should ill deserve the generous treatment, which your Excellency
has been pleased to show me, had I not gratitude to acknowledge so great
a favor. I cannot ascribe any part of it to my own merit, but must impute
the whole to the philanthropy and humane disposition, that so truly charac
terize General Washington, Be so obliging, therefore, as to accept the
only return in my power, that of my most grateful thanks?'

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 195
board, and is not yet arrived at camp. His vessel is
loaded with coal and porter ; of the latter he has about
one hundred butts. The other is a brigantine from
Antigua, called the Little Hannah, Robert Adams
master. Her cargo consists of one hundred and thirty-
nine hogsheads of rum, one hundred cases of Geneva,
and some other trifling articles. Both cargoes were for
the army and navy at Boston. I have great pleasure in
congratulating you on this business.
The numbers enlisted last week are men.
If they go on at this slow rate, it will be a long time
before this army is complete. I have written to the
Governors of Connecticut and Rhode Island, also to the
Convention of New Hampshire, on this subject. A
copy of my letter to them I have the honor to enclose
herewith. A letter to the same purport I sent to the
legislature of this province.
The militia are coming in fast. I am much pleased
with the alacrity, which the good people of this province,
as well as those of New Hampshire, have shown upon
this occasion. I expect the whole will be in this day
and to-morrow, when what remains of the Connecticut
gentry, who have not enlisted, will have liberty to go to
their firesides. The information I received, that the
enemy intended spreading , the smallpox amongst us, I
could not suppose them capable of. I now must give
some credit to it, as it has made its appearance on
several of those, who last came out of Boston. Every
necessary precaution has been taken to prevent its
being communicated to this army; and the General
Court will take care, that it does not spread through
the country.
I have not heard that any more troops are arrived at
Boston; which is a lucky circumstance, as the Con
necticut troops, I now find, are for the most part gone

196 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr. 43.
off. The houses in Boston are lessening every day ;
they are pulled down, either for fire-wood, or to prevent
the effects of fire, should we attempt a bombardment
or an attack upon the town. Cobble Hill is strongly
fortified, without any interruption from the enemy.
Colonel Enos has been tried and acquitted; upon
what principle you will see by the process of his trial,
which I now send you. As the time of Colonel Enos's
engagement was near expired, a doubt arose whether
he could then be tried by a court-martial. This it was,
which occasioned his trial to come on before Colonel
Arnold's evidence could be had. I am, &,c. *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 14 December, 1775.
Sir,
I received your favor of the 2d instant, with the
several resolves of Congress therein enclosed. The
resolves relative to captures made by Continental armed
* Mrs. Washington arrived in camp from Virginia on the 11th of De
cember, accompanied by her son, Mr. Custis, and his wife. As the Gene
ral could not leave the army, he had requested Mrs. Washington to pass the
winter with him at Cambridge. It seems, that some persons thought her in
danger at Mount Vernon, which stands on the bank of the Potomac River,
and is accessible to armed ships of the largest size. Lund Washington
had written to the General ; — "Many people have made a stir about Mrs.
Washington's continuing at Mount Vernon, but I cannot think there is
any danger. The thought I believe originated in Alexandria ; from
thence it got to Loudoun, and I am told the people of Loudoun talk of
sending a guard to conduct her up to Berkeley, with some of their principal
men to persuade her to leave this place and accept their offer. Mr. John
Augustine Washington wrote, pressing her to leave Mount Vernon. She
does not believe herself in danger. Lord Dunmore will hardly himself
venture up this river ; nor do I believe he will send on that errand. Sure
ly her old acquaintance, the attorney, who, with his family, is on board his
ship, would prevent his doing an act of that kind. You may depend I
will be watchful, and upon the least alarm persuade her to remove."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 197
vessels only want a court established for trial, to make
them complete. This, I hope, will be soon done, as I
have taken the liberty to urge it often to the Congress.
I am somewhat at a loss to know whether I am to
raise the two battalions of marines here or not. As the
delay can be attended with but little inconvenience, I
will wait a farther explanation from Congress, before
I take any steps therein. I am much pleased that
the money will be forwarded with all possible expedi
tion, as it is much wanted ; also that Connolly and his
associates are taken. It has been a very fortunate dis
covery. I make no doubt, but that the Congress will
take every necessary measure to dispossess Lord Dun-
more of his hold in Virginia. The sooner steps are
taken for that purpose, the more probability there will
be of their being effectual. I hope Colonel Knox will
soon finish the business he is upon, and appear here to
take the honorable command conferred on him by Con
gress.* I will make application to General Howe, and
propose an exchange for Mr. Ethan Allen. I am much
afraid I shall have a like proposal to make for Captain
Martindale and his men, of the armed brigantine Wash
ington, which, it is reported, was taken a few days past
by a man-of-war, and carried into Boston. We cannot
expect to be always successful. You will doubtless
hear of the barbarity of Captain Wallace on Connanicut
Island, ere this reaches your hands, f
About a hundred and fifty more of the poor inhabi-
* Henry Knox was appointed Colonel of the regiment of artillery by
. Congress, on the 17th of November. He took the place of Colonel Grid-
ley, and his appointment was made in consequence of General Washing
ton's recommendation.
f Connanicut is a small island opposite Newport, in Narraganset Bay.
Captain Wallace, who commanded an armed vessel in the harbour of
Newport, landed on the island with a body of sailors and marines, burnt
several houses, plundered the people's goods, and drove off the cattle.
Q*

198 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
tants are come out of Boston. The smallpox rages all
over the town. Such of the military, as had it not be
fore, are now under inoculation. This, I apprehend, is
a weapon of defence they are using against us. What
confirms me in this opinion, is, that I have information,
that they are tearing up the pavement, to be provided
against a bombardment. I wrote to you this day by
Messrs. Penet and Pliarne, who will lay before the Con
gress, or a committee thereof, proposals for furnishing
the continent with arms and ammunition. I refer you
to themselves for further particulars. * I have the honor
to be, &c.

TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL. Cambridge, 15 December, 1775.
Sir,
Your favors of the 7th and 9th instant I received,
and was much pleased to hear of the zeal of the people
of Connecticut, and the readiness of the inhabitants of
the several towns to march to this camp, upon their
being acquainted with the behaviour and desertion of
their troops. I have nothing to suggest for the con
sideration of your Assembly. I am confident they will
not be wanting in their exertions for supporting the just
and constitutional rights of the colonies.
Enclosed I send you a list of the officers and compa
nies under the new establishment, with the number of
the men enlisted ; the returns only came in to-day, or
I would have transmitted it before.
Having heard that it is doubtful whether the Rever
end Mr. Leonard, from your colony, will have it in 'his
* Penet and Pliarne were merchants of Nantes in France, and were
afterwards employed by Congress for furnishing military supplies.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 199
power to continue here as a Chaplain, I cannot but ex
press some concern, as I think his departure will be a
loss. His general conduct has been exemplary and
praiseworthy; in discharging the duties of his office,
active and industrious ; he has discovered himself a
warm and steady friend to his country, and taken great
pains to animate the soldiers, and impress them with a
knowledge of the important rights we are contending
for. Upon the late desertion of the troops, he gave a
sensible and judicious discourse, holding forth the
necessity of courage and bravery, and at the same time
of obedience and subordination to those in command.
In justice to the merits of this gentleman, I thought
it only right to give you this testimonial of my opinion
of him, and to mention him to you, as a person worthy
of your esteem and that of the public. I am, Sir, &,c.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 15 December, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Since my last, I have had the pleasure of receiving
your favors of the 28th ultimo, and the 2d instant. I
must again express my gratitude for the attention shown
to Mrs. Washington at Philadelphia. It cannot but be
pleasing, although it did, in some measure, impede the
progress of her journey.
I am much obliged to you for the hints contained in
both of the above letters, respecting the jealousies
which you say are gone abroad. I have studiously
avoided in all letters calculated for the public eye, I mean
for that of the Congress, every expression that could
give pain or uneasiness ; and I shall observe the same
rule with respect to private letters, any further than

200 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
appears absolutely necessary for the elucidation of facts.
I cannot charge myself with incivility, or, what in my
opinion is tantamount, ceremonious civility, to the gen
tlemen of this colony ; but if such my conduct appears,
I will endeavour at a reformation, as I can assure you,
my dear Reed, that I wish to walk in such a line as will
give most general satisfaction. You know, that it was
my wish at first to invite a certain number of the gentle
men of this colony every day to dinner,* -but uninten
tionally we some how or other missed of it. If this has
given rise to the jealousy, I can only say that I am
sorry for it ; at the same time I add, that it was rather
owing to inattention, or, more properly, too much atten
tion to other matters, which caused me to neglect it.
The extracts of letters from this camp, which so fre
quently appear in the Pennsylvania papers, are not only
written without my knowledge, but without my appro
bation, as I have always thought they must have an un
favorable tendency; but there is no restraining men's
tongues, or pens, when charged with a little vanity, as
in the accounts given of, or rather by, the riflemen.
With respect to what you have said of yourself, and
your situation, I can only add to what I have before said
on this subject, that whilst you leave the door open to my
expectation of your return, I shall not think of supply
ing your place. If ultimately you resolve against com
ing, I should be glad to know it, as soon as you have
determined. The Congress have resolved well in
respect to the pay of the men ; but if they cannot get
the money-signers to despatch their business, it is of
very little avail ; for we have not at this time money
enough in camp to answer the commissary's and quar
ter-master's accounts, much less to pay the troops.
* General Washington's head-quarters were but two miles from Water-
town, where the General Court of Massachusetts assembled.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 201
The account, which you have given of the sentiments
of the people respecting my conduct, is extremely flat
tering. I pray God, that I may continue to deserve
them, in my perplexed and intricate situation.
Our enlistment goes on slowly. By the returns last
Monday, only five thousand nine hundred and seventeen
men are engaged for the ensuing campaign ; and yet we
are told, that we shall get the number wanted, as they
are only playing off to see what advantages are to be
made, and whether a bounty cannot be extorted either
from the public at large, or individuals, in case of a draft.
Time only can discover this. I doubt the measure ex
ceedingly. The fortunate capture of the store-ship has
supplied us with flints, and many other articles we stood
in need of; but we still have our wants. I am, &c.

TO HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL HOWE.
Camp at Cambridge, 18 December, 1775.
Sir,
We have just been informed of a circumstance, which,
were it not so well authenticated, I should scarcely
think credible. It is that Colonel Allen, who, with his
small party, was defeated and taken prisoner near Mont
real, has been treated without regard to decency, hu
manity, or the rules of war ; that he has been thrown
into irons, and suffers all the hardships inflicted upon
common felons.
I think it my duty, Sir, to demand, and do expect from
you, an eclaircissement on this subject. At the same time,
I flatter myself, from the character which Mr. Howe
bears, as a man of honor, gentleman, and soldier, that
my demand will meet with his approbation. I must
take the liberty, also, of informing you, that I shall con-
vol. in. 26

202 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
sider your silence as a confirmation of the report ; and
further assuring you, that, whatever treatment Colonel
Allen receives, whatever fate he undergoes, such ex
actly shall be the treatment and fate of Brigadier Pres-
cott, now in our hands. * The law of retaliation is
not only justifiable in the eyes of God and man,
but absolutely a duty, which, in our present circum
stances, we owe to our relations, friends, and fellow-
citizens. Permit me to add, Sir, that we have all here the high
est regard and reverence for your great personal quali
ties and attainments, and that the Americans in general
esteem it as not the least of their misfortunes, that the
name of Howe, a name so dear to them,f should appear
at the head of the catalogue of the instruments em
ployed by a wicked ministry for their destruction.
With due respect, I have the honor to be, Sir, your
most obedient humble servant.

* When Ethan Allen was captured at Montreal, he was taken before
the British General, Prescott, who treated him not only with extreme
rudeness, but cruelty. Allen writes, that, after receiving from him much
personal abuse, " he ordered one of his officers to take me on board the
Gaspee, schooner of war, and confine me, hands and feet, in irons, which
was done the same afternoon I was taken." — Narrative, &c. p. 26. The
account of this treatment was confirmed to General Montgomery, after he
had taken Montreal ; and when General Prescott fell into his hands, he gave
notice to General Schuyler of his previous conduct. This intelligence
reached Congress and General Washington, and caused the above letter
to General Howe. It was a just retribution, therefore, that Prescott should
be made to feel the severity and indignities, which he was capable of prac
tising upon a soldier and a brave man. He was for a time imprisoned in a
jail at Philadelphia by order of Congress, but was released from confine
ment in consequence of ill health.
f Alluding to Lord Howe, a brother of General Howe, who had been slain
in the last war at the attack on Ticonderoga under General Abercromby.
He was an officer of great merit, and extremely popular in the colonies.
The province of Massachusetts caused a monument to be erected to his '
memory in Westminster Abbey. — Hutchinson's History of Massachusetts,
Vol. III. p. 71.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 203
P. S. If an exchange of prisoners taken on each
side in this unnatural contest is agreeable to General
Howe, he will please to signify as much to his most
obedient, &c. *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 18 December, 1775.
Sir,
Captain Manly, of the Lee armed schooner, took and
sent into Beverly the sloop Betsey, Atkinson master.
She is an armed vessel, despatched by Lord Dunmore,
* The part of the above letter, concerning Colonel Allen, was written
in consequence of an order from Congress. It had also been resolved by
Congress, that an exchange of prisoners was proper, citizens for citizens,
officers for officers of equal rank, and soldier for soldier.
general howe's answer.
" Boston, 25 December, 1775.
"Sir,
" In answer to your letter ofthe 18th instant, I am to acquaint you, that
my command does not extend to Canada. 'Not having received any ac
counts wherein the name of Allen is mentioned, I cannot give you the
smallest satisfaction upon the subject of your letter. But trusting Major-
General Carleton's conduct will never incur censure upon any occasion, I
am to conclude in the instance of your inquiry, that he has not forfeited
his past pretensions to decency and humanity.
" It is with regret, considering the character you have always main
tained among your friends, as a gentleman of the strictest honor and deli
cacy, that I find cause to resent a sentence in the conclusion of your
letter, big with invective against my superiors, and insulting to myself,
which should obstruct any further intercourse between us.
" I am, Sir, with due respect, your most obedient servant,
"W. Howe."
" To George Washington, Esq."
The day after receiving Washington's letter, that is, on the 19th of De
cember, General Howe wrote to Lord Dartmouth as follows.
" Mr. Washington, presuming upon the number and rank of the prison
ers in his possession, has threatened retaliation in point of treatment to
any prisoners of theirs in our power; and proposes an exchange, which is

204 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. '[.Et. 43.
with Indian corn, potatoes, and oats, for the army in
Boston. The packets of letters found on board, I have
the honor to send you with this by Captain James
Chambers, they being of so much importance, that I do
not think it would be prudent to trust them by a com
mon express. As Lord Dunmore's schemes are fully
laid open in these letters, I need not point out to the
Congress the necessity there is of a vigorous exertion
being made by them, to dispossess his Lordship of
the strong-hold he has got in Virginia. I do not mean
to dictate, but I am sure they will pardon me for giving
them freely my opinion, which is, that the fate of Amer
ica a good deal depends on his being obliged to evacu
ate Norfolk this winter or not.
I have Kirkland well secured, and think I will send
him to you for examination. By most of the letters
relative to him, he is a dangerous fellow. John Stew
art's letters and papers are of a very interesting nature.
a circumstance I shall not answer in positive terms ; nor shall I enter upon
such a measure without the King's orders. Your Lordship has, enclosed, a
publication extracted from the minutes of the Continental Congress in
reference to his Majesty's proclamation of the 23d of August, on the prin
ciples of which Mr. Washington seems to have founded his threats." —
MS. Letter.
This proclamation declared the colonies to be in open rebellion against
the crown, and all the King's officers, civil and military, were ordered to
give information of such persons as should be found aiding or abetting
those, who were in arms against the government, or holding any corre
spondence with them, " in order to bring to condign punishment the au
thors, perpetrators, and abettors of such traitorous designs." After con
sidering this proclamation, the Congress declared and published, "that
whatever punishment shall be inflicted upon any persons in the power of
our enemies for favoring, aiding, or abetting the cause of American lib
erty, shall be retaliated in the same kind and the same degree upon those
in our power, who have favored, aided, or abetted, or shall favor, aid, or
abet the system of ministerial oppression. The essential difference be
tween our cause, and that of our enemies, might justify a severer punish
ment; the law of retaliation will unquestionably warrant one equally
severe." — Remembrancer, Vol. I. p. 148. — Journals of Congress, Decem
ber 6th, 1775.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 205
Governor Tonyn's and many -other letters from St. Au
gustine show the weakness of the place ; at the same
time, of what vast consequence it would be for us to pos
sess ourselves of it, and the great quantity of ammunition
contained in the forts. Indeed these papers are of so
great consequence, that I think this but little inferior to
any prize our famous Manly has taken.
We now work at our ease on Lechmere's Hill. On
discovering our party there yesterday morning, the ship
which lay opposite began a cannonade, to which Mount
Horam* added some shells. One of our men was
wounded. We fired a few shot from two eighteen
pounders, which are placed on Cobble Hill, and soon
obliged the ship to shift her station. She now lies in
the ferry-way ; and, except a few shells from the mount
in Boston, which do no execution, we have no interrup
tion in prosecuting our works, which will in a very short
time be completed. When that is done, when we
have powder to sport with, I think, if Congress resolves
on the execution of the proposal made relative to the
town of Boston, that it can be done.
I have sent a letter this day to General Howe, of
which a copy goes herewith. My reason for pointing
out Brigadier-General Prescott as the object, who is to
suffer Mr. Allen's fate, is, that, by letters from General
Schuyler, and copies of letters from General Montgom
ery to Schuyler, I am given to understand that Prescott
is the cause of Allen's sufferings. I thought it best to
be decisive on the occasion, as did the generals whom I
consulted thereon.
The returns of men enlisted since my last amount to
about eighteen hundred, making in the whole seven
thousand one hundred and forty. The militia that are
* A hill on the west side of Boston.
VOL. III. R

206 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43
come in, both from this province and New Hampshire,
are very fine-looking men, and go through their duty
with great alacrity. The despatch made, both by the
people in marching and by the legislative powers in
complying with my requisition, has given me infinite
satisfaction. Your letter of the 8th instant, with the
explanatory resolve respecting my calling forth the mili
tia and minute-men, is come to hand ; to which I shall
pay all due attention. You have removed all the diffi
culties, which I labored under, about the two battalions
of marines. I shall obey the orders of Congress in
looking out for proper officers to command that corps.*
I make no doubt but, when the money arrives to pay
off the arrears and the month's advance, that it will be
a great encouragement for the men to enlist.
Enclosed is a letter I lately received from Mr. James
Lovell. His case is truly pitiable. I wish some mode
could be fallen upon to relieve him from the cruel situa
tion he is now in. I am sensible of the impropriety of
exchanging a soldier for a citizen ; but there is some
thing so cruelly distressing in regard to this gentleman,
that I dare say you will take it under your considera
tion, f I am, with great respect, &c.

* By the first resolve of Congress respecting these two battalions of
marines, they were to be raised out ofthe army. Upon the representation
of General Washington, that this would cause an interference with his ar
rangements, it was voted that the marines should be raised in addition to
the proposed army. Congress had also empowered the Commander-in-
chief to call out the militia in the New England colonies whenever he
should find it necessary, and requested those colonies severally to afford
him all the assistance in their power to effect this object.
f For the case of Mr. Lovell, see Appendix. No. XII.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 207
TO MAJOR-GENERAL -SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 18 December, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favors, the first of the 28th ultimo, and the two
last of the 9th instant, with their enclosures, I received.
I am happy to hear of your being better, and heartily
wish, that you may soon be perfectly recovered from
your indisposition.
I should have been very glad, if Mr. Carleton had not
made his escape. I trust ere long he will be in our
hands, as I think we shall get possession of Quebec. *
I am much concerned for Mr. Allen, and that he
should be treated with such severity. I beg that you
will have the matter and manner of his treatment strictly
inquired into, and transmit me an account of the same,
and whether General Prescott was active and instru
mental in occasioning it. From your letter, and Gen
eral Montgomery's to you, I am led to think he was.
If so, he is deserving of our particular notice, and should
experience some marks of our resentment for his cruelty
to this gentleman, and his violation of the rights of hu
manity. As some of the prisoners have attempted to
escape, I doubt not of your giving the necessary orders,
that they may be prevented. It is a matter that should
be attended to. In a letter from the Reverend Dr.
Wheelock, of Dartmouth College, of the 2d instant, I
had the following intelligence.
* " The evening before General Montgomery landed on the island of
Montreal, Mr. Carleton embarked his garrison on board of some vessels
and small craft, and made two attempts to pass our batteries near the
mouth of the Sorel, but was driven back by Colonel Easton, who has be
haved with bravery and much alertness. On the 19th, Mr. Carleton, dis
guised as a Canadian, and accompanied by six peasants, found means to
make "Iris escape. Brigadier-General Prescott surrendered next day by
capitulation." — General Schuyler's Letter.

208 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi.43.
" That the day before, two soldiers returning from
Montreal informed him, that our officers were assured
by a Frenchman (a captain of the artillery whom they
had taken captive), that Major Rogers was second in
command under General Carleton, and that he had
been in an Indian habit through our encampment at St.
John's." You will be pleased to have this report exam
ined into, and acquaint me as to the authenticity or
probability of the truth of it. If any circumstances can
be discovered to induce a belief, that he was there, he
should be apprehended. He is now in this govern
ment. *
The Congress have sent me several accounts against
the rifle companies, one of which is against Captain
Morgan, which I enclose to you, and desire it may be

* Major Rogers had been celebrated for his adventures and feats of
valor in the French war, as the companion of Putnam and Stark. He
wrote a journal of those events, which is not without ability and interest.'
He was once governor of Michillimackinac. After the peace he lived in
New Hampshire, and continued an officer on half-pay. Dr. Wheelock's
letter, from which the above is an extract, contains some other curious
particulars about him ; whether true or fabulous, the reader must judge.
" On the 13th ultimo," says Dr. Wheelock, " the famous Major Rogers
came to my house, from a tavern in the neighbourhood where he called for
refreshment. I had never before seen him. He was in but an ordinary
habit for one of his character. He treated me with great respect ; said he
came from London in July, and had spent twenty days with the Congress
in Philadelphia, and I forget how many at New York ; had been offered
and urged to take a commission in favor of the colonies ; but, as he was
now on half-pay from the crown, he thought proper not to accept it ; that
he had fought two battles in Algiers under the Dey ; that he was now on
a design to take care of some large grants of land made to him ; that he
was going to visit his sister at Moor's Town, and then to return by Merri-
mac River to visit his wife, whom he had not yet seen since his return
from England ; that he had got a pass, or license to travel, from the Conti
nental Congress ; that he called to offer his services to procure a large
interest for this college ; that the reputation of it was great in England ;
that Lord Dartmouth and many other noblemen had spoken of it in his
hearing, with expressions of the highest esteem and respect ; that Captain
Holland, surveyor-general, now at New York, was a great friend to me

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 209
transmitted to Colonel Arnold, who will have proper
steps taken for the payment of it, as Captain Morgan is
with him. I am, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 24 December, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 15 th instant came yesterday to
hand, with copies and extracts of your late letters to
Congress. I have with great attention perused them.
I am very sorry to find by several paragraphs, that both
you and General Montgomery incline to quit the ser
vice. Let me ask you, Sir, when is the time for brave
men to exert themselves in the cause of liberty and
their country, if this is not ? Should any difficulties,

and the college, and would assist me in the affair ; and that now was the
most favorable time to apply for a large grant of lands for it
" I thanked him for these expressions of his kindness ; but, after I had
shown some coldness in accepting it, he proposed to write to me on his
journey, and let me know where I might reply to him ; and he should be
ready to perform any friendly office in the affair. He said he was in haste
to pursue his journey that evening."
About a month after visiting Dr. Wheelock, the Major appeared at Med-
ford, near the camp, and wrote to General Washington requesting him to
sign a certificate permitting him to travel unmolested in the country.
Such a certificate or permit had been first granted by the Committee of
Safety in Philadelphia, who, from suspicious circumstances, and because
he was actually a British officer, had made him a prisoner, when he ar
rived in that place from England. The certificate was furnished to him in
consequence of a parole, wherein he " solemnly promised and engaged on
the honor of a gentleman and soldier, that he would not bear arms against
the American United Colonies in any manner whatsoever, during the
American contest with Great Britain ; " and in his letter to Washington,
he says, " I love America ; it is my native country and that of my family,
and I intend to spend the evening of my days in it." . These professions
being apparently sincere, Washington sent General Sullivan to examine
him on certain points, and report the result. He owned the accuracy of
VOL. III. 27 R *

210 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
that they may have to encounter at this important crisis,
deter them 1 God knows, there is not a difficulty, that
you both very justly complain of, which I have not in an
eminent degree experienced, that I am not every day
experiencing ; but we must bear up against them, and
make the best of mankind as they are, since we cannot
have them as we wish. Let me, therefore, conjure you
and Mr. Montgomery to lay aside such thoughts, —
thoughts injurious to yourselves, and extremely so to
your country, which calls aloud for gentlemen of your
abilities. You mention in your letter to Congress of the 20th
ultimo, that the clothing was to remain at Albany, as
General Montgomery would provide the troops in Can
ada. I wish they could be spared for this army, for
we cannot get clothing for half of our troops. Let me
hear from you on this subject as soon as possible.
The proofs you have of the ministry's intention to en
gage the savages against us are incontrovertible. We
have other confirmations of it, by several despatches
from John Stuart, the superintendent for the southern

Dr. Wheelock's letter, except the part relating to Canada, which he de
nied, though he had been to the west of Albany. As no good reason ap
peared why he came to camp, or why he wished to travel through the
country, the General did not think it expedient to receive a visit from him,
nor to sign his permit ; but as tins had already been signed by the Presi
dent ofthe New York Congress, and the Chairman ofthe New Hampshire
Committee of Safety, he suffered the Major to depart at his option, and to
enjoy such security as his papers, thus authenticated, might procure him.
There was a suspicion, strengthened by his subsequent conduct, that
he was at this time a spy, or at least practising a very unworthy artifice
for acquiring a confidence, to which his political sentiments did not entitle
him. Be this as it may, he soon after joined the enemy's ranks, and was
raised to be a colonel in the British army, notwithstanding his parole of
honor, and his love of America. It may be said, perhaps, in extenuation,
that he considered his parole extorted from him at a time, when there
were no just grounds for questioning his motives, and by an authority,
which he did not feel bound to respect.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 211
district, which luckily fell into my hands, being found
on board a sloop, sent by Lord Dunmore, bound to
Boston. She was taken by one of our armed vessels.
These, with many letters of consequence from his Lord
ship, I have lately sent to the Congress.
I hope soon to hear, that Colonel Knox has made
good progress in forwarding the artillery. * It is much
wanted for the works we have lately thrown up. I
have written a letter, of the 18th instant, to General
Howe respecting Mr. Allen, of which and the answer
you have copies enclosed. I am, with great regard,
Sir, yours, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 25 December, 1775.
Sir,
I had the honor to address myself to you on the 19th
instant, since which I have received undoubted informa
tion, that the genuine instructions given to Connolly
have not reached your hands ; that they are very art-

* Colonel Knox had many obstacles to contend against in executing his
charge, on account ofthe lateness of the season, and badness ofthe roads.
By extraordinary energy and perseverance, however, which were marked
traits of his character, he overcame them all, and effected his purpose.
He wrote as follows to General Washington, from the head of Lake
George, on the 17th of December.
" I returned from Ticonderoga to this place on the 15th instant, and
brought with me the cannon, it having taken nearly the time I conjectured
it would to transport them hither. It is not easy to conceive the difficulties
we have had in getting them over the Lake, owing to the advanced season
of the year and contrary winds. Three days ago, it was very uncertain
whether we could get them over until next spring, but now, please God,
they shall go. I have made forty-two exceedingly strong sleds, and have
provided eighty yoke of oxen to drag them as far as Springfield, where 1
shall get fresh cattle to take them to camp."

212 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
fully concealed in the tree of his saddle, and covered
with canvass so nicely, that they are scarcely discern
ible ; that those, which were found upon him, were in
tended to deceive, if he was caught. You will most
certainly have his saddle taken to pieces, in order to
discover this deep-laid plot.*
Enclosed is a copy of General Howe's letter in an
swer to the one I wrote to him on the 18th instant. The
conduct I am to observe towards Brigadier Prescott, in
consequence of these letters, the Congress will oblige
me by determining for me. The gentlemen by whom
you sent the money are arrived. The sum they brought,
though large, is not sufficient to answer the demands of
the army, which at this time are remarkably heavy.
There is three months' pay due, one month's advance,
two dollars for each blanket, the arms, that are left by
those who are dismissed, to be paid for, besides the
* John Connolly was a physician, and had resided for several years at
Pittsburg. General Washington had known him there, and a correspond
ence had been carried on between them respecting lands and affairs in the
west. At the beginning ofthe war, Connolly took the side of Lord Dun-
more, and a project was concerted between them to stir up the Indians on
the frontiers of Virginia, and induce them to act against the colonies. For
some purpose towards promoting the execution of the scheme, Connolly
visited General Gage in Boston, and returned thence to Virginia, where
he remained about ten days with Lord Dunmore, and then set off for the
Ohio, with two companions. Near Hagarstown, in Maryland, they were
stopped on suspicion, and brought back to Frederic Town. Their papers
were examined and the plot discovered.
It appeared, that Connolly had been appointed to the command of a
regiment, which was to be raised in the western country and Canada.
He was now on his way to Detroit, and, as soon as the forces could be col
lected, he was to enter Virginia, march to Alexandria in the spring, and
meet there Lord Dunmore at the head of a naval armament and another
body of troops. With these combined forces they were to act as circum
stances should require.
The committee at Frederic Town sent Connolly's papers to Congress,
and he was himself immediately ordered to Philadelphia, where he was
imprisoned for more than a year, and then was sent to a jail in Baltimore.
He was afterwards ollowed to go abroad within certain limits, on his pa-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 213
demands, on the commissary and quartermaster-gen
erals. You will, therefore, see the necessity of an
other remittance, which I beg may be as soon as you
conveniently can. I will take the opportunity of the re
turn of these gentlemen, to send Colonel Kirkland to
you for examination, and that you may dispose of him
as to you may seem proper.
A committee from the General Court of this province
called on me the other day, informing me that they
were in great want of ordnance for the defence of the
colony; that, if what belonged to them, now in use
here, was kept for the continent, they should be under
the necessity of providing themselves with other; of
course, what is kept must be paid for. There are many
of the cannon of very little use ; such of them as are
good, I cannot at present part with; perhaps when I
receive the supply from New York and Canada, it may
be in my power to spare them.
We have made good progress in the works on Lech
mere's Point. They would have been finished ere this,
but for the severity of the weather, which prevents our
people from working'. I received a letter from Gover
nor Cooke, which expresses the fears of the people of
Rhode Island, lest the ships, which we had information
had sailed with some troops on board, were destined
for Newport. I sent Major-General Lee there, to point
out to them such defence as he may think the place ca-

role, but he was held a prisoner till near the close of the war. He wrote
several times to General Washington, complaining of his hardships, but
the General declined interfering, as he claimed no control over the pris
oners of Congress. Indeed, it may be added, that Washington seldom
manifested any sympathy for characters of this description. Prisoners
taken in honorable warfare he always regarded with feelings of delicacy
and kindness ; but he rarely betrayi'd symptoms of compassion or favor for
a man, who had indicated a disposition unfriendly to the cause of his_
country.

214 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
pable of. I sincerely wish he may be able to do it with
effect, as that place, in its present state, is an asylum for
such as are disaffected to American liberty.* Our re
turns of enlistments, to this day, amount to eight thou
sand five hundred men. I have the honor to be, &.c.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 25 December, 1775.
Dear Sir,
At the same time that I thank you for stopping visi
tors in search of preferment, it will give me pleasure to
show civilities to others of your recommendation. In
deed no gentleman, that is not well known, ought to
come here without letters of introduction, as it puts me
in an awkward situation with respect to my conduct to
wards them.
I do not very much understand a paragraph in your
letter, which seems to be taken from mine to Colonel
Hancock, expressive of the unwillingness of the Con
necticut troops to be deemed Continental. There is no
expression in any of my letters, that I can either recol
lect or find, that has a tendency that way ; further than
their unwillingness to have officers of other govern
ments mixed in their corps, in which they are not sin-

* Intelligence had been received from Boston, that eight large ships and
two small ones sailed out of the harbour on the 16th. Four days after
wards General Lee set off for Newport, attended by a guard and a party
of riflemen. He went and returned through Providence, and was absent
from camp ten days. Besides giving directions respecting the fortifica
tions and other means of defence at Newport, he called before him several
obnoxious persons, and tendered to them the oath of fidelity to the coun
try. Two custom-house officers and another person, refusing to take the
oath, were put under guard and sent to Providence.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 215
gular, as the same partiality runs through the whole. I
have in some measure anticipated the desires of the
Connecticut delegates, by a kind of representation to
each of the New England governments of the impracti
cability of raising our complement of men by voluntary
enlistments, and submitting to their consideration,
whether, if the powers of government are sufficiently
coercive, each town should not be called upon for a
proportionate number of recruits. What they will do
in the matter remains to be known. The militia, who
have supplied the places of the Connecticut regiments,
behave much better than I expected they would under
our want of wood, barracks, and blankets. With these
men, and such as are reenlisted, I shall hope, if they
will be vigilant and spirited, to give the enemy a warm
reception, if they think proper to come out. Our want
of powder is inconceivable. A daily waste and no sup
ply present a gloomy prospect. I fear the detention of
the vessels from your port is so generally known, as to
defeat the end. Two men-of-war, it is -said, put in to
New York the other day, and were immediately ordered
out, supposed for Virginia.
I am so much indebted for the civilities shown to Mrs.
Washington on her journey hither, that I hardly know
how to acknowledge them. Some of the enclosed (all
of which I beg the favor of you to put into the post-
office) are directed to that end, and I shall be obliged to
you for presenting my thanks to the commanding offi
cers of the two battalions of Philadelphia for the honor
done to her and me, as also to any others, equally en
titled. I wery sincerely offer you the compliments of
the season, and wish you and Mrs. Reed, and your fire
side, the happy return of many of them, being, dear Sir,
yours, &c.

216 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
TO RICHARD HENRY LEE.
Cambridge, 26 December, 1775.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 6th instant did not reach this place
till Saturday afternoon. The money, which accom
panied it, came seasonably, but not, as it was so long
delayed, quantum sufftcit, our demands at this time
being peculiarly great for pay and advance to the
troops ; pay for their arms and blanketing, independent
of the demands of the commissary and quartermaster
general. Lord Dunmore's letters to General Howe, which very
fortunately fell into my hands, and were enclosed by me
to Congress, will let you pretty fully into his diabolical
schemes. If, my dear Sir, that man is not crushed be
fore spring, he will become the most formidable enemy
America has ; his strength will increase as a snow ball,
by rolling ; and faster, if some expedient cannot be hit
upon to convince the slaves and servants of the impo-
tency of his designs.* You will see by his letters,
what pains he is taking to invite a reinforcement at all
events there, and to transplant the war to the southern
colonies. I do not think, that forcing his Lordship on
shipboard is sufficient ; nothing less than depriving him
of life or liberty will secure peace to Virginia, as motives
of resentment actuate his conduct, to a degree equal to
the total destruction of the colony. I fear the destina
tion of the naval armament at Philadelphia is too well
known to answer the design, f I have heard it spoken
* Lord Dunmore had issued a proclamation, declaring " all indented
servants, negroes, or others (appertaining to rebels) free," and calling on
them to join his Majesty's troops.
f Congress had instructed the Naval Committee, on the 2d of December,
to procure and fit out armed vessels, for the purpose of taking and destroy
ing the vessels and cutters under Lord Dunmore in the Chesapeake Bay.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 217
of in common conversation, at this place, near a fort
night ago ; and the other day was told, that two men-
of-war, going into the harbour of New York, supposed
to be those intended for the relief of the Asia, were or
dered and accordingly sailed immediately out, as it. is
imagined for Virginia.
My letters to Congress will give you the occurrences
of this place. I need not repeat them, but I must beg
of you, my good Sir, to use your influence in having a
court of admiralty, or some power appointed to hear
and determine all matters relative to captures; you
cannot conceive how I am plagued on this head, and
how impossible it is for me to hear and determine upon
matters of this sort, when the facts, perhaps, are only
to be ascertained at ports, forty, fifty, or more miles
distant, without bringing the parties here at great trouble
and expense. At any rate, my time will not allow me
to be a competent judge of this business. I must also
beg the favor of you, to urge the necessity of appoint
ing a brigadier-general to the vacant brigade in this
army. The inconvenience we daily experience for
want of one is very great ; much more than the want
of a colonel to a regiment, for then the next officer in
command does the duty; in a brigade this may not
with propriety happen, and seldom or never is done
with any kind of regularity. Perfectly indifferent is it
to me, whom the Congress shall please to appoint to
these offices ; I only want it done, that business may
go regularly on. My best respects to the good family
you are in, and to your brothers of the delegation ; and
be assured, that I am, dear Sir, your most obedient and
affectionate servant.
vol. in. 28 s

218 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 31 December, 1775.
Sir,
I wrote you on the 25th instant, since which I am not
honored with any of your favors. The estimate I then
enclosed to you was calculated to pay the troops up to
the 1st of January. That cannot be done for want of
funds in the paymaster-general's hands, which causes a
great murmuring amongst those who are going off.
The monthly expenses of this army amount to near
two hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars, which
I take the liberty of recommending to the observation
of Congress, that their future remittances may be
governed thereby.
Enclosed you have a copy of a representation sent to
me by the legislative body of this province respecting
four companies stationed at Braintree, Weymouth, and
Hingham. As they were never regimented, and were
doing duty at a distance from the rest of the army, I
did not know whether to consider them as a part of it ;
nor do I think myself authorized to direct payment for
them without the approbation of Congress.
It has been represented to me, that the free negroes,
who have served in this army, are very much dissatis
fied at being discarded. As it is to be apprehended,
that they may seek employ in the ministerial army, I
have presumed to depart from the resolution respecting
them, and have given license for their being enlisted.
If this is disapproved of by Congress, I will put a stop
to it.*
* At a meeting of the general officers, previously to the arrival of the
committee from Congress in camp, it was unanimously resolved, that it
was not expedient to enlist slaves in the new army, and by a large majority
negroes of every description were excluded from enlistment. When the

PartIL] THE AMERICAN RE VOLU T10N. 219
I believe Colonel Gridley expects to be continued as
chief engineer in this army. It is very certain we have
no one here better qualified. I must remark, that the
pay of the assistant engineers is so very small, that we
cannot expect men of science will engage in it. Those
gentlemen, who are in that station, remained under the
expectation, that an allowance would be made to them
by the respective provinces in which they were ap
pointed, additional to that allowed by the Congress.
Captain Freeman arrived this day at camp from Canada.
He left Quebec the 24th ultimo, in consequence of
General Carleton's proclamation, which I have the hon
or to send you herewith. He saw Colonel Arnold the
26th, and says that he was joined at Point aux Trem
bles by General Montgomery, the 1 st instant ; that they
were about two thousand strong, and were making every
preparation for attacking Quebec ; that General Carle
ton had with him about twelve hundred men, the ma
jority of whom are sailors ; that it was his opinion the
French would give up the place, if they get the same con
ditions, that were granted to the inhabitants of Montreal.
Captains Semple and Harbeson take under their care
Mr. Kirkland. Captain Matthews and Mr. Robinson will
accompany them. The two latter were taken prisoners
by Lord Dunmore, who was sending them to Boston,
from whence there is little doubt, but they would
be forwarded to England, to which place I am credibly
informed Captain Martindale and the crew of the Wash
ington are sent; also Colonel Allen, and the prison
ers taken with him in Canada. This may account for

subject was referred to the committee in conference, this decision was
confirmed. In regard to free negroes, however, the resolve was not ad
hered to, and probably for the reason here mentioned by General Wash
ington. Many black soldiers were in the service, during all stages of
the war.

220 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
General Howe's silence on the subject of an exchange
of prisoners mentioned in my letter to him.
General Lee is just returned from his excursion to
Rhode Island. He has pointed out the best method
the island would admit of for its defence. He has en
deavoured all in his power to make friends of those
that were our enemies. You have, enclosed, a specimen
of his abilities in that way, for your perusal. I am of
opinion that, if the same plan was pursued through
every province it would have a very good effect.
I have long had it on my mind to mention to Con
gress, that frequent applications had been made to me
respecting the chaplains' pay, which is too small to en
courage men of abilities. Some of them, who have left
their flocks, are obliged to pay the parson acting for
them more than they receive. I need not point out the
great utility of gentlemen, whose lives and conversation
are unexceptionable, being employed for that service in
this army. There are two ways of making it worth the at
tention of such ; one is an advancement of their pay ; the
other, that one chaplain be appointed to two regiments.
This last, I think, may be done without inconvenience.
I beg leave to recommend this matter to Congress,
whose sentiments hereon I shall impatiently expect.
Upon a farther conversation with Captain Freeman,
he is of opinion, that General Montgomery has with him
near three thousand men including Colonel Arnold's.
He says that Lord Pitt had received repeated orders
from his father to return home ; in consequence of
which, he had embarked some time in October, with a
Captain Greene, who was master of a vessel belong
ing to Philadelphia, By a number of salutes in Boston
harbour yesterday, I fancy Admiral Shuldham is arrived.
Two large ships were seen coming in. Our enlistments
now amount to nine thousand six hundred and fifty.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 221
Those gentlemen, who were made prisoners by Lord
Dunmore, being left destitute of money and necessaries,
I have advanced them a hundred pounds lawful money
belonging to the public, for which I have taken Captain
Matthews's draft on the treasury of Virginia, which goes
enclosed. I have the honor to be, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 4 January, 1776.
Sir,
Since my last of the 31st ultimo, I have been honored
with your favor of the 22d, enclosing sundry resolves,
which shall, in matters they respect, be made the rule
of my conduct. The resolution relative to the troops
in Boston, I beg the favor of. you, Sir, to assure Con
gress, shall be attempted to be put in execution the first
moment I see a probability of success, and in such a
way as a council of officers shall think most likely to
produce it ; but if this should not happen as soon as
you may expect, or my wishes prompt, I request that
Congress will be pleased to advert to my situation, and
do me the justice to believe, that circumstances, and
not want of inclination, are the cause of delay.*
It is not in the pages of history, perhaps, to furnish a
* On the 22d of December, CongTess resolved, "That if General
Washington and his council of war should be of opinion, that a successful
attack may be made on the troops in Boston, he do it in any manner he
may think expedient, notwithstanding the town and property in it may
be destroyed." In communicating this resolve, President Hancock wrote ;
— " You will notice the resolution relative to an attack upon Boston. This
passed after a most serious debate in a committee of the whole house,
and the execution was referred to you. May God crown your attempt
with success. I most heartily wish it, though individually I may be the
greatest sufferer." President Hancock possessed a valuable property in
Boston.

222 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. LEt. 43.
case like ours. To maintain a post within musket-shot
of the enemy, for six months together, without* ,
and at the same time to disband one army, and recruit
another, within that distance of twenty-odd British regi
ments, is more, probably, than ever was attempted.
But if we succeed as well in the last, as we have here
tofore in the first, I shall think it the most fortunate
event of my whole life.
By a very intelligent gentleman, a Mr. Hutchinson
from Boston, I learn, that it was Admiral Shuldham that
came into the harbour on Saturday last ; that two of
the five regiments from Cork are arrived at Halifax ;
two others have sailed for Quebec, but what was be
come of them could not be told; and the other, the
fifty-fifth, has just got into Boston. Certain it is, also,
that the greater part of the seventeenth regiment is
arrived there. Whether we are to conclude from
hence, that more than five regiments have been sent
out, or that the companies of the seventeenth, arrived
at Boston, are part of the regiments destined for Halifax
and Quebec, I know not.
We also learn from this gentleman and others, that
the troops, embarked for Halifax, as mentioned in my
letter of the 16th, were really designed for that place,
but recalled from Nantasket Road, upon advice being
received of the above regiments there. I am also in
formed of a fleet now getting ready, under the convoy
of the Scarborough and Fowey men-of-war, consisting
of five transports and two bomb -vessels, with about
three hundred marines, and several flat-bottomed boats.
It is whispered, that they are designed for Newport, but
generally thought in Boston that they are meant for

* Left blank in the original to guard against the danger of miscarriage.
Read, " without powder."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 223
. Long Island ; and it is probable they will be followed
by more troops, as the other transports are taking in
water, to lie, as others say, in Nantasket Road, to be
out of the ice. A large quantity of biscuit is also
baking. As the real design cannot with certainty be known, 1
submit it with all due deference to the superior judg
ment of Congress, whether it would not be consistent
with prudence to have some of the Jersey troops thrown
into New York, to prevent an evil, which would be
almost irremediable, should it happen, I mean the land
ing of troops at that place, or upon Long Island near it. *
As it is possible you may not yet have received his
Majesty's "most gracious" speech, I do myself the
honor to enclose one of many, which were sent out of
Boston yesterday. It is full of rancor and resentment
against us, and explicitly holds forth his royal will to be,
that vigorous measures must be pursued, to deprive us
of our constitutional rights and liberties. These meas-

* The British commander had no design of taking immediate possession
of Rhode Island or New York, as we have seen by former references to
his correspondence, although both these purposes were in prospect. The
forces, that sailed from Boston, in the month of January, under command
of General Clinton, were bound to North Carolina, with the intention to
join Lord Cornwallis in a grand enterprise against that colony, which the
ministry had planned several months before, in consequence of the reports
and solicitation of Governor Martin. It was supposed, that there would
be a general rising among the loyalists in that country, when supported
by a formidable force, and supplied with arms, and thus a secure hold
would be gained on all the southern provinces. The affair turned out to
be a signal failure, as did most of those undertaken at the suggestion of
the colonial governors and zealous partisans of the crown, whose wishes
and hopes betrayed them into a deplorable ignorance of the state of the
country and character of the people.
On the 13th of December, Governor Tryon wrote a letter to General
Howe, dated on board his Majesty's ship Duchess of Gordon, in the harbour
of New York, informing him, that the spirit of rebellion was decreasing in
that colony, and that five thousand regular troops only were wanting to re
store commerce and the old government ; that many counties were well

224 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
ures, whatever they be, I hope will be opposed by
more vigorous ones, and rendered unavailing and fruit
less, though sanctioned and authorized by the name of
majesty, a name which ought to promote the happi
ness of his people, and not their oppression. I am, Sir, &c.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 4 January, 1776.
Dear Sir,
We are at length favored with a sight of his Majesty's
most gracious speech, breathing sentiments of tender
ness and compassion for his deluded American sub
jects ; the echo is not yet come to hand ; but we know
what it must be, and as Lord North said, and we ought
to have believed and acted accordingly, we now know
the ultimatum of British justice. The speech I send
affected, and in others were friends, who called for protection from the in
sults of the insurgents. If General Clinton, or some other officer, would
come with a suitable force, Governor Tryon was ready to take the field
under him, and believed he could collect a body of two or three thousand
loyalists, provided he were authorized to put them on the establishment of
regulars. At all events, he requested three thousand firearms, and one
hundred thousand cartridges ; but, in his present condition, he saw no
prospect of getting ashore to resume his government.
General Howe replied, that it was impossible to send the force re
quired at that time, as the army in Boston could not be divided, but he
might expec.t the earliest assistance in the spring. Meantime ho advised,
that the willingness of the friends of the crown to take up arms should
not be known, but rather that the insurgents should receive the impression
of their neutrality, or even of their being dissatisfied with the govern
ment, since no troops had been sent to their support. In this idea he declin
ed forwarding the arms and ammunition, because such a step, before they
could be used, would only serve to alarm the insurgents. If it could be
supposed possible to gain and keep possession of New York, with the
force desired, it should be despatched without delay ; but of such a result
there could be no just hope. — MS. Letters.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 225
you. A volume of them was sent out by the Boston
gentry, and, farcical enough, we gave great joy to them,
without knowing or intending it ; for on that day, the
day which gave being to the new army, but before the
proclamation came to hand, we had hoisted the union
flag in compliment to the United Colonies. But, behold,
it was received in Boston as a token of the deep im
pression the speech had made upW us, and as a signal
of submission. So we hear by a person out of Boston
last night. By this time I presume they begin to think
it strange, that we have not made a formal surrender of
our lines.
Admiral Shuldham is arrived at Boston. The fifty-
fifth and the greater part, if not all, of the seventeenth
regiment, are also arrived. The rest of the five regiments
from Ireland were intended for Halifax and Quebec.
It is easier to conceive than to describe the situation
of my mind for some time past, and my feelings under
our present circumstances. Search the volumes of his
tory through, and I much question whether a case simi
lar to ours is to be found ; namely, to maintain a post
against the flower of the British troops for six months
together, without powder, and then to have one army
disbanded and another to be raised within the same
distance of a reinforced enemy. It is too much to at
tempt. What may be the final issue of the last ma
noeuvre, time only can unfold. I wish this month was
well over our heads. The same desire of retiring into
a chimney-corner seized the troops of New Hampshire,
Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, so soon as their time
expired, as had wrought upon those of Connecti
cut, notwithstanding many of them made a tender of
their services to continue, till the lines could be sufficient
ly strengthened. We are now left with a good deal
less than half raised regiments, and about five thousand
vol. hi. 29

226 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
militia, who only stand engaged to the middle of this
month; when, according to custom, they will depart,
let the necessity of their stay be ever so urgent. Thus,
for more than two months past, I have scarcely emerged
from one difficulty before I have been plunged into
another. How it will end, God in his great goodness
will direct. I am thankful for his protection to this
time. We are told that we shall soon get the army
completed, but I have been told so many things, which
have never come to pass, that I distrust every thing.
I fear your fleet has been so long in fitting, and the
destination of it so well known, that the end will be de
feated, if the vessels escape.* How is the arrival of
French troops in the West Indies, and the hostile ap
pearance there, to be reconciled with that part of the
King's speech, wherein he assures Parliament, " that as
well from the assurances I have received, as from the
general appearance of affairs in Europe, I see no proba
bility that the measures, which you may adopt, will be
interrupted by disputes with any foreign power?" I
hope the Congress will not think of adjourning at so
important and critical a juncture as this. I wish they
would keep a watchful eye to New York ; from the ac
count of Captain Sears, now here, much is to be appre
hended from that quarter. I am, with sincere and af
fectionate regard, &x.
* At this time Governor Tryon, who was on ship-board in the harbour
of New York, had spies in Philadelphia, who informed him of every occur
rence. They even obtained extracts from the journals of Congress, wrote
down the resolves, the appointment and doings of committees, the opin
ions of many of the delegates, their conversations, projects, and aims, all
of which were forwarded through Governor Tryon and General Howe to
the British ministry. In this way General Howe was made acquainted
with the details of the fitting out of the fleet at Philadelphia, about to sail
under Commodore Hopkins. Each vessel was minutely described, with
the number of guns, weight of metal, number of men, names of the offi
cers, and other particulars.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 227
TO GOVERNOR COOKE.
Cambridge, 6 January, 1776.
Sir,
I received your favor of the 1st instant, and return
you my thanks for the blankets and your promise of
having more procured, as they are wanted. I did not
see Mr. Hale, who brought them, nor the account, or
the money should have been transmitted to you by his
return. You will be pleased to draw on the quarter
master-general, and it shall be immediately paid. I
have seen General Lee since his expedition, and hope
Rhode Island will derive some advantage from it.
I am told that Captain Wallace's ships have been
supplied for some time by the town of Newport, On
certain conditions stipulated between him and the com
mittee. When this truce first obtained, perhaps it
was right. Then there might have been hopes of an
accommodation taking place; but now, when every
prospect of it seems to be cut off by his Majesty's late
speech ; when the throne, from which we had suppli
cated redress, breathes forth vengeance and indignation,
and a firm determination to remain unalterable in its
purposes, and to prosecute the system and plan of ruin
formed by the ministry against us, should not an end be
put to it, and every possible method be fallen upon to
prevent their getting necessaries of any kind? We
need not expect to conquer our enemies by good offi
ces ; and I know not what pernicious consequences
may result from a precedent of this sort. Other places,
circumstanced as Newport is, may follow the example,
and by that means their whole fleet and army will be
furnished with what it highly concerns us to keep from
them. I received a letter from Governor Trumbull of the

228 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
1st instant, by which I am informed, that the Connecti
cut Assembly are very unanimous in the common cause ;
and, among other acts have passed one for raising and
equipping a fourth of their militia, to be immediately
selected by voluntary enlistments ; with such other able,
effective men, as are not included in their militia rolls,
who incline to enlist, to act as minute-men for the de
fence of their own, or any of the United Colonies, and
this under proper encouragements; — another act for
restraining and punishing persons inimical to us, and
directing proceedings therein; — no person to supply the
ministerial army or navy, to give them intelligence, to
enlist, or procure others to enlist, in their service, to
pilot their vessels, or in any other way assist them,
under pain of forfeiting his estate, and of an imprison
ment not exceeding three years; — none to write, speak,
or act against the proceedings of Congress, or their
acts of Assembly, under penalty of being disarmed,
and disqualified from holding any office, and be further
punished by imprisonment; — another act for seizing
and confiscating, for the use of the colony, the estates
of those putting or continuing to shelter themselves
under the protection of the ministerial fleet or army, or
assisting them in carrying on their measures against us ;
— a resolve to provide two armed vessels, of sixteen and
fourteen guns, with a spy-schooner of four, and four
row-galleys ; — an act exempting the polls of soldiers
from taxes, for the last and ensuing campaigns ; — anoth
er for encouraging the making of saltpetre and gun
powder, a considerable quantity of both of which
Mr. Trumbull hopes to make early in the spring. He
says the furnace at Middletown is smelting lead, and
likely to turn out twenty or thirty tons, and that ore is
plenty. They have also passed an act empowering the
Commander-in-chief of the Continental army, or officers

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 229
commanding a detachment, or outposts, to administer
an oath and swear any person or persons to the truth
of matters relative to the public service. The situation
of our affairs seems to call for regulations like these,
and I should think the other colonies ought to adopt
similar ones, or such of them as they have not already
made. Vigorous ones, and such as at another time
would appear extraordinary, are now become absolutely
necessary, for preserving our country against the strides
of tyranny making against it.
Governor Trumbull, in his list, has not mentioned an
act for impressing carriages, agreeably to the recommen
dation of Congress. This, I hope, they have not for
gotten. It is highly necessary, that such an authority
should be given, under proper restrictions, or we shall
be greatly embarrassed, whenever the army, or any de
tachment from it, may find it necessary to march from
hence. I am, Sir, with very great esteem, &c.

TO JOHN ADAMS. Cambridge, 7 January, 1776.
Sir,
You will excuse me for reminding you of our con
versation the other evening, when I informed you, that
General Lee's departure for New York is advisable
upon the plan of his letter, and, under the circumstances
I then mentioned, ought not to be delayed. In giving
me your opinion of this matter, I have no doubt of your
taking a comprehensive view of it ; that is, you will not
only consider the propriety of the measure, but of the
execution; and whether such a step, though right in
itself, may not be looked upon as beyond my line.
If it could be made convenient and agreeable to you
VOL. III. T

230 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
to dine with me to-day, I shall be very glad of your
company, and we can then talk the matter over at large.
Please to forward General Lee's letter to me.
I am, &c*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL CHARLES LEE.f
Instructions.
Sir,
Having undoubted intelligence of the fitting out of a
fleet at Boston, and of the embarkation of troops from
* General Lee was just returned to camp from Newport, and had writ
ten to the Commander-in-chief; — " New York must be secured, but it will
never, I am afraid, be secured by due order of the Congress, for obvious
reasons. They find themselves awkwardly situated on this head. You
must step in to their relief. I am sensible, that no men can be spared
from the lines, under present circumstances ; but I would propose that
you should detach me into Connecticut, and lend your name for collecting
a body of volunteers. I am assured that I shall find no difficulty in as
sembling a sufficient number for the purposes wanted. This body, in
conjunction (if there should appear occasion to summon them) with the
Jersey regiment, under the command of Lord Stirling now at Elizabeth-
town, will effect the security of New York, and the expulsion or suppres
sion of that dangerous banditti of tories, who have appeared on Long
Island with the professed intention of acting against the authority of the
Congress. Not to crush these serpents, before their rattles are grown,
would be ruinous.
" This manoeuvre I not only think prudent and right, but absolutely
necessary to our salvation ; and if it meets, as I ardently hope it will,
with your approbation, the sooner it is entered upon the better ; indeed,
the delay of a single day may be fatal."
Mr. Adams replied in writing to General Washington's letter, highly
approving the plan, and spoke on one point of inquiry as follows. —
" That it is within the limits of your Excellency's command, is, in my
mind, perfectly clear. Your commission constitutes you Commander of all
the forces now raised or to be raised, and of all others who shall volun
tarily offer their service; and join the army for the defence of American
liberty, and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof; and you are vested
with full power and authority to act as you shall think for the good and
welfare of the service."
f At the same time, that these instructions were given, General Wash
ington wrote to the Committee of Safety of New York ; — " I have thought

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 231
thence, which, from the season of the year and other
circumstances, must be destined for a southern expedi
tion ; and having such information as I can rely on, that
the inhabitants, or a great part of them, on Long Island
in the colony of New York, are not only inimical to the
rights and liberties of America, but, by their conduct
and public professions, have discovered a disposition to
aid and assist in the reduction of that colony to ministe
rial tyranny ; and as it is a matter of the utmost impor
tance to prevent the enemy from taking possession of
the city of New York and the North River, as they will
thereby command the country, and the communication
with Canada ; it is of too much consequence to hazard
such a post at so alarming a crisis, since we find by
his Majesty's speech to Parliament, that, disregarding
the petition of the united voice of America, nothing
less than the total subversion of her rights will satisfy
him. You will, therefore, with such volunteers as are willing
to join you, and can be expeditiously raised, repair to
the city of New York ; and calling upon the command
ing officer of the forces of New Jersey for such assist
ance as he can afford, and you shall require, you are to
put that city into the best posture of defence, which
the season and circumstances will admit, disarming all
it expedient to despatch Major-General Lee, with such volunteers as he
can quickly assemble on his march (for I have not troops to spare from
hence, if the distance and time would admit of it), to put the city of New
York in the best posture of defence, which the season and circumstances
will admit of. To his instructions, which I have desired him to lay be
fore you, I beg leave to refer; firmly persuaded, that your honorable body
will give every assistance in their power to facilitate the end of his
coming, as there needs no other argument, than a retrospective view of
the conduct of the ministerial troops in Boston, and the consequences
resulting from it, to prove what a fatal stab it would give to the interests
of America, to suffer the city of New York to fall into the hands of out
enemies."

232 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
such persons upon Long Island and elsewhere, (and if
necessary otherwise securing them,) whose conduct and
declarations have rendered them justly supected of de
signs unfriendly to the views of Congress.
You are, also, to inquire into the state and condition
of the fortifications up the North River, and as far as
shall be consistent with the orders of Congress, or not
repugnant to them, to have the works guarded against
surprises from a body of men, which might be transport
ed by water near the place, and then marched in upon
the back of them.
You will also endeavour to have the medicines, shirts,
and blankets, now at New York, belonging to the
ministerial troops, secured, and forwarded to this army.
Captain Sears can give you particular information con
cerning them.*
In all other matters relative to the execution of the
general plan you are going upon, your own judgment
(as it is impossible with propriety to give particular di
rections), and the advice of those whom you have rea
son to believe are hearty in the cause, must direct you ;
keeping always in view the declared intentions of Con
gress. I am persuaded I need not recommend despatch in
the prosecution of this business. The importance of it
alone is a sufficient incitement. I would advise a dis
mission of the volunteers, whose necessary expenses
will be borne, so soon as the service will admit of it ;
and that you endeavour as much as possible at all times
* Captain Sears had been most zealous and efficient among the sons of
liberty in New York, and had acted a conspicuous part in that city during
the excitements occasioned by the Boston Port-Bill, and afterwards. He
had also been a member of the New York Provincial Congress. At this
time he was in Washington's camp, and was sent forward in advance of
General Lee to promote the raising of volunteers in Connecticut. — See
Life of Gouverneur Morris, Vol. I. pp. 65, 74.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

233

to be in readiness to join the army, if the exigency of
our affairs here should call for it. Given under my
hand, at Head-Quarters, Cambridge, this 8th day of
January, 1776.

TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Cambridge, 10 January, 1776.
Gentlemen,
The hurry I was in the other day, when your com
mittee did me the honor to present a petition from a
person, whose name I have forgotten, wanting to be em
ployed in the Continental army, prevented me from
being as full on the subject as I wished.*
I shall beg leave, therefore, at this time to add, that I
hope your honorable Board will do me the justice to
believe, that it will give me pleasure at all times to pay
a proper respect to any recommendation coming from
them, and that the reason why I do not now encourage
such kind of applications, as was then made, is, that the
new army was arranged, as near the plan and agreeably
to the orders of Congress, although some unavoidable
changes and departures have taken place, as it was ¦ in
my power to effect ; and the officers thus constitu
ted were ordered to recruit. Every attempt, therefore,
of others not of this appointment must counteract it, and
has been of infinite prejudice to the service. They in
fuse ideas into the minds of the men they have any
influence over, that, by engaging with them, or, which
is tantamount, not engaging with 'others, they shall be
able to force themselves into the service. Of this we
have numberless instances.
I am, therefore, anxious to discourage every attempt
of the kind, by convincing such persons, that their en-
vol. in. 30 t *

234 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Er.,43.
gaging a company will not bring them in. If such per
sons could be once convinced of this, the business of
the army would go on more smoothly, and with much
more regularity and order. In short, gentlemen, it is
scarce possible for me to convey to you a perfect idea
of the trouble and vexation I have met with, in getting
this matter fixed upon some settled footing. One day
an officer would serve ; another, he would not, and so
on, till I have hardly known what steps to pursue for
preserving consistency, and advancing the good of the
service, which are the only objects I have in view. I
have no friend whom I want to bring in, nor any person
with whom I am in the least connected, that I wish to
promote. I am, gentlemen, with much esteem, &.c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 11 January, 1776.
Sir,
Every account I have out of Boston confirms the
embarkation of troops mentioned in my last, which,
from the season of the year and other circumstances,
must be destined for some expedition to the south
ward of this. I have therefore thought it prudent to
send Major-General Lee to New York. I have given
him letters recommendatory to Governor Trumbull, and
to the Committee of Safety at New York. I have good
hopes that in Connecticut he will get many volunteers,
who, I have some reason to think, will accompany him
on this expedition, without more expense to the conti
nent than their maintenance. But should it be other
wise, and should they expect pay, I think it is a trifling-
consideration, when put in competition with the impor
tance of the object, which is to put the city of New

PartH] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 235
York, with such parts of the North River and Long
Island, as to him shall seem proper, v in that state of
defence, which the season of the year and circumstan
ces will admit of, so as, if possible, to prevent the ene
my from forming a lodgment in that government, which,
I am afraid, contains tod many persons disaffected to
the cause of liberty and America. I have also written
to Lord Stirling to give him all the assistance that he
can, with the troops under his command in the Conti
nental service, provided it does not interfere with any
orders he may' receive from Congress relative to them.*
I hope the Congress will approve of my conduct in
sending General Lee upon this expedition. I am sure
I mean it well, as experience teaches us, that it is much
easier to prevent an enemy from posting themselves,
than it is to dislodge them after they have got posses
sion. I am, with great respect, &,c.

TO COLONEL BENEDICT ARNOLD.
Cambridge, 12 January, 1776.
Sir,
Your favor of the 5th ultimo from before Quebec,
enclosing the returns of your detachment, is come to
* William Alexander, known by the title of the Earl of Stirling, was
born in New York. He served in a military capacity, during the former
war, under General Shirley, and passed several years in England. While
there, he made a claim to the Scottish earldom of Stirling, which he was
believed to have legally established, but the decision of the House of
Lords was unfavorable. By courtesy, however, the title was always after
wards granted to him. On his return to America, he took up his resi
dence in New Jersey. He was by Congress appointed colonel of the
first battalion of New Jersey troops, on the 7th of November, 1775, and
in March following was raised to the rank of brigadier-general. A brief
and well written sketch of the life of Lord Stirling may be found in
Sedgwick's Memoir of the Life of William Livingston, p. 213.

236 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et.43.
hand. From the account you give of the garrison, and
the state of the walls, I expect soon to hear from you
within them, which will give me vast pleasure.
I am informed that there are large quantities of arms,
blankets, clothing, and other military stores in that city.
These are articles, which we are in great want of here ;
I have, therefore, written to General Montgomery,
or whoever is commanding officer in that quarter, to
send me as many as can be spared from thence. If
you can assist in expediting them, you will much
oblige me.
I understand that the Congress have it under their
consideration to raise an army for the defence of Cana
da, on a new establishment. When I received this
information, I applied to Congress to know whether it
was their intention, that you and the officers in your de
tachment were to be appointed there, or remain as you
were appointed in this army as newly arranged; to
which I have not yet received their answer.
The want of so many good officers is felt here,
especially in the recruiting service, which does not go
on so briskly as I could wish. I think it will be best
for you to settle for the arrearages, due to your men
since October last, with the paymaster of the army at
your place. I do not know any better way for you or
them to receive it. I am, Sir, yours, &c*
* The following order, issued by General Howe, presents a somewhat
curious picture of the habits and appearance of the soldiers under his
command in Boston.
" The commanding officer is surprised to find the necessity of repeat
ing orders, that long since ought to have been complied with, as the men
on all duties appear in the following manner, viz. hair not smooth and
badly powdered, several without slings to their firelocks, hats not bound,
pouches in a shameful and dirty condition, no frills to their shirts, and
their linen very dirty, leggings hanging in a slovenly manner about their
knees, some men without uniform stocks, and their arms and accoutre
ments by no means so clean as they ought to be. These unsoldierlike

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 237

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 14 January, 1776.
Dear Sir,
The bearer presents an opportunity to me of ac
knowledging the receipt of your favor of the 30th ulti
mo, which never came to my hands till last night, and,
if I have not done it before, of your other letter of
the 23d preceding.
The hints you have communicated from time to time
not only deserve, but do most sincerely and cordially
meet with my thanks. You cannot render a more ac
ceptable service, nor in my estimation give me a more
convincing proof of your friendship, than by a free,
open, and undisguised account of every matter relative
to myself or conduct. I can bear to hear of imputed
or real errors. The man, who wishes to stand well in
the opinion of others, must do this; because he is
thereby enabled to correct his faults, or remove the
prejudices which are imbibed against him. For this
reason, I shall thank you for giving me the opinions of
the world, upon such points as you know me to be in
terested in ; for, as I- have but one capital object in view,
I could wish to make my conduct coincide with the
wishes of mankind, as far as I can consistently ; I mean,
without departing from that great line of duty, which,
though hid under a cloud for some time, from a pe-

neglects must be immediately remedied."— General Howe's Orderly Book,
January 13th. .
In this state of discipline it required some assurance in General Howe
to write to Lord Dartmouth, as he did a short time before; — "We are
not under the least apprehension of an attack upon this place from the
rebels by surprise or otherwise, as taken notice of in your Lordship's
letter ; on the contrary, it were to be wished, that they would attempt
so rash a step, and quit those strong intrenchments to which they may
attribute their present safety."

238 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi 43.
culiarity of circumstances, may nevertheless bear a
scrutiny. My constant attention to the great and perplexing
objects, which continually rise to my view, absorbs all
lesser considerations, and indeed scarcely allows me to
reflect, that there is such a body in existence as the
General Court of this colony, but when I am reminded
of it by a committee ; nor can I, upon recollection,
discover in what instances (I wish they would be more
explicit) I have been inattentive to, or slighted them.
They could not, surely, conceive that there was a pro
priety in unbosoming the secrets of an army to them ;
that if Was necessary to ask their opinion of throwing
up an intrenchment, or forming a battalion. It must,
therefore, be what I before hinted to you; and how
to remedy it I hardly know, as I am acquainted with
few of the members, never go out of my own lines, nor
see any of them in them.
I am exceedingly sorry to hear, that your little fleet
has been shut in by the frost. I hope it has sailed ere
this, and given you some proof of the utility of it, and
enabled the Congress to bestow a little more attention
to the affairs of this army, which suffers exceedingly by
their overmuch business, or too little attention to it.
We are now without any money in our treasury, powder
in our magazines, or arms in our stores. We are with
out a brigadier (the want of whom has been twenty
times urged), engineers, expresses (though a committee
has been appointed these two months to establish them),
and by and by, when we shall be called upon to take
the field, shall not have a tent to lie in. Apropos, what
is doing with mine ?
These are evils, but small in comparison of those,
which disturb my present repose. Our enlistments are
at a stand ; the fears I ever entertained are realized ;

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 239
that is, the discontented officers (for I do not know how
else to account for it) have thrown such difficulties or
stumbling-blocks in the way of recruiting, that I no
longer entertain a hope of completing the army by
voluntary enlistments, and I see no move or likelihood
to do it by other means. In the two last weeks we have
enlisted but about a thousand men ; whereas I was con
fidently led to believe, by all the officers I conversed
with, that we should by this time have had the regi
ments nearly completed. Our total number upon paper
amounts to about ten thousand five hundred ; but as a
large portion of these are returned not joined, I never
expect to receive them, as an ineffectual order has once
issued to call them in. Anbther is now gone forth,
peremptorily requiring all officers under pain of being
cashiered, and recruits of being treated as deserters, to
join their respective regiments by the 1st day of next
month, that I may know my real strength ; but if my
fears are not imaginary, I shall have a dreadful account
of the advanced month's pay. In consequence of the
assurances given, and my expectation of having at least
men enough enlisted to defend our lines, to which may
be added my unwillingness to burthen the cause with
unnecessary expense, no relief of militia has been
ordered in, to supply the places of those, who are re
leased from their engagements to-morrow, and as to
whom, though many have promised to continue out the
month, there is no security for their stay.
Thus am I situated with respect to men. With re
gard to arms I am yet worse off. Before the dissolution
of the old army, I issued an order directing three ju
dicious men of each brigade to attend, review, and ap
praise the good arms of every regiment ; and finding a
very great unwillingness in the men to part with their
arms, at the same time not having it in my power to pay

240 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
them for the months of November and December, I
threatened severely, that every soldier, who should
carry away his firelock without leave, should never re
ceive pay for those months ; yet so many have been
carried off, partly by stealth, but chiefly as condemned,
that we have not at this time one hundred guns in the
stores, of all that have been taken in the prize-ship
and from the soldiery, notwithstanding our regiments
are not half complete. At the same time I am told,
and believe it, that to restrain the enlistment to men
with arms, you will get but few of the former, and still
fewer of the latter, which would be good for any thing.
How to get furnished I know not. I have applied to
this and the neighbouring colonies, but with what suc
cess time only can tell. The reflection on my situation,
and that of this army, produces many an unhappy hour
when all around me are wrapped in sleep. Few people
know the predicament we are in, on a thousand ac
counts ; fewer still will believe, if any disaster happens
to these lines, from what cause it flows. I have often
thought how much happier I should have been, if, in
stead of accepting the command under such circumstan
ces, I had taken my musket on my shoulder and en
tered the ranks, or, if I could have justified the measure
to posterity and my own conscience, had retired to the
back country, and lived in a wigwam. If I shall be able
to rise superior to these and many other difficulties,
which might be enumerated, I shall most religiously be
lieve, that the finger of Providence is in it, to blind the
eyes of our enemies ; for surely if we get well through
this month, it must be for want of their knowing the
disadvantages we labor under.
Could I have foreseen the difficulties, which have come
upon us ; could I have known, that such a backward
ness would have been discovered among the old sol-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 241
diers* to the service, all the generals upon earth should
not have convinced me of the propriety of delaying an
attack upon Boston till this time. When it can now be
attempted, I will not undertake to say ; but thus much I
will answer for, that no opportunity can present itself
earlier than my wishes. But as this letter discloses
some interesting truths, I shall be somewhat uneasy
until I hear it gets to your hands, although the convey
ance is thought safe.
We made a successful attempt a few nights ago upon
the houses near Bunker's Hill. A party under Major
Knowlton crossed upon the mill-dam, the night being
dark, and set fire to and burnt down eight out of four
teen which were standing, and which we found they
were daily pulling down for fuel. Five soldiers, and
the wife of one of them, inhabiting one of the houses,
were brought off prisoners ; another soldier was killed ;
none of ours hurt.
Having undoubted information of the embarkation of
troops, somewhere from three to five hundred, at Bos
ton, and being convinced they are designed either for
the New York government (from whence we have
some very disagreeable accounts of the conduct of the
Tories) or Virginia, I despatched General Lee a few
days ago, in order to secure the city of New York from
falling into their hands, as the consequences of such a
blow might prove fatal to our interests. He is also to
inquire a little into the conduct of the Long-Islanders,
and such others as have, by their conduct and declara
tions, proved themselves inimical to the common cause.
To effect these purposes, he is to raise volunteers in
Connecticut, and call upon the troops of New Jersey,
if not contrary to any order of Congress.
* The troops that were assembled at Cambridge, when General Wash
ington took the command.
VOL. III. 31 u

242 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
By a ship just arrived at Portsmouth, New Hamp
shire, we have London prints to the 2d of November,
containing the addresses of Parliament, which are
little more than a repetition of the speech, with assur
ances of standing by his Majesty with lives and fortunes.
The captains (for there were three or four of them pas
sengers) say, that we have nothing to expect but the
most vigorous exertions of administration, who have a
dead majority upon all questions, although the Duke of
Grafton and General Conway have joined the minority,
as also the Bishop of Peterborough. These captains
affirm confidently, that the five regiments from Ireland
cannot any of them have arrived at Halifax, inasmuch
as, by a violent storm on the 19th of October, the
transports were forced, in a very distressed condition,
into Milford Haven, and were not in a condition to
put to sea when they left London, and the weather has
been such since, as to prevent heavy loaded ships from
making a passage by this time. One or two transports,
they add, were thought to be lost; but these arrived
some considerable time ago at Boston, with three com
panies of the 17th regiment.
Mr. Sayre has been committed to the Tower, upon
the information of a certain Lieutenant or Adjutant
Richardson (formerly of your city) for treasonable
practices ; an intention of seizing his Majesty, and pos
sessing himself of the Tower, it is said in " The Crisis."
But he is admitted to bail himself in five hundred
pounds, and two sureties in two hundred and fifty
pounds each.*
What are the conjectures of the wise ones with you,
as to the French armament in the West Indies ? But
previous to this, is there any certainty of such an arma-
* Mr. Sayre was afterwards released, as the charges were found to be
groundless.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 243
ment? The captains, who are sensible men, heard
nothing of this when they left England ; nor does there
appear any apprehensions on this score in any of the
measures or speeches of administration. I should think
the Congress will not, ought not, to adjourn at this im
portant crisis. But it is highly necessary, when I am
at the end of the second sheet of paper, that I should
adjourn my account of matters to another letter. I
shall, therefore, in Mrs. Washington's name, thank you
for your good wishes towards her, and with compli
ments, added to mine, to Mrs. Reed, conclude, dear
Sir, your sincere and affectionate servant.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 16 January, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 5th instant, enclosing copies of
General Montgomery's and General Wooster's letters, I
received ; for which I return you my thanks. *
* General Schuyler had written to Washington, intimating his desire
and intention to leave the army, and closing his remarks on the subject as
follows ; —
" I have already informed you of the disagreeable situation I have been
in during the campaign ; but I would waive that, were it not that it has
chiefly arisen from prejudice and jealousy ; for I could point out particu
lar persons of rank in the army, who have frequently declared, that the
general, commanding in this quarter, ought to be of the colony from
whence the majority of the troops came. But it is not from opinions or
principles of individuals, that I have drawn the following conclusion, that
troops from the colony of Connecticut will not bear with a general from
another colony ; it is from the daily and common conversation of all ranks
of people from that colony, both in and out of the army. And I assure you,
that I sincerely lament, that people of so much public virtue should be
actuated by such an unbecoming jealousy, founded on such a narrow
principle ; a principle extremely unfriendly to our righteous cause, as it
tends to alienate the affections of numbers in this colony, in spite of the
most favorable constructions, that prudent men and real Americans

244 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
It was from a full conviction of your zealous attach
ment to the cause of our country, and abilities to serve it,
that I have repeatedly pressed your continuance in com
mand ; and it is with much concern, Sir, that I find you
have reason to think your holding the place you do, will
be of prejudice and incompatible with its interest. As
you are of this opinion, the part you are inclined to take
is certainly generous and noble. But will the good con
sequences you intend be derived from it? I greatly
fear they will not. I shall leave the matter to yourself,
in full confidence, that in whatever sphere you move,
your exertions for your country's weal will not be
wanting. Whatever proof you may obtain, fixing or tending to
support the charge against Mr. Prescott, you will please
to transmit to me by the first opportunity.* I am apt to
believe the intelligence given to Dr. Wheelock, respect
ing Major Rogers, was not true;f but being much sus
pected of unfriendly views to this country, his conduct
should be attended to with some degree of vigilance and
circumspection. I confess I am much concerned for General Mont
gomery and Colonel Arnold ; and the consequences
which will result from their miscarriage, should it hap
pen, are very alarming ; I fear, no less fatal than you
mention. However, I trust that their distinguished con
duct, bravery, and perseverance will meet with the
smiles of fortune, and put them in possession of that
amongst us attempt to put upon it. And although I frankly avow, that
1 feel a resentment, yet I shall continue to sacrifice it to a nobler object,
— the weal of that country in which I have drawn the breath of life,
resolved ever to seek with unwearied assiduity for opportunities to fulfil
my duty to it."
* Respecting General Prescott's harsh treatment of Ethan Allen, and
the prisoners taken with him at Montreal.
t That is, in regard to his having been with the enemy in Canada.

PartIL] THE vAM.IJRTCA.N ,REVOLUTIQN. 245
important fortress. I. wish their force was greater; the
reduction would then be certain.
I am sorry that Ticonderoga and Fort George should
be left by the garrisons, and that your recruiting offi
cers meet with such ill success. It is too much the
case in this quarter, and from the slow progress made
in enlisting, I despair of raising an army to the new
; establishment. Should it be effected, it will be a long
time first. Our Caghnawaga friends are not arrived
yet. , I will try to make suitable provision for them
during their stay, and use every means in my power to
confirm their favorable disposition towards us. They
will not, I am fearful, have such ideas of our strength,
as I could wish. This, however, shall be strongly in
culcated. *
If Quebec is in our possession, I do not see that any
inconvenience will result from Mr. Gamble's going there
upon his parole ;f but if it is not, however hurtful it may
be to him, however disagreeable to me, to prejudice the
interest of an individual, I cannot consent to his return.
I am much distressed by applications of a like nature.
If Mr. Gamble's request is granted, others in the same
situation will claim the same indulgence! ( Further, I
think a particular exchange should not be made, and my
proposition for a general one was rejected by Mr. Howe,
or, what is the same, it was unnoticed. . I could wish
that his application had been to Congress. They might
have complied with it, had they thought, it reasonable.
I am much pleased that the artillery was lively to be

* The Caghnawagas were a tribe of Indians, residing on the River
St. Lawrence, a few miles above Montreal. A party of them had visited
General Schuyler, and proposed to go forward to the camp at Cambridge.
f Mr. Gamble wa"s a deputy quartermaster-general in the British army,
and made prisoner with General Prescott after the capitulation of Mont
real. He had solicited permission to go to Quebec on his parole.
u*

246 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
got over the river, and am in hopes that Colonel Knox
will arrive with it in a few days. It is much wanted.
On reading the copy of General Wooster's letter, I was
much surprised to find, that he had granted furloughs
to the Connecticut troops under his command, in prefer
ence to discharges. What advantage could he imagine
they would be of to the continent, when they were at
their own homes ? If he could not continue them in
the services they were upon, their discharges would
certainly have eased the country of a considerable ex
pense. Giving you in return, the compliments of the
season, and wishing you every happiness,
I am, dear Sir, &c.

TO THE GENERAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Cambridge, 16 January, 1776.
Gentlemen,
Your several resolves, in consequence of my letters,
have been presented to me by a committee of your
honorable body. I thank you for the assurances of
being zealously disposed to do every thing in your
power to facilitate the recruiting of the American army ;
and, at the same time I assure you that I do not enter
tain a doubt of the truth of it, I must beg leave to add,
that I conceive you have mistaken the meaning of my
letter of the 10th, if you suppose it ever was my idea,
that you should offer a bounty at the separate expense
of this colony.
It was not clear to me, but that some coercive meas
ures might be used on this as on former occasions, to
draft men to complete the regiments upon the Continen
tal establishment. But as this is thought unadvisable, I
shall rely on your recommending to the selectmen and

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 247
committees of correspondence to exert themselves in
their several towns, to promote the enlistments for the
American army.
In the mean while, as there is no appearance of
this service going on but slowly, and it is necessary to
have a respectable body of troops here as soon as possi
ble, to act as circumstances shall require, I must beg
that you will order in, with as much expedition as the
nature of the case will admit, seven regiments, agreea
bly to the establishment of this army, to continue in
service till the 1st of April, if required. You will be
pleased to direct, that the men come provided with
good arms, blankets, kettles for cooking, and if possible
with twenty rounds of powrder and ball.
With respect to your other resolve relative to arms,
I am quite ready to make an absolute purchase of such
as shall be furnished either by the colony or individu
als. I am also ready to engage payment for all the
arms, which shall be furnished by the recruits, if lost
in the public service ; but I do not know how far I could
be justified in allowing for the use of them, when I
know it to be the opinion of Congress, that every man
shall furnish his own arms, or pay for the use of them
if put into' his hands. To do otherwise is an indirect
way of raising the pay. I again wish, that the honora
ble Court could devise some method of purchasing.
I beg leave to return my thanks for the kind offer
of fifty thousand pounds for the Continental use. I will
accept of a loan, upon the terms mentioned, of half
that sum to secure payment of the militia, whose time
of service will be up the last of this month ; till
when I shall not have occasion to make use of the
money. I am, with great respect, &c. * >

* The views of the British commander in Boston, respecting the state

248 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 18 January, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I received your favor of the 13th instant with its en
closures, and am heartily sorry and most sincerely con
dole with you upon the fall of the brave and worthy
Montgomery, and those gallant officers and men, who
have experienced a like fate.
In the death of this gentleman, America has sustained
a heavy loss, having approved himself a steady friend
to her rights, and of ability to render her the most
essential services. I am much concerned for the in
trepid and enterprising Arnold, and greatly fear, that
consequences of the most alarming nature will result
from this well intended but unfortunate attempt. It
would give me the greatest pleasure, if I could be the
happy means of relieving our fellow citizens now in
Canada, and preventing the ministerial troops from ex-
of affairs at this time, may be known by the following extract from a'letter,
dated on the 16th of January, and written by him to Lord Dartmouth.
" From what I can learn of the designs of the leaders of the rebels,"
says General Howe, "they seem determined, since the receipt of the
King's speech among them, to make the most diligent preparations for an
active war; and it is my firm opinion, that they will not retract until
they have tried their fortune in a battle, and are defeated. But I am
under the necessity of repeating to your Lordship, that the apparent
strength of the army for the spring does not flatter me with the hopes of
bringing the rebels to a decisive action. With a proper army of twenty
thousand men, having twelve thousand at New York, six thousand at
Rhode Island, and two thousand at Halifax, exclusive of an army for the
province of Quebec, the present unfavorable appearance of things would
probably wear a very different aspect before the end of the ensuing cam
paign. With fewer troops, the success of any offensive operations will
be very doubtful, the enemy possessing advantages that will not readily
be overcome by a small force ; neither is their army by any means to be
despised, having in it many European soldiers, and all or most of the
young men of spirit in the country, who are exceedingly diligent and
attentive to their military profession."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

249

ulting long, and availing themselves of the advantages
arising from this repulse. But it is not in my power.
Since the dissolution of the old army, the progress in
raising recruits for the new has been so very slow and
inconsiderable, that five thousand militia have been
called in for the defence of our lines. A great part of
these have gone home again, and the rest have been
induced to stay with the utmost difficulty and persua
sion, though their going would render the holding of the
lines truly precarious and hazardous, in case of an at
tack. In short I have not a man to spare.
In order that proper measures might be adopted, I
called a council of general officers, and desired Mr. John
Adams, and other members of influence of the General
Court to attend, and laid before them your letter and
proposition. *
After due consideration of their importance, they de
termined that the Colonies of Massachusetts, New
Hampshire, and Connecticut should each immediately
raise a regiment to continue in service for one year, and
to march forthwith to Canada, agreeably to the route
proposed in your letter to Congress. This determina
tion, with a copy of your letter and the several enclo
sures, will be immediately transmitted to the different
governments for raising these regiments, which I have
reason to believe will be directly complied with, from the
assurances I have received from such of the members
of the General Court as attended in council, and the
general officers promising to exert their utmost interest
and influence in their respective colonies.
If these regiments should not be raised so soon as I
could wish, yet I would willingly hope, from the ac-
* The proposition was, that General Washington should send, with all
possible despatch, a reinforcement of three thousand men into Canada, by
the way of Onion River and Lake Champlain.
vol. in. 32'

250 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
counts we have received, that Colonel Arnold and his
corps will be joined by a number of men under Colonel
Warner, and others from Connecticut, who, it is said,
marched immediately on getting intelligence of this mel
ancholy affair. If this account be true, I trust they will
be in a situation to oppose and prevent Mr. Carleton from
regaining possession of what he has lost, and that, upon
the arrival of the reinforcement, to be sent from these
colonies, the city of Quebec will be reduced to our
possession. This must be effected before the winter is
entirely over, otherwise it will be exceedingly difficult,
if not impracticable, as the enemy will undoubtedly
place a strong garrison there. Should this desirable
work be accomplished, our conquest in that quarter will
be complete ; but yet the loss of the brave Montgomery
will ever be remembered. It gives me pleasure to find,
that you will continue in service, and afford your assist
ance to relieve your country from the distresses, which
at present threaten her in the North. *
None of the letters gives an account how this unfortu
nate affair ended. In Colonel Campbell's letter of the
31st ultimo, he seems to think Colonel Greene's divis
ion was in a very disagreeable situation ; and drawing
it off at night, or throwing in a party to sustain it, was

* Congress had already resolved, before the news of the failure of the
attack on Quebec reached them, that nine battalions should be kept up
and maintained the present year for the defence of Canada. Among
these was included a battalion of Canadians, to be commanded by Colonel
James Livingston. It was likewise determined to raise a second Cana
dian regiment, to consist of one thousand men divided into four battalions,
and commanded by a colonel, lieutenant-colonel, and four majors. Moses
Hazen was appointed colonel. Both he and Livingston were residents in
Canada, and took an active part with the colonies at the beginning of
the contest. Hazen was a captain on half pay, and Congress agreed to
indemnify him for any loss he might sustain by entering into their service.
The Articles of War were translated into French, and printed copies sent
to Canada. — Journals of Congress, January 8th, 22d, 23d.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 251
an object he had much in view. Here he stops. In
his letter of the 2d instant he says nothing about it ; but
I dread further intelligence of the matter.
General Putnam is of opinion, that it will be better
for the troops, who may be raised in the western part
of Connecticut, to go to Albany, than through the route
you have mentioned by Number Four, * and that you
pointed out this way upon a supposition, that the rein
forcement would be detached from this army. If you
concur in sentiment with him, please to inform Governor
Trumbull of it by letter, that he may give the necessary
order. I am, dear Sir, yours, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 19 January, 1776.
Sir,
Taking it for granted, that General Schuyler has not
only informed you of the fall of the brave and much-
to-be-lamented General Montgomery, but of the situa
tion of our affairs in Canada, as related by General
Wooster, Colonel Arnold, Colonel Campbell, and others,
F shall not take up more of your time on this subject,
than is necessary to enclose you a copy of his letter to
me, with the result thereon, as appears by the council
of war, which I immediately summoned on the occasion,
and at which Mr. Adams, by my particular desire, was
good enough to attend.
It may appear strange, Sir, as I had not men to spare
from these lines, that I should presume, without first
sending to Congress, and obtaining an express direction,
to recommend to the governments of Massachusetts,
* Now Charlestown, in New Hampshire, on the Connecticut River.

252 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [jEt. 43.
Connecticut, and New Hampshire, to raise each a regi
ment, on the Continental account, for this service. ;I
wish most ardently, that the urgency of the case would
have admitted of the delay. I wish, also, that the pur
port of General Schuyler's letter had not, unavoidably as
it were, laid me under an indispensable obligation to do
it ; for, having informed you in his letter, a copy of which
he enclosed me, of his dependence on this quarter for
men, I thought you might also have some reliance on
my exertions. This consideration, added to my fears
of the fatal consequences of delay, to an information of
your having designed three thousand men for Canada,
to a belief, founded chiefly on General Schuyler's letters,
that few or none of them were raised, and to my appre
hensions for New York, which led me to think, that no
troops could be spared from that quarter, induced me
to lose not a moment's time in throwing in a force there ;
being well assured, that General Carleton will improve
to the utmost the advantages gained, leaving no artifices
untried to fix in his interest the Canadians and Indians,
who, we find, are too well disposed to take part with
the strongest.
If these reasons are not sufficient to justify my con
duct in the opinion of Congress, if the measure contra
venes any resolution of theirs, they will please to coun
termand the levying and marching of the regiments as
soon as possible, and do me the justice to believe, that
my intentions were good, if my judgment has erred. *
The Congress will please also to observe,, that the
measure of supporting our posts in Canada appeared of
such exceeding great importance, that the general, qffi-
* When the Congress took this letter into consideration, they resolved .
that the conduct of the General in calling for these troops, " was prudent,
consistent with his duty, and a farther manifestation of his commendable
zeal for the good of his country." — Journals, January 29th.

Part II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 253
cers, agreeing with me in sentiment, and unwilling to
lay any burden which can possibly be avoided, although
ft may turn out an ill-timed piece of parsimony, have
resolved, that the three regiments for Canada shall be
part of the thirteen militia regiments, which were re
quested to reinforce this army, as appears by the
minutes of another council of war, held on the 16th
instant.* I shall, being much hurried and fatigued, add
mo more in this letter, than my duty to Congress, and
that I have the honor to be, &c.

TO THE GENERAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Cambridge, 19 January, 1776.
Gentlemen,
The enclosures, herewith sent, convey such full ac
counts of the sad reverse of our affairs in Canada, as to
render it unnecessary for me, in my present hurry, to
add aught to the tale.
* A council of war was convened on the 16th of January, in .which the
General stated it to be " in his judgment indispensably necessary to make
a bold attempt to conquer the ministerial troops in Boston, before they
could be reinforced in the spring, if the means could be provided, and a
favorable opportunity should offer," and he desired the opinion of the
council. It was agreed that such an attempt ought to be made, but that
the present force was inadequate ; and the council advised the Comman
der-in-chief to request of the neighbouring colonies thirteen regiments of
militia, to serve till the 1st of April ; that is, from Massachusetts seven
regiments, Connecticut four, and New Hampshire two. Rhode Island
was exempted from this call, " on account of the repeated insults of the
enemy's ships of war, and the exposed situation of the sea-coast of that
colony." On the 18th, another council was held to consider the letters received
the evening before from Canada, conveying intelligence of the fall of
Montgomery, and the disaster at Quebec. When the question was put,
it was resolved to be inexpedient, in the present weakened state of the
lines, to send a detachment from the main army to Canada ; but the Gene
ral was advised to request Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hamp-
VOL. III. V

254 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
Your spirited colony will, I have no doubt, be suffi
ciently impressed with the expediency of a vigorous
exertion to prevent the evils, which must follow from the
repulse of our troops. It does not admit of a doubt,
but that General Carleton will improve this advantage
to the utmost; and, if he should be able to give another
current of sentiments to the Canadians and Indians,
than those they seem inclined to adopt, words are un
necessary to describe the melancholy effect, which must
inevitably follow.
I am persuaded, therefore, that you will exert your
selves to the utmost to throw in the reinforcement, which
is now required of your colony, by the route mentioned
in General Schuyler's letter ; as the doing of it expe
ditiously may prove a matter of the utmost importance.
You will perceive, by the minutes of the council of war
enclosed, that the regiment, asked of you for Canada, is
one of the seven applied for in my letter of the 16th
instant, and that the only difference, with respect to the
requisition, is the length oi time, and place of service ;
as no good would result from sending troops to Canada,
for a shorter period than the Continental army is raised
for, that is, till the 1st of January, 1777.
I am, Gentlemen, &c*
shire to raise three regiments with all possible despatch for the Canada
expedition, whose time of service shou'd continue till the 1st of January
following ; and it was decided, that t' ese three regiments should be con
sidered as a part of the thirteen alrendy required, leaving ten only for the
army at Cambridge. John Adams as a member of the Continental Con
gress, and being then in Water' _>wn, assisted at both of the above coun
cils, by the special invitation of the Commander-in-chief.
* A letter to the same effect was sent to the Governor of Connecticut,
and to the President of the Convention of New Hampshire. This requi
sition had been anticipated by Connecticut ; for, as soon as the intelligence
from Canada reached that colony, and before General Washington's letter
was received, Governor Trumbull convened the Council of Safety, and
they resolved to raise a regiment of seven hundred and fifty men to rein
force the army in Canada.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 255
TO MAJOR-GENERAL LEE.
Cambridge, 23 January, 1776.
Sir,
I received your favor of the 16th instant, and am ex
ceedingly sorry to hear, that Congress countermanded
the embarkation of the two regiments intended against
•the Tories on Long Island.* They, I doubt not, had
their reasons ; but to me it appears, that the period is
arrived, when nothing less than the most decisive and
vigorous measures should be pursued. Our enemies,
from the other side of the Atlantic, will be sufficiently
numerous ; it highly concerns us to have as few internal
ones as possible. As Congress seem to have altered
their views in this instance, and the men, who went
with you from Connecticut, are upon a very different
footing from what I expected, it will be right to give
Congress the earliest notice of your proceedings, and
to disband your troops as soon as you think circumstan
ces will admit of it. f
In consequence of the melancholy reverse of our
affairs in Canada, an application was made to me for
succour, and happy should I have been, if the situation
of this army could have afforded it. All I could do was
to lay the matter before this and the governments of
Connecticut and New Hampshire, and urge the expe
diency and necessity of their sending thither a reinforce
ment of three regiments immediately. Mr. Trumbull
and his Council of Safety had anticipated my request.
The other two colonies have adopted the measure.
The three regiments are now raising, and, I would wil
lingly hope, will arrive in time to reinstate matters in
* See Journal of Congress, January 3d and 10th.
f For an account of General Lee's proceedings in New York, see the
Life of Gouverrteur Morris, Vol. I. pp. 74-88.

256 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
that quarter, and give them a more agreeable aspect
than they now have.
I shall be much obliged by your pressing Colonel
McDougall to forward the shells mentioned in his
letter of the 2d instant, as they are much wanted, and
also to spare me some powder if he possibly can.* You
know our stock of this necessary article is inconsidera
ble, and you know, too, that we have a demand for a
further supply.
The progress in raising recruits for the new army
being very slow, I have applied to this colony, Connecti
cut, and New Hampshire, for ten regiments of militia,
to continue in service till the 1st of April next, which
they have granted me. As soon as they come in, and
I can get provided with proper means, I am determined
to attempt something. Of this I would have you take
no notice.
Within a few days past several persons have come
out of Boston. They all agree, that General Clinton is
gone upon some expedition. Some say he has between
four and five hundred men, others, part of two regi
ments. What his force consists of is not precisely
known ; but I am almost certain he has gone with some.
His destination must be south of this, and very proba
bly for New York. I thought it necessary to give you

* In June, 1775, the New York Provincial Congress had formed a
scheme for raising a battalion, to consist of four regiments, and on the
•30th of that month Alexander M°Dougall was appointed colonel of the
first regiment. He had been extremely zealous in the cause of liberty,
acting at an early hour a bold and decided part, by a correspondence
with leaders in the other colonies, and by promoting efficient measures
in New York. Two or three years before, he had been imprisoned by
the old colonial Assembly, on suspicion of writing and publishing his
sentiments too freely concerning the character and deliberations of that
body. His principles and conduct throughout the war accorded with
these early pledges of fidelity to his country's interests.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 257
this information, that you may be on your guard, and
prepared to receive him as well as you can.
I shall be glad to hear from you frequently, and to be
informed of any occurrences you may think material.
I am, dear Sir, with great regard, &,c.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 23 January, 1776
Dear Sir,
Real necessity compels me to ask you, whether I
may entertain any hopes of your returning to my family.
If you can make it convenient, and will hint the matter to
Colonel Harrison,* I dare venture to say, that Congress
will make it agreeable to you in every shape they can.
My business increases very fast, and my distresses for
want of you increase with it. Mr. Harrison is the only
gentleman of my family, that can afford me the least
assistance in writing. He and Mr. Moylan, whose time
must now be solely employed in his department of com
missary, have heretofore afforded me their aid ; and I
have hinted to them in consequence of what you signi
fied in some former letter, that, as they have really had
a great deal of trouble, each of them should receive
one third of your pay, reserving the other third con
trary to your desire for yourself. My distress and em
barrassment are in a way of being very considerably
increased by an occurrence in Virginia, which will, I
fear, compel Mr. Harrison to leave me, or suffer con
siderably by his stay. He has written, however, by
the last post to ascertain if his return cannot be dis
pensed with. If he should go, I shall really be dis-
* Member of Congress from Virginia.
vol. in. 33 v *

258 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
tressed beyond measure, as I know no persons able to
supply your places, in this part of the world, with whom
I would choose to live in unbounded confidence.
The business, as I hinted to you before, is considera
bly increased, by being more comprehensive, and at this
time perplexed by the great changes which are happen
ing every day ; so that you would want a good writer
and a methodical man, as an assistant, or copying clerk.
Such a one I have no doubt will be allowed, and the
choice I leave to yourself, as he should be a person in
whose integrity you can confide, and on whose capacity,
care, and method you can rely. At present, my time
is so much taken up at my desk, that I am obliged to
neglect many other essential parts of my duty. It is
absolutely necessary, therefore, to have persons that can
think for me, as well as execute orders. As it may be
essential that the pay ot the under-secretary should be
fixed, that you may, if you incline to return and should
engage one, know what to promise him, I have written
to Colonel Harrison and Mr. Lynch on this subject.
I am, &.c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 24 January, 1776.
Sir,
I take the liberty of recommending the expediency,
indeed the absolute necessity, of appointing fit and
proper persons to settle the accounts of this army. To
do it with precision requires time, care, and attention.
The longer it is left undone, the more intricate they will
be, the more liable to error, and difficult to explain and
rectify ; as also the persons in whose hands they are, if
disposed to take undue advantage, will be less subject

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 259
to detection. I have been as attentive, as the nature of
my office would admit, in granting warrants for money
on the paymaster ; but it would be absolutely impossi
ble for me to go into an examination of all the accounts
incident to this army, and the vouchers appertaining to
them, without devoting so large a portion of my time
to the business, as might not only prove injurious, but
fatal to it in other respects. This ought, in my humble
opinion, to be the particular business of a select com
mittee of Congress, or one appointed by them, who,
once in three months at farthest, should make a settle
ment with the officers in the different departments.
Having met with no encouragement from the govern
ments of Massachusetts and New Hamphire, as to my
application for arms, and expecting no better from Con
necticut and Rhode Island, I have, as the last expedi
ent, sent one or two officers from each regiment into
the country, with money to try if they can buy. In what
manner they may succeed, Congress shall be informed
as soon as they return. Congress, in my last, would
discover my motives for strengthening these lines with
the militia ; but whether, as the weather turns out ex
ceedingly mild, insomuch as to promise nothing favora
ble from ice, and as there is no appearance of powder,
I shall be able to attempt any thing decisive, time only
can determine. No man upon earth wishes more ar
dently to destroy the nest in Boston, than I do ; no per
son would be willing to go greater lengths than I shall,
to accomplish it, if it shall be thought advisable. But
if we have neither powder to bombard with, nor ice to
pass on, we shall be in no better situation than we have
been in all the year ;- we shall be worse, because their
works are stronger.
I have accounts from Boston, which I think may be
relied on, that General Clinton, with about four or five

260 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [jEt. 43.
hundred men, has left that place within these four days.
Whether this is part of the detachment, which was
making up (as mentioned in my letter of the fourth
instant, and then at Nantasket) or not, it is not in my
power to say. If it is designed for New York or Long
Island, as some think, throwing in a body of troops
there may prove a fortunate circumstance. If they go
farther south, agreeably to the conjectures of others, I
hope there will be men to receive them.
Congress will think me a little remiss, I fear, when I
inform them, that I have done nothing yet towards rais
ing the battalion of marines ; but I hope to stand ex
culpated from blame, when they hear the reason, which
was, that already having twenty-six incomplete regi
ments, I thought it would be adding to an expense,
already great, in officers, to set two entire corps of
officers on foot, when perhaps we should not add ten
men a week by it to our present numbers. In this
opinion the general officers have concurred, which in
duced me to suspend the matter a little longer. Our
enlistments, for the two last weeks, have not amounted
to a thousand men, and are diminishing. The regiment
for Canada, it is thought, will soon be filled, as the men
are to choose all but their field-officers, who are ap
pointed by the Court.
On Sunday evening, thirteen of the Caghnawaga In
dians arrived here on a visit. I shall take care that
they be so entertained during' their stay, that they may
return impressed with sentiments of friendship for us,
and also of our great strength. One of them is Colonel
Louis, who honored me with a visit once before.
I have the honor to be, &c.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 261
TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Cambridge, 27 January, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 22d enclosing Colonel Arnold's
letter of the 2d, explaining the doubt we were in
respecting his detachment, is received. Happy would
it have been for our cause, if that party could have got
out of the city of Quebec ;* as I am much afraid by the
complexion of the letters from that place, that there is
little hope of Arnold's continuing the blockade without
assistance from Wooster, which he is determined not to
give, whether with propriety Or not, I shall not at this
distance undertake to decide.
The sad reverse of our affairs in that quarter calls
loudly for every exertion in your power, to restore them
to the promising aspect they so lately wore. For this
reason, notwithstanding you think the necessity of troops
from hence is in some measure superseded, I will not
countermand the order and appointment of officers,
which are gone forth from this government, Connecticut,
and New Hampshire, for raising a regiment each, till
Congress, who are informed of, it, shall have decided
upon the measure.
I consider, that the important period is now arrived,
when the Canadians and consequently their Indians
must take a side. Should any indecisive operations
of ours, therefore, give the bias against us, it is much
easier to foresee, than to rectify, the dreadful conse
quences, which must inevitably follow from it. I con
sider, also, that the reinforcement, under the command
of Colonel Warner, and such other spirited men as have
left the western parts of the New England governments,
* The party of troops that attacked the city under Arnold, the most of
whom were taken prisoners.

262 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
is only temporary, and may fail when most wanted ; as
we find it next to impossible to detain men, not fast
bound, in service, after they get a little tired of the du
ties of it and homesick.
These, my dear Sir, are the great outlines which
govern me in this affair. If Congress mark them as
strongly as I do, they will not wish to starve the cause
at so critical a period. If they think differently, they
will direct accordingly, and I must stand corrected' for
the error my zeal has led me into.
Colonel Porter, said to be an exceedingly active man,
is appointed to the command of the regiment from this
government ; Colonel Burrell to the one from Connecti
cut ; and Colonel Bedel to that from New Hampshire.
The two last are represented to me as men of spirit
and influence ; so that, from these accounts, I have no
doubt of their getting into Canada in a very short time,
as I have endeavoured to excite a spirit of emulation.
I wish most ardently, that the state of your health may
permit you to meet them there. The possession of Que
bec, and the entire reduction of Canada this winter, so as
to have leisure to prepare for the defence of it in the
spring, is of such great and extensive importance to the
well-being of America, that I wish to see matters under
the direction, — but I will say no more, you will come
at my meaning.
I am a little embarrassed to know in what manner to
conduct myself with respect to the Caghnawaga Indians
now here. They have, notwithstanding the treaty of
neutrality, which I find they entered into with you the
other day, agreeably to what appears to be the sens,e of
Congress, signified to me a desire of taking up arms in
behalf of the United Colonies. The Chief of them,
who I understand is now the first man of the nation,
intends, as it is intimated, to apply to me for a commis-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 263'
sion, with the assurance of raising four or five hundred
men when he returns. My embarrassment does not
proceed so much from the impropriety of encouraging
these people to depart from their neutrality, or rather
accepting their own voluntary offer, as from the ex
pense, which probably may follow. I am sensible, that,
if they do not desire to be idle, they will be for or
against us. I am sensible, also, that no artifices will be
left unessayed to engage them against us. Their prof
fered services, therefore, ought not to be rejected ; but
how far, with the little knowledge I have of their policy
and real intentions, and your want of their aid, I ought
to go, is the question that puzzles me. I will endeavour,
however, to please them by yielding in appearance to
their demands ; reserving, at the same time, the power
in you to regulate their numbers and movements, of
which you shall be more fully informed when any thing
is fixed.* I congratulate you upon the success of your expedi
tion into Tryon county. I hope General Lee will exe
cute a work of the same kind on Long Island. It is
high time to begin with our internal foes, when we are
threatened with such severity of chastisement from our
kind parent without. That the Supreme Dispenser of
every good may bestow health, strength, and spirit on
you and your army, is the fervent wish of, dear Sir, your
most affectionate and obedient servant.
* General Schuyler replied in regard to these Indians; — "It is ex
tremely difficult to determine what should be done, in what you mention
respecting the offer made by the Caghnawaga Indians ; but if we can get
decently rid of their offer, I would prefer it to employing them. The ex
pense we are at in the Indian department is now amazing ; it will be more
so when they consider themselves as in our service ; nor would their in
tervention be of much consequence, unless we could procure that of the
other nations. The hauteur of the Indians is much diminished since the
taking of Montreal ; they evidently see that they cannot get any supplies
but through us."

264 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
TO COLONEL BENEDICT ARNOLD.
Cambridge, 27 Januai y, 1776.
Dear Sir,
On the 17th instant I received the melancholy ac
count of the unfortunate attack on the city of Quebec,
attended with the fall of General Montgomery and other
brave officers and men, and of your being wounded.
This unhappy affair affects me in a very sensible man
ner, and I sincerely condole with you upon the occasion ;
but, in the midst of distress, I am happy to find, that
suitable honors were paid to the remains of Mr. Mont
gomery ; and that our officers and soldiers, who have
fallen into their hands, were treated with kindness and
humanity.* Having received no intelligence later than the copy
of your letter of the 2d to General Wooster, I would
fain hope, that you are not in a worse situation than you
* During the night of the attack on Quebec there was a tempestuous
snow-storm. The bodies of the persons slain under the cliff of Cape
Diamond were not discovered till morning, when they were found nearly
enveloped in snow. They were taken into the city on a sled. Three of
them were known to be officers, and from the initials R. M. written in a
fur cap, picked up at the place of the bloody catastrophe, it was conjec
tured to have belonged to General Montgomery. His features were
disfigured by a wound, which he had received in the lower part of the
head and neck. At length a woman and a boy were brought, who had
lately come into the city from the American camp, and who had often
seen the principal officers. They identified the bodies of Montgomery,
Captain M°Pherson, Captain Cheesman, and an orderly sergeant.
Mr. Cramahe, an officer in the British army, and for a time lieutenant-
governor of Canada, had served in the late war with Montgomery, and
entertained for him a warm personal attachment. He asked permission
of General Carleton to bury his friend with marks of honor and respect.
This was granted in part, and a coffin lined and covered with black was
provided. But the Governor did not consent to the reading of the funeral
service, probably not deeming this indulgence conformable to military rules.
But when the time of burial approached, Mr. Cramahe invited a clergy
man to be present, who read the service privately and unmolested. The
other officers were buried at a short distance frim their gereral, but

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 265
then were; though, I confess, I have greatly feared,
that those misfortunes would be succeeded by others,
on account of your unhappy condition, and the dis
pirited state of the officers and men. If they have
not, I trust that when you are joined by three regi
ments now raising in this and the governments of Con
necticut and New Hampshire, and two others ordered
by the Congress from Pennsylvania and the Jerseys,
with the men already sent off by Colonel Warner,
these misfortunes will be done away, and things will
resume a more favorable and promising appearance
than ever.
I need not mention to you the great importance of
this place, and the consequent possession of all Canada,
in the scale of American affairs. You are well ap
prized of it. To whomsoever it belongs, in their favor,
probably, will the balance turn. If it is in ours, success
I think will most certainly crown our virtuous struggles.
If it is in theirs, the contest at best will be doubtful, haz
ardous, and bloody. The glorious work must be accom
plished in the course of this winter, otherwise it will be
come difficult, most probably impracticable ; for adminis
tration, knowing that it will be impossible ever to reduce
us to a state of slavery and arbitrary rule without it, will
certainly send a large reinforcement thither in the spring.
I am fully convinced, that your exertions will be invaria
bly directed to this grand object, and I already view the
approaching day, when you and your brave followers
will enter this important fortress, with every honor
without coffins, and in the military manner. All the graves were within
the walls of the city, and near the Port of St. Louis.
These particulars were communicated to me by Mr. William Smith of
Quebec, who had received them from several persons acquainted with
them at the time, and especially from Mr. Thompson, who assisted at the
burial of Montgomery, and who pointed out the place of his grave a few
years ago, when his remains were taken up and removed to New York.
vol. in. 34 w

266 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
attendant on victory. Then will you have added the
only link wanting in the great chain of Continental
union, and render the freedom of your country secure.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, and the possession
of those laurels, which your bravery and perseverance
justly merit, I am, dear Sir, yours, &c*

TO COMMODORE JOHN MANLY.
Cambridge, 28 January, 1776.
Sir,
I received your agreeable letter of the 26th instant,
giving an account of your having taken and carried into
Plymouth two of the enemy's transports. Your con
duct in engaging the eight-gun schooner, with so few
hands as you went out with, your attention in securing
your prizes, and your general good behaviour since you
first engaged in the service, merit my own and your
country's thanks.

* Arnold wrote from Quebec, on the 27th of February, in reply to this
letter, and seemed in high spirits, though encompassed with innumerable
difficulties. His mind was of so elastic a nature, that the more it was
pressed, the greater was its power of resistance. Congress had recently
promoted him to the rank of brigadier-general, as a reward for his good
conduct, during the perilous enterprise in which he had been engaged
from the time he left Cambridge, till he was wounded in the unsuccessful
assault on Quebec. " The severity of the climate," he observes, " the
troops very ill clad and worse paid, the trouble of reconciling matters
among the inhabitants, and lately an uneasiness among some of the New
York and other officers, who think themselves neglected in the new ar
rangement, while those who deserted the cause and went home last fall
have been promoted ; in short, the choice of difficulties I have had to en
counter has rendered affairs so very perplexing, that I have often been at
a loss how to conduct them." He alludes here, and perhaps with some
justice, to the case of Colonel Enos, and his officers, who deserted him in
the wilderness on their way to Canada, but who were nevertheless retain
ed and promoted in the new establishment.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 267
You may be assured, that every attention will be paid
to any reasonable request of yours, and that you shall
have the command of a stronger vessel of war ; but as
it will take up some time before such a one can be fitted
out, my desire is, that you continue in the Hancock
until the end of the cruise. When that is out, you will
come to Head-Quarters, and we will confer together on
the subject of the other ship. I wish you could engage
men at Plymouth to make your complement at least forty
strong. It would enable you to encounter the small
tenders, that may fall in your way; though I would
rather have you avoid an engagement, until you have a
ship, that will place you upon a more equal footing with
your enemy. I need not recommend to you to proceed
again and pursue your good fortune.
I wish you could inspire the captains of the other
armed schooners under your command with some of
your activity and industry. Can you not appoint sta
tions for them, where they may have the best chance of
intercepting supplies going to the enemy ? They dare
not disobey your orders, as it is mentioned in the in
structions I have given to each of them, that they are
to be under your command as commodore ; and as such
I desire that you will give them such instructions in
writing, as to you will appear proper for the good of
the service. I am, Sir, wishing you a continuance of
success, yours, &.c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 30 January, 1776.
Sir,
Your favors of the 6th and of the 20th instant I re
ceived yesterday, with the several resolves of Con-

268 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
gress alluded to ; for which I return you my thanks.
Knowing the great importance Canada will be of to us, in
the present interesting contest, and the relief our friends
there stand in need of, I should be happy, were it in
my power, to detach a battalion from this camp ; but it
cannot be done. On the 19th instant, I had the honor
to write to you a letter, which will fully convey the
resolutions of a council of war, and the sentiments of
the general officers here, as to the propriety and expe
diency of sending troops from these lines, for the de
fence of which we have been and now are obliged to
call in the militia ; to which I beg leave to refer you.
You may rest assured, that my endeavours and exer
tions shall not be wanting, to stimulate the governments
of Connecticut and New Hampshire to raise and for
ward reinforcements as fast as possible ; nor in any other
instance that will promote the expedition.*
I shall, in obedience to the order of Congress, though
interdicted by General Howe, propose an exchange of

* The generous and humane conduct of General Carleton, in regard
to the persons taken at the unfortunate assault on Quebec, ought not to
be overlooked. Although he had acquiesced in the harsh treatment of
Ethan Allen, yet the prisoners who fell into his hands on the above disas
trous occasion, according to their own account, met with a usage in every
respect as good as that of the British soldiers, except in the necessary
restraints of confinement. This was declared in a letter to Washington
from Major Meigs, when he returned on his parole the summer following.
The soldiers were confined in the Jesuits' College, and the officers in the
Seminary. The latter, after the siege was raised, had permission to walk
in a large garden adjoining their quarters. Major Meigs left three hun
dred prisoners in Quebec, about the middle of May. When they were
released for exchange, General Carleton supplied them with articles of
clothing, in which they were deficient. It was said, that when some of
his officers spoke to him of this act, as an unusual degree of lenity to
wards prisoners of war, he replied, — "Since we have tried in vain to
make them acknowledge us as brothers, let us at least send them away
disposed to regard us as first cousins." Having been informed, that many
persons suffering from wounds and various disorders were concealed in
the woods and obscure places, fearing that if they appeared openly they

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 269
Governor Skene for Mr. Lovell and his family, and shall
be happy to have an opportunity of putting this deserving
man, who has shown his fidelity and regard to his coun
try to be too great for persecution and cruelty to over
come, in any post agreeable to his wishes and inclina
tion. I do not know, that there is any particular rank
annexed to the office of aid-de-camp. Generally they
are captains, and rank as such ; but higher rank is often
given on account of particular merit and particular cir
cumstances. Aids to the King have the rank of
colonels. Whether any distinction should be made
between those of your Commander-in-chief, and the
other generals, I really know not. I think there ought.*
You may rely, that Connolly had instructions conceal
ed in his saddle. Mr. Eustis, who was one of Lord
Dunmore's family, and another gentleman, who wishes
his name not to be mentioned, saw them cased in tin,
put in the tree, and covered over. He probably has
exchanged his saddle, or withdrawn the papers when
it was mended, as you conjecture. Those that have
been discovered are sufficiently bad ; but I doubt not
of the others being worse, and containing more dia
bolical and extensive plans. I hope he will be taken
proper care of, and meet with rewards equal to his merit.
would be seized as prisoners and severely treated, he issued a proclama
tion commanding the militia officers to search for such persons, bring them
to the general hospital, and procure for them all necessary relief at the
public charge. He also invited all such persons to come forward volunta
rily, and receive the assistance they needed, assuring them, " that as soon
as their health should be restored, they should have free liberty to return
to their respective provinces."
Posterity has done justice to the humane character of General Carle
ton. Few names, that stand out in the history of the events in which he
was concerned, are remembered with more respect, even in the country
of his foes.
* By a vote of Congress, the Commander-in-chief was allowed three
aid-de-camps, who were to rank as lieutenant-colonels ; and the major-
generals two aids, each, to rank as majors. W*

270 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
I shall appoint officers in the places of those, who
are in Canada, as I am fully persuaded they will wish
to continue there, for making our conquest complete in
that quarter. I wish their bravery and valor may be
attended with the smiles of fortune. I wish it was in
my power to furnish Congress with such a general as
they desire, lo send to Canada. Since the unhappy
reverse of our affairs in that quarter, General Schuyler
has informed me, that, though he had thoughts of de
clining the service before, he would now act. My
letter of the 11th will inform them of General Lee's
being at New York. He will be ready to obey their
orders, should they incline to send him ; but, if I am
not greatly deceived, he or some other spirited, able
officer will be wanted there in the spring, if not sooner;
as we have undoubted intelligence, that General Clinton
has sailed with some troops. The reports of their
number are various, from between four and five hundred
to nineteen companies of grenadiers and light infantry.
It is also imagined, that the regiments, which were to
sail the 1st of December, are intended for that place or
Virginia. General Putnam is a most valuable man,
and a fine executive officer ; but I do not know how
he would conduct in a separate department. He is a
younger major-general than Mr. Schuyler, who, as I
have observed, having determined to continue in the
service, will, I expect, repair into Canada. A copy of
my letter to him on this and other subjects, I enclose to
you, as it will explain my motives for not stopping the
regiments from these governments.
When Captain Cochran arrives, I will give him every
assistance in my power, in obedience to the orders of
Congress ; but I fear it will be the means of laying up
our own vessels, as these people will not bear the dis
tinction. Should this be the consequence, it will be

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 271
highly prejudicial to us, as we sometimes pick up their
provision-vessels, and may continue to distress them in
this way. Last week Captain Manly took a'ship and a
brig bound to Boston from Whitehaven, with coals chief
ly and some potatoes for the army. I have, for his
great vigilance and industry, appointed him commodore
of our little squadron ; and he now hoists his flag on
board the schooner Hancock.
I congratulate you upon the recovery of Smith,* and
am exceedingly glad to hear of the measures Congress
are taking for the general defence of the continent.
The clouds thicken fast ; where they will burst, I know
not; but we should be armed at all points.
I have not succeeded in my applications to these
governments for arms. They have returned for answer,
that they cannot furnish any. Whether I shall be
more lucky in the last resource left me in this quarter,
I cannot determine, not having received returns from
the officers sent out to purchase of the people. I
greatly fear, that but very few will be procured in this
way, as they are exceedingly scarce, and but a small
part of what there are, fit for service. When they
make their report, you shall be informed.
Since writing the above, I have seen Mr. Eustis ; and
mentioning that nothing had been found in the tree of
Connolly's saddle, he told me there had been a mis
take in the matter ; that the instructions were artfully
concealed on the two pieces of wood, which are on
the mail-pillion of his portmanteau-saddle ; that, by or
der of Lord Dunmore, he. saw them contrived for the
purpose, the papers put in, and first covered with tin,
and over that with a waxed canvass cloth. He is so
exceedingly pointed and clear in his information, that I
* One of Connolly's associates, who was to have been surgeon of his
regiment. »

272 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
have no doubt of its being true. I could wish them to
be discovered, as 1 think they contain some curious and
extraordinary plans. In my letter of the 24th instant,
I mentioned the arrival of thirteen of our Caghnawaga
friends. They honored me with a talk to-day, as did
three of the tribes of St. John's and Passamaquoddy
Indians, copies of which I beg leave to enclose you. I
shall write to General Schuyler respecting the tender
of service made by the former, and not to call for their
assistance, unless he shall at any time want it, or be
under the necessity of doing it to prevent their taking
the side of our enemies.
I had the honor of writing to you on the 19th of No
vember, and then I informed you of having engaged
two persons to go to Nova Scotia on the business
recommended in your letter of the 10th ; and also that
the state of the army would not then admit of a sufficient
force being sent, for carrying into execution the views
of Congress respecting the dock-yards. I would now
beg leave to mention, that, if the persons sent for infor
mation should report favorably of the expediency and
practicability of the measure, it will not be in my power
to detach any men from these lines. The situation of
our affairs will not allow it. I think it would be ad
visable to raise them in the eastern parts of this govern
ment. If it is attempted, it must be by people from
that country. A Colonel Thompson, a member of the
General Court from the province of Maine, and who is
well spoken of by the Court, and a Captain O'Brien
have been with me. They think the men necessary
may be easily engaged there, and the measure practica
ble. Provided there are not more than two hundred
British troops at Halifax, they are willing and ready to
embark in the matter, upon the terms mentioned in their
plan, which I enclose to you. I would wish you to ad-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.. 273
vert to the considerations inducing them to the expedi
tion, as I am not without apprehension, should it be
undertaken upon their plan, that the innocent and guilty
will be involved in one common ruin. I presume they
do not expect to receive more from the Continent, than
the five or ten thousand pounds mentioned in their
scheme, and to be at every expense. If we had men
to spare, it might be undertaken for less than either, I
conceive. Perhaps, if Congress do not adopt their
proposition, they will undertake to raise men for that
particular purpose, who may be disbanded as soon as it
is effected, and upon the same terms that are allowed
the Continental troops in general. Whatever may be
the determination of Congress upon the subject, you
will please to communicate it to me immediately ; for
the season most favorable for the enterprise is advancing
fast ; and we may expect in the spring, that there will
be more troops there, and the measure be more difficult
to execute. I have the honor to be, &,c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL LEE.
Cambridge, 30 January, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I wrote to you the 23d instant, and then informed
you, that General Clinton had gone upon some expedi
tion with four or five hundred men. There is good
reason to believe, that Tryon has applied for some
troops, and that he would join them with a great num
ber of inhabitants ; so that you will see the necessity
of your being decisive and expeditious in your opera
tions in that quarter. The Tories should be disarmed
immediately, though it is probable that they may have
secured their arms on board the King's ships, until call-
vol. in. 35

274 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
ed upon to use them against us. However, you can
seize upon the persons of the principals. They must
be so notoriously known, that there will be little danger
of your committing mistakes, and happy should I be if
the Governor could be one of them.
Since writing the above, your favor of the 24th has
come to hand, with the sundry enclosures, which I have
with attention perused, and very much approve of your
conduct. I sincerely wish that the letter you expect to
receive from Congress may empower you to act con
formably to your own and my sentiments on this occa
sion. If they should order differently, we must submit,
as they doubtless will have good reasons for what they
may determine.*
The Congress desire I should send an active general
to Canada. I fancy, when they made the demand, that
they did not think General Schuyler would continue in
that station, which he has given me to understand, in
some late letters from him, that he would. Should they
not approve of the New York expedition, and think
another general necessary for the northern department,
it is probable they will fix on ydu to take the command
there. I should be sorry to have you removed so far from
this scene ; but if the service there requires your pres
ence, it will be a fine field for the exertion of your ad
mirable talents. There is nothing new here. Let me
hear often from you, and believe me, &,c.
* General Lee was now at Stamford, in Connecticut, where he was
preparing to enter New York with such troops as he had collected. In
his letter to Congress from Stamford, he had strongly urged the expe
diency of disarming the Tories, requiring an oath of them to act offen
sively and defensively in support of the common rights, and a pledge of
one half of their property as a security for their good behaviour.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 275
TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 31 January, 1776.
Dear Sir,
In my last, by Mr. John Adams, I communicated my
distresses to you on account of my want of your
assistance. I have since been under some concern
at having done it, lest it should precipitate your re
turn before you are ready for it, or bring on a final
resignation, which I am unwilling to think of, if your re
turn can be made convenient and agreeable. True it
is, that from a variety of causes my business has been,
and now is, multiplied and perplexed ; whilst the means
of execution are greatly contracted. This may be a
cause for my wishing you here, but no inducement to
your coming, if you hesitated before.
I have now to thank you for your favors, and for the
several articles of intelligence, which they convey. The
account given of your navy, at the same time that it is
exceedingly unfavorable to our wishes, is a little pro
voking to me, inasmuch as it has deprived us of neces
sary articles, which otherwise would have been sent
hither ; but which a kind of fatality I fear will for ever
deprive us of.* In the instance of New York, we are
not to receive a particle of what you expected would
be sent from thence ; the time and season passing away,
as I believe the troops in Boston also will, before the
season for taking the field arrives. I dare say they are
preparing for it now, as we have undoubted intelligence
of Clinton's leaving Boston with a number of troops,
believed to be designed for Long Island, or New York,
in consequence of assurances from Governor Tryon of
powerful aid from the Tories there.
* Armed vessels were now "fitting out in Philadelphia by order of the
Continental Congress, under the command of Commodore Hopkins,

276 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
I hope my countrymen of Virginia will rise superior
to any losses the whole navy of Great Britain can bring
on them, and that the destruction of Norfolk, and the
attempted devastation of other places, will have no other
effect, than to unite the whole country in one indissolu
ble bond. A few more of such flaming arguments, as
were exhibited at Falmouth and Norfolk,* added to
the sound doctrine and unanswerable reasoning con
tained in the pamphlet " Common Sense," will not leave
numbers at a loss to decide upon the propriety of a
separation. By a letter of the 21st instant from General Wooster,
I find, that Arnold was continuing the blockade of Que
bec on the 19th, which, under the heaviness of our loss
there, is a most favorable circumstance, and exhibits a
fresh proof of Arnold's ability and perseverance in the
midst of difficulties. The reinforcement ordered to him
will, I hope, complete the entire conquest of Canada
this winter ; and except for the loss of the gallant chief,
and his brave followers, I should think the rebuff rather
favorable than otherwise ; for had the country been sub
dued by such a handful of men, it is more than proba
ble, that it would have been left to the defence of a few,
and rescued from us in the spring. Our eyes will now
be open not only to the importance of holding it, but to
the numbers which are requisite to that end.
In my last I think I informed you of my sending
General Lee to New York, with the intention of securing
the Tories on Long Island, and preventing, if possi
ble, the King's troops from making a lodgment there ;
but I fear the Congress will be duped by the represen
tations from that government, or yield to them in such a
manner as to become marplots to the expedition. The
* The town of Norfolk, in Virginia, had been bombarded and burnt by
Lord Dunmore on the 1st of January.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 277
city seems to be entirely under the government of Try-
on and the captain of the man-of-war.
Mrs. Washington desires me to thank you for the
picture sent her. Mr. Campbell, whom I never saw, to
my knowledge, has made a very formidable figure of
the Commander-in-chief, giving him a sufficient portion
of terror in his countenance. Mrs. Washington also
desires her compliments to Mrs. Reed, as I do, and,
with the sincerest regard and affection, I remain, dear
Sir, your most obedient servant.
P. S. I had written the letter herewith enclosed be
fore your favor of the 21st came to hand. The account
given of the behaviour of the men under General Mont
gomery, is exactly consonant to the opinion I have
formed of these people, and such as they will exhibit
abundant proofs of, in similar cases whenever called
upon. Place them behind a parapet, a breast-work,
stone wall, or any thing that will afford them shelter,
and, from their knowledge of a firelock, they will give a
good account of the enemy ; but I am as well con
vinced, as if I had seen it, that they will not march
boldly up to a work, nor stand exposed in a plain ; and
yet, if we are furnished with the means, and the weather
will afford us a passage, and we can get in men, for
these three things are necessary, something must be
attempted. The men must be brought to face danger ;
they cannot always have an intrenchment or a stone
wall as a safeguard or shield ; and it is of essential im
portance, that the troops in Boston should be destroyed
if possible before they can be reinforced or removed.
This is clearly my opinion. Whether circumstances
will admit of the trial, and, if tried, what will be the
result, the All-wise Disposer of events alone can tell.
VOL. III. x

278 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 48.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 9 February, 1776.
Sir,
The purport of this letter will be directed to a single
object. Through you I mean to lay it before Congress,
and, at the same time that I beg their serious attention
to the subject, to ask pardon for intruding an opinion,
not only unasked, but, in some measure, repugnant to
their resolves.
The disadvantages attending the limited enlistment
of troops are too apparent to those, who are eyewit
nesses of them, to render any animadversions necessa
ry ; but to gentlemen at a distance, whose attention is
engrossed by a thousand important objects, the case
may be otherwise. That this cause precipitated the
fate of the brave and much-to-be-lamented General
Montgomery, and brought on the defeat, which followed
thereupon, I have not the most distant doubt ; for, had
he not been apprehensive of the troops leaving him at
so important a crisis, but continued the blockade of Que
bec, a capitulation, from the best accounts I have been
able to collect, must inevitably have followed. And that
we were not at one time obliged to dispute these lines,
under disadvantageous circumstances, proceeding from
the same cause, to wit, the troops disbanding of them
selves before the militia could be got in, is to me a mat
ter of wonder and astonishment, and proves, that Gene
ral Howe was either unacquainted with our situation, or
restrained by his instructions from putting any thing to
hazard, till his reinforcements should arrive.
The instance of General Montgomery (I mention it,
because it is a striking one, for a number of others
might be adduced) proves, that, instead of having men
to take advantage of circumstances, you are in a manner

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 279
compelled, right or wrong, to make circumstances yield
to a secondary consideration. Since the 1st of De
cember, I have been devising every means in my power
to secure these encampments ; and though I am sensi
ble that we never have, since that period, been able to
act upon the offensive, and at times not in a condition
to defend, yet the cost of marching home one set of
men, bringing in another, the havoc and waste occasion
ed by the first, the repairs necessary for the second,
with a thousand incidental charges and inconveniences,
which have arisen, and which it is scarce possible either
to recollect or describe, amount to near as much, as the
keeping up a respectable body of troops the whole time,
ready for any emergency, would have done. To this
may be added, that you never can have a well disci
plined army.
To bring men to be well acquainted with the duties
of a soldier, requires time. To bring them under proper
discipline and subordination, not only requires time, but
is a work of great difficulty, and, in this army, where
there is so little distinction- between the officers and
soldiers, requires an uncommon degree of attention.
To expect, then, the same service from raw and undis
ciplined recruits, as from veteran soldiers, is to expect
what never did and perhaps never will happen. Men,
who are familiarized to danger, meet it without shrink
ing ; whereas troops unused to service often apprehend
danger where no danger is. Three things prompt men
to a regular discharge of their duty in time of action ;
natural bravery, hope of reward, and fear of punish
ment. The two first are common to the untutored and
the disciplined soldier ; but the last most obviously dis
tinguishes the one from the other. A coward, when
taught to believe, that, if he breaks his ranks and aban
dons his colors, he will be punished with death by his

280 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 43.
own party, will take his chance against the enemy ; but
a man, who thinks little of the one, and is fearful of the
other, acts from present feelings, regardless of conse
quences. Again, men of a day's standing will not look forward ;
and from experience we find, that, as the time ap
proaches for their discharge, they grow careless of their
arms, ammunition, and camp utensils. Nay, even the
barracks themselves have felt uncommon marks of wan
ton depredation, and lay us under fresh trouble and
additional expense in providing for every fresh set,
when we find it next to impossible to procure such
articles, as are absolutely necessary in the first instance.
To this may be added the seasoning, which new recruits
must have to a camp, and the loss consequent there
upon. But this is not all. Men engaged for a short and
limited time only, have the officers too much in their
power ; for, to obtain a degree of popularity in order to
induce a second enlistment, a kind of familiarity takes
place, which brings on a relaxation of discipline, unli
censed furloughs, and other indulgences incompatible
with order and good government ; by which means the
latter part of the time, for which the soldier was engaged,
is spent in undoing what you were aiming to inculcate
in the first.
To go into an enumeration of all the evils we have
experienced, in this late great change of the army, and
the expenses incidental to it, to say nothing of the haz
ard we have run, and must run, between the discharging
of one army and enlistment of another, unless an enor
mous expense of militia is incurred, would greatly ex
ceed the bounds of a letter. What I have already
taken the liberty of saying will serve to convey a gene ¦
ral idea of the matter ; and therefore I shall, with all
due deference, take the freedom to give it as my opin-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 281
ion, that, if the Congress have any reason to believe,
that there will be occasion for troops another year, and
consequently for another enlistment, they would save
money, and have infinitely better troops, if they were,
even at a bounty of twenty, thirty, or more dollars, to
engage the men already enlisted till January next, and
such others as may be wanted to complete the establish
ment, for and during the war. I will not undertake to
say, that the men can be had upon these terms ; but I
am satisfied, that it will never do to let the matter alone,
as itwas last year, till the time of service was near ex
piring. The hazard is too great, in the first place ; in
the next, the trouble and perplexity of disbanding one
army and raising another at the same instant, and in
such a critical situation as the last was, are scarcely in
the power of words to describe, and such as no man,
who has experienced them once, will ever undergo
again. If Congress should differ from me in sentiment upon
this point, I have only to beg that they will do me the
justice to believe, that I have nothing more in view, than
what to me appears necessary to advance the public
weal, although in the first instance it will be attended
with a capital expense; and that I have the honor
to be, &,c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 9 February, 1776.
Sir,
In compliance with the resolves of Congress, I have
applied to General Howe for the exchange of Mr. Lov
ell. A copy of my letter, and his answer thereto, you
have enclosed. Captain Waters and Captain Tucker,
vol. hi. 36 x *

282 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 43.
who command two of the armed schooners, have taken
and sent into Gloucester a large brigantine, laden with
wood, a hundred and fifty butts for water, and forty
suits of bedding, bound from Lahave, in Nova Scotia, for
Boston. She is one of the transports in the ministerial
service. The captain says, that he was at Halifax the
17th of January, and that General Massey had arrived
there with two regiments from Ireland.
The different prizes were all libelled immediately on
the receipt of the resolves of Congress pointing out the
mode ; but none of them are yet brought to trial, owing
to a difference between the law passed in this province,
and the resolutions of Congress. The General Court
are making an amendment to their law, by which the
difficulties that now occur will be removed, as I under
stand it is to be made conformable to your resolves.
The unavoidable delay attending the bringing the cap
tures to trial is grievously complained of by the masters
of these vessels, as well as the captors.. Many of the
former have applied for liberty to go away without wait
ing the decision, which I have granted them.
I beg leave to recall the attention of Congress to their
appointing a commissary in these parts, to attend to the
providing of necessaries for the prisoners, who are dis
persed in these provinces. Complaints are made by
some of them, that they are in want of bedding and
many other things. As I understand that Mr. Franks
has undertaken that business, I wish he was ordered to
send a deputy immediately to see, that the prisoners get
what is allowed them by Congress ; also to supply the
officers with money, as they may have occasion. It
would save me much time and much trouble. There
are yet but few companies of the militia come in. This
delay will, I am much afraid, frustrate the intention of
their being called upon, as the season is slipping fast

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 283
away when they may be of service. The -demands of
the army were so very pressing before your last remit
tance came to hand, that I was under the necessity of
borrowing twenty-five thousand pounds lawful money
from this province. They very cheerfully lent it, and
passed a vote for as much more, if required. I have
not repaid the sum borrowed, as I may stand in need
of it before the arrival of another supply, which the
demands of the commissary-general, quartermaster-
general, and paying off the arrearages, will very soon
require. Your esteemed favor of the 29th ultimo is just come
to hand. It makes me very happy to find my conduct
has met the approbation of Congress. I am entirely
of your opinion, that, should an accommodation take
place, the terms will be severe or favorable in propor
tion to our ability to resist, and that we ought to be on
a respectable footing to receive their armaments in the
spring. But how far we shall be provided with the
means, is a matter I profess not to know, under my
present unhappy want of arms, ammunition, and, I may
add, men, as our regiments are very incomplete. The
recruiting goes on very slowly, and will, I apprehend, still
decline, if for other service the men receive a bounty,
and none is given here. I have tried every method I
could think of, to procure arms for our men. They
really are not to be had in these governments, belong
ing to the public ; and if some method is not fallen upon,
in the southern governments, to supply us, we shall be
in a distressed situation for want of them. There are
near two thousand men now in camp without firelocks.
I have written to the committee of New York this day,
requesting them to send me the arms, which were
taken from the disaffected in that government. The
Congress interesting themselves in this request will

284 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
doubtless have a good effect. I have sent officers into
the country, with money to purchase arms in the differ
ent towns. Some have returned, and brought in a
few ; many are still out ; what their success will be, I
cannot determine. I was in great hopes that the ex
presses, resolved to be established between this place
and Philadelphia, would ere now have been fixed. It
would, in my opinion, rather save than increase the ex
pense, as many horses are destroyed by one man
coming the whole way. It will certainly be more ex
peditious, and safer, than writing by the post or private
hands, which I am often under the necessity of doing.
I am, with great respect, &c.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 10 February, 1776.
Dear Sir,
If you conceive, that I took any thing wrong, or
amiss, that was conveyed in any of your former letters,
you are really mistaken. I only meant to convince you,
that nothing would give me more real satisfaction, than
to know the sentiments, which are entertained of me
by the public, whether they be favorable or otherwise ;
and I urged as a reason, that the man, who wished to
steer clear of shelves and rocks, must know where
they lie. I know the integrity of my own heart, but
to declare it, unless to a friend, may be an argument of
vanity ; I know the unhappy predicament I stand in ; I
know that much is expected of me ; I know, that with
out men, without arms, without ammunition, without any
thing fit for the accommodation of a soldier, little is to
be done ; and, what is mortifying, I know, that I cannot
stand justified to the world without exposing my own

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 285
weakness, and injuring the cause, by declaring my
wants, which I am determined not to do, further than
unavoidable necessity brings every man acquainted
with them.
If, under these disadvantages, I am able to keep
above water, in the esteem of mankind, I shall feel
myself happy ; but if, from the unknown peculiarity of
my circumstances, I suffer in the opinion of the world,
I shall not think you take the freedom of a friend, if
you conceal the reflections that may be cast upon my
conduct. My own situation is so irksome to me at
times, that, if I did not consult the public good, more
than my own tranquillity, I should long ere this have
put every thing on the cast of a die. So far from my
having an army of twenty thousand men well armed, I
have been here with less than one half of that number,
including sick, furloughed, and on command, and those
neither armed nor clothed, as they should be. In short,
my situation has been such, that I have been obliged to
use art to conceal it from my own officers.
The party sent to Bunker's Hill had some good and
some bad men engaged in it. One or two courts have
been held on the conduct of part of them. To be
plain, these people are not to be depended upon if ex
posed ; and any man will fight well if he thinks him
self in no danger. I do not apply this only to these
people. I suppose it to be the case with all raw and
undisciplined troops. You may rely upon it, that trans
ports left Boston six weeks ago with troops; where
they are gone, unless driven to the West Indies, I know
not. You may also rely upon General Clinton's sail
ing from Boston about three weeks ago, with about four
or five hundred men ; his destination I am also a stran
ger to. I am sorry to hear of the failures you speak
of from France. But why will not Congress forward

286 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
part of the powder made in your province 1 They
seem to look upon this as the season for action, but will
not furnish the means. I will not blame them. I dare
say the demands upon them are greater than they can
supply. The cause must be starved till our resources
are greater, or more certain within ourselves.
With respect to myself, I have never entertained
an idea of an accommodation, since I heard of the
measures, which were adopted in consequence of the
Bunker's Hill fight. The King's speech has confirmed
the sentiments I entertained upon the news of that
affair ; and, if every man was of my mind, the ministers
of Great Britain should know, in a few words, upon
what issue the cause should be put. I would not be
deceived by artful declarations, nor specious pretences ;
nor would I be amused by unmeaning propositions ; but
in open, undisguised, and manly terms proclaim our
wrongs, and our resolution to be redressed. I would
tell them, that we had borne much, that we had long
and ardently sought for reconciliation upon honorable
terms, that it had been denied us, that all our attempts
after peace had proved abortive, and had been grossly
misrepresented, that we had done every thing which
could be expected from the best of subjects, that the
spirit of freedom rises too high in us to submit to sla
very, and that, if nothing else would satisfy a tyrant and
his diabolical ministry, we are determined to shake off
all connexions with a state so unjust and unnatural.
This I would tell them, not under covert, but in words
as clear as the sun in its meridian brightness.
I observe what you say, in respect to the ardor of
the chimney-corner heroes. I am glad their zeal is in
some measure abated, because if circumstances will not
permit us to make an attempt upon Boston, or if it
should be made and fail, we shall not appear altogether

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 287
so culpable. I entertain -the same opinion of the at
tempt now, which I have ever done. I believe an as
sault would be attended with considerable loss, and I
believe it wrould succeed, if the men should behave well.
As to an attack upon Bunker's Hill, unless it could be
carried by surprise, the loss, I conceive, would be greater
in proportion than at Boston ; and, if a defeat should
follow, it would be discouraging to the men, but highly
animating if crowned with success. Great good, or
great evil, would consequently result from it.
The Congress have ordered all captures to be tried
in the courts of admiralty of the different governments
to which they are sent. Some irreconcilable difference
arising between the resolves of Congress, and the law
of this colony, respecting the proceedings, or something
which always happens to procrastinate business here,
has put a total stop to the trials, to the no small injury
of the public, as well as the great grievance of individuals.
Whenever a condemnation shall take place, I shall not
be unmindful of your advice respecting the hulls.
Would to heaven the plan you speak of for obtaining
arms may succeed. The acquisition would be great,
and give fresh life and vigor to our measures. Our ex
pectations are kept alive, and if we can keep ourselves
so, and our spirits up another summer, I have no fears
of wanting the needful after that.
We have had a most laborious piece of work at
Lechmere's Point, on account of the frost. We hope
to get it finished on Sunday. It is within as command
ing a distance of Boston as Dorchester Hill, though of
a different part. Our vessels now and then pick up a
prize or two. Our Commodore Manly was very near
being caught about eight days ago, but happily escaped
with his vessel and crew after running the former on
shore, scuttling, and defending her.

288 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 4a
I recollect nothing else worth giving you the trouble
of, unless you can be amused by reading a letter and
poem addressed to me by Miss Phillis Wheatley. In
searching over a parcel of papers the other day, in order
to destroy such as were useless, I brought it to light
again. At first, with a view of doing justice to her
poetical genius, I had a great mind to publish the poem ;
but not knowing whether it might not be considered
rather as a mark of my own vanity, than as a compli
ment to her, I laid it aside, till I came across it again in
the manner just mentioned. I congratulate you upon
your election, although I consider it as the coup de grace
to my expectation of ever seeing you a resident with
me this campaign. I have only to regret the want of
you, if that should be the case ; and I shall do it the
more feelingly, as I have experienced the good effects
of your aid. I am, with Mrs. Washington's compliments
to Mrs. Reed, and my best respects, dear Sir, your
most obedient and affectionate servant.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 14 February, 1776.
Sir,
Through you, I beg leave to lay before Congress the en
closed letter from Lord Drummond to General Robert
son, which came to my hands a few days ago, in order
to be sent into Boston.
As I never heard of his Lordship's being vested with
power to treat with Congress upon the subject of our
grievances, nor of his having laid any propositions before
them for an accommodation, I confess it surprised me
much, and led me to form various conjectures of his
motives, and intended application to General Howe and

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 289
Admiral Shuldham for a passport for the safe conduct
of such deputies, as Congress might appoint for nego
tiating terms of reconciliation between Great Britain and
us. Whatever his intentions are, however benevolent
his designs may be, I confess that his letter has em
barrassed me much ; and I am not without suspicion of
its meaning more than the generous purposes it pro
fesses. I should suppose, that, if the mode for negotiation,
which he points out, should be adopted (which I hope
will never be thought of), it ought to have been fixed
and settled previous to any application of this sort ; and
at best, that his conduct in this instance is premature
and officious, and leading to consequences of a fatal and
injurious nature to the rights of this country. His zeal
and desire, perhaps, of an amicable and constitutional
adjustment taking place, may have suggested and pre
cipitated the measure. Be that as it may, I thought it
of too much importance to suffer it to go in without
having the express direction of Congress for that pur
pose ; and that it was my indispensable duty to transmit
to them the original, to make such interpretations and
inferences as they may think right.*
Messrs. Willard and Child, who were sent to Nova
Scotia in pursuance of the resolve of Congress, have
just returned, and made their report, which I do myself
the honor to enclose. They have not answered the
purposes of their commission by any means, as they only
went a little way into that country, and found their in
telligence upon the information of others. You will see
the reasons they assign in excuse or justification of their
conduct, in the report itself. Last night a party of
regulars, said to be about five hundred, landed on Dor-
* See Appendix, No. XIII.
VOL. III. 37 Y I

290 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 43.
Chester Neck, and burned some of the houses there,
which were of no value to us; nor would they have
been, unless we take post there ; they then might be of
some service. A detachment went after them as soon
as the fire was discovered ; but before it could arrive,
they had executed their plan, and made their retreat.
I am, &,c. *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 18 February, 1776.
Sir,
The late freezing weather having formed some pretty
strong ice from Dorchester Point to Boston Neck, and
from Roxbury to the Common, thereby affording a
more expanded and consequently a less dangerous ap
proach to the town, I could not help thinking, notwith
standing the militia were not all come in, and we had
little or no powder to begin our operation by a regular
cannonade or bombardment, that a bold and resolute
assault upon the troops in Boston, with such men as we
had (for it could not take many men to guard our own
fines, at a time when the enemy were attacked in all
quarters), might be crowned with success. Therefore,
seeing no certain prospect of a supply of powder on
the one hand, and a certain dissolution of the ice on the
other, I called the general officers together for their

* In describing this adventure, General Howe wrote to Lord Dart
mouth, that, it being understood the enemy intended to take possession of
Dorchester Point, or Neck, a detachment was ordered from Castle Wil
liam under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Leslie, and another of
grenadiers and light infantry commanded by Major Musgrave, with di
rections to pass over the ice and destroy every house and every kind of
cover on that peninsula, which was executed, and six of the enemy's
guard taken prisoners.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 291
opinion, agreeably to the resolve of Congress, of the
22d of December.*
The result will appear in the enclosed council of
war ; and, being almost unanimous, I must suppose it to
be right ; although, from a thorough conviction of the
necessity of attempting something against the ministeri
al troops before a reinforcement should arrive, and while
we were favored with the ice, I was not only ready, but
willing, and desirous of making the assault, under a firm
hope, if the men would have stood by me, of a favora
ble issue, notwithstanding the enemy's advantage of
ground and artillery. Perhaps the irksomeness of my
situation may have given different ideas to me, from
those which influenced the gentlemen whom I consulted,
and might have inclined me to put more to the hazard,
than was consistent with prudence. If it did, I am not
sensible of it, as I endeavoured to give it all the considera
tion, that a matter of such importance required. True
it is, and I cannot help acknowledging it, that I have
many disagreeable sensations on account of my situa
tion ; for, to have the eyes of the whole continent fixed
with anxious expectation of hearing of some great event,
and to be restrained in every military operation, for
want of the necessary means of carrying it on, is not
very pleasing, especially as the means, used to conceal
my weakness from the enemy, conceal it also from our
friends, and add to their wonder.
I do not utter this by way of complaint. I am sensi
ble that all that the Congress could do, they have done ;
and I should feel most powerfully the weight of conscious
ingratitude, were I not to acknowledge this. But as
* Congress had resolved, that, if General Washington and his council
should' be of the opinion, that a successful attack could be made on the
troops in Boston, he should make it, notwithstanding the town and property
in it might thereby be destroyed.

292 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
we have accounts of the arrival of powder by Captain
Mason, I would beg to have it sent on in the most ex
peditious manner ; otherwise we shall not only lose all
chance of the benefits resulting from the season, but of
the militia, who are brought in at a most enormous ex
pense, upon a presumption that we should, long ere this,
have been amply supplied with powder, under the con
tracts entered into with the committee of Congress.
I have the honor to be, &c*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL LEE.
Cambridge, 26 February, 3776.
Dear Sir,
I received your esteemed favor of the 14th' instant,
which gave me great pleasure, being impatient to hear
from you. I rejoice to find that you are getting better,
and I could not avoid laughing at Captain Parker's rea
sons for not putting his repeated threats into execu
tion, f I take notice of your intended dispositions for

* On the 16th of February a council was held, in which the Comman
der-in-chief advanced what he deemed strong reasons for making an
immediate assault on the town of Boston, by proceeding from Cambridge
and Roxbury over the ice, which was then frozen sufficiently hard. This
opinion was overruled by the council on the grounds, that there was not
force enough for such an attempt, that the army was deficient in arms and
powder, and that the impression of the field-officers generally was un
favorable to such a measure. It was, however, resolved, that a cannonade
and bombardment would be advisable as soon as there should be a proper
supply of powder, and that in the mean time preparations ought to be
made for taking possession of Dorchester Heights, and of Noddle's Island
also, if it could be effected.
f General Lee had written; — "The governor, and the captain of a
man-of-war, had threatened perdition to the town, if the cannon were re
moved from the batteries and wharves ; but I ever considered their threats

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. -293
defence, which I request you will lose no time in put
ting into execution, as, from many corroborating accounts
I have received, the enemy seem to prepare for their
departure from Boston. They have removed the two
mortars from Bunker's Hill, and carried them with a
great part of their heavy brass cannon on board their
ships. They have taken all the topsail vessels in the
harbour into the service. They are ready watered, and
their sails bent. All this show may be only a feint ; but
if real, and they should come your way, I wish you may
be prepared to receive them. If I find that they are in
earnest, and do go off, I will immediately send you a
reinforcement from this camp, and, if necessary, march
the main body to your assistance, as circumstances may
require. I shall keep a good watch on their motions,
and give you the speediest information possible.
Lechmere's Point is now very strong ; I am sending
some heavy cannon thither. The platform for a mortar
is preparing to be placed in the works there ; another
at Lamb's Dam ; and we are making the necessary
disposition to possess ourselves of Dorchester Heights,
which must bring them on if any thing will. If they
do not interrupt us in that work, I shall be confirmed in
my opinion, that they mean to leave the town. A little
time must now determine, whether they are resolved to
as a brutum fulmen, and even persuaded the town to be of the same way
of thinking. We accordingly conveyed them to a place of safety in the
middle of the day, and no cannonade ensued. Captain Parker publishes
a pleasant reason for his passive conduct. He says that it was manifestly
my intention, and that of the New England men under my command, to
bring destruction on this town, so hated for its loyal principles, but that he
was determined not to indulge us ; so remained quiet out of spite. The
people here laugh at his nonsense, and begin to despise the menaces,
which formerly used to throw them into convulsions. To do them justice,
the whole show a wonderful alacrity ; and, in removing the cannon, men
and boys of all ages worked with the greatest zeal and pleasure. I really
believe that the generality are as well affected as any on the continent."
Y*

294 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
maintain their present ground or look out for another
post. I will now return to your letter.
The account you give of our New York brethren is
very satisfactory. I should be glad to know how many
men you are likely to have, that you can depend upon
remaining with you. I very much fear, that the sailing
of Clinton will keep back those, whom you expected
from Pennsylvania. Let me hear from you upon this
and every thing else that concerns you, as soon and as
often as you possibly can. With respect to the Canada
expedition, I assure you, that it was not my intention to
propose your going there. I only meant what I thought
would happen, that the Congress would make you that
proposal. I am now of opinion, that you will have
work enough upon your hands where you are; and
make no doubt but your presence will be as necessary
there, as it would be in Canada.* I am glad that
Colonel Ritzema is gone to Congress, and I hope they
will expedite an army thither, not only to preserve what
we have already got, but also to possess ourselves of
Quebec before it can be reinforced from Europe or else
where. It is an object of such vast importance, that it
will be madness not to strain every sinew for effecting
that purpose. I am in some pain for our little fleet, as
I am informed that the Asia and Phoenix have sailed in

* By a resolve of Congress on the 17th of February, General Lee was
ordered to take the command in Canada, and General Schuyler to take his
place in New York. But the state of affairs at the south caused this
arrangement to be changed, before it was carried into effect. On the
27th of February, Congress formed what were called the middle and
southern military departments ; the former consisting of New York, New
Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland ; and the latter of Virginia,
North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. General Lee was directed,
March 1st, to take command of the southern department, and on the 7th
he left New York, in compliance with that order. Four brigadiers, Arm
strong, Lewis, Howe, and Moore, appointed the same day, were likewise
ordered to that department.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 295
quest of it. You doubtless had good reasons for the
appointment you mention having made;* as it is tem
porary, it can have no bad effect.
I am with great regard, yours, &c.

TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Cambridge, 26 February, 1776.
Gentlemen,
As I am making all possible preparation to take pos
session of the Heights of Dorchester, which I expect I
shall be able to accomplish by the latter end of this
week, it is believed that this, if any thing can, will
bring the enemy out of Boston to oppose, as at Charles
town, our erecting any works there. To weaken our
fines on the north side of Cambridge River, to strength
en those of Dorchester before any movement is made
that way by the enemy, may neither be consistent with
prudence nor good policy ; and to delay it till after an at
tack is begun, would be too late, as the contest will soon
be decided for or against us, after this happens. In
this state of the matter, and to avoid putting an affair of
so much importance to a doubtful issue, when under
Providence it may be reduced to a certainty, I submit it
to the wisdom of your Board, whether it may not be
best to direct the militia of certain towns, most contig-
* In General Lee's letter he had said ; — " You must pardon me for a
liberty I have taken! You know that Sears was to collect our volun
teers in Connecticut, but he thought he could not succeed, unless he had
some nominal office and rank. I accordingly most imprudently, by virtue
of the power deputed by you to me (which power you never deputed), ap
pointed him adjutant-general, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel, for the
expedition. It can have no bad consequences. The man was much
tickled, and it added spurs to his hat. He is a creature of much spirit
and public virtue.''

296 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
uous to Dorchester and Roxbury, to. repair to the lines
at those places, with their arms, ammunition, and accou
trements, instantly upon a signal given. If you approve
of this, you will please to fix with General Thomas,
who waits on you for that purpose, upon the signal to
be given, and issue your notices accordingly.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, Gentle
men, yours, &,c*

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 26 February, 1776.
Dear Sir,
We have, under many difficulties on account of hard
frozen ground, completed our work on Lechmere's
Point. We have got some heavy pieces of ordnance
placed there, two platforms fixed for mortars, and every
thing ready for any offensive operation. Strong guards
are now mounted there, and at Cobble Hill.
* " February 26th. All officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers
are positively forbid playing at cards and other games of chance. At
this time of public distress, men may find enough to do in the service of
their God and their country, without abandoning themselves to vice and
immorality. " As the season is now fast approaching, when every man must expect
to be drawn into the field of action, it is highly important that he should
prepare his mind, as well as every thing necessary for it. It is a noble
cause we are engaged in ; it is the cause of virtue and mankind ; every
temporal advantage and comfort to us and our posterity depends upon the
vigor of our exertions ; in short, freedom or slavery must be the result of
our conduct ; there can therefore be no greater inducement to men to be
have well. But it may not be amiss for the troops to know, that if any
man in action shall presume to skulk, hide himself, or retreat from the
enemy without the orders of his commanding officer, he will be instantly
shot down as an example of cowardice ; cowards having too frequently
disconcerted the best formed troops, by their dastardly behaviour." — Or
derly Book. ,

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 297
About ten days ago the severe freezing weather
formed some pretty strqng ice from Dorchester to Bos
ton Neck, and from Roxbury to the Common. This I
thought, knowing the ice could not last, a favorable
opportunity to make an assault upon the troops in town.
I proposed it in council ; but behold, though we had
been waiting all the year for this favorable event, the
enterprise was thought too dangerous. Perhaps it was ;
perhaps the irksomeness of my situation led me to un
dertake more than could be warranted by prudence. I
did not think so, and I am sure yet, that the enterprise,
if it had been undertaken with resolution, must have
succeeded ; without it, any would fail ; but it is now at
an end, and I am preparing to take post on Dorchester
Heights, to try if the enemy will be so kind as to come
out to us. Ten regiments of militia, you must know,
had come in to strengthen my hands for offensive mea
sures; but what I have said respecting the determi
nations in council, and the possessing of Dorchester
Point, is spoken under the rose. I am, &c.

TO MISS PHILLIS WHEATLEY.* Cambridge, 28 February, 1776.
Miss Phillis,
Your favor of the 26th of October did not reach my
hands, till the middle of December. Time enough,
* Phillis Wheatley was born in Africa, and brought to Boston in a slave-
ship, in the year 1761, then between seven and eight years of age. She
was purchased by Mr. Wheatley, but she soon discovered qualities so in
teresting and peculiar, that she was treated more as an inmate ofthe fam
ily, than as a slave. She made an extraordinary progress in acquiring the
English language, and, without any advantage from schools, learned read
ing and writing, and manifested the greatest eagerness for gleaning
knowledge. Her taste inclined to poetry ; she read and relished the best
vol. in. 38

298 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
you will say, to have given an answer ere this. Grant
ed. But a variety of important occurrences, continually
interposing to distract the mind and withdraw the at
tention, I hope will apologize for the delay, and plead
my excuse for the seeming but not real neglect. I
thank you most sincerely for your polite notice of me,
in the elegant lines you enclosed ; and however unde
serving I may be of such encomium and panegyric, the
style and manner exhibit a striking proof of your poeti
cal talents ; in honor of which, and as a tribute justly
due to you, I would have published the poem, had I
not been apprehensive, that, while I only meant to give
the world this new instance of your genius, I might
have incurred the imputation of vanity. This, and
nothing else, determined me not to give it place in the
public prints.
If you should ever come to Cambridge, or near
head-quarters, I shall be happy to see a person so fa
vored by the Muses, and to whom nature has been so
liberal and beneficent in her dispensations. I am, with
great respect, your obedient humble servant.

authors, and soon began to compose verses. Meantime the attention of
the community was turned to so singular a phenomenon, and she was
visited and noticed by people of the first character. Her correspondence
was sought, and it extended to persons of distinction even in England,
among whom may be named the Countess of Huntingdon, Whitefield, and
the Earl of Dartmouth. In 1773, when she was nineteen years of age, a
volume of her poems was published in London, some of which had been
written five or six years. This volume is dedicated to the Countess of
Huntingdon, and in the preface are the names ofthe Governor of Massa
chusetts, and several other eminent gentlemen, bearing testimony to their
belief of her having been the genuine writer of the poems. In whatever
order of merit they may be ranked, it cannot be doubted, that they exhibit
the most favorable evidence on record, of the capacity of the African in
tellect for improvement. The classical allusions are numerous, and imply
a wide compass of reading, a correct judgment, good taste, and a tenacious
memory. Her deportment is represented to have been gentle and unpre
tending, her temper amiable, her feelings refined, and her religious im-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 299
TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 3 March, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Your favors of the 28th of January, and 1st and 8th of
February, are come to hand. For the agreeable accounts,
contained in one of them, of your progress in the manu
facture of powder, and prospect of getting arms, I am
obliged to you; as there is some consolation in knowing,
that these useful articles will supply the wants of some
part of the Continental troops, although I feel too sensi
bly the mortification of having them withheld from me ;
Congress not even thinking it necessary to take the
least notice of my application for these things.
I hope in a few nights to be in readiness to take post
on Dorchester Point, as we are using every means in
our power to provide materials for this - purpose ; the
ground being so hard frozen yet, that we cannot in
trench, and therefore are obliged to depend entirely
upon chandeliers, fascines, and screwed hay for our re
doubts. It is expected that this work will bring on an
action between the King's troops and ours.
General Lee's expedition to New York was founded
upon indubitable evidence of General Clinton's being on

pressions strong and constant. She was married, at what time is uncer
tain, to Mr. John Peters, a man of her own color, whom tradition reports to
have been little qualified for conferring happiness on so gifted a com
panion. She died at Boston, December 5th, 1784, aged thirty-one years.
I have not been able to find, among Washington's papers, the letter and
poem addressed to him. They have doubtless been lost. From the cir
cumstance of her invoking the muse in his praise, and from the tenor of
some of her printed pieces, particularly one addressed to King George
seven years before, in which she compliments him on the repeal of the
Stamp Act, it may be inferred, that she was a whig in politics after the
American way of thinking ; and it might be curious to see in what man
ner she would eulogize liberty and the rights of man, while herself, nomi
nally at least, in bondage.

300 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
the point of sailing. No place was so likely for his des
tination as New York, and no place where a more capi
tal blow could be given to the interests of America.
Common prudence, therefore, dictated the necessity of
preventing an evil, which might have proved irremedi
able, had it happened. But I confess to you honestly,
I had no idea of running the Continent to the expense,
which was incurred, or that such a body of troops would
go from Connecticut as did, or be raised upon the terms
they were. You must know, my good Sir, that Captain
Sears was here, with some other gentlemen of Connec
ticut, when the intelligence of Clinton's embarkation (at
least the embarkation of the troops) came to hand.
The situation of these lines would not afford a detach
ment. New York could not be depended upon ; and
of the troops in Jersey we had no certain information,
either as to their numbers or destination. What then
was to be done ? Why Sears and these other gentle
men assured me, that if the necessity of the case was
signified by me, and General Lee should be sent, one
thousand volunteers, requiring no pay, but supplied with
provisions only, would march immediately to New York,
and defend the place, till Congress could determine
what should be done, and that a line from me to Gover
nor Trumbull to obtain his sanction would facilitate the
measure. This I accordingly wrote in precise terms,
intending that these volunteers, and such of the Jersey
regiments as could be speedily assembled, should be
thrown into the city for its defence, and for disarming
the Tories upon Long Island, who, I understood, had
become extremely insolent and daring. When, behold,
instead of volunteers, consisting of gentlemen without
pay, the Governor directed men to be voluntarily en
listed for this service upon Continental pay and allow
ance. This, you wdll observe, was contrary to my ex-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 301
pectation and plan ; yet, as I thought it a matter of the
last importance to secure the communication of the
North River, I did not deem it expedient to counter
mand the raising of the Connecticut regiments on ac
count of the pay. If I have done wrong, those members
of Congress, who think the matter ought to have been
left to them, must consider my proceedings as an error
of judgment, and that a measure is not always to be
judged by the event.
It is moreover worthy of consideration, that in cases
of extreme necessity like the present, nothing but de
cision can ensure success ; and certain I am, that Clin
ton had something more in view by peeping into New
York, than to gratify his curiosity, or make a friendly
visit to his friend Mr. Tryon. However, I am not fond
of stretching my powers ; and if the Congress will say,
" Thus far and no farther you shall go," I will promise
not to offend whilst I continue in their service.
I observe what you say in respect to my wagon. I
wanted nothing more, than a light travelling-wagon,
such as those of New Jersey, with a secure cover,
which might be under lock arid key, the hinges being
on one side, the lock on the other. I have no copy of
the memorandum of the articles, which I desired you to
provide for me, but think one dozen and a half of camp
stools, a folding table, plates, and dishes, were among
them. What I meant, therefore, was, that the bed of
the wagon should be constructed in such a manner, as
to stow these things to the best advantage. If you can
not get them with you, I shall despair of providing them
here, as workmen are scarce, and most exorbitantly
high in their charges. What I should aim at is, when
the wagon and things are ready (which ought to be
very soon, as I do not know how soon we may beat a
march), to buy a pair of clever horses, of the same color,
VOL. III. Z

302 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mr. 44.
hire a careful driver, and let the whole come off at once;
and then they will be ready for immediate service. I
have no doubt that the treasury, by application to Mr.
Hancock, will direct payment thereof, without any kind
of difficulty, as Congress must be sensible, that I cannot
take the field without equipage, and after I have once
got into a tent I shall not soon quit it. I am, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 7 March, 1776.
Sir,
On the 26th ultimo I had the honor of addressing
you, and then mentioned that we were making prepara
tions for taking possession of Dorchester Heights. I
now beg leave to inform you, that a council of general
officers having determined a previous bombardment and
cannonade expedient and proper, in order to harass the
enemy and divert their attention from that quarter, on
Saturday, Sunday, and Monday nights last, we carried
them on from our posts at Cobble Hill, Lechmere's
Point, and Lamb's Dam.* Whether they did the en
emy any considerable and what injury, I have not yet
heard, but have the pleasure to acquaint you, that they
greatly facilitated our schemes, and would have been
attended with success equal to our most sanguine ex
pectations, had it not been for the unlucky bursting of
two thirteen and three ten inch mortars, among which
was the brass one taken in the ordnance brig. To
what cause to attribute this misfortune, I know not;
whether to any defect in them, or to the inexperience
of the bombardiers. * The position of a battery in Roxbury.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 303
But to return ; on Monday evening, as soon as our
firing commenced, a considerable detachment of our
men, under the command of Brigadier-General Thomas,
crossed the neck, and took possession of the two hills,
without the least interruption or annoyance from the
enemy ; and by their great activity and industry, before
the morning, advanced the works so far as to be secure
against their shot. They are now going on with such
expedition, that in a little time I hope they will be com
plete, and enable our troops stationed there to make a
vigorous and obstinate stand. During the whole can
nonade, which was incessant the two last nights, we
were fortunate enough to lose but two men ; one, a lieu
tenant, by a cannon-ball taking off his thigh ; the other,
a private, by the explosion of a shell, which also slightly
wounded four or five more.
Our taking possession of Dorchester Heights is only
preparatory to taking post on Nook's Hill, and the
points opposite to the south end of Boston. It was ab
solutely necessary, that they should be previously forti
fied, in order to cover and command them. As soon as
the works on the former are finished, measures will be
immediately adopted for securing the latter, and making
them as strong and defensible as we can. Their con
tiguity to the enemy will make them of much impor
tance and of great service to us. As mortars are
essential, and indispensably necessary for carrying on
our operations, and for the prosecution of our plans, I
have applied to two furnaces to have some thirteen-inch
ones cast with all expedition imaginable, and am en
couraged to hope, from the accounts I have had, that
they will be able to do it. When they are done, and a
proper supply of powder obtained, I flatter myself, from
the posts we have just taken and are about to, take, that
it will be in our power to force the ministerial troops to

304 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
an attack, or to dispose of them in some way, that will
be of advantage to us. I think from these posts they
will be so galled and annoyed, that they must either
give us battle or quit their present possessions. I am
resolved that nothing on my part shall be wanting to
effect the one or the other.
It having been the general opinion, that the enemy
would attempt to dislodge our people from the Heights,
and force their works as soon as they were discovered,
which probably might have brought on a general en
gagement, it was thought advisable, that the honorable
Council * should be applied to, to order in the militia
from the neighbouring and adjacent towns. I wrote to
them on the subject, which they most readily complied
with ; and, in justice to the militia, I cannot but inform
you, that they came in at the appointed time, and mani
fested the greatest alertness, and determined resolution
to act like men engaged in the cause of freedom.
When the enemy first discovered our works in the
morning, they seemed to be in great confusion, and,
from their movements, to intend an attack. It is
much to be wished, that it had been made. The
event, I think, must have been fortunate, and nothing
less than success and victory on our side, as our officers
and men appeared impatient for the appeal, and to
possess the most animated sentiments and determined
resolution. On Tuesday evening a considerable num
ber of their troops embarked on board of their trans
ports, and fell down to the Castle, where part of them
landed before dark. One or two of the vessels got
aground, and were fired at by our people with a field-
piece, but without any damage. What was the design
of this embarkation and landing, I have not been able to
* The Council ofthe Massachusetts legislature.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 305
learn. It would seem as if they meant an attack ; for it
is most probable, that, if they make one on our works at
Dorchester at this time, they will first go to the Castle,
and come from thence. If such was their design, a vio
lent storm that night, which lasted till eight o'clock
the next day, rendered the execution of it impracticable.
It carried one or two of their vessels ashore, which they
have since got off.
In case the ministerial troops had made an attempt to
dislodge our men from Dorchester Heights, and the
number detached upon the occasion had been so great
as to have afforded a probability of a successful attack
being made upon Boston ; on a signal given from Rox
bury for that purpose, agreeably to a settled and con
certed plan, four thousand chosen men, who were held
in readiness, were to have embarked at the mouth of
Cambridge River, in two divisions, the first under the
command of Brigadier- General Sullivan, the second
under Brigadier-General Greene; the whole to have
been commanded by Major-General Putnam. The first
division was to land at the powder-house, and gain pos
session of Beacon Hill and Mount Horam ; the second
at Barton's Point, or a little south of it, and, after secur
ing that post, to join the other division, and force the
enemy's gates and works at the neck, for letting in the
Roxbury troops. Three floating batteries were to have
preceded, and gone in front of the other boats, and kept
up a heavy fire on that part of the town where our men
were to land.
How far our views would have succeeded, had an
opportunity offered for attempting the execution, it is
impossible for me to say. Nothing less than experiment
could determine with precision. The plan was thought
to be well digested ; and, as far as I could judge from
the cheerfulness and alacrity, which distinguished the
vol. hi. 39 z*

306 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
officers and men, who were to engage in the enterprise,
I had reason to hope for a favorable arid happy issue.*
The militia, who were ordered in from the adjacent
towns, brought with them three days' provision. They
were only called upon to act under the idea of an attack
being immediately made, and were all discharged this
afternoon. I beg leave to remind Congress, that three
major-generals are essential and necessary for this army;
and that, by General Lee's being called from hence to
the-command in Canada, the left division is without one.
I hope they will fill up the vacancy by the appointment
of another. General Thomas is the first brigadier, stands
fair in point of reputation, and is esteemed a brave and
good officer. If he is promoted, there will be a vacancy
in the brigadier-generals, which it will be necessary to
supply by the appointment of some other gentleman
that shall be agreeable to Congress ; but justice requires
me to mention, that William Thompson, of the rifle regi
ment, is the first colonel in this department, and, as far
as I have had an opportunity of judging, is a good offi
cer and a man of courage. What I have said of these
two gentlemen, I conceive to be my duty, at the same
time acknowledging, whatever promotions are made will
be satisfactory to me.
March 9th. — The account given by Captain Irvine,
as to the embarkation, and their being about to leave
the town, I believe true.f There are other circum-
*¦ He wrote to Colonel Reed, in relation to this affair ; — " I will not la
ment or repine at any act of Providence, because I am in a gTeat measure
a convert to Mr. Pope's opinion, that ' Whatever is, is right ' ; and I think
every thing had the appearance of a successful issue, if we had come to an
engagement on that day. It was the 5th of March, which I recalled to
their remembrance as a day never to be forgotten. An engagement was
fully expected, and I never saw spirits higher, or more ardor prevailing."
f Captain Irvine had escaped the night before from Boston, with six
.other persons, and had visited head-quarters.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 307
stances corroborating ; and it seems fully confirmed by
a paper signed by four of the selectmen of the town (a
copy of which I have the honor to enclose to you), which
was brought out yesterday evening by a flag, and de
livered to Colonel Learned, by Major Bassett, "of the
tenth regiment, who desired it might be delivered to me
as soon as possible. I advised with such of the general
officers upon the occasion as I could immediately as
semble ; and we determined it right (as it was not ad
dressed to me, nor to any one else, nor authenticated
by the signature of General Howe, or any other act
obliging him to a performance of the promise mentioned
on his part), that I should give it no answer; at the
same time, that a letter should be returned, as going
from Colonel Learned, signifying his having laid it be
fore me ; with the reasons assigned for not answering it.
A copy of this is sent.*
To-night I shall have a battery thrown up on Nook's
Hill, Dorchester Point, with a design of acting as cir
cumstances may require ; it being judged advisable to
prosecute our plans of fortification, as we intended be
fore this information from the selectmen came. It being
agreed on all hands, that there is no possibility of stop
ping them in case they determine to go, I shall order
look-outs to be kept upon all the head-lands, to discover
their movements and course, and moreover direct Com
modore Manly and his little squadron to dog them, as
well for the same purpose, as for picking up any of their
vessels, that may chance to depart from their convoy.
From their loading with such precipitancy, it is presum
able they will not be in the best condition for sea.
If the ministerial troops evacuate the town and leave
it standing, I have thoughts of taking measures for forti-
* See Appendix, No. XIV.

308 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
fying the entrance into the harbour, if it shall be thought
proper, and the situation of affairs will admit of it. Not
withstanding the report from Boston, that Halifax is the
place of their destination, I have no doubt but that they
are going to the southward, and, I apprehend, to New
York. Many reasons lead to this opinion. It is in
some measure corroborated by their sending an express
ship there, which, on Wednesday week, got on shore
and bilged at Cape Cod. The despatches, if written,
were destroyed when she was boarded. She had a
parcel of coal, and about four thousand cannon-shot, six
carriage-guns, a swivel or two, and three barrels of
powder. I shall hold the riflemen and other parts of our troops
in readiness to march at a moment's warning, and gov
ern my movements by the events that happen, or such
orders as I may receive from Congress, which I beg
may be ample, and forwarded with all possible expedi
tion. I have the honor to be, &.c.

TO JOSEPH REED. Cambridge, 7 March, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 18th ultimo came to my hands by
post last night, and gives me much pleasure, as I am led
to hope I shall see you in my family again. The terms
upon which you come will be perfectly agreeable to me,
and I should think you neither candid nor friendly, if
your communications on this subject had not been free,
unreserved, and divested of that false modesty, which
too often prevents the elucidation of points important to
be known. Mr. Baylor seeming to have an inclination

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 309
to go into the artillery, and Colonel Knox being desirous
of it, I have appointed Mr. Moylan and Mr. Palfrey my
aids-de-camp, so that I shall, if you come, have a good
many writers about me.
I think my countrymen made a capital mistake, when
they took Henry out of the senate to place him in the
field ; and pity it is, that he does not see this, and re
move every difficulty by a voluntary resignation. I am
of opinion, that Colonel Armstrong, if he retains his
health, spirits, and vigor, would be as fit a person as any
they could send to Virginia, as he is senior officer to
any now there, and I should think could give no offence ;
but to place Colonel Thompson there, in the first com
mand, would throw every thing into the utmost confu
sion ; for it was by mere chance that he became a colonel
upon this expedition, and by greater chance that he be
came first colonel in this army. To take him then from
another colony, place him over the heads of several gen
tlemen, under or with whom he has served in a subordi
nate character, would never answer any other purpose,
than that of introducing endless confusion. Such a
thing surely cannot be in contemplation ; and, knowing
the mischiefs it would produce, surely Colonel Thomp
son would have more sense, and a greater regard for
the cause he is engaged in, than to accept of it, unless
some uncommon abilities or exertions had given him a
superior claim. He must know, that nothing more than
being a captain of horse in the year 1759 (I think it
was) did very extraordinarily give him the start he now
has, when the rank was settled here. At the same
time, he must know another fact, that several officers
now in the Virginia service were much his superiors in
point of rank, and will not I am sure serve under him.
' He stands first colonel here, and may, I presume, put
in a very good and proper claim to the first brigade that

310 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
falls vacant ; but I hope more regard will be paid to the
service, than to send him to Virginia.
The bringing of Colonel Armstrong into this army as
major-general, however great his merit, would introduce
much confusion. Thomas, if no more, would surely
quit, and I believe him to be a good man. If Thomas
supplies the place of Lee, there will be a vacancy for
either Armstrong or Thompson; for I have heard of no
other valiant son of New England waiting promotion,
since the advancement of Frye, who has not, and, I
doubt will not, do much service to the cause.
I am sorry to hear of your ill-fated fleet. We had it,
I suppose because we wished it, that Hopkins had taken
Clinton, and his transports. How glorious would this
have been ! We have the proverb on our side, how
ever, that "a bad beginning will end well." This
applies to land and sea service. The account given of
the business of the commissioners from England seems
to be of a piece with Lord North's conciliatory motion
last year, built upon the same foundation, and, if true
that they are to be divided among the colonies to offer
terms of pardon, it is as insulting as that motion;* and
only designed, after stopping all intercourse with us, to
set us up to view in Great Britain, as a people that will
not hearken to any propositions of peace. Was there
ever any thing more absurd, than to repeal the very acts,
which have introduced all this confusion and bloodshed,
and at the same time enact a law to restrain all inter
course with the colonies for opposing them 1 The drift
and design are obvious ; but is it possible that any sen
sible nation upon earth can be imposed upon by such a
cobweb scheme, or gauze covering ? But enough.
* It was at first reported, that it was the design of the British govern
ment to send over a large number of commissioners to America, and that
they were to make advances to the colonies separately.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 311
March 9th. — Colonel Bull's still waiting to see a little
further into the event of things gives me an opportunity
of adding, that from a gentleman out of Boston, con
firmed by a paper from the selectmen there, we have
undoubted information of General Howe's preparing
with great precipitancy to embark his troops ; for what
place we know not ; Halifax, it is said. The selectmen,
being under dreadful apprehensions for the town, ap
plied to General Robertson to apply to General Howe,
who through General Robertson has informed them, that
it is not his intention to detroy the town, unless his Maj
esty's troops should be molested during their embarka
tion, or at their departure. This paper seems so much
under covert, unauthenticated, and addressed to nobody,
that I sent word to the selectmen, that I could take no
notice of it ; but I shall go on with my preparations as
intended. The gentlemen above mentioned out of Bos
ton say, that they seem to be in great consternation
there, that one of our shot from Lamb's Dam disabled
six men in their beds, and that the Admiral upon dis
covering our works next morning informed the General
that, unless we were dispossessed of them, he could not
keep the King's ships in the harbour ; and that three
thousand men, commanded by Lord Percy, were actu
ally embarked for that purpose. Of the issue of it you
have been informed before. I am, &,c.

to the president of congress.
Cambridge, 13 March, 1776.
Sir,
In my letter of the 7th and 9th instant, which I had
the honor of addressing you, I mentioned the intelli
gence I had received respecting the embarkation of the

312 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
troops from Boston; and fully expected, before this,
that the town would have been entirely evacuated. Al
though I have been deceived, and was rather premature
in the opinion I had then formed, I have little reason to
doubt but the event will take place in a very short time,
as other accounts, which have come to hand since, of
the sailing of a great number of transports from the har
bour to Nantasket Road, and many circumstances cor
responding therewith, seem to confirm and render it un
questionable. Whether the town will be destroyed, is
a matter of much uncertainty ; but it would seem, from
the destruction they are making of sundry pieces of fur
niture, of many of their wagons and carts, which they
cannot take with them as it is said, that it will not ; for,
if they intended it, the whole might be involved in one
general ruin.
Holding it of the last importance in the present con
test, that we should secure New York, and prevent the
enemy from possessing it, and conjecturing they have
views of that sort, and their embarkation to be for that
purpose, I judged it necessary, under the situation of
things here, to call a council of general officers to con
sult on such measures, as might be expedient to be
taken at this interesting conjuncture of affairs. A copy
of the proceedings I have the honor to enclose to you.
Agreeably to the opinion of the council, I shall detach
the rifle regiment to-morrow, under the command of
Brigadier- General Sullivan, with orders to repair to New
York with all possible expedition ; which will be suc
ceeded the day after by the other five in one brigade,
they being all that it was thought advisable to send from
hence, till the enemy shall have quitted the town. Im
mediately upon their departure, I shall send forward
Major-General Putnam, and follow myself with the re
mainder of the army, as soon as I have it in my power,

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 313
leaving here such a number of men, as circumstances
may seem to require.
As the badness of the roads at this season will great
ly retard the march of our men, I have, by advice of
the general officers, written to Governor Trumbull by
this express, to use his utmost exertions for throwing a
reinforcement of two thousand men into New York,
from the western parts of Connecticut ; and to the
commanding officer there, to apply to the Provincial
Convention or Committee of Safety of New Jersey, for
a thousand more for the same purpose, to oppose the
enemy and prevent their getting possession, in case they
arrive before the troops from hence can get there ; of
which there is a probability, unless they are impeded by
contrary winds. This measure, though it may be at
tended with considerable expense, I flatter myself will
meet with, the approbation of Congress. Past experi
ence, and the lines in Boston and on Boston Neck,
point ,out the propriety, and suggest the necessity, of
keeping our enemies from gaining possession and
making a lodgment. Should their destination be further
southward, or for Halifax, as reported in Boston, for the
purpose of going into Canada, the march of our troops
to New York will place them nearer the scene of action,
and more convenient for affording succour. We have
not taken post on Nook's Hill, and fortified it, as I men
tioned we should in my last. On hearing, that the ene
my were, about to retreat and leave the town, it was
thought imprudent and unadvisable to force them with
too much precipitation, that we might gain a little time
and prepare for a march. To-morrow evening we shall
take possession of it, unless they are gone. As New
York is of such importance, prudence and policy re
quire that every precaution, that can be devised, should
be adopted to frustrate the designs, which the enemy
vol. in. > 40 AA

314 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
have of possessing it. To this end I have ordered ves
sels to be provided, and held ready at Norwich, for the
embarkation and transportation of our troops thither.
This I have done with a view not only of greatly expe
diting their arrival, as it will save several days' march
ing, but also that they may be fresh and fit for intrench
ing and throwing up works of defence, as soon as they
get there, if they do not meet, the enemy to contend
with ; for neither of which would they be in a proper
condition, after a long and fatiguing march in bad roads.
If Wallace, with his ships, should be apprized of the
measure, and attempt to prevent it by stopping up the
harbour of New London, they can but pursue their
march by land.
You will please to observe, that it is the opinion of the
general officers, if the enemy abandon the town, that it
will be unnecessary to employ or keep any part of this
army for its defence ; and that I have mentioned, on
that event happening, I shall immediately repair to New
York with the remainder of the army not now detach
ed, leaving only such a number of men here as circum
stances may seem to require. What I partly allude to is,
that, — as it will take a considerable time for the removal
of such a body of men, and the divisions must precede
each other in such order as to allow intermediate time
sufficient for them to be covered and provided for, and
many things done previous to the march of the whole,
for securing and forwarding such necessaries, as cannot
be immediately carried, and others which it may be
proper to keep here, — directions might be received from
Congress respecting the same, and as many men order
ed to remain for that and other purposes, as they may
judge proper. I could wish to have their commands
upon the subject, and in time, as I may be under some
degree of embarrassment as to their views. Congress

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 315
having been pleased to appoint Colonel Thompson a
brigadier-general, there is a vacancy for a colonel in the
regiment he commanded, to which I would beg leave to
recommend Lieutenant-Colonel Hand. I shall also take
the liberty of recommending Captain Hugh Stephenson,
of the Virginia riflemen, to succeed Colonel Hand, and
to be appointed in his place as lieutenant-colonel, there
being no major to the regiment, since, the promotion of
Major -Magaw to be lieutenant-colonel of one of the
Pennsylvania battalions, who is gone from hence. He
is, in my opinion, the fittest person in this army for
it, as well as the oldest captain in the service, having
distinguished himself at the head of a rifle company all
the last war, and highly merited the approbation of his
superior officers. I am, &,c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL LEE.
Head-Quarters, Cambridge, 14 March, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I am indebted to you for your three several favors,
which I should have acknowledged sooner, had not the
great hurry and bustle we have been in for several days
past prevented. You have doubtless heard, before this
time, of our being in possession of Dorchester Hill,
which important business was executed in one' night,
without any loss. The enemy were thrown into the
utmost consternation, when they perceived, the next
morning, what had been effected the preceding night,
and made preparations to dislodge us. Three thousand
men under the command of Lord Percy were drafted
for this service ; but a very heavy storm of wind and
rain frustrated their design; in my opinion the most
fortunate circumstance for them and unfortunate for us,

316 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44
that could have happened, as we had every thing so
well prepared for their reception, that I am confident
we should have given a very good account of them.
I was just about to congratulate you on your appoint
ment to the command in Canada, when I received the
account that your destination was altered. As a Vir
ginian, I must rejoice at the change ; but as an Ameri
can, I think you would have done more essential ser
vice to the common cause in Canada. For, besides
the advantage of speaking and thinking in French, an
officer who is acquainted with their manners and cus
toms, and has travelled in their country, must certain
ly take the strongest hold of their affection and confi
dence. You mention nothing of the guard, that went with
you from hence. Mr. Palfrey tells me you intend to
take them with you. As it will create great confusion
in the regimental accounts, and they can be of no great
service to you, I must beg you will let them remain at
New York, where they will be soon joined by their
respective regiments. I am much pleased with your
plans for the defence and security of New York.
What you may leave unfinished, I shall order the com
manding officer to complete, as soori as possible. Lest
the enemy should meet with favorable winds in their
passage, and get there before our army, I have written
to Governor Trumbull, desiring him immediately to
forward two thousand men, and have also requested one
thousand from the Jerseys. This, with the force al
ready there, I hope will be able to keep the ministerial
army at bay, until I can arrive with the main body. I
most sincerely wish for your increase of health and
every blessing, and am, dear Sir, your most affectionate
friend and humble servant.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 317
TO THE COMMANDING OFFICER AT NEW YORK.
Cambridge, 14 March, 1776.
Sir,
I have stronger reasons, since I wrote to you last, to
confirm me in my opinion, that the army under General
Howe is on its departure. All their movements indicate
it ; but lest it be a feint, I must continue on my guard,
and not weaken my lines too much, until I have a cer
tainty of their departure. It is given out, that they are
bound to Halifax ; but I am of opinion, that New York
is their place of destination. It is an object worthy of
their attention, and it is the place that we must use
every endeavour to keep from them. For should they
get that town, and the command of the North River,
they can stop the intercourse between the northern and
southern colonies, upon which depends the safety of
America. My feelings upon this subject are so strong, that I
would not wish to give the enemy a chance of succeed
ing at your place. I shall, therefore, despatch a regi
ment, and some independent companies of riflemen this
day ; and to-morrow, or as soon as it conveniently can
be done, five more regiments will set out from this
camp. I cannot part with more while the enemy re
main in sight ; but I have written to Governor Trumbull
to send you two thousand men, as soon as he possibly
can. If you can get one thousand from New Jersey,
with the militia of the country called in, if not repugnant
to the will of Congress, I think you can make a suffi
cient stand, until I can with the main body of this army
join you ; which you may depend will be as soon as
possible, after I can with any degree of certainty tell
their route.
The plan of defence forriied by General Lee, is, from
AA*

318 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
what little I know of the place, a very judicious one.
I hope, nay, I dare say, it is carrying into execution
with spirit and industry. You may judge from the
enemy's keeping so long possession of the town of
Boston against an army superior in numbers, and ani
mated with the noble spirit of liberty ; I say, you may
judge by that, how much easier it is to keep an enemy
from forming a lodgment in a place, than it will be to
dispossess them, when they get themselves fortified.
As I have in my last told you, that the fate of this cam
paign, of course the fate of America, depends upon you
and the army under your command, should the enemy
attempt your quarter, I will dwell no more thereon,
though the vast importance of the subject would make
an apology for repetition needless. I am, Sir, &c. *

* Lord Stirling took the command at New York, on General Lee's de
parture for the southward, March 7th, and this letter was received by him.
He replied on the 20th ; —
" I am happy to find, that the aid I called in from New Jersey and
Connecticut exactly concurs with your sentiments. The two regiments of
Connecticut now here, consisting of about five hundred rank and file each,
are impatient to go home, as many of them are farmers who want to make
out their summer's work. The time of their engagement with General
Lee ends next Monday. I have used my best endeavours to prevail on
them to stay, till their places are supplied from that quarter, but it is still
doubtful whether they will consent to it. Of this I have apprized Gover
nor Trumbull, and have requested him to make up the whole two thousand
from that colony. From New Jersey I have requested one thousand men ;
about two hundred of them are come in. About one thousand are ordered
from the northern counties of this province. None of them is yet ar
rived. " We have now in this place and on Long Island about two thousand
five hundred men, including the above two Connecticut regiments. The
militia in town amount to about as many more. Near one half of the
whole are on fatigue every day, carrying into execution the plan of de
fence formed by General Lee. They go on with great spirit and industry.
The Congress have ordered eight thousand men for the defence of this
city and province. The corps to make up this number are four regiments
from Pennsylvania, one from New Jersey, and four from this province, none
of which is yet arrived, and most of them are incomplete and unfit to

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 319
TO GOVERNOR COOKE.
Cambridge, 17 March, 1776.
Sir,
I have the pleasure to inform you, that this morning
the ministerial troops evacuated the town of Boston, with
out destroying it, and that we are now in full possession.
Upon this event, I beg leave to congratulate you, and
I sincerely wish, if the ministry persevere in the same
unconstitutional and despotic measures, which too long
have marked their conduct, that our opposition and re
sistance, in every quarter, may be crowned with the
success they have been here.* To what place is their
destination, . or what plans they have in view, is alto-
' gether unknown here. Most probably the next attempt
will be against New York, or some more southern colo
ny. However, I should think, though I do not believe
they have any design against Rhode Island, that it will
march, especially those of this province, of whom not above two hundred
are yet in town ; and some of them I find are to be employed on Hud
son's River, and in the northern parts of the province.
" P. S. Brigadier-General Thompson is arrived here this day, and of
course takes the command ; my utmost industry will be exerted to assist
him in it."
Besides the eight brigadiers first appointed, Congress had on the 10th of
January added two others, Arnold and Frye. And on the 1st of March
they elected six more, namely, John Armstrong, William Thompson,
Andrew Lewis, James Moore, Lord Stirling, and Robert Howe. Congress
at the same time ordered Thompson to New York, and as he took rank of
Stirling in the order of appointment, the command consequently devolved
on him. He had been Colonel of the Pennsylvania battalion of riflemen.
Edward Hand was chosen his successor.
* The following account appeared in the Boston Gazette shortly after
the evacuation.
"About nine o'clock, on the 17th instant, a body of the enemy were
seen to march from Bunker's Hill, and at the same time a very great
number of boats, filled with troops, put off from Boston, and made for the
shipping, which mostly lay below the Castle. On the first discovery of

320 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
be advisable to keep a strict look-out ; and I submit it to
you, whether it may not be proper, against the time you
apprehend they might arrive, to call in a number of the
militia, and have them posted in proper places. I do
not mean to direct the measure, but only to mention it
for your consideration. To me it appears worthy of
attention. I am, &x.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Head-Q,uarters, Cambridge, 19 March, 1776.
Sir,
It is with the greatest pleasure I inform you that on
Sunday last, the 17th instant, about nine o'clock in the
forenoon, the ministerial army evacuated the town of
Boston, and that the forces of the United Colonies are
now in actual possession thereof. I beg leave to con
gratulate you, Sir, and the honorable Congress, on this
happy event, and particularly as it was effected without
endangering the lives and property of the remaining
unhappy inhabitants.
these movements, the Continentals immediately paraded, several regiments
embarked in boats, and proceeded down the river from Cambridge. About
the same time two men were sent to Bunker's Hill to make discoveries.
They proceeded accordingly ; and, when arrived, making a signal that
the fort was evacuated, a detachment was immediately sent down from
the army to take possession of it. The troops in the river, who were
commanded by General Putnam, landed at Sewall's Point, where they re
ceived intelligence, that all the British troops had left Boston, on which a
detachment was sent to take possession of the town, while the main body
returned up the river. About the same time General Ward, attended by
about five hundred troops from Roxbury, under the command of Colonel
Learned, who unbarred and opened the gates, entered the town in that
quarter. The command ofthe whole being then given to General Putnam,
he proceeded to take possession of all the important posts."
Gordon relates, that when the British retreated from Bunker's Hill,
they left sentries standing in effigy, with their muskets shouldered, and
having the usual appearance of being on duty.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 321
I have great reason to imagine their flight was precip
itated by the appearance of a work, which I had or
dered to be thrown up last Saturday night on an emi
nence at Dorchester, which lies nearest to Boston Neck,
called Nook's Hill. The town, although it has suffered
greatly, is not in so bad a state ,as I expected to find it ;
and I have a particular pleasure in being able to inform
you, Sir, that your house has received no damage worth
mentioning. Your furniture is in tolerable order, and
the family pictures are all left entire and untouched.
Captain Cazneau takes charge of the whole, until he
shall receive further orders from you. As soon as the
ministerial troops had quitted the town, I ordered a
thousand men (who had had the smallpox), under com
mand of General Putnam, to take > possession of the
heights, which I shall endeavour to fortify in such a
manner, as to prevent their return, should they attempt
it. But, as they are •still in the harbour, I thought it not
prudent to march off with the main body of the army,
until I should be fully satisfied they had quitted the
coast. I have, therefore, only detached five regiments,
besides the rifle battalion, to New York, and shall keep
the remainder here till all suspicion of their return
ceases. The situation in which I found their works evidently
discovered, that their retreat was made with the great
est precipitation. They have left their barracks and
other works of wood at Bunker's Hill all standing, and
have destroyed but a small part of their lines. They
have also left a number of fine pieces of cannon, which
they first spiked up, also a very large iron mortar ; and,
as I am informed, they have thrown another over the
end of your wharf. I have employed proper persons to
drill the cannon, and doubt not I shall save the most of
them. I am not yet able to procure an exact list of all
vol. in. 41

322 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
the stores they have left. As soon as it can be done, I
shall take care to transmit it to you. From an estimate
of what the quartermaster-general has already discov
ered, the amount will be twenty-five or thirty thousand
pounds. Part of the powder mentioned in yours of the
6th instant has already arrived. The remainder I have
ordered to be stopped on the road, as we shall have no
occasion for it here. The letter to General Thomas, I
immediately sent to him. He desired leave, for three or
four days, to settle some of his private affairs; after
which, he will set out for his command in Canada.* I
am happy that my conduct in intercepting Lord Drum-
mond's letter is approved of by Congress. I have the
honor to be, &c.

PROCLAMATION
ON THE EVACUATION OF BOSTON.
Whereas the ministerial army has abandoned the
town of Boston, and the forces of the United Colonies
under my command are in possession of the same ; I
have therefore thought it necessary for the preservation
of peace, good order, and discipline, to publish the fol
lowing orders, that no person offending therein may
plead ignorance as an excuse for his misconduct.
All officers and soldiers are hereby ordered to live in
the strictest peace and amity with the inhabitants ; and
no inhabitant, or other person, employed in his lawful

* On the 6th of March, Congress promoted General Thomas from the
rank of brigadier to that of major-general, and appointed him to command
in Canada, thus superseding General Wooster, who had commanded there
since the death of Montgomery.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 323
business in the town is to be molested in his person or
property, on any pretence whatever.
If any officer or soldier shall presume to strike, im
prison, or otherwise ill-treat any of the inhabitants, he
may depend on being punished with the utmost sever
ity ; and if any officer or soldier shall receive any insult
from any of the inhabitants, he is to seek redress in a
legal way, and no other.
Any non-commissioned officer or soldier, or others
under my command, who shall be guilty of robbing or
plundering in the town, are to be immediately confined,
and will be most rigidly punished. All officers are
therefore ordered to be very vigilant in the discovery of
such offenders, and report their names and crime to the
commanding officer in the town, as soon as may be.
The inhabitants and others are called upon to make
known to the quartermaster-general, or any of his depu
ties, all stores belonging to the ministerial army, that
may be remaining or secreted in the town ; any person
or persons whatsoever, that shall be known to conceal
any of the said stores, or appropriate them to his or their
own use, will be considered as an enemy to America,
and treated accordingly.
The selectmen and other magistrates of the town are
desired to return to the Commander-in-chief the names
of all or' any person or persons, they may suspect of be
ing employed as spies upon the Continental army, that
they may be dealt with accordingly.
All officers of the Continental army are enjoined to
assist the civil magistrates in the execution of their duty,
and to promote peace and good order. They are to
prevent, as much as possible, the soldiers from frequent
ing tippling -houses, and strolling from their posts. Par
ticular notice will be taken of such officers as are inat
tentive and remiss in their duty ; and, on the contrary,

324 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
such only as are active and vigilant will be entitled to
future favor and promotion.
Given under my hand, at Head- Quarters, in Cam
bridge, the 21st day of March, 1776.

TO THE GENERAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Cambridge, 21 March, 1776.
Gentlemen,
Ere now, I was in hopes of congratulating you on the
departure of the ministerial troops, not only from your
capital, but country. That they still remain in the har
bour, after having been five days embarked, affords mat
ter of speculation, and, collected as their force is now,
of apprehension. This circumstance, the security of
Boston by a work on Fort Hill and the demolition of the
lines on the Neck, and preservation of the stores be
longing to the King for Continental use, by a proper
search after them, rendered it indispensably necessary
for me to throw some troops into the town immediately,
it coming within the line of my duty. But, notwith
standing all the precaution, which I have endeavoured
to use, to restrain and limit the intercourse between the
town and army and country for a few days, I greatly
fear that the smallpox will be communicated.
So soon as the fleet sets sail, my attention must he
turned to another quarter, and most of the Continental
regiments now here must be marched off. It may be
necessary, therefore, for you, Gentlemen, to consider
the state of your harbour, and think of such works as
may be found necessary for the defence of it, and of the
town also, in case another armed force, which I by no
means expect, should be sent hither. I shall leave three
or four regiments for the security of the stores, and

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

325

for throwing up such works as shall be deemed neces
sary for the purposes above mentioned ; and shall direct
the officer commanding them to receive such instruc
tions, in respect to the latter, as you may think proper
to give. It has been suggested to me, that, in the town
of Boston, there is a good deal of property belonging to
refugees, and such other inimical persons as, from the
first of the present dispute, have manifested the most
unfriendly disposition to the American cause ; and that
part of this property is in such kind of effects, as can be
easily transported, concealed, or changed. I submit to
you, therefore, Gentlemen, the expediency of having an
inquiry made into this matter, before it is too late for re
dress, leaving the decision thereupon (after the quan
tum, or value, is ascertained, and held in a state of dur
ance) to the consideration of a future day. I have
ordered, that no violence be offered by the soldiery,
either to the persons or property of those people ; wish
ing that the matter may be taken into consideration by
your honorable body, and in such a way as you shall
judge most advisable.* The enclosed came to me a
* The whole number of refugees, who left Boston with the British army,
was more than a thousand. The following statement is taken from the
official return, made to the government, and now deposited in the public
offices in London. Members of the council, commissioners, custom-house
officers, and other persons who had been in some official station, one hun
dred and two ; clergy, eighteen ; persons from the country, one hundred
and five; merchants and other inhabitants of Boston, two hundred and
thirteen ; farmers, traders, and mechanics, three hundred and eighty-two ;
total, nine hundred and twenty-four. All these returned their names on
their arrival in Halifax. About two hundred others did not return their
names. On the 25th of April, General Howe'wrote from Halifax to Lord George
Germain; — " Many of the principal inhabitants of Boston under the pro
tection of the army, having no means of subsistence here, apply to me to
find them a passage to Europe, which they cannot otherwise get than at a
most exorbitant rate. They have my assurance, that the first transport
that can be spared shall be given up for this purpose. I am sorry to in
form your Lordship, that there is an absolute necessity of issuing pro-
VOL. III. BB

326

WASHINGTON'S' WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.

few days ago, and I beg leave to recommend the pur
port of it to the consideration of the Court. I shall take
the liberty to add, as my opinion, that the Congress ex
pect nothing else, than that the field-officers of the Mas
sachusetts regiments should receive the same pay, as
those of the other colonies have done ; and that they
expected, at the time the pay was fixed, that fifteen
pounds to a colonel, twelve pounds to a lieutenant-
colonel, and ten pounds to a major, was the actual es
tablishment of this government. I could wish, therefore,
that they were allowed it, to remove the jealousies and
uneasiness which have arisen. I am, with great respect
and esteem, Gentlemen, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 24 March, 1776.
Sir,
When I had the honor to address you on the 19th
instant, upon the evacuation of the town of Boston by the
ministerial army, I fully expected, as their retreat and
embarkation were hurried and precipitate, that, before
now, they would have departed from the harbour, and
been far on their passage to the place of destination. But,
to my surprise and disappointment, the fleet is still in
Nantasket Road. The purpose inducing their stay is
visions to the whole of them, about eleven hundred, from the King's stores,
without any prospect of stopping it. It must be confessed, that many,
having quitted the whole of their property and estates, some of them very
considerable in value, are real objects of his Majesty's most gracious at
tention."— MS. Letter.
By the army returns it likewise appears, that the British troops, includ
ing officers, at the time ofthe evacuation, amounted to eight thousand nine
hundred and six men. This number is about fourteen hundred larger,
than history has recorded on the authority of a British orderly book. They
sailed for Halifax in seventy-eight ships and transports.

PartIL] -THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 327
altogether unknown ; nor can I suggest any satisfactory
reason for it. On Wednesday night last, before the
whole of the fleet fell down to Nantasket, they demol
ished the Castle, and houses belonging to it, by burning
them doWn, and the several fortifications. They left a
great number of the cannon, but have rendered all of
them, except a very few, entirely useless, by breaking
off the trunnions. Those few they spiked up ; but they
may be made serviceable again ; some are already done.
There are several vessels in the docks, which were
taken by the enemy, some with and others without car
goes, which different persons claim as their property
and right. Are they to be restored to their former
owners, on making proof of their title, or to belong to the
Continent, as captures made from the enemy 1 I wish
Congress would direct a mode of proceeding against
them, and establish a rule for decision. These appear
to me to be highly necessary. In like manner, some of
- the cannon, which are in Boston, are said to have come
from the Castle. Supposing them, with those remaining
at the Castle, to have been purchased by and provided
originally at the expense of this province, are they now
to be considered as belonging to it, or to the public 1 I
beg leave to refer the matter to the opinion of Congress,
and pray their direction how I am to conduct respecting
them. It having been suggested to me, that there was con
siderable property belonging to persons, who had, from
the first of the present unhappy contest, manifested an
unfriendly and inveterate disposition, in the town of
Boston, I thought it prudent to write to the honorable
General ' Court upon the subject, that it might be in
quired after and secured. A copy of the letter I here
with send you, and submit it to Congress, whether they
will not determine how this property is to be disposed

328 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
of, and as to the appropriation of the money arising
from the sale of the same.
As soon as the town was abandoned by the enemy, I
judged it advisable to secure the several heights, lest
they should attempt to return; and, for this purpose,
have caused a large and strong work to be thrown up
on Fort Hill, a post of great importance, as it commands
the whole harbour, and, when fortified, if properly sup
ported, will greatly annoy any fleet the enemy may send
against the town, and render the landing of their troops
exceedingly difficult, if not impracticable. This work
is almost done, and in a little time will be complete ;
and, that the communication between the town and
country may be free and open, I have ordered all the
lines upon the Neck to be immediately destroyed, and
the other works on the sides of the town facing the
country, that the inhabitants from the latter may not be
impeded, but afforded an easy entrance, in case the
enemy should gain possession at any future time.*
These matters I conceived to be within the line of my
duty ; of which I advised the General Court, and recom
mended to their attention such other measures, as they
might think necessary for securing the town against the
hostile designs of the enemy.
I have just got an inventory of stores and property
belonging to the crown, which the enemy left in Boston,
at the Castle, and Bunker's Hill, which I have the honor
to transmit to you ; and shall give strict orders, that a

* " March 23d. — Colonel Gridley is to apply to General Ward for such
men as are necessary for the demolition of the lines on Boston Neck, who
is to see the work executed as fast as possible. The . pickets and other
useful materials to be preserved, and placed, so as to be ready when called
for, under the care of sentries. Such, parts of these works, as may be of
service for our defence, are to be preserved. Colonel Knox will immedi
ately lay out a battery upon Charlestown Point, to be executed under the
direction of Lieutenant-Colonel Mason ofthe artillery." — Orderly Book.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 329
careful attention be had to any more that may be found.
I shall take such precautions respecting them, that they
may be secure, and turn to the public advantage, as
much as possible, or as circumstances will admit of.
Major-General Ward and Brigadier- General Frye are
desirous of leaving the service, and, for that purpose,
have requested me to lay the matter before Congress,
that they may be allowed to resign their commissions.
The papers containing their applications you will here
with receive. These will give you a full and more par
ticular information upon the subject, and, therefore, I shall
take the liberty of referring you to them. There have
been so many accounts from England, all agreeing that
Commissioners are coming to America, to propose terms
for an accommodation, as they say, that I am inclined to
think the time of their arrival not very far off. If they
come to Boston, which probably will be the case, if they
come to America at all, I shall be under much embarrass
ment respecting the manner of receiving them, and the
mode of treatment, that ought to be used. I therefore
pray, that Congress will give me directions, and point out
the line of conduct to be pursued ; whether they are to
be considered as ambassadors, and to have a pass or per
mit for repairing through the country to Philadelphia, or
to any other place ; or whether they are to be restrained
in any and what manner. I shall anxiously wait their
orders, and, whatever they are, comply with them
literally. I have the honor to be, &c*
* In Congress, May 6th. — " Resolved, that General Washington be in
formed, that Congress suppose, if Commissioners are intended to be sent
from Great Britain to treat of peace, that the usual practice in such cases
will be observed, by making previous application for the necessary pass
ports or safe conduct ; and on such application being made, Congress will
then direct the proper measures for the reception of such Commissioners.''

VOL. III. 42 BB <

330 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 25 March, 1776.
My Dear Sir,
Since my last, things remain nearly in statu quo.
The enemy have the best knack at puzzling people I ev
er met with in my life. They have blown up, burnt, and
demolished the Castle totally, and are now all in Nantas-
ket Road. They have been there ever since Wednesday.
What they are doing, the Lord knows. Various are the
conjectures. The Bostonians think their stay absolute
ly necessary to fit them for sea, as the vessels, neither
in themselves nor their lading, were in any degree fit for
a voyage, having been loaded in great haste and much
disorder. This opinion is corroborated by a deserter
from one of the transports, who says they have yards,
booms, and bowsprits yet to fix. Others again think, that
they have a mind to pass over the equinoctial gale be
fore they put out, not being in the best condition to
stand one ; others, that they are a reinforcement, which
I believe has arrived, as I have had an account of
the sailing of fifteen vessels from the West Indies.
But my opinion of the matter is, that they want to re
trieve their disgrace before they go off, and I think a
favorable opportunity presents itself to them. They
have now got their whole force into one collected body,
and no posts to guard. We have detached six regi
ments to New York, and have many points to look to,
and, on Monday next, ten regiments of militia, which
were brought in to serve till the first of April, will be
disengaged. From former experience, we have found
it as practicable to stop a torrent, as these people, when
their time is up. If this should be the case now, what
more favorable opening can the enemy wish for, to make
a push upon our lines, nay, upon the back of our lines

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 331
at Roxbury, as they can land two miles from them and
pass behind 1 I am under more apprehension from them
now than ever, and am taking every precaution I. can to
guard against the evil ; but we have a kind of people
to deal with, who will not fear danger till the bayonet
is at their breast, and then they are susceptible enough
of it. I am fortifying Fort Hill in Boston, and demol
ishing the fines on the Neck there, as they are a de
fence against the country only, and making such other
dispositions, as appear necessary for a general defence.
I can spare no more men till I see the enemy's back fairly '
turned, and then I shall hasten towards New York.
You mention Mr. Webb in one of your letters for an
assistant. He will be agreeable enough to me, if you think
him qualified for the business. What kind of a hand he
writes, I know not. I believe but a cramped one;
latterly none at all, as he has either the gout, or rheu
matism, or both. He is a man fond of company and
gayety, and is of a tender constitution. Whether, there
fore, such a person would answer your purpose so well
as a plodding, methodical person, whose sole business
should be to arrange his papers in such order as to pro
duce any one at any instant it is called for, and capable
at the same time of composing a letter, is what you have
to consider. I can only add, that I have no one in view
myself, and wish you success in your choice ; being
with great truth and sincerity, dear Sir, your affectionate
servant. P. S. I have taken occasion to hint to a certain
gentleman in this , camp, without introducing names,
my apprehensions of his being concerned in trade. He
protests most solemnly that he is not, directly nor indi
rectly.

332 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44
TO COLONEL THOMAS MIFFLIN, QUARTER
MASTER-GENERAL. Instructions.
Sir,
As the motions of the enemy, and the operations of
the ensuing campaign, render it indispensably necessary,
that a very large body of troops should be immediately
assembled at or near New York, you will immediately
proceed to Norwich in Connecticut, where you will, in
concert with the Brigadier- Generals Heath and Sullivan,
regulate the embarkation of the brigades under their
command, and settle all such matters with the com
missary-general of provisions, and contracts for the
transports, as may be further necessary for expediting
the march of the rest of the army with the stores, ar
tillery, and camp equipage. This being done, you will
proceed without delay to New York ; where your first
care will be to provide barracks for the troops, firing,
forage, and quarters for the general officers. Fix upon
a proper house or houses for a general hospital, and sta
bling for the Continental draught-horses. Intrenching
tools must also be immediately provided, with a sufficient
quantity of joists and planks for platforms, and timber for
gun-carriages ; in short, every article necessary for the
public service, and which your experience in the last
campaign convinces you will be wanted in that now ap
proaching. The variety of the business of your department ren
ders it next to impossible to point out particularly every
duty of your office. Therefore, a latitude is given you
in these orders and instructions, which, together with
the directions and advice of the commanding general
at New York, must be the rule for the future regulation
of your conduct ; and I shall at present only recom-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 333
mend, that the same integrity, zeal, diligence, , and ac
tivity, which has animated your past services, may
govern that which is to come. Given at Head-Quar
ters, in Cambridge, this 24th day of March, 1776.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 27 March, 1776.
Sir,
I now beg leave to inform you, that I have just re
ceived intelligence that the whole of the ministerial
fleet, besides three or four ships, got under way this
evening at Nantasket Road, and were standing out for
sea ; in consequence of which, I shall detach a brigade of
six regiments immediately for New York, under the com
mand of Brigadier-General Sullivan (Brigadier- General
Heath having gone with the first), which will be succeed
ed by another in a day or two ; and, directly after, I shall
forward the remainder of the army, except four or five
regiments, which will be left for taking care of the bar
racks and public stores, and fortifying the town, and
erecting such works for its defence, as the General
Court may think necessary; and then follow myself.
Apprehending that General Thomas will stand in need
of some artillerists in Canada, I have ordered two com
panies of the train to march immediately ; and two mor
tars, with a quantity of shells and shot, to be sent to
him. He set out on the 21st instant* Enclosed you
have a copy of the return of ordnance stores left in
Boston by the enemy. In it are not included the can
non left at the Castle, amounting to a hundred and
* Brigadier-General Thomas was promoted by Congress on the 6th of
March, to the rank of-jnajor-general, and appointed to take the command
in Canada.

334 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
thirty-five pieces, as reported, all of which, except a
very few, they have destroyed, or rendered useless, by
knocking off the trunnions, and spiking them up. I
beg leave to transmit to you the copy of a petition from
the inhabitants of Nova Scotia, brought to me by Jona
than Eddy, mentioned therein, who is now here with
an Acadian ; from which it appears, that they are in a
distressed situation ; and, from Mr. Eddy's account,
they are exceedingly apprehensive, that they will be
reduced to the disagreeable alternative of taking up arms
and joining our enemies, or of fleeing their country, unless
they can be protected against their insults and oppres
sions. He says that their committees think many salu
tary and valuable consequences would be derived from
five or six hundred men being sent there, as it would
not only quiet the minds of the people from the anxiety
and uneasiness they are now filled with, and enable
them to take a part in behalf of the colonies, but be
the means of preventing the Indians, of whom there are
a good many, from taking the side of government, and
the ministerial troops from getting such supplies of pro
visions from thence as they have done.
How far these good purposes would be answered, if
such a force were sent, as they ask for, it is impossible to
determine in the present uncertain state of things. For,
if the army from Boston is going to Halifax, as reported
by them before their departure, that, or a much more
considerable force would be of no avail ; if not, and they
possess the friendly disposition to our cause, suggested
in the petition and declared by Mr. Eddy, it might be
of great service, unless another body of troops should
be sent thither by administration, too powerful for them
to oppose. It being a matter of some importance, I
judged it prudent to lay it before Congress for their
consideration ; and, requesting their direction upon the

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 335
subject, shall only add, if they determine to adopt it,
that they will prescribe the number to be sent, and
whether it is to be from the regiments, which will be
left here. I shall wait their decision, and, whatever it
is, will endeavour to have it carried into execution. *
I have the honor to be, &c.

answer to an address from the general
assembly of massachustts.
Gentlemen,
I return you my most sincere and hearty thanks for
your polite address ; and feel myself called upon by
every principle of gratitude, to acknowledge the honor
you have done me in this testimonial of your approba
tion of my appointment to the exalted station I now fill,
* There seems to have been in Nova Scotia a strong spirit of opposi
tion to the government, and a tendency to join with the other colonies in
open resistance, particularly among the Acadians. The petition above-
mentioned was dated on the 8th of February, and signed by twelve per
sons, resident in Cumberland county, and members of different com
mittees, who had acted, it would appear, with some degree of secrecy,
and under fear of the government. Threatening proclamations had been
issued, and measures adopted for raising a military force. The petitioners
say ; — " We agreed in our committees, that nothing should be done pub
licly, as it might instigate the others to fall upon us sooner than they in
tended, and as we could not tell what was the intention of the Continen
tal Congress concerning us. Therefore we pray ardently, that your
Excellency will please to relieve us, that we may be able to express our
sentiments publicly, and join our little strength with the other colonies in
preventing the ensigns of slavery from being set up in any part of this
great empire. We further desire, that this our request may be kept a
secret for the present."
A member of one of the committees also wrote a private letter to
Washington, in which he said ; — " The great contest between Britain
and America has hitherto been only treated speculatively among us. I
presume a sympathy with our brethren on the continent reigns in the
breasts of the generality of the inhabitants. With gladness would we be
active in the glorious struggle, if our situation and circumstances were

336 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
and, what is more pleasing, of my conduct in discharging
its important duties.
When the councils of the British nation had formed
a plan for enslaving America, and depriving her sons of
their most sacred and invaluable privileges, against - the
clearest remonstrances of the constitution, of justice,
and of truth, and, to execute their schemes, had ap
pealed to the sword, I esteemed it my duty to take a
part in the contest, and more especially on account of
my being called thereto by the unsolicited suffrages of
the representatives of a free people; wishing for no
other reward, than that arising from a conscientious
discharge of the important trust, and that my services
might contribute to the establishment of freedom and
peace, upon a permanent foundation, and merit the ap
plause of my countrymen, and every virtuous citizen.
Your acknowledgment of my attention to the civil con
stitution of this colony, whilst acting in the line of my
department, also demands my grateful thanks. A regard
to every Provincial institution, where not incompatible
with the common interest, I hold a principle of duty
and of policy, and it shall ever form a part of my conduct.
Had I not learnt this before, the happy experience of
the advantages resulting from a friendly intercourse

such, as to afford the least glimpse of success ; but our remoteness from
the other colonies and our form of government, joined with the indigence
of the inhabitants, render it in a manner impossible without succour from
some other quarter. As to the Acadians, I have dwelt among them near
twenty years, and am well acquainted with their manners and ways.
They are to a man wholly inclined to the cause of America. There are
but about two hundred regular troops in Halifax, including raw recruits
from Newfoundland and other places. Had we at present two or three
hundred men, they would secure all that part of the province between this
place and Halifax."
As the British army, lately embarked from Boston, had sailed for Hali
fax, it was of course inexpedient for Congress to attempt any relief to the
petitioners by sending troops to Nova Scotia.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 337
with your honorable body, their ready and willing con
currence to aid and to counsel, whenever called upon in
cases of difficulty and emergency, would have taught
me the useful lesson.
That the metropolis of your colony is now relieved
from the cruel and oppressive invasions of those, who
were sent to erect the standard of lawless domination, and
to trample on the rights of humanity, and is again open
and free for its rightful possessors, must give pleasure
to every virtuous and sympathetic heart ; and its being
effected without the blood of our soldiers and fellow-
citizens must be ascribed to the interposition of that
Providence, which has manifestly appeared in our behalf
through the whole of this important struggle, as well as
to the measures pursued for bringing about the happy
event. May that Being, who is powerful to save, and in whose
hands is the fate of nations, look down with an eye of
tender pity and compassion upon the whole of the Uni
ted Colonies; may he continue to smile upon their
counsels and arms, and crown them with success, whilst
employed in the cause of virtue and mankind. May
this distressed colony and its capital, and every part of
this wide extended continent, through his divine favor,
be restored to more than their former lustre and once
happy state, and have peace, liberty, and safety secured
upon a solid, permanent, and lasting foundation.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL PUTNAM.
Instructions.
Sir,
As there are the best reasons to believe, that the
enemy's fleet and army, which left Nantasket Road last
vol. in. 43 cc

338 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
Wednesday evening, are bound to New York, to en
deavour to possess that important post, and, if possible,
secure the communication by Hudson's River to Cana
da, it must be our care to prevent them from accom
plishing their designs. To that end, I have detached
Brigadier-General Heath with the whole body of rifle
men and five battalions of the Continental army, by the
way of Norwich in Connecticut, to New York. These,
by an express arrived yesterday from General Heath, I
have reason to believe are in New York. Six more
battalions under General Sullivan march this morning
by the same route, and will, I hope, arrive there in eight
or ten days at farthest. The rest of the army will im
mediately follow in divisions, leaving only a convenient
space between each division, to prevent confusion and
want of accommodation upon their march.
You will no doubt make the best despatch in getting
to New York. Upon your arrival there, you will as
sume the command, and immediately proceed in con
tinuing to execute the plan proposed by Major- General
Lee, for fortifying that city and securing the passes of
the East and North Rivers. If, upon consultation with
the brigadier-generals and engineers, any alteration in
that plan is thought necessary, you are at liberty to
make it ; cautiously avoiding to break in too much upon
his main design, unless where it may be apparently
necessary so to do, and that by the general voice and
opinion of the gentlemen above mentioned.
You will meet the quartermaster-general, Colonel
Mifflin, and the commissary-general, at New York. As
they are both men of excellent talents in their different
departments, you will do well to give them all the au
thority and assistance they require ; and should a council
of war be necessary, it is my direction they shall assist
at it. Your long service and experience will, better

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

339

than any particular directions at this distance, point out
to you the works most proper to be first raised ; and
your perseverance, activity, and zeal will lead you,
without my recommending it, to exert every nerve to
disappoint the enemy's designs.
Devoutly praying, that the Power, which has hitherto
sustained the American arms, may continue to bless
them with his divine protection, I bid you farewell.
Given at Head- Quarters, in Cambridge, this 29th day
of March, 1776.

TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
Cambridge, 31 March, 1776.
Dear Brother,
Your letter of the 24th ultimo was duly forwarded to
this camp by Colonel Lee, and gave me the pleasure of
hearing that you, my sister, and family were well. Af
ter your post is established to Fredericksburg, the
intercourse by letter may become regular and certain ;
and whenever time, little of which I have for friendly
correspondences, will permit, I shall be happy in writing
to you. I cannot call to mind the date of my last to
you, but this I recollect, that I have written more letters
than I have received from you.
The want of arms and powder is not peculiar to
Virginia.* This country, of which doubtless you have
* The people on the Chesapeake Bay, and the rivers emptying into it,
had been alarmed during the winter by reports, that the enemy were about
to ascend with their ships and water-craft, and lay waste the country. To
escape the threatened danger, many of the inhabitants retired to the
interior, taking with them such parts of their property as could be removed.
General Washington's residence on the banks of the Potomac was ac
cessible to the apprbach of the largest ships, and it was rumored that the
enemy intended paying it a visit. Mr. Lund Washington wrote to him
from Mount Vernon ; — " Alexandria is much alarmed, and indeed the

340 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
heard large and flattering accounts, is more deficient
in both than you can conceive. I have been here
months together, with (what will scarcely be believed)
not thirty rounds of musket cartridges to a man ; and
have been obliged to submit to all the insults of the
enemy's cannon for want of powder, keeping what little
we had for pistol distance. Another thing has been
done, which, added to the above, will put it in the power
of this army to say, what perhaps no other with justice
ever could say. We have maintained our ground
against the enemy, under this want of powder, and we
have disbanded one army, and recruited another, within
musket-shot of two and twenty regiments, the flower of
the British army, whilst our force has been but little if
any superior to theirs ; and, at last, have beaten them
into a shameful and precipitate retreat out of a place the
strongest by nature on this continent, and strengthened
and fortified at an enormous expense.
As some account of the late manoeuvres of both
armies may not be unacceptable, I shall, hurried as I
always am, devote a little time to it. Having received
a small supply of powder, very inadequate to our wants,
I resolved to take possession of Dorchester Point, lying
east of Boston, looking directly into it, and commanding
whole neighbourhood. The women and children are leaving the town
and stowing themselves in every hut they can find, out of the reach of the
enemy's cannon. Every wagon, cart, and pack-horse, that can be got, is
employed. The militia are all up, but not in arms, for indeed they have
none, or at least very few. I could wish, if we are to have our neighbour
hood invaded, that they would send a tender or two among us, that we
might see how the people would behave on the occasion. They say they
are determined to fight. I am about packing up your China and glass in
barrels, and other things into chests, trunks, and bundles, and I shall be
able at the shortest notice to remove them out of the way. I fear the
destruction will be great, although the best care has been taken. Every
body I see tells me, that if the people could have notice they would immedi
ately come and defend your property, so long as they have life, from Lou
doun, Prince William, Fauquier, and this county." -

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 341
the enemy's lines on Boston Neck. To do this, which
I knew would force the enemy to an engagement, or
subject them to be enfiladed by our cannon, it was
necessary, in the first instance, to possess two heights
(those mentioned in General Burgoyne's letter to Lord
Stanley, in his account of the battle of Bunker's Hill),
which had the entire command of the point. The
ground at this time being frozen upwards of two feet
deep, and as impenetrable as a rock, nothing could be
attempted with earth. We were obliged, therefore, to
provide an amazing quantity of chandeliers and fascines
for the work ; and, on the night of the 4th, after a previ
ous severe cannonade and bombardment for three nights
together, to divert the enemy's attention from our real
design, we removed every material to the spot, under
cover of darkness, and took full possession of those
heights, without the loss of a single man.
Upon their discovery of the works next morning,
great preparations were made for attacking them ; but
not being ready before the afternoon, and the weather
getting very tempestuous, much blood was saved, and
a very important blow, to one side or the other, was
prevented. That this most remarkable interposition of
Providence is for some wise purpose, I have not a doubt.
But, as the principal design of the manoeuvre was to
draw the enemy to an engagement under disadvantages
to them, as a premeditated plan was laid for this purpose,
and seemed to be succeeding to my utmost wish, and
as no men seemed better disposed to make the appeal
than purs did upon that occasion, I can scarcely forbear
lamenting the disappointment, unless- the dispute is
drawing to an accommodation, and the sword going
to be sheathed. But, to return, the enemy thinking,
as we have since learnt, that we had got too se^
curely posted, before the second morning, to be much
cc*

342 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [jEt. 44.
hurt by them, and apprehending great annoyance from
our new works, resolved upon a retreat, and according
ly on the 17th embarked in as much hurry, precipitation,
and confusion, as ever troops did, not taking time to fit
their transports, but leaving the King's property in Bos
ton, to the amount, as is supposed, of thirty or forty
thousand pounds in provisions and stores. Many pieces
of cannon, some mortars, and a number of shot and
shells are also left ; and baggage-wagons and artillery-
carts, which they have been eighteen months preparing
to take the field with, were found destroyed, thrown
into the docks, and drifted upon every shore. In short,
Dunbar's destruction of stores after General Braddock's
defeat, which made so much noise, affords but a faint
idea of what was to be met with here.
The enemy lay from the 17th to the 27th in Nantas-
ket and King's Roads, about nine miles from Boston, to
take in water from the islands thereabouts, and to prepare
themselves for sea. Whither they are now bound, and
where their tents will be next pitched, I know not ; but,
as New York and Hudson's River are the most impor
tant objects they can have in view, as the latter secures
the communication with Canada, at the same time that
it separates the northern and southern colonies, and the
former is thought to abound in disaffected persons, who
only wait a favorable opportunity and support to declare
themselves openly, it became equally important for us
to prevent their gaining possession of these advantages ;
and, therefore, as soon as they embarked, I detached a
brigade of six regiments to that government, and, when
they sailed, another brigade composed of the same
number; and to-morrow another brigade of five regi
ments will march. In a day or two more, I shall follow
myself, and be in New York ready to receive all but
the first.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 343
The enemy left all their works standing in Boston
and on Bunker's Hill ; and formidable they are; The
town has shared a much better fate than was expected,
the damage done to the houses being nothing equal to
report. But the inhabitants have suffered a good deal,
in being plundered by the soldiery at their departure.
All those who took upon themselves the style and title
of government-men in Boston, in short, all those who
have acted an unfriendly part in this great contest, have
shipped themselves off in the same hurry, but under
still greater disadvantages than the King's troops, being
obliged to man their own vessels, as seamen enough
could not be had for the King's transports, and submit
to every hardship that can be conceived. One or two
have done, what a great number ought to have done long
ago, committed suicide. By all accounts, there never
existed a more miserable set of beings, than these
wretched creatures now are. Taught to believe, that
the power of Great Britain was superior to all opposi
tion, and, if not, that foreign aid was at hand, they were
even higher and more insulting in their opposition than
the regulars. When the order issued, therefore, for em
barking the troops in Boston, no electric shock, no sud
den explosion of thunder, in a word, not the last trump
could have struck them with greater consternation.
They were at their wits' end, and, conscious of their
black ingratitude, they chose to commit themselves, in
the manner I have above described, to the mercy of the
waves at a tempestuous season, rather than meet their
offended countrymen.
I believe I may with great truth affirm, that no man per
haps since the first institution of armies ever commanded
one under more difficult circumstances, than I have done.
To enumerate the particulars would fill a volume.
Many of my difficulties and distresses were of so pecu-

344 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
liar a cast, that, in order to conceal them from the ene
my, I was obliged to conceal them from my friends, and
indeed from my own army, thereby subjecting my con
duct to interpretations unfavorable to my character,
especially by those at a distance, who could not in the
smallest degree be acquainted with the springs that
governed it. I am happy, however, to find, and to hear
from different quarters, that my reputation stands fair,
that my conduct hitherto has given universal satisfaction.
The addresses, which I have received, and which I
suppose will be published, from the General Court of
this colony, and from the selectmen of Boston upon the
evacuation of the town, and my approaching departure
from the colony, exhibit a pleasing testimony of their
approbation of my conduct, and of their personal re
gard, which I have found in various other instances, and
which, in retirement, will afford many comfortable re
flections. The share you have taken in the public disputes is
commendable and praiseworthy. It is a duty we owe
our country ; a claim which posterity has upon us. It
is not sufficient for a man to be a passive friend and
well-wisher to the cause. This, and every other cause
of such a nature, must inevitably perish under such an
opposition. Every person should be active in some de
partment or other, without paying too much attention to
private interest. It is a great stake we are playing for,
and sure we are of winning, if the cards are well man
aged. Inactivity in some, disaffection in others, and
timidity in many, may hurt the cause. Nothing else
can ; for unanimity will carry us through triumphantly,
in spite of every exertion of Great Britain, if we are
linked together in one indissoluble bond. This the
leaders know, and they are practising every stratagem
to divide us, and unite their own people. Upon this

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

345

principle it is, that the restraining bill is passed, and
commissioners are coming over. The device, to be
sure, is shallow, the covering thin, but they will hold out
to their own people, that the acts complained of are re
pealed, and commissioners sent to each colony to treat
with us, and that we will attend to neither of them.
This, upon weak minds among us, will have its effect.
They wish for reconciliation ; or, in other words, they
wish for peace without attending to the conditions.
General Lee, I suppose, is with you before this. He
is the first officer, in military knowledge and experience,
we have in the whole army. He is zealously attached
to the cause, honest and well-meaning, but rather fickle
and violent, I fear, in his temper. However, as he pos
sesses an uncommon share of good sense and spirit, I
congratulate my countrymen * upon his appointment to

* Before the revolution, and at the time now in view, it was common for
persons to speak of their native colony as their country, and ofthe inhabit
ants of that colony as their countrymen. In this sense the word is used in
the present instance, meaning Virginians.. The same use ofthe word not
unfrequently occurs in Washington's letters," before and during the revolu
tion, and in other writings of that period.
General Lee, who was now at Williamsburg, wrote to Washington a
letter dated April 5th, complimenting him on the evacuation of Boston in
the following language.
" I most sincerely congratulate you, I congratulate the public, on the
great and glorious event, your possession of Boston. It will be a most
bright page in the annals of America, and a most abominably black one in
those ofthe beldam Britain. Go on, my dear General, crown yourself with
glory, and establish the liberties and lustre of your country on a founda
tion more permanent than the Capitol Rock. My situation is just as I ex
pected. I am afraid I shall make a shabby figure, without any real de
merits of my own. I am like a dog in a dancing-school. I know not
where to turn myself, where to fix myself. The circumstances of the
country intersected by navigable rivers, the uncertainty ofthe enemy's de
signs and motions, who can fly in an instant to any spot they choose with
their canvass wings, throw me, and would throw Julius Cssar, into this
inevitable dilemma. I may possibly be in the north, when, as Richard
says, I should serve my sovereign in the west. I can only act from sur
mise, and I have a very good chance of surmising wrong. I am sorry to
vol. hi. 44

346 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
that department. As I am now nearly at the end of my
eighth page, I think it time to conclude ; especially, as I
set out with prefacing the little time I had for friendly
correspondences'. I shall only add, therefore, my affec
tionate regards to my sister and the children, and com
pliments to friends; and that I am, with every senti
ment of true affection, your loving brother and faithful
friend.

TO JOSEPH REED.
Cambridge, 1 April, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 15th ultimo contained a very un
favorable account of the Carolinas, but I am glad to find
by the subsequent one that the prospect brightens, and
that Mr. Martin's first attempt has met with its deserved
success. The old proverb, of "the first blow being
half the battle," cannot, better apply than in these in
stances, the spirits of the vanquished being depressed
in proportion as the victors get elated. I am glad to
find my camp equipage in such forwardness. I shall
expect to meet it, and I hope you, at New York, for
which place I am preparing to set out on Thursday or
Friday next.
The accounts brought by Mr. Temple, of the favor
able disposition in the ministry to accommodate matters,
does not correspond with their speeches in Parliament.
How then does he account for their inconsistency ? If
grate your ears with a truth, but must at all events assure you, that the
Provincial Congress of New York are angels of decision, when compared
with your countrymen, the Committee of Safety assembled at Williams
burg. Page, Lee, Mercer, and Payne are indeed exceptions ; but from
Pendleton, Bland, the Treasurer, and company, libera nos, Domine.''

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 347
the commissioners do not come over with full and ample
powers to treat with Congress, I sincerely wish they
may never put their feet on American ground, as it must
be self-evident, in the other case, that they will come
over with insidious intentions, to distract, divide, and
create as much confusion as possible. How then can
any man, let his passion for reconciliation be ever so
strong, be so blinded and misled, as to embrace a meas
ure evidently designed for his destruction? No man
does, no man can, wish the restoration of peace more
fervently than I do ; but I hope, whenever made, it will
be upon such terms, as will reflect honor upon the coun
cils and wisdom" of America. With you, I think a
change in the American representation necessary. Fre
quent appeals to the people can be attended with no
bad, but may have very salutary effects. My country
men I know, from their form of government, and steady
attachment heretofore to royalty, will come reluctantly
into the idea of independence, but time and persecution
bring many wonderful things to pass ; and by private
letters, which I have lately received from Virginia, I find
" Common Sense " is working a powerful change there
in the minds of many men. *
* Colonel Reed had written, March 3d ; — " Notwithstanding the act of
Parliament for seizing our property, and a thousand other proofs of a bitter
and irreconcilable spirit, there is a strange reluctance in the minds of
many to cut the knot, which ties us to Great Britain, particularly in this
colony and to the southward. Though no man of understanding expects
any good from the commissioners, yet they are for waiting to hear their
proposals, before they declare off. However, yesterday I was informed,
that letters had been sent to France, to know what encouragement we
might expect from that quarter. Our coast is yet clear ; it is a golden
opportunity to make provision for the war, which I hope will not be lost."
Again, March 15th; — "It is said the Virginians are so alarmed with the
idea of independence, that they have sent Mr. Braxton on purpose to turn
the vote of that colony, if any question on that subject should come before
Congress. To tell you the truth, my dear Sir, I am infinitely more afraid
of these commissioners, than of their generals and armies. If their propo-

348 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
The four thousand men destined for Boston on the
5th, if the ministerialists had attempted our works on
Dorchester Heights, or the lines at Roxbury, were to
have been headed by General Putnam. But he would
have had pretty easy work of it, as his motions were to
have been regulated by signals, and those signals by ap
pearances. He was not to have made the attempt, un
less the town had been drained, or very considerably
weakened in its force. I am, &c.

TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL ARNOLD, IN CANADA.
Cambridge, 3 April, 1776.
Sir,
Your favor of the 27th of February is come to hand.
I much fear you will be disappointed in the number of
troops you expected in that month, as the lakes were
impassable. I have despatched two companies of Colo
nel Knox's regiment of artillery to you from hence, two
mortars, and other articles, as you will see at the foot
hereof. If any thing else is wanting that cannot be had
in Canada, and in my power to send, it shall be for
warded with all possible expedition, upon my being in-
informed thereof. The chief part of the troops are
marched hence towards New York. I shall set off to
morrow. If the enemy will not find us full employment
and it is necessary, you may expect a detachment from
sitions are plausible, and behaviour artful, I am apprehensive they will
divide us. There is so much suspicion in Congress, and so much party
on this subject, that very little more fuel is required to kindle the flame.
It is high time for the colonies to begin a gradual change of delegates.
Private pique, prejudice, and suspicion will make their way into the breasts
of even good men sitting long in such a council as ours ; and whenever
that is the case, their deliberations will be disturbed, and the public inter
est of course will suffer."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 349
Whence to your assistance. I am very sorry, that the
gentlemen from New York and other officers should
think themselves - neglected in the new arrangement.
It is true that I reserved places in this army for those
officers, who went from hence under your command.
The Congress have since informed me, that they would
be provided for in the army raised for Canada. I was
not acquainted, with the gentlemen, who complain, nor
with their circumstances. There is little doubt, but their
merits will be rewarded in due time.* I am very sensi
ble of the many difficulties you have had to encounter.
Your conduct under them does you great honor. As
General Thomas will take the burthen off your shoul
ders, I hope you will soon gather strength sufficient to
assist in finishing the important work, which you have
with so much glory to yourself and service to yOur
country hitherto conducted.
As I am informed, that there is a furnace somewhere
near you, where shells and shot of any size can be cast,
I would recommend to General Thomas to have the
quantity of each, that may be wanting, immediately pre
pared. The roads are so very bad, that it is impossible
to send you any great number of these necessary arti
cles from hence. I have appointed Captain Lamb, who
is a prisoner at Quebec, to be second major in the regi
ment of artillery, commanded by Colonel Henry Knox.
The gentlemen of this family return you their compli
ments, and my best wishes attend General Thomas.
I remain, Sir, yours, &c.
* The regiments sent to Canada from New York had never been in
cluded in the army under the immediate command of Washington, and for
this reason they were not taken into the new arrangement. The officers
complained of this neglect, particularly as Colonel Enos, and those with
him, who deserted the expedition to Canada and returned Jiome, had been
prdmoted.

350 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Cambridge, 4 April, 1776.
Sir,
It is not in my power to make report of the deficiency
of arms, in compliance with the direction of Congress,
at this time, as some of the regiments are at New York,
and most of the others on their march ; nor do I know
that it would answer any good purpose, if it were, hav
ing made repeated applications to the several assemblies
and conventions upon the subject, and constantly re
ceived for answer, that they cc uld afford no relief. A
proclamation of General Howe':;, issued a few days be
fore his departure from town, having fallen into my
hands, I have enclosed you a copy, which may probably
have been the occasion of large quantities of goods being
carried away, and the removal of many persons, which
otherwise would not have happened. *
Colonel Warren, paymaster-general, finding the army
likely to be removed from hence, informed me the other
day, that the situation of his affairs and engagements in
the business of the colony are such, as to prevent him
from personally attending the army; and offered, in
case it should be required, to resign. This was rather
embarrassing. To me it appears indispensably neces
sary that the paymaster-general, with his books, should
be at or near head-quarters. Indeed it is usual for the
head of every department in the army, however dis
persed that army may be, to be with the commanding

* The following is an extract from the proclamation. — " As linen and
woollen goods are articles much wanted by the rebels, and would aid and
assist them in their rebellion, the Commander-in-chief expects, that all
good subjects will use their utmost endeavours to have all such articles
conveyed from this place." Provision was likewise made for receiving
them on board a vessel.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 351
general, keeping deputies in the smaller departments.
On the other hand, Colonel Warren's merit and attach
ment to the cause are such, that I could do nothing less
than desire, as some money must be left for the pay
and contingent charges of the army which will remain
here, that he would wait here till Congress shall be
pleased to give their sentiments upon the matter.*
I would also mention to Congress, that the militia
regiments, which were last called upon, in making up
their abstracts, charged pay, the officers from the time
they received orders to raise companies, and the pri
vates from the time they respectively engaged to come,
or were called upon, though they did not march for a
considerable time after, some not within three, four, to
twenty days, during all which they remained at home
about their own private affairs, without doing any thing
else than "preparing for the march," as they say by
way of plea. This appeared to me so exceedingly un
reasonable, and so contrary to justice, that the public
should pay for a longer time than from the day of their
march to that of their return, that I ordered the ab
stracts to be made out accordingly, and refused to give
warrants on any other terms. They say that the en
listing orders, which went out from their governments,
give them the pay they claim. The fact may be, that
something in these may seem to authorize it ; but I must
submit it to Congress, and wish for their decision,
whether the Continent must pay it. I am, &c. f
* Colonel Warren resigned the office of paymaster-general ; and Colonel
Palfrey was appointed as his successor on the 27th of April.
t Congress decided, that the pay of these troops should commence on
the day of their march, and end on that of their return.

352 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
TO CAPTAIN SAMUEL M^KAY. *
New Haven, 11 April, 1776.
Sir,
I received yours of the 9th instant, and could wish
that it was in my power, consistently with the duty I owe
my country, to grant you the relief you desire. I have
made repeated applications to General Howe for an ex
change of prisoners, but he has not thought proper to
return me any answer. It has been in his power to set
you at liberty ; and if you are still continued a prisoner,
the blame must lie entirely upon him.
The situation of your family is indeed distressing;
but such is the event of war ; it is far from being singular.
The brave Colonel Allen, an officer of rank, has been
torn from his dearest connexions, sent to England in
irons, and is now confined to the most servile drudgery
on board one of the King's ships. Your treatment, Sir,
and that of the other officers taken in arms against the
liberties of America, has been very different; for the
truth of this I appeal to your own feelings. Whenever
it is in my power to release you by a mutual exchange,
I- shall do it with the greatest pleasure ; and am, Sir,
your most obedient servant.

TO COMMODORE ESECK HOPKINS. +
New York, 14 April, 1776.
Sir,
I have just received information, that the Nautilus
sloop of war is arrived here from Newport, said to be
* A prisoner at this time in Hartford.
f Commodore Hopkins arrived in New London from a cruise on the 8th
of April. He had made a descent upon Providence Island, and brought

PartH.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 353
sent express from, thence for the Asia, Phoenix, and
Savage, and that they are intended for New London in
order to block up your squadron in that harbour. I
thought it my duty to give you notice of this by ex
press, that you might take your measures accordingly.
The Phoenix, Savage, and Nautilus sailed this morning.
The Asia still remains in the harbour. I should be much
obliged to you, if you would forward the cannon and
stores for which I left a list with you, as soon as possible ;
and as the men-of-war are now out, I should be ex
tremely glad if you would keep a good look out to see
that the coast is clear, before any more of the Continen
tal troops embark from New London. I am, very
respectfully, Sir, your most obedient servant.
away Montfort Brown, governor of the island, Thomas Erwin, a member
of the council, and Mr. Bavage, secretary, and a half-pay officer, and also
seventy prisoners ; besides a quantity of ordnance and military stores
taken from Fort Nassau and Fort Montague. Among them were, eighty-
eight cannon, from nine to thirty-six pounders, fifteen mortars, more than
five thousand shells, eleven thousand round shot, twenty-four casks of
powder, and other articles of less importance.
The conduct of Commodore Hopkins in this cruise was disapproved by
Congress. His orders were to annoy the enemy's ships on the coast of
the southern states, and he was called before Congress to give his reasons
for not complying with them after his descent upon Providence Island,
instead of returning with his fleet to New London.
The President of Congress wrote to Washington on the 14th of June ;
— " The shameful inactivity of our fleet for some time past ; the frequent
neglect or disobedience of orders in Commodore Hopkins ; the number
less complaints -exhibited to the marine committee against him, and also
against Captains Saltonstall and Whipple, have induced the Congress, in
consequence of a representation from the marine committee, to order them
to repair immediately to this city to answer for their conduct. I have
accordingly written to them to set out, on the receipt of my letters, and to
repair hither by land as fast as possible. I hope soon to have our ships on
a more respectable footing. No efforts of mine shall be wanting to ac
complish so desirable an event."
After due inquiry, deliberation, and debate, Congress \ ,ted, that the
reasons offered by the Commodore were not satisfactory, and that he de
served the censure of that house, which censure was accordingly in
flicted. — Journals, August, 15th, 16th, 1776. His achievement in taking
VOL. III. 45 DD *

354 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 15 April, 1776.
Sir,
I am now to inform you, that on the 4th instant I set
out from Cambridge, and arrived here on Saturday last
I came through Providence, Norwich, and New London,
in order to see and expedite the embarkation of the
troops. The third brigade, under the command of
General Greene, was at New London when I left it,
where there was a sufficient number of transports to
embark them; and most probably they would have
arrived here before this, had it not been for a severe
storm, which happened the night they sailed, which dis
persed them, and, I fear, has done them some injury.
General Spencer, with the last brigade, marched from
Roxbury the day I left Cambridge, and would be at
New London, ready to embark in the return transports,
which brought General Sullivan's division to this place.
The whole of the troops may be reasonably expected
here in the course of this week. The badness of the
roads, and difficulty of procuring teams for bringing the
stores and baggage, have greatly prolonged their arrival.
I have not had time, since I came, to look fully about
me ; but I find many works of defence begun, and some
finished. The troops are much dispersed, some on
Long Island, others oh Staten Island.
I have ordered four battalions from hence to Canada,
the governor of a small island prisoner, and dismantling two forts feebly
defended, did not comport with the dignity, which Congress had attached
to the enterprise, nor the expectations they had formed in fitting out the
first Continental fleet, at much expense, and in the face of many difficul
ties. Near the east end of Long Island, in returning from his cruise,
Commodore Hopkins had a warm action with the British armed ship
Glasgow, but that vessel escaped by the adroitness and good management
of its commander.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 355
and am taking measures to have them forwarded to Al
bany by water, with all possible expedition. This will
greatly expedite their arrival, and ease the men of much
fatigue. I have written to General Schuyler of their
coming, that he may have necessary measures taken to
hurry their march to General Thomas. I am informed
by General Putnam that the militia, who were called in
for the support of i this town, in case the ministerial
army had arrived before our troops, are all discharged,
it being unnecessary to keep them longer. All the
ships of war, besides the Asia, moved out of this harbour
on Saturday, and the Asia yesterday; some of which
are now below7 the Narrows, and the rest gone to sea.
Your favor of the 10th instant by Major Sherburne,
directed to General Putnam or the commanding officer
here, came to hand on Saturday evening, with three
boxes of money, which I shall deliver to the paymaster
as soon as he arrives, and transmit you his receipt for the
same. Having received information from hence before
my departure from Cambridge, that thirty pieces of
heavy canfton were wanting, and essentially necessary
for the defence of this place, in addition to those already
here, I took the liberty of applying to Commodore
Hopkins, whom I saw at New London, for that number,
with the mortars and stores he brought from Providence
Island, a list of which he had transmitted to you. He
told' me, that, as many were wanting for the defence of
Providence River and the harbour at New London, it
was uncertain whether I could have all I wanted ; but
that he would send me all that could be spared. I have
not been able to get a return of the troops since I came.
As soon as I do it, I will send it to you.
I am, Sir, with 'great respect, &,c.

356 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et.44.
TO JOHN ADAMS, IN CONGRESS.
New York, 15 April, 1776.
Sir,
This morning your polite letter of the 1st instant was
delivered to me by Mr. Dana. I am much obliged to
you for your introduction of that gentleman, and you
may rely on my showing him every civility in my
power. *
I have ever thought, and am still of opinion, that
no terms of accommodation will be offered by the
British ministry, but such as cannot be accepted by
America. We have nothing, my dear Sir, to depend
upon but the protection of a kind Providence, and una
nimity among ourselves. I am impressed with the
deepest gratitude for the high honor intended me by
Congress. Whatever device may be determined upon
by the respectable committee they have chosen for that
purpose will be highly agreeable to me.f I have the
honor to be, most respectfully, Sir, your obedient and
affectionate humble servant.

* From Mr. Adams's letter. — "The bearer of this letter, Mr. Francis
Dana of Cambridge, is a gentleman of family, fortune, and education, re
turned in the last packet from London, where he has been about a year.
He has ever maintained an excellent character in his country, and a warm
friendship for the American cause. He returns to share with his friends
in their dangers and their triumphs. I have done myself the honor to
give him this letter, for the sake of introducing him to your acquaintance,
as he has frequently expressed to me his desire to embrace the first op
portunity of paying liis respects to a character so highly esteemed, and so
iustly admired throughout all Europe, as well as America. Mr. Dana
will satisfy you, that we have no reason to expect peace from Great
Britain." f Alluding to a medal proposed to be struck by Congress to commemo
rate the evacuation of Boston. — See Appendix, No. XIV.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 357
TO JOSEPH REED.
New York, 15 April, 1776.
My Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 13th was this instant put into my
hands, scarcely in time to acknowledge the receipt of it
by this post, and to thank you for your great care and
attention in providing my camp equipage.
I am exceedingly concerned to hear of the divisions
and parties, which prevail with you, and in the southern
colonies, on the score of independence. These are the
shelves we have to avoid, or our bark will split and
tumble to pieces. Here lies our great danger, and I
almost tremble when I think of this rock. Nothing but
disunion can hurt our cause. This will ruin it, if great
prudence, temper, and moderation are not mixed in
our counsels, and made the governing principles of the
contending parties. When, my good Sir, will you be
with me 1 I fear I shall have a difficult card to play in
this government [New York], and could wish for your
assistance and advice to manage it. I have not time to
add more, except that with great sincerity and truth I
am, dear Sir, your most obedient and affectionate hum
ble servant.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF NEW YORK.
Head-Q,uarters, 17 April, 1776.
Gentlemen,
There is nothing that could add more to my happi
ness, than to go hand in hand with the civil authority of
this, or any other government, to which it may be my
lot to be ordered ; and, if in the prosecution of such
measures as shall appear to me to have a manifest ten-

358 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
dency to promote the interest of the great American
cause, I shall encounter the local convenience of indi
viduals, or even of a whole colony, I beg it may be be
lieved, that I shall do it with reluctance and pain ; but,
in the present important contest, the least of two evils
must be preferred. That a continuance of the inter
course, which has hitherto subsisted between the in
habitants of this colony and the enemy on board their
ships of war, is injurious to the common cause, requires
no extraordinary abilities to prove. A moment's reflec
tion not only evinces this truth, but points out the glar
ing absurdity of such a procedure. We are to consider
ourselves either in a state of peace or of war with Great
Britain. If the former, why are our ports shut up, our
trade destroyed, our property seized, our towns burnt,
and our worthy and valuable citizens led into captivity,
and suffering the most cruel hardships 1 If the latter,
my imagination is not fertile enough to suggest a reason
in support of the intercourse.
In the weak and defenceless state, in which this city
was some time ago, political prudence might justify the
correspondence, which subsisted between the country
and the enemy's ships of war; but, as the largest part
of the Continental troops is now here ; as many strong
works are erected and erecting for the defence of the
city and harbour, those motives no longer exist, but are
absorbed in others of a more important nature. To tell
you, Gentlemen, that the advantages of an intercourse
of this kind are altogether on the side of the enemy,
whilst we derive not the smallest benefit from it, would
be telling what must be obvious to every one. It is,
indeed, so glaring, that even the enemy themselves must
despise us for suffering it to be continued ; for, besides
their obtaining supplies of every kind, by which they
are enabled to continue in your harbours, it also opens

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 359
a regular channel of intelligence, by which they are,
from- time to time, made acquainted with the number
and extent of our works, our strength, and all our
movements ; by which they are enabled to regulate '
their own plans, to our great disadvantage and injury.
For the truth of this, I could produce instances ; but, as
it may be the subject of future discussion, I decline it at
present. It would, Gentlemen, be taking up too much of your
time, to use further arguments in proof of the necessity
of putting an immediate and total stop to all further cor
respondence with the enemy. It is my incumbent duty
to effect this, convinced as I am of the disadvantages
resulting from it ; and it cannot be thought strange or
hard, that, under such conviction, I should be anxious
to remove an evil, which may contribute, not a little, to
the ruin of the great cause we are engaged in, and may,
in its effects, prove highly detrimental to this colony in
particular. In effecting the salutary purposes abovementioned, I
could wish for the concurrence and support of your
honorable body. It certainly adds great weight to the
measures adopted, when the civil authority cooperates
with the military to carry them into execution. It would
also redound much to the honor of the government,
and of your Committee in particular ; for the world is
apt to judge from appearances ; and, while such a cor
respondence exists, the reputation of the whole colony
will suffer in the eyes of their American brethren. It
is therefore, Gentlemen, that I have taken the liberty to
address you on this important subject, relying on your
zeal and attachment to the cause of American liberty,
for your assistance in putting a stop to this evil, and that
you will cooperate with me in such measures as shall be
effectual, either to prevent any future correspondence

360 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et.44.
with the enemy, or in bringing to condign punishment
such persons, as may be hardy and wicked enough to
carry it on, otherwise than by a prescribed mode, if any
case can possibly arise to require it. I have the honor
to be, with the utmost respect, Gentlemen, &c. *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 18 April, 1776.
Sir,
Permit me, through you, to convey to the honorable
Congress the sentiments of gratitude I feel for the high
honor they have done me in the public mark of appro
bation contained in your favor of the 2d instant, which
came to hand last night. I beg you to. assure them,
that it will ever be my highest ambition to approve my
self a faithful servant of the public ; and that to be in
any degree instrumental in procuring to my American
brethren a restitution of their just rights and privileges,
will constitute my chief happiness.
Agreeably to your request, I have communicated, in
general orders, to the officers and soldiers under my
command, the thanks of Congress for their good be-
X
* The Committee acceded fully to this requisition, and the day fol
lowing passed a resolution prohibiting all persons from holding any in
tercourse with the King's vessels in the harbour, on penalty of being dealt
with in the severest manner as enemies to the rights and liberties of the
United Colonies. The New York Committee of Safety began to assume
a more firm and decided character, than had hitherto been shown either
by the Committees or the Provincial Congress. In writing to Washington
on the 25th of April, the Committee say, " The polite sensibility, with
which you have been pleased to treat our attention to your requisition of
the 17th instant affords us singular pleasure. Convinced with you, that
there can be little doubt that things will go well under a harmonious co
operation of the civil and military powers, permit us once more, Sir, to
assure you of our most vigorous exertions in seconding your efforts in the
common cause."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 361
haviour in the service ; and I am happy in having such an
opportunity of doing justice to their merit. They were
indeed, at first, " a band of undisciplined husbandmen " ;
but it is, under God, to their bravery and attention to
their duty, that I am indebted for that success, which
has procured me the only reward I wish to receive, the
affection and esteem of my countrymen. The medal,
intended to be presented to me by your honorable
body, I shall carefully preserve as a memorial of their
regard. I beg leave to return you, Sir, my warmest
thanks for the polite manner in which you have been
pleased to express their sentiments of my conduct ; and
am, with sincere esteem and respect, Sir, your and their
most obedient and most humble servant.*

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER. New York, 19 April, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Yours of the 12th instant from Fort George was de
livered to me yesterday by express. I agree with you,
that the intelligence is very alarming and requires the
strictest attention.! The four regiments ordered from
* See Appendix, No. XIV.
f When General Wooster left Montreal for Quebec, March 27th, the
command of the former place devolved on Colonel Hazen, who wrote to
General Schuyler, on the 1st of April, as follows.
" You are not unacquainted with the friendly disposition of the Cana
dians, when General Montgomery first penetrated into \he country ; the
ready assistance which they gave on all occasions, by men, carriages, or
provisions, was most remarkable. Even when he was before Quebec,
many parishes offered their services in the reduction of that fortress, which
were at that time thought unnecessary. But his most unfortunate fate,
added to other incidents, has caused such a change in their disposition,
that we no longer look upon them as friends, but on the contrary waiting
an opportunity to join our enemies. That no observations of my own may
remain obscure, I beg leave to observe, that I think the clergy,1 orguar-
VOL. III. 46 EE

362 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
hence are now embarking, and I hope they will soon be
with you. I need not urge the necessity of forwarding
them from Albany with all possible despatch. You will
have with the troops five hundred barrels of provisions.
The commissary-general expects every moment a large
quantity from Connecticut, and what can be spared of
it shall be sent to you in the same bottoms, without de
lay. What General Lee contracted for is not yet de
livered. His sudden and unexpected departure to the
southward left the contractors at a loss where to deliver
the provisions, and apply for the pay. The commissary-
general has since renewed the contract, and ordered
them to send the provisions here. I have ordered a
return to be made of the state of our magazine, and if

dians ofthe souls and conductors of the bodies of these enthusiasts, have
been neglected, perhaps in some instances ill-used. Be that as it will,
they are unanimous, though privately, against our cause, and I have too
much reason to fear many of them, with other people of some conse
quence, have carried on a correspondence the whole winter with General
Carleton in Quebec, and are now plotting our destruction. The peasantry
in general have been ill-used. They have, in some instances, been dra
gooned with the point of the bayonet to supply wood for the garrison at a
lower rate than the current price. For carriages and many other articles
furnished, certificates have been given not legible, without signature, the
one half of consequence rejected by the quartermaster-general. It is true,
payment has been promised from time to time ; yet they look upon such
promises as vague, their labor and property lost, and the Congress or United
Colonies bankrupt. And in a more material point, they have not seen suf
ficient force in the country to protect them. These matters furnish very
strong arguments to be made use of by our enemies. With respect to the
better sort of people, both French and English, seven eighths are Tories,
who would wish to see our throats cut, and perhaps would readily assist in
doing it.
" You may remember, Sir, in a conversation with you at Albany, I urged
the necessity of sending immediately to Canada able generals, a respecta
ble army, a. committee of Congress, a suitable supply of hard cash, and a
printer. Indeed, I had before represented those measures in person to
Congress, at least to the Committee of Congress, and we have since been
flattered from time to time that we should have one or all of these es
sentials." — MS. Letter.

PartIL] , THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 363
the powder you request can possibly be spared, you
shall have it.
I have written to Congress to know whether they ,
would incline to send you a further reinforcement of
men ; but we are yet in a very uncertain situation, not
knowing where the enemy may bend their force, and
constant applications are made from all quarters of the
seacoast for a supply of men and ammunition. The
recruits, that have been raised here, are totally unfur
nished with arms, and, what is still worse, we do not
know where to procure them. You, who know the
temper and disposition of the savages, will, I doubt not,
think with me, that it will be impossible to keep them in
a state of neutrality. I have urged upon Congress the
necessity of engaging them on our side, to prevent their
taking an active part against us, which would be a most
fatal stroke under our present circumstances.
The commotions among the Canadians are alarming.
I am afraid proper measures have not been taken to
conciliate their affections; but rather that they have
been insulted and injured, than which nothing could
have a greater tendency to ruin our cause in that coun
try. For human nature is such, that it will adhere to
the side from whence the best treatment is received. I
therefore conjure you, Sir, to recommend to the officers
and soldiers in the strongest terms to treat all the inhab
itants, Canadians, English, and savages, with tenderness
and respect, paying them punctually for what they re
ceive, or giving them such certificates as will enable
them to receive their pay. As you are perfectly well
acquainted with the country and its inhabitants in and
about Albany, I think it would be best for you to remain
there, at least until the troops and all their supplies are
forwarded from thence to Canada. Besides the four
regiments ordered for that service, I shall send a com-

364 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44'
pany of riflemen, a company of artificers, and two engi
neers. I beg you will continue to furnish me with
intelligence of every interesting occurrence, and believe
me, most affectionately, your obedient humble servant.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 19 April, 1776.
Sir,
You will please to notice what Colonel Hazen says
of the disposition of the Indians. * In my opinion, it
will be impossible to keep them in a state of neutrality.
They must, and, no doubt, soon will take an active part
either for or against us ; and I submit it to the consider
ation of Congress, whether it wrould not be best imme
diately to engage them on our side, and to use our ut
most endeavours to prevent their minds being poisoned
by ministerial emissaries, which will ever be the case,
while a King's garrison is suffered to remain in their
country. Would it not therefore be advisable to send
a sufficient force from the back counties of Pennsylva
nia, to take possession of the garrisons of Niagara and
Detroit? This, I think, might easily be effected, and
would answer the most salutary purposes. The Seneca
Indians, who have hitherto appeared friendly to us,
might be usefully employed in this business.
I am in hopes that most of the difficulties mentioned
* Colonel Hazen had written from Montreal to General Schuyler; —
" The savages hereabouts are cool ; they keep aloof from us ; we are to
expect little or no friendship from them, and indeed little or no precaution
has been taken for that purpose. It is expected by some, that numbers
will come from the interior country, and fall on our frontiers -early in the
spring. The Canadians taking up arms so early against us is ofthe most
important consequence. We have ourselves brought about by misman
agement, what Governor Carleton himself could never effect."

PartU.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

365

in Colonel Hazen's letter will be obviated by the ap
pearance of the respectable committee of Congress
in Canada, and the forces that have been and will
be sent there. The security of that country is of
the utmost importance to us. This cannot be done
so effectually by conquest, as by taking strong hold
of the affections and confidence of the inhabitants.
It is to be lamented, that any conduct of the Continental
troops should tend to alienate their affections from us.
The honorable Congress will be able to judge from the
papers sent them by General Schuyler, and the infor
mation they may receive of the designs of the enemy,
whether it is expedient to send a further reinforcement
to Canada. If such should be their determination, I
stand ready to execute their orders ; and am, with re
spect, Sir, your most obedient humble servant.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 22 April, 1776.
Sir,
I have now the pleasure to acquaint you, that the four
regiments designed for Canada embarked yesterday
with a fair wind for .Albany, under the command of
Colonels Greaton, Patterson, Bond, and Poor ; besides
which there was a company of riflemen, a company
of artificers, and two engineers, the whole com
manded by Brigadier-General Thompson. I have re
peatedly mentioned to the honorable Congress the dis
tressful situation we are in for want of arms. With
much pains and difficulty I got most of the regiments
from the eastward tolerably well furnished ; but I find
the New York regiments very badly provided. Colo
nel Ritzema's has scarcely any ; and yet these men,
EE*

366 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
being enlisted during the war, and at five dollars per
month, ought not, in my judgment, to be discharged ;
as we find it almost as difficult to get men as arms.
This is a matter of some importance, which I should be
glad to receive the particular opinion of Congress upon.*
Mr. Baldwin is one of the assistant-engineers ordered to
Canada. He is indeed a very useful man in his depart
ment, but he declined the service on account of his pay,
which he says is inadequate to his support. In order to
induce him to continue, I promised to represent his case
to Congress ; and would recommend an increase of his
pay, and that he should have the rank of lieutenant-
colonel, of which he is very deserving. I beg leave
therefore to recommend him to the Congress, and that
they would make provision for him accordingly, f A
few days ago, application was made to me by the Com
mittee of Safety for this colony for an exchange of pris
oners. For the particulars I beg leave to refer you to
their letter, a copy of which you have, enclosed. As
there is a standing order of Congress, that no sailors or
soldiers shall be exchanged for citizens, I did not in
cline to comply with the request without the particular
direction of Congress ; but I have been since informed,
that the prisoners, mentioned in the Committee's letter
as citizens, are really seamen taken from private ves
sels, but not in arms. How far this may alter the case,
or how far the reasons which induced the Congress to
pass the resolve abovementioned may still exist, must
be left to their determination.
The militia, who, on my application, were ordered to
this place to keep possession, until I should arrive with

* Congress resolved, that no troops should be disbanded for want of
arms. f This recommendation was successful, and Mr. Baldwin was allowed
the pay and rank of lieutenant-colonel on the Continental establishment.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 367
the Continental forces, were obliged to return home
without their pay,, as there was not then money suffi
cient in the treasury for that purpose, and to answer the
exigencies of the army. This occasioned great uneasi
ness among them, and may be attended with very bad
consequences, in case we should have occasion for their
service on any future emergency. I therefore beg the
Congress would make provision for their pay, and point
out particularly whether it is to be done by the com
mander of the Continental forces, or by the Provincial
Assemblies or Conventions from. whence they are sent'.
As the time for which the riflemen enlisted will ex
pire on the 1st of July next, and as the loss of such a
valuable and brave body of men will be of great injury
to the service, I would submit it to the consideration of
Congress, whether it would not be best to adopt some
method to induce them to continue. They are indeed
a very useful corps; but I need not mention this, as
their importance is already well known to the Congress.
It is necessary they should pay an early attention to this
matter, as we know from past experience that men are
very slow in re-enlisting.* When I had the honor of
seeing Commodore Hopkins at New London, he re
presented to me the weak state of his fleet, occasioned
by sickness and the damage he received in his engage
ment with the enemy ; and requested I would spare
him two hundred men to assist him in a design he had
formed of attacking Wallace. This I readily consented
.to ; and the men are to be returned as soon as the ser-

* The companies of riflemen, raised in Pennsylvania; Maryland, and
Virginia, by order of Congress, were, by the terms of their enlistment, to
serve one year, unless sooner discharged. Congress authorized and di
rected the officers of these companies, and of independent rifle companies,
to re-enlist the men, and enlist recruits., for two years' service, liable to be
sooner discharged upon receiving a month's pay in advance.

368 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44
vice is performed. I wish it was in my power at present
to furnish General Lee with the companies of artillery
he desires. I have already sent two companies to Que
bec ; and I have not yet been able to procure a return
of those that are here. * I expect Colonel Knox every
moment, and shall then be able to determine whether
any can be spared from hence, t Blankets we are in
great want of ourselves ; and it was with great difficulty
a few could be procured for the riflemen, that were or
dered for Canada.
JLpril 23d. — In a letter, which I had the honor to re
ceive from Congress some considerable time ago, they
were pleased to ask what rank aids-de-camp bore in
the army ; from whence I concluded, that they had ad
verted to the extraordinary trouble and confinement of
those gentlemen, with a view to make them an adequate
allowance. But nothing having been since done or said
of the matter, I take the liberty, unsolicited by, and un
known to my aids-de-camp, to inform your honorable
body, that their pay is not by any means equal to their
trouble and confinement. No person wishes more to
save money to the public, than I do ; and no person has
aimed more at it. But there are some cases in which
parsimony may be ill-placed ; and this I take to be one.
Aids-de-camp are persons in whom entire confidence
must be placed ; it requires men of abilities to execute
the duties with propriety and despatch, where there is
such a multiplicity of business, as must attend the Com-

* There was a company of artillery in New York under Captain Alex
ander Hamilton, but it had been raised by the colony, and was not yet
under the command of Washington.
t At the request of the Governor of Rhode Island, Colonel Knox had
gone to Newport for the purpose of giving advice respecting the erection
of works of defence at that place.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 369
mander-in-chief of such an army as ours ; and per
suaded I am, that nothing but the zeal of those gentle
men, who live with me and act in this capacity, for the
great American cause, and personal attachment to me,
have induced them to undergo the trouble and confine
ment they have experienced, since they have become
members of my family.
I give in to no kind of amusements myself; and con
sequently those about me can have none, but are con
fined from morning till evening, hearing and answering
the applications and letters of one and another, which
will now, I expect, receive a considerable addition, as
the business of the northern and eastern departments,
if I continue here, must, I suppose, pass through my
hands. If these gentlemen had the same relaxation
from duty as other officers have in their common rou
tine, there would not be so much in it. But, to have
the mind always upon the stretch, scarce ever unbent,
and no hours for recreation, makes a material odds.
Knowing this, and at the same time how inadequate the
pay is, I can scarce find inclination to impose the ne
cessary duties of their office upon them. To what I
have here said, this further remark may be added, and it
is a matter of no small concernment to me, and, in its
consequences, to the public, namely, that, while the
duty is hard and the pay small, it is not to be wondered
at, if there should be found a promptness in them to
seek preferment, or in me to do. justice to them by facil
itating their views ; by which means I must lose their
aid, when they have it most in their power to assist me.
Influenced by these motives, I have taken the liberty of
laying the matter before your honorable body, not
doubting its meeting with a patient hearing. I am, &.c. *
* The pay of an aid-de-camp to the Commander-in-chief was at first
vol. in. 47

370 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.

Sir,

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 25 April, 1776.

I have not yet heard, that there has been any trial of
the prizes carried into Massachusetts Bay. This pro
crastination is attended with very bad consequences.
Some of the vessels I had fitted out are now laid up,
the crews being dissatisfied that they cannot get their
prize-money. I have tired the Congress upon this sub
ject; but the importance of it makes me again mention,
that, if a summary way of proceeding is not resolved on,
it will be impossible to get our vessels manned. I must
also mention to you, Sir, that Captain Manly and his
crew are desirous to know when they may expect their
part of the value of the ordnance stores taken last fall.
They are anxious to know what the amount may be.
As the inventory of that cargo is in the hands of Con
gress, I would humbly submit it to them, whether a val
uation thereof should not be made, and the captors'
dividend be remitted to them as soon as possible. It
will give them spirit, and encourage them to be alert in
looking out for other prizes.
Several officers belonging to the regiments raised in
these middle colonies inform me, that their men, not
withstanding their agreement, begin to murmur at the
distinction of pay made between them and the regi
ments from the eastward. I should be glad that the
Congress would attend to this in time, lest it may get to
such a pitch as will make it difficult to suppress. They
argue that they perform the same duty, undergo the
same fatigue, and receive five dollars, when the eastern
fixed at thirty-three dollars a month. In consequence of this letter, it was
raised to forty dollars. The rank was that of lieutenant-colonel. The
aids-de-camp of major-generals ranked? as majors.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 37l
regiments receive six dollars and two thirds per month.
For my own part, I wish they were all upon the same
footing ; for, if the British army will not face this way,
it will be necessary to detach a great part of our troops.
In that case, I should, for many reasons, be sorry there
should be any distinctions of regiments, that are all in
the pay of the United Colonies.
April 26th. — I have been honored with your favor of
the 23d instant. In obedience to the order therein con
tained, I have directed six regiments more for Canada,
which will embark as soon as vessels and other neces
saries can be provided. These regiments will be com
manded by General Sullivan. I shall give him instruc
tions to join the forces in that country under General
Thomas as soon as possible. With respect to sending
more troops to that country, I am really at a loss what to
advise, as it is impossible at present to know the designs
of the enemy.* Should they send the whole force under
General Howe up the river St. Lawrence, to relieve Que
bec and recover Canada, the troops gone and now going
will be insufficient to stop their progress ; and should
they think proper to send that or an equal force this way
from Great Britain, for the purpose of possessing this
city and securing the navigation of Hudson's River, the
troops left here will not be sufficient to oppose them ;
and yet, for any thing we know, I think it not improb
able they may attempt both ; both being of the greatest
importance to them, if they have men.
I could wish, indeed, that the army in Canada should
be more powerfully reinforced ; at the same time I am
conscious, that the trusting of this important post, which
* Congress had requested the opinion of General Washington, whether
it was necessary to send more troops to Canada, and whether he could with
safety spare them from the army at New York.

372 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
is now become the grand magazine of America, to the
handful of men remaining here is running too great
a risk. The securing of this post and Hudson's River
is to us also of so great importance, that I cannot at
present advise the sending any more troops from hence;
on the contrary, the general officers now here, whom I
thought it my duty to consult, think it absolutely neces
sary to increase the army at this place with at least ten
thousand men, especially when it is considered, that,
from this place only, the army in Canada must draw its
supplies of ammunition, provisions, and, most probably,
of men ; and that all reinforcements can be sent from
hence much easier than from any other place. By the
enclosed return, you will see the state of the army here,
and that the number of effective men is far short of
what the Congress must have expected.*
I have found it necessary to order Colonel Dayton's
regiment from New Jersey to march as one of the six to
Canada; wherefore I must recommend it to Congress
to order two companies of one of the regiments still in
Pennsylvania to march to Cape May, which can be
done much sooner ; for, had this destination of that regi-
* By the adjutant-general's return on the 28th of April, the number of
troops present and fit for duty under General Washington's command was
8,101. Including those, who were sick, absent on furlough, and on com
mand, the whole army at New York amounted to 10,235.
From the Orderly Book, June 27th. — "The riotous behaviour of some
soldiers of the Continental army, yesterday and the evening before, has
filled the General with much regret and concern ; and lays him under the
disagreeable necessity of declaring, that if the like behaviour should be
practised again, the authors will be brought to the severest punishment,
if taken, or treated as a common enemy if they dare to resist. Men are
not to carve out remedies for themselves. If they are injured in any re
spect, there are legal modes to obtain relief, and just complaints will always
be attended to and redressed. It should be the pride of a soldier to con
duct himself in such a manner, as to obtain the applause and not the re
proach of a people he is sent to defend ; and it should be the business as
it is the duty of an officer to inculcate and enforce this doctrine."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

373

ment not taken place, it would have been very inconve
nient to detach two companies from it to that place, as
the march would, according to Lord Stirling's and other
accounts, have been at least two hundred miles from
Amboy, and they must have passed within twenty miles
of Philadelphia, there being no practicable road along
the seacoast of New Jersey for their baggage to have
passed. I have the honor to be, &c.

TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL. New York, 26 April, 1776.
Sir,
When you did me the honor of a visit at Norwich, on
my way to this place, I communicated to you the
recommendation I had received from Congress for
sending four battalions from hence to reinforce the
troops in Canada. I now beg leave to inform you, that,
in compliance therewith, on Saturday and Sunday last,
I detached four regiments thither, under the command
of Brigadier- General Thompson; and, by an express
received last night, I am ordered by Congress, in addi
tion to those ¦ already gone, to send six more immedi-
diately. Our regiments being incomplete and much
wanting in numbers, I need not add, that the army here
felt a sensible diminution by this detachment ; and,
when the second is gone, it will be weak indeed, con
sidering the importance of this place, and the many ex
tensive posts, which must be guarded for its defence.
Added to this, almost the whole of our valuable ord
nance, stores, and magazines will be deposited here.
For these reasons, it appears to me expedient, that
some mode should be adopted, without loss of time, by
this government, yours, and that of Jersey, for throwing in
VOL. III. FF

374 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [^Et. 44.
immediate succours, upon the appearance of the enemy,
or any case of emergency. I have written to the Con
gress of New Jersey upon the subject, praying them
to form such regulations respecting their militia, they
being the only resource we have, that assistance may
be had on the earliest notice of an approach by the en
emy, for preventing the alarming and fatal consequences,
which might result from the common, tedious, and slow
methods generally used for obtaining their aid. And I
would take* the liberty of mentioning, that, if the same
should be done by you and your honorable Council,
respecting your militia, or such part of them as are
nearest to this place, the most salutary ends might
result therefrom.
The benefits flowing from a timely succour being too
obvious for repetition, I shall, with all possible deference,
propose for your consideration, whether it would not be
advisable to have some select corps of men appointed,
under proper officers, in the western parts of your gov
ernment, to repair to this place on the earliest notice
from the general, or officer commanding here, of the
appearance of an enemy. If it should be thought ne
cessary upon an emergency, in the first instance to re
sort to you, and for all the ordinary forms to be gone
through, before any succours can be ordered in, it is to
be feared, that the relief would be too late to answer
any good purpose. This, however, I shall submit to
you, in full confidence of your most ready assistance on
every occasion, and that such measures, as appear to
you most likely to advance the public good, in this and
every instance, will be most cheerfully adopted. I am,
Sir, with great esteem, &c.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 375
TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
New York, 29 April, 1776.
Dear Brother,
Since my arrival at this place, I have been favored
with two or three of your letters, and thank you for
your kind and frequent remembrance of me. If I should
not write to you so often as you do to me, you must
attribute it to its true cause, and that is, the hurry and
multiplicity of business in which I am constantly en
gaged, from the time I rise out of my bed until I go into
it again. I wrote to you a pretty full account, just be
fore I left Cambridge, of the movements of the two ar
mies, and now refer you to it. Since that time, I have
brought the whole army, which I had in the New En
gland governments (five regiments excepted, left behind
for the defence of Boston and the stores we have there),
to this place ; and eight days ago I detached four regi
ments for Canada ; and I am now embarking six more
for the same place, as there are reasons to believe, that
a push will be made there this campaign, and things in
that country not being in a very promising way, either
with respect to the Canadians or Indians. These de
tachments have weakened us very considerably in this
important post, where, I am sorry to add, there are too
many inimical persons. But as our affairs in Canada
can derive no support, except what is sent to them, and
the militia may be called in here, it was thought best to
strengthen that quarter at the expense of this ; but I am
afraid we are rather too late in doing it. From the
eastern army, under my immediate command, it was
impossible to do it sooner.
We have already gone great lengths in fortifying this
city and the Hudson River. A fortnight more will put
us in a very respectable posture of defence. The

376 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
works we have already constructed, and which they
found we were about to erect, have put the King's ships
to flight ; for, instead of lying within pistol-shot of the
wharves, and their sentries conversing with ours, whilst
they received every necessary that the country afforded,
they have now gone down to the Hook, near thirty miles
from this place, the last harbour they can get to, and
I have prevailed upon the Committee of Safety to for
bid every kind of intercourse between the inhabitants
of this colony and the enemy. This I was resolved
upon effecting ; but I thought it best to bring it about
through that channel, as I now can pursue my own
measures in support of their resolves.
Mrs. Washington is still here, and talks of taking the
smallpox ; but I doubt her resolution. Mr. and Mrs.
Custis will set out in a few days for Maryland. I did
not write to you by the 'Squire, because his departure,
in the first place, was sudden ; in the next, I had but
little to say. I am very sorry to hear, that my sister
was indisposed when you last wrote. I hope she is
now recovered, and that your family are well. That
they may continue so, and that our once happy country
may escape the depredations and calamities attending
war, is the fervent prayer of, dear Sir, your most af
fectionate brother.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF NEW YORK.
New York, 30 April, 1776.
Gentlemen,
I perceive by the tenor of your favor of yesterday,
that my letter of the 27th has given umbrage, which I
am sorry for, as I had not the most distant idea of giving

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 377
any.* Three things led me to suspect, that the New
York battalions were not upon the same establish
ment as the other Continental troops ; current report,
an implied exception in the order for detaching six more
battalions to Canada, and that part of your letter signi
fying that four of these battalions were to be raised
under your immediate direction ; which intimation, com
ing in corroboration of the two first reasons, for I never
had any information of this matter from Congress, led
me to believe, that you intended it as a gentle hint, that
I was not to consider them in the same light as I did
the others. It was not to be wondered at, therefore,
that I should wish to know the extent of my authority
over them, that my conduct might be regulated there
by, or that I should not be so solicitous in arming regi
ments, raised for local purposes, as those for the general
service, when the latter are also greatly deficient in this
essential point.
These were the ideas, that filled my mind at the time

* The New York Congress had several months previously to this date
organized and commenced the raising of four battalions, or regiments,
commanded by Colonels M°Dougall, James Clinton, Ritzema," and Wyn-
koop. In communicating the state of these battalions to Washington, it
was left doubtful by the Committee how far .they were to be considered
under Ms command. Whereupon he wrote to them as follows on the
27th of April; —
" If the four battalions are placed under the immediate care of the
Committee of Safety for this colony by Congress, I should be glad to
know how far it is conceived, that my power over them extends, or
whether I have any at all. Sure I am that they cannot be subjected to
the direction of both, and I shall have no small reluctance in assuming
an authority, which I am not vested with powers to execute. Nor will
my solicitude (further than as a well-wisher to the cause) on account of
arms for these regiments, and returns of them, continue, if they are not
considered as within the line of my command. It becomes, therefore,
my indispensable . duty to ascertain this matter, and to know whether
these regiments cannot be ordered out of the colony, for instance to New
Jersey, if necessity should require it."
The Committee replied : — " We are sorry to find there was a possibility
VOL. III. 48 FF *

378 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
of writing. If the extreme hurry, occasioned by a variety
of business, which is continually pressing upon me,
clouded the meaning I wished to convey, I can only add,
that it never was, and I hope never will be, my inten
tion to give unprovoked offence. Of this your Commit
tee may be once for all assured, that it is my earnest
wish to cooperate with them in every measure, which
can conduce to the general good, and that if I should
at any time differ from them in the means, I shall feel
my share of the concern ; being, with respect, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 30 April, 1776.
Sir,
I mean, through you, to do myself the honor of lay
ing before Congress a copy of an address transmitted to
them some time ago by the Assembly of Rhode Island,
which Governor Cooke favored me with in the month
of January, at the same time requesting me to interest
of misunderstanding the passage in our letter respecting the four battal
ions raising in this colony. Be assured, Sir, that we never considered
them as under our direction, except so far as concerned the forming and
equipping of them ; and if you will be pleased to refer yourself to our last
letter, the distinction taken therein between the four battalions and Van
Schaick's regiment will convince you, that we meant nothing more than
in obedience to Congress to have the completing of them for the com
mand of the Continental General ; nor do we esteem them so pointedly
under our direction in this respect, as to exclude your solicitude as Com
mander-in-chief to have them speedily completed and armed ; a solicitude
highly becoming your station, and which, instead of affording the least
ground for umbrage, serves to heighten the opinion, which your former
conduct has invariably taught us to entertain of your vigilant attention
to the important duties of your office, and of your zeal for the defence
and security of the rights of this much injured country."
Van Schaick's regiment was distinct from the above four, and was
raising in the north part of the colony with direct reference to the Canada
service, and in General Schuyler's department.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 379
myself in procuring a body of forces on the Continental
establishment, for the defence of that colony. I doubt
not but the address and the subject of it have had the
attention and consideration of Congress before now.
But if they have not decided upon the matter, I would
beg leave to mention, that I have made inquiry into the
situation and condition of the colony, and find it to be
as stated in the address ; and, with all deference to the
opinion of Congress, I conceive it highly necessary and
expedient, that they should adopt some measures for
relieving their distress, and granting the aid prayed for.
The importance of Rhode Island in the chain of the
union, its extensive seacoast, affording harbours for our
shipping and vessels, at the same time exposing and
subjecting the inhabitants to the ravages and depreda
tions of our enemies, the zeal and attachment which.
they have shown, and which still actuate them towards
the common cause, their incapacity to pay a sufficient
number of men for their defence, should they be able
to furnish them after so many engaged in other services ;
these, and many other reasons, which are too obvious to
be mentioned, plead powerfully for the notice and atten
tion of Congress, and seem to me to claim their support.
Having thus stated the matter to Congress, for their
consideration, agreeably to my promise to Governor
Cooke when I had the honor of seeing him Gn my
way hither, I shall leave it with them, not doubting but
they will duly weigh its importance, and give such as
sistance as they may think reasonable and just. What
they, chiefly wish for is, that the troops they have raised
may be taken into Continental pay, and commanding
officers appointed by Congress. * I have the honor, &c.
* Congress assented to this request, and resolved on the 11th of May,
that the two battalions, directed to be raised by the Rhode Island Assem
bly, should be taken into Continental pay.

380 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 5 May, 1776.
Sir,
Having had several complaints from the officers in the
eastern regiments, who have been and are engaged in
recruiting, about the expense attending it, and for which
they have never yet been allowed any thing, though the
officers in these governments have, as I am informed, I
shall be glad to know whether the allowance of ten
shillings, granted to the officers for every man enlisted,
by the resolve of Congress, is general and indiscrimi
nate, or confined to the middle districts. If general, must
I have a retrospect to the time of the resolve, and pay
for the services since, or only for future enlistments 1 *
By a letter from General Schuyler, of the 27th ulti
mo, I find General Thompson and his brigade were at
Albany ; General Sullivan with the last except three or
four companies of Colonel Wayne's regiment, not yet
come, is embarked and gone, and probably will be soon
there. I am apprehensive, from General Schuyler's
account, that they will not proceed with the wished-for
expedition, owing to a difficulty in getting teams and
provender for cattle necessary to carry their baggage,
and a scarcity of batteaux at the Lakes for so large a
number, though he is taking the utmost pains to pro
cure them. Should they be stopped for any time,
it will be exceedingly unfortunate, as their going from
hence has weakened us here much, and our army in
Canada will not be strengthened.
* In Congress, May 10th. — " Resolved, that the resolution of Congress,
passed the 17th of January last, allowing one dollar and one third to the
officers, in lieu of expenses for enlisting each soldier, being a general
regulation, extends to the troops raised in the eastern department ; and
that the general be directed to make that allowance for all the troops en
listed since passing the said resolution."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 381
I have enclosed to you a return of the last brigade de
tached, and also of the forces remaining here. And as
it is a matter of much importance to know the whole of
our strength from time to time, and to see it at one
view, for regulating our movements with propriety, I
wish it were a direction from Congress to the command
ing officers in the different districts to make monthly
returns to the Commander-in-chief of the Continental
army, of the state of the troops in their departments, and
also of the military stores. Such direction will proba
bly make them more attentive than they otherwise
would be. I could not get a return of the army in
Canada all last year. *
I cannot, by all the inquiries I have been able to
make, learn what number of arms have been taken from
the Tories, where they lie, or how they are to be got at.
The Committee of Safety for this colony have assured
me, that no exertions of theirs shall be wanting to pro
cure arms ; but our sufferings in the mean while may
prove fatal, as men without arms are in a manner use
less. I have therefore thoughts of employing an agent,
whose sole business it shall be to ride through the
middle and interior parts of these governments, for the
purpose of buying up such arms, as the inhabitants may
incline to sell, and are fit for use. The designs of the
enemy are too much behind the curtain for me to form
any accurate opinion of their plan of operations for the
summer's campaign. We are left to wander therefore
in the field of conjecture ; and, as no place, all its conse
quences considered, seemed of more importance in the
execution of their grand plan, than the possession of Hud
son's River, I thought it advisable to remove with the
* By a resolve of Congress, May 10th, the commanding officers in the
different departments and posts were required to make to the Commander-
in-chief monthly returns of the state of the troops and military stores.

382

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.

Continental army to this city, so soon as the King's troops
evacuated Boston. But if Congress, from their know
ledge, information, or belief, think it best for the general
good of the service, that I should go to the northward or
elsewhere, they are convinced, I hope, that they have
nothing more to do than signify their commands. With
the greatest respect, I have the honor to be, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL WARD, AT BOSTON.
New York, 9 May, 1776.
Sir,
I am glad that you have given your attention to the
works, which I doubt not by this time are completed.
It will give me pleasure to hear they are ; for should
these accounts of Hessians and Hanoverian troops com
ing over prove true, it is possible the enemy may make
some attempts to regain a footing in your province.
The account you give of the vessels at Beverly being
unfit for service surprises me prodigiously. I was
taught to believe very differently of the ship Jenny, by
Commodore Manly and Captain Bartlett, who you men
tion have given you their opinion of them. The brig
antine from Antigua was also thought very fit to be
armed. A letter is just come to my hands from Win
throp Sargent, agent for the navy at Gloucester. He
says there are some women and children, whom he is
obliged to maintain at the Continental expense ; also a
number of men taken in some of the last prizes. You
will please to examine into their situation. If prisoners
of war, they should be sent into some inland place
and confined. If Tories, the General Court is the
proper power to take cognizance of them. I have had
no advice from Congress relative to your resignation.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 383
I shall write them this day to know what officer they
may think proper to appoint to the command in your
state. When I receive their answer, you shall be in
formed. I am, &,c.

TO GEORGE MASON, VIRGINIA.
New York, 10 May, 1776.
Dear Sir,
The uncertainty of my return, and the justice of
surrendering to Mr. Custis the bonds, which I have
taken for the moneys raised from his estate, and lent out
upon interest, as also his moiety of his deceased sister's
fortune, consisting altogether of bonds, oblige me to
have recourse to a friend to see this matter done, and a
proper memorandum of the transaction made. I could
think of no one, in whose friendship, care, and abilities
I could so much confide, to do Mr. Custis and me this
favor, as yourself; and, therefore, I take the liberty of
soliciting your aid.
In order that you„may be enabled to do this with ease
and propriety, I have written to the clerk of the Secre
tary's office for attested copies of my last settled ac
counts with the General Court in behalf of Mr. Custis,
and the estate of his deceased sister ; with which and
the bonds, I have desired him and Mr. Washington to
wait upon you for the purpose above mentioned. The
amount of the balance due, upon my last settled ac
counts, to Mr. Custis, I would also have assigned him
out of my moiety of his sister's bonds ; and, if there is
no weight in what I have said in my letter to Mr. Lund
Washington, concerning the rise of exchange, and
which, to avoid repetition, as I am a good deal hurried,
I have desired him to show you, I wish it may meet

384 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
with no notice, as I want nothing but what is consistent
with the strictest justice, honor, and even generosity ;
although I have never charged him or his sister, from
the day of my connexion with them to this hour, one
farthing for all the trouble I have had in managing their
estates, nor for any expense they have been to me, not
withstanding some hundreds of pounds would not re
imburse the moneys I have actually paid in attending the
public meetings in Williamsburg to collect their debts,
and transact the several matters appertaining to the
respective estates. A variety of occurrences, and my
anxiety to put this place as speedily as possible into a
posture of defence, will not, at this time, admit of my
adding more, than that I am, with unfeigned regard,
Dear Sir, &c.

TO LUND WASHINGTON, MOUNT VERNON.
New York, 10 May, 1776.
Dear Lund,
As I am not able to form any idea of the time of my
return, and as it is very reasonable and just, that Mr.
Custis should be possessed of his estate, although it is
not in my power, circumstanced as I am at present, to
liquidate the accounts and make a final settlement with
him, I have written to the clerk of the Secretary's office
for authenticated copies of the last accounts, which I
exhibited against him and the estate of his deceased
sister. With these and the bundle of bonds, which
you will find among my papers, I would have Mr. Custis
and you repair to Colonel Mason and get him, as a com
mon friend to us both, as a gentleman well acquainted
with business, and very capable of drawing up a proper
memorandum of the transaction, to deliver him his own

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 385
bonds, which, if my memory fails me not, and no chan
ges have happened, are in one parcel and endorsed ;
and at the same time deliver to him as many bonds out
of the other parcel, endorsed as Miss Custis's bonds, as
will pay him his moiety of her fortune and the balance,
which will appear due to him from me, at my last settle
ment with the General Court. How the account will
then stand between us, I cannot with precision say, but
I believe the balance will be rather in my favor than his
In my last settlement of the estate of Miss Custis,
all the bonds and mortgages were fully accounted for,
and this will be the best ground upon which to found the
dividend between Mr. Custis and myself, lest any of the
bonds or mortgages should be misplaced, or in the
office. Mr. Mercer's bonds I have promised to take
into my part; and, as there are wheat and other ac
counts opened between that estate and me, I should be
glad to have them allotted accordingly. In like manner,
I promised to take Mr. Robert Adams's debt upon my
self, and believe the last mortgage from him was taken
in my own name. As to the others, I do not care how
they are divided, nor was I anxious about these, further
than it served to comply with their desires, founded I
believe on an opinion, that I should not press them for
the money. The bank stock must, I presume, be equal
ly divided between us. Long before I left Virginia, I
directed it to be sold, writing to Messrs. Cary and Com
pany, who had always received the dividends, to nego
tiate the matter ; in consequence, they sent me a power
of attorney, and a great deal of formal stuff for Mrs.
Washington and myself to execute before the governor.
This we did, literally as required, and transmitted ; since
which, the directors of the bank have prescribed another
mode, and there, has been forwarded to me another set
of papers, to be executed also before the governor,
VOL. III. 49 GG

386 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
which it has never been in my power to do, as they
arrived but a little while before I set out for the Con
gress last spring. Thus the matter stands, as far as I
know, with respect to the money in the funds.
There is another matter, which I think justice to
myself requires to be mentioned, and that is, with
respect to the sterling balance, which it will appear I
was owing to Mr. Custis upon the last settlement. It
was then, and ever since has been, my intention to as
sign to him as many bonds, carrying interest, as would
discharge this balance ; but my attendance upon Con
gress in the fall of 1774, and spring of 1775, put it out
of my power to attend the General Court at their ses
sions ; consequently no order could be taken, or account
rendered, of this matter ; and now, by the rise of ex
change, if I were to turn current money bonds into
sterling, I should be a considerable sufferer, when I had
not, nor could have, any interest in delaying it ; and that
it was so delayed was owing to the reasons abovemen-
tioned, it being a practice to let out his money upon
interest as soon as it came to my hands. The many
matters, which hang heavy upon my hands at present,
do not allow me to add more, but oblige me to request,
as I have not written fully to Colonel Mason on this sub
ject, that you will show him this letter, and if necessary
let him have it. I am, very sincerely, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 11 May, 1776.
Sir,
I would take occasion to suggest to Congress, not
wishing or meaning of myself to assume the smallest
degree of power in any instance, the propriety and ne-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 387
cessity of having their sentiments respecting the filling
up the vacancies and issuing commissions to officers,
especially to those under the rank of field-officers.
Had I literally complied with the directions given upon
this subject, when I first engaged in the service, and
which I conceived to be superseded by a subsequent
resolve for forming the army upon the present establish
ment, I must have employed one clerk for no other
business than issuing warrants of appointment, and
giving information to Congress for their confirmation or
refusal. It being evident from the necessity of the
thing, that there will be frequent changes and vacancies
in office, from death and a variety of other causes, I
now submit it to them, and pray their direction, whether
I am to pursue that mode, and all the ceremonies attend
ing it, or to be at the liberty to fill up and grant com
missions at once to such, as may be fit and proper per
sons to succeed, without these previous steps. With
the utmost deference and respect, I would beg leave to
remind Congress of my former letters and applications,
respecting the appointment of proper persons to super
intend and take direction of such prisoners, as have
already fallen and will fall into our hands in the course
of the war, being fully convinced, that, if there were
persons appointed, who would take the whole manage
ment of them under their care, the continent would
save a considerable sum of money by it, and the prison
ers be better treated and provided with real necessaries,
than they now are ; and I shall take the liberty to add,
that it appears to me a matter of much importance, and
worthy of consideration, that particular and proper
places of security should be fixed on and established in
the interior parts of the different governments for their
reception. Such establishments are agreeable to the practice and

388 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
usage of the English and other nations, and are founded
on principles of necessity and public utility. The ad
vantages, which will arise from them, are obvious and
many. I shall mention only two or three. They will
tend much to prevent escapes, which are difficult to
effect, when the public is once advertised, that the
prisoners are restrained to a few stated and well-known
places, and not permitted to go from thence ; and the
more ingenious among them from disseminating and
spreading their artful and pernicious intrigues and opin
ions throughout the country, which would influence the
weaker and wavering part of mankind, and meet with
but too favorable a hearing. Further, it will be less in
their power to join and assist our enemies in cases of
invasion, and will give us an opportunity always to know,
from the returns of those appointed to superintend them,
what number we have in possession, the force sufficient
to check and suppress their hostile views in times of
emergency, and the expenses necessary for their main
tenance. Many other reasons might be adduced to prove
the necessity and expediency of the measure. I shall
subjoin only one more, which is, that many of the towns,
where prisoners have been already sent, not having con
veniences for or the means of keeping them, complain
that they are burdensome ; and have become careless, in
attentive, and altogether indifferent whether they escape
or not ; and those of them that are restricted to a closer
confinement, the limits of a jail, are neglected, and not
treated with that care and regard, which Congress wish.
I have not received further intelligence of the Ger
man troops* since my letter of the 7th instant, covering
Mr. Cushing's despatches. But, lest the account of
* German troops said to be coming from Europe to reinforce the British
army in America. Intelligence to this effect had been communicated by
Mr. Cushing.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 389
their coming should be true, may it hot be advisable
and good policy to raise some companies of our Ger
mans to send among them when they arrive, for exciting
a spirit of disaffection and desertion ? If a few sensi
ble and trusty fellows could get with them, I should
think they would have great weight and influence with
the common soldiery, who certainly have no enmity
towards us, having received no injury or cause of
quarrel from us. The measure having occurred, and
appearing to me expedient, I thought it prudent to men
tion it for the consideration of Congress. Having re
ceived a letter from General Ward, advising that Con
gress have accepted his resignation, and praying to be
relieved, and it being necessary that a general officer
should be sent to take the command of the troops at
Boston, especially if the army should arrive, which is
talked of, and which some consider as a probable event,
I must beg leave to recommend to Congress the ap
pointment of some brigadier-generals, not having more
here, but fewer at this time than are essential to the
government of the forces, and the conducting of the
works, that are carrying on. Generals Sullivan and
Thompson being ordered to Canada, I cannot spare one
more general officer from hence without injuring the
service greatly, and leaving the army here without a
sufficient number. * Having frequent applications from
the Committee of Safety and others, about an exchange
of prisoners, and not having authority to pursue any
other mode in this instance, than that marked out by a
resolve of Congress some time ago, I hope they will
# Congress accepted the resignation of Major-General Ward and
Brigadier-General Frye, on the 23d of April ; and it was resolved, in
compliance with the above request, on the 14th of May, that General Wash
ington should order a major-general to take command in the eastern de
partment, and also send a brigadier on that service.
GG*

390 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
pardon me when I wish them to take under considera
tion such parts of my letter of the 22d ultimo, as relate
to this subject and ask their determination upon it. I
shall then have it in my power to give explicit and
satisfactory answers to those who shall apply.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER. New York, 15 May, 1776.
Dear Sir,
The letter from the Commissioners, which you were
kind enough to leave open for my perusal, describes
matters and the situation of our affairs in Canada, in so
striking a light, that nothing less than the most wise and
vigorous exertions of Congress, and the army there, can
promise success to our schemes and plans in that quar
ter. * What might have been effected last year without
* Three Commissioners, Franklin, Chase, and Carroll, were appointed
by Congress, February 15th, to repair to Canada. By their instructions
they were to use all suitable means to induce the Canadians to join the
other colonies in the contest against England ; to promise them the same
privileges of an independent government, and the same protection, that
were enjoyed by each of the other colonies ; to convince them, that they
were equally interested in the common cause, and would profit equally by
the advantages of success ; and to assure them that free toleration should
be allowed in religion, that the terms of union should be similar to those
binding together the other colonies, and that, in case they should join the
union, these colonies would protect them against all enemies. The Com
missioners were also empowered to establish a printing-press, to settle
differences between the inhabitants and the troops, to reform abuses in the
army, to establish regulations for preserving peace and good order, and, in
effecting these objects, to suspend any civil or military officer, till the
pleasure of the Congress should be known. Armed with these extensive
powers, the Commissioners arrived at Montreal on the 29th of April.
They were accompanied by the Reverend John Carroll, a Catholic clergy
man, afterwards archbishop of Baltimore, whose influence with the people
it was thought would be useful, on account of his religious principles and
character. But they found the state of affairs in Canada by no means

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 391
much difficulty, has become an arduous and important
work. However, I hope all things will yet go well. I am
exceedingly glad that so large a number of Indians was
present at the review of General Sullivan's brigade.
They probably, from the appearance of so many armed
men somewhat instructed in discipline, may have re
ceived favorable impressions of our strength, sufficient
to counteract the ingenious and insidious arts of Tory
ism. When those arrive, whom you mention, I shall
take proper notice of them, and have necessary pro
visions made for their entertainment. I am, Sir, &c.

TO A COMMITTEE ON LONG ISLAND.
New York, 16 May, 1776.
Gentlemen,
Your favor of the 14th, with an account of the ap
prehending of sundry Tories by order of your com
mittee, and the taking of others by Captain Harden, is
now before me. Your zeal and activity upon this occa
sion are truly commendable, and with great pleasure I
will lend any aid in my power, that shall be thought
within the line of my department, to root out or secure
such abominable pests of society. But as you have
neither pointed out the names nor the places of abode
of the persons alluded to by your informants, I must
beg the favor of a more explicit description from you ;
such, as to encourage any just hope of success to their mission. Negli
gence, mismanagement, and a combination of unlucky incidents, had
produced a confusion and disorder, that it was now too late to remedy.
The Commissioners used every effort in their power, but to little effect.
Ill health caused Dr. Franklin to return in a few days. His two associates
remained till after the American forces had retreated to Sorel, and were
preparing to evacuate Canada.

392 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
and, in the mean time, I will set on foot a proper inquiry
into this matter, consult gentlemen here acquainted with
the island, and concert some plan for defeating the de
signs, which you think are in agitation. I shall add no
more at present, than that I am, &c. *

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER. New York, 17 May, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I this morning received your favor of the 13th instant
with its enclosures, conveying intelligence of the melan
choly situation of our affairs in Canada, f and I am not
without my fears, I confess, that the prospect we had
of possessing that country, of so much importance in
the present controversy, is almost over, or at least that
it will be effected with much more difficulty and effu
sion of blood, than were necessary, had our exertions
been timely applied. However we must not despair.
A manly and spirited opposition only can ensure success,
and prevent the enemy from improving the advantage
they have obtained. I have forwarded the letters to

* From the Orderly Book, May 15th. — "The Continental Congress
having ordered Friday the 17th instant to be observed as a day of fasting,
humiliation, and prayer, humbly to supplicate the mercy of Almighty God,
that it would please him to pardon all our manifold sins and transgressions,
and to prosper the « arms of the United Colonies, and finally establish
the peace and freedom of America upon a solid and lasting foundation ;
the General commands all officers and soldiers to pay strict obedience to
the orders of the Continental Congress ; that, by their unfeigned and pious
observance of their religious duties, they may incline the Lord and giver
of victory to prosper our arms."
f Giving an account of a reinforcement of the enemy at Quebec, and
the retreat of the American forces from that place with great precipita
tion, and loss of cannon, firearms, and powder ; and intimating the proba
bility that they would be obliged to abandon Canada.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 393
Congress; and their answer to you and the Commis
sioners I will transmit to you, as soon as they come to
hand. I am fully sensible, that this unfortunate event
has greatly deranged your schemes, and will involve
you in difficulties to be obviated only by your zeal and
assiduity, which I am well satisfied will not be wanting
in this or any other instance, where the good of your
country requires them. I am, Sir, with sentiments of
much esteem and regard, your most obedient humble
servant. *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 18 May, 1776.
Sir,
I do myself the honor to transmit to you the enclosed
letters and papers, which I received this morning in the
state they now are, and which contain sundry matters
of intelligence of the most interesting nature. As the
consideration of them may lead to important consequen
ces, and the adoption of several measures in the military
line, I have thought it advisable for General Gates to
attend Congress (he will follow to-morrow, and explain
to them some points on which they may wish to be

* To the Continental Congress^ May 17th. — I have this moment received
by express from General Schuyler an account of the melancholy prospect
and reverse of our affairs in Canada ; and presuming, that the letters
which accompany this will give Congress full information upon the sub
ject, I shall only add, that General Schuyler, in pursuance of orders from
the honorable Commissioners, has directed Brigadier-General Sullivan to
halt his brigade, as a further reinforcement, on account of the scarcity of
provisions, would not relieve, but contribute greatly to distress our troops
already in Canada. Before he received these orders, all the brigade
except Dayton's and Wayne's regiments had left Albany ; but Lsuppose
he will be able to stop their march. I am, &c.
vol. in. 50

394 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et.44.
informed in the course of their deliberations), not hav
ing an opportunity at this time to submit my thoughts
to them upon these interesting accounts.
I have the honor to be, &,c*

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 19 May, 177&
Sir,
This will be delivered you by General Gates, who
sets out to-day for Congress agreeably to my letter of
yesterday. I have committed to him the heads of sun
dry matters to lay before Congress for their considera
tion, which, from the interesting intelligence contained
in my last, appear to me of the utmost importance, and
to demand their most early and serious attention. Sen
sible that I have omitted to set down many things
necessary, and which probably, when deliberating, they
will wish to be acquainted with; and not conceiving
myself at liberty to depart from my post, though to
attend them, without their previous approbation ; I have
requested General Gates to subjoin such hints of his
own, as he may apprehend material. His military ex
perience, and intimate acquaintance with the situation
of our affairs, will enable him to give Congress the full
est satisfaction about the measures necessary to be
adopted at this alarming crisis ; and, with his zeal and
attachment to the cause of America, he will have a claim
to their notice and favors. When Congress shall have
come to a determination on the subject of this letter,
* General Gates had two days before been promoted to the rank of
major-general.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 395
and such parts of my former letters as have not been
determined on, you will be pleased to honor me with
the result. I am, Sir, &,c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 20 May, 1776.
Sir,
Your favor of the 16th, with several resolutions of
Congress therein enclosed, I had not the honor to re
ceive till last night. Before the receipt of it, I did not
think myself at liberty to wait on Congress, although I
wished to do it ; and therefore I the more readily con
sented to General Gates's attendance, as I knew there
were many matters, which could be better explained in
a personal interview, than by whole volumes of letters.
He accordingly set out for Philadelphia yesterday morn
ing, and must be too far advanced on his journey (as he
proposed expedition) to be overtaken.
I shall, if I can settle some matters, which are in
agitation with the Provincial Congress here, follow to
morrow or next day ; and, therefore, with every sentiment
of regard, attachment, and gratitude to Congress for
their kind attention to the means, which they think may
be conducive to my health, and with particular thanks
to you for the politeness of your invitation to your
house, I conclude, dear Sir, your most obedient, &c. *
* After urging General Washington's speedy attendance on Congress,
to consult upon such measures as were necessary for carrying on the en
suing campaign, President Hancock added; — "I request the favor, that
you will please to honor me with your and your lady's company at my
house, where I have a bed at your service, and where every endeavour on
my part and Mrs. Hancock's will be exerted to make your abode agreea
ble. I reside in an airy, open part of the city, in Arch Street, corner of

.396 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
New York, 21 May, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I have enclosed for your perusal copies of two in
formations, and a letter I received on Saturday last from
the Committee of King's district by the hands of Martin
Bebee, who says he is their clerk, and was sent ex
press. From these you will readily discover the dia
bolical and insidious arts and schemes carrying on by
the Tories, and friends of government, to raise distrust,
dissensions, and divisions among us. Having the utmost
confidence in your integrity, and the most incontestable
proof of your great attachment to our common country
and its interest, I could not but look upon the charge
against you with an eye of disbelief, and sentiments of
detestation and abhorrence ; nor should I have troubled
you with the matter, had I not been informed, that
copies were sent to different committees and to Gover
nor Trumbull, which I conceived would get abroad, and
that you, should you find that I had been furnished with
them, would consider my suppressing them as an evi
dence of my belief, or at best of my doubts, of the
charges. The confidence and assurance I have of the injustice
and infamy of the charges against the Convention obliged
me, also, to lay the matter before them ; lest my not do
ing it should be construed by them into a distrust of their
zeal, and promote the views of the Tories ; who, to ex
cite disorder and confusion, judge it essential to involve
those in high departments in a share of the plot, which
is not unlikely to be true in some parts, as I believe that
Fourth Street. If this should be agreeable to you, it will afford me much
pleasure."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 397
our internal enemies have many projects in contempla
tion to subvert our liberties.* Before I conclude, I
would mention, that some officers called upon me a few
days ago, having your permit to go to Pennsylvania and
settle some affairs there. This license, when there is
really business, is certainly countenanced by humanity
and generosity ; but, nevertheless, it should not be in
dulged, and I hope will not be granted in future, as it
gives them an opportunity of getting intelligence of all
our operations, of forming opinions of our strength and
the places proper for attack, and settling a channel of cor
respondence with the disaffected, by which our ene
mies may and will be furnished with full accounts of our
designs, and every thing that can promote their service
and injure ours. There is but little reason to believe,
nay, we are certain, that they will not conduct them
selves upon principles of the strictest honor for the
favors done them, but will, when in their power, exercise
every device, that can operate to our prejudice. I am, Sir, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL PUTNAM, f
Instructions.
Sir,
I have reason to believe, that the Provincial Congress
of this colony have in contemplation a scheme for seiz
ing the principal Tories and disaffected persons on
Long Island, in this city, and the country round about ;
* See Appendix, No. XV.
f As the oldest major-general in the army at New York, General Put
nam was left in command during Washington's absence at the call of
Congress. VOL. III. HH

398 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
and that, to carry the scheme into execution, they will
have recourse to the military power for assistance. If
this should be the case, you are hereby required
during my absence to afford every aid, which the said
Congress or their Secret Committee shall apply for. I
need not recommend secrecy to you, as the success, you
must be assured, will depend absolutely upon precaution,
and the despatch with which the measure, when once
adopted, shall be executed.
General Greene will, though not in person perhaps,
have a principal share in ordering the detachments from
his brigade on Long Island; of course he will be a
proper person to be let into the whole plan. I would,
therefore, when application is made by Congress, have
you and him concert measures with such gentlemen, as
that body shall please to appoint, and order the execu
tion with as much secrecy and despatch as possible,
and at the same time with the utmost decency and good
order. Given under my hand at Head- Quarters, in the
city of New York, this 21st day of May, 1776.*

* The machinations of disaffected persons, or Tories, as they began
universally to be called, in the lower counties of New York, had for some
time excited serious apprehensions, as to their effects on the army, and
particularly when the British forces should arrive on the coast. Governor
Tryon was at the head of this party, and by his talents, his former populari
ty in the province, and his emissaries among the people, he was maturing
designs, which it was found necessary to take speedy and efficient meas
ures to counteract. The Provincial Congress had appointed a secret
committee of their number to confer with General Washington, from time
to time, on all such matters as required the cooperation of the civil and
military powers for the common safety. The subject of the Tories had
occupied their deliberations, and it was agreed that a strong and decided
course ought immediately to be pursued in regard to them. General
Washington had promised military aid for carrying into effect any re
solves, which might be adopted to attain this object. The following is an
extract from the proceedings of the Congress on the 19th of May.
" Mr. Morris, from the committee who conferred with General Wash
ington, informed the Congress, that sundry matters of great importance

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 399
TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
Amboy, 22 May, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Congress having been pleased to request my atten
dance at Philadelphia, to advise with them on the situa
tion of our affairs, and of such measures as may be
necessary to adopt for this campaign, I had got thus far
on my journey, when I stopped to view the ground, and
such places on Staten Island contiguous to it, as may
be proper for works of defence. At this place your
favor of the 16th instant, with its several enclosures,
came to hand. I am exceedingly concerned for the
distress of our troops in Canada, and, as I informed you
heretofore, have been very importunate with the com
missary to forward all the provisions in his power ; in
consequence of which he has sent a good deal on, and
I shall again repeat my orders and enjoin him to con
tinue his supplies as largely and expeditiously as possi-

had come before the committee and the General ; that the General wished
for the advice and assistance of this Congress to carry into execution his
own powers, if not also the assistance of the powers of this Congress ;
that the matters conferred on are of such importance, that, in order to
preserve secrecy, it is necessary that each particular member be sworn not
to reveal to any person out of the Congress the matters to be mentioned,
or the subjects of this day's debate. The President then put the question,
whether every member is willing to take an oath of secrecy, and the same
was unanimously agreed to.
" Ordered, that Mr. Scott and Mr. Morris wait on General Washington
and inform him, that the Congress have taken an oath of secrecy, and the
nature thereof, and receive of him such papers as may be necessary to
communicate to this Congress.
"Messrs. Scott and Morris returned from General Washington, and
delivered to the President such papers as they had received of the Gene
ral. They reported that a scheme of a junction is forming between the
disaffected in Connecticut and on Long Island, in order to join the
ministerial army, and oppress the friends of liberty in these colonies."
After further consideration the Congress passed a series of resolutions,

400 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
ble. Our situation respecting the Indians is delicate
and embarrassing. They are attached to Johnson, who
is our enemy. Policy and prudence on the one hand
suggest the necessity of seizing him and every friend
of the government ; on the other, if he is apprehended,
there will be danger of incurring their resentment. I
hope the Committee will conduct the matter in the least
exceptionable manner, and in the way that shall most
advance the public good.
I observe by the minutes of a council of war, by
General Thomas's letter, and that of Messrs. Carroll and
Chase to Dr. Franklin, that our troops cannot make a
stand at Dechambeau, as I had hoped. I wish it were
practicable ; for most certainly the lower down the river
we can maintain our post, the more important will the
advantages resulting from it be. Considering all the
country below us as lost, and that there may be some
prospect of gaining that above, from whence we might
draw supplies in some degree, and have the friendship

setting forth the unjustifiable acts of disaffected persons, the dangers
threatened by them to the liberties of the country, and the necessity of
seizing and securing all such, as manifested hostile intentions, and an
open resistance to the newly established civil authority. The committee
appointed to execute these resolves, of whom Gouverneur Morris was
chairman, were instructed to proceed with vigilance and firmness, to em
ploy the militia where occasion required, and if necessary to solicit addi
tional force from General Washington. The names of several persons,
residing in King's, Queen's, New York, Richmond, and Westchester
counties, had been reported to the Congress, concerning whom the com
mittee were required to collect evidence, and examine them in person,
as well as to send out agents to search for others who were concealed or
unknown. The committee were directed to commit to safe custody such
persons, as they should think proper, and to send them for this purpose
into the neighbouring colonies, where the infection of their influence could
not be diffused. A similar course of proceeding was recommended to
the county committees. Several Tories from New York were, in con
sequence of these resolves and others of a similar character, confined in
the prisons of Connecticut. — MS. Journal of the Neto York Provincial
Congress, May 19th, 22d.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 401
and assistance of the inhabitants, it is certain we should
make a stand as low down as we can, so as not to have
a retreat cut off in case of necessity, or an opportunity
of receiving provisions. But unacquainted as I am with
the country, I cannot undertake to say where it should
be. Not doubting that every thing for the best will be
done, I am, Sir, &,c. #

TO MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, IN CANADA.
Philadelphia, 24 May, 1776.
Sir,
I received your favor of the 8th instant with its
enclosures, confirming the melancholy intelligence I had
before heard, of your having been obliged to raise the
siege of Quebec, and to make a precipitate retreat with
the loss of the cannon in the batteaux, and interception
of the powder going from General Schuyler. This un
fortunate affair has given a sad shock to our schemes in
that quarter, and blasted the hope we entertained of
reducing that fortress and the whole of Canada to our
possession. From your representation, things must have been
found in great disorder, and such as to have made a
retreat almost inevitable ; but, nevertheless, it is hoped
you will be able to make a good stand yet, and by that
means secure a good part or all the upper part of the
country. That being a matter of the utmost importance
in the present contest, it is my wish and that of Con
gress, that you take an advantageous post as far down
the river as possible, so as not to preclude you from a
retreat, if it should be necessary, nor from getting proper
supplies of provision. The lower down you can main
tain a stand, the more advantageous will it be, as all the
VOL. III. 51 HH*

402 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
country above will most probably take part with us,
from which we may draw some assistance and support,
considering all below as entirely within the power
of the enemy and of course in their favor. This mis
fortune must be repaired, if possible, by our more
vigorous exertions ; and I trust that nothing will be
wanting on your part or in your power to advance our
country's cause. I am, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL PUTNAM.
Philadelphia, 28 May, 1776.
Sir,
The great variety of business, in which Congress are
engaged, has prevented our settling what I was re
quested to attend for, though we have made several
attempts, and a committee has been appointed for the
purpose day after day ; nor can I say with precision
when I shall be at liberty to return. I must therefore
pray your attention and vigilance to every necessary
work ; and further, if you should receive, before my re
turn, certain advices, and such as you can rely on, of
the enemy's being on the coast, or approaching New
York, you will inform me by express as early as possible.
I do not wish an alarm to be given me without founda
tion ; but, as soon as you are certified of their coming,
let it be instantly communicated to me, and orders given
the express to bespeak, at the different necessary stages
on the road, as many horses as may be proper for fa
cilitating my return, and that of the gentlemen with me,
with the greatest expedition. I am, Sir, yours, &c.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 403
TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
Philadelphia, 31 May, 1776.
Dear Brother,
Since my arrival at this place, where I came at the
request of Congress to settle some matters relative to
the ensuing campaign, I have received your letter of the
18th from Williamsburg, and I think I stand indebted
to you for another, which came to hand some time ago
in New York. I am very glad to find that the Virginia
Convention have passed' so noble a vote, and with so
much unanimity. Things have come to such a pass
now, as to convince us, that we have nothing more to
expect from the justice of Great Britain ; also, that she
is capable of the most delusive arts ; for I am satisfied,
that no commissioners ever were designed, except Hes
sians and other foreigners ; and that the idea was only
to deceive and throw us off our guard. The first has
been too effectually accomplished, as many members
of Congress, in short, the representation of whole
provinces, are still feeding themselves upon the dainty
food of reconciliation ; and, though they will not allow,
that the expectation of it has any influence upon their
judgment, with respect to their preparations for defence,
it is but too obvious, that it has an operation upon every
part of their conduct, and is a clog to their proceedings.
It is not in the nature of things to be otherwise ; for no
man, that entertains a hope of seeing this dispute
speedily and equitably adjusted by commissioners, will
go to the same expense and run the same hazards to
prepare for the worst event, as he who believes that he
must conquer, or submit to unconditional terms, and the
concomitants, such as confiscation, hanging, and the like.
To form. a new government requires infinite care and
unbounded attention ; for if the foundation is badly laid,

404 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
the superstructure must be bad. Too much time,
therefore, cannot be bestowed in weighing and digesting
matters well. We have, no doubt, some good parts in
our present constitution ; many bad ones we know
we have. Wherefore, no time can be misspent in
separating the wheat from the tares. My fear is, that
you will all get tired and homesick ; the consequence
of Avhich will be, that you will patch up some kind of a
constitution as defective as the present. This should
be avoided. Every man should consider, that he is
lending his aid to frame a constitution, which is to render
millions happy or miserable, and that a matter of such
moment cannot be the work of a day.
I am in hopes to hear some good accounts from North
Carolina. If Clinton has only part of his force there,
and not strongly intrenched, I should think that General
Lee will be able to give a very good account of those
at Cape Fear. Surely administration must intend more
than five thousand men for the southern district, other
wise they must have a very contemptible opinion of
those colonies, or have great expectations from the
Indians, slaves, and Tories. We expect a very bloody
summer at New York and Canada, as it is there I pre
sume. the grand efforts of the enemy will be aimed ; and
I am sorry to say, that we are not either in men or arms
prepared for it. However, it is to be hoped, that, if our
cause is just, as I do most religiously believe it to be,
the same Providence, which has in many instances ap
peared for us, will still go on to afford its aid. Your
Convention are acting very wisely in removing the disaf
fected, and stores, from the counties of Princess Anne
and Norfolk ; and are much to be commended for their
attention to the manufacture of salt, saltpetre, and
powder. No time nor expense should be spared to ac
complish these things. Mrs. Washington is now under

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 405
inoculation in this city ; and will, I expect, have the
smallpox favorably. This is the thirteenth day, and she
has very few pustules. She would have written to my
sister, but thought it prudent not to do so, notwithstand
ing there could be but little danger of conveying the
infection in this manner. She joins me in love to you
and all the little ones. I am, with every sentiment of
regard, dear Sir, your most affectionate brother.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL PUTNAM.
Philadelphia, 3 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I received your favor by yesterday evening's express,
with the several letters and intelligence from General
Schuyler, and am much concerned for the further mis
fortunes, that have attended our arms in Canada. I
have laid the whole before Congress, who had before
resolved to send a considerable augmentation to our
army there ; and I doubt not that General Schuyler may
receive assistance from the militia most convenient to
him, for securing the different passes and communica
tions, till they can be relieved. As to sending a reinforce
ment from New York, neither policy nor prudence will
justify it, as we have the strongest reasons to believe
the day not far distant, when a large armament will
arrive and vigorously attempt an impression there ; to
oppose which the forces we have will not be more than
equal, if sufficient.
Congress have determined on sundry gondolas and
fire-rafts, to prevent the men-of-war and enemy's ships
from coming into the New York Bay or Narrows. I
must therefore request, that you will make inquiries after
carpenters, and procure all you can, with materials

406

WASHING! ON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.

necessary for building them, that they may go on with
all possible expedition, as soon as the person arrives
from hence, whom I have employed to superintend the
work. He will be there in a day or two. *
I am, dear Sir, &c.

TO MAJOR GENERAL SCHUYLER. New York, 7 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I have not time to answer your two last favors mi
nutely, but only to acknowledge the receipt of them,
being just returned from Philadelphia, and the post
about to depart this morning. The situation of our
affairs in Canada is truly alarming, and I greatly fear,
from the intelligence transmitted from thence by Cap
tain Wilkinson, in a letter to General Greene, f that ere
this we have sustained further and greater misfortunes,
than what had happened when you wrote. I have en
closed you a copy of his letter, by which you will see
I have too much ground for my concern ; and I sincerely
wish the next letters from the northward may not con
tain melancholy advices of General Arnold's defeat, and
the loss of Montreal. The most vigorous exertions will
be necessary to retrieve our circumstances there, and I
* After the arrival of Washington in Philadelphia, he received a note
from the President of Congress, in which he said, — "I am extremely
sorry it is not in my power to wait on you in person, to execute the com
mands of Congress. But being deprived of that pleasure by a severe fit
of the gout, I am under the necessity of taking this method to acquaint
you, that the Congress have directed me in their name to make the thanks
of that body to you, for the unremitted attention you have paid to your
important trust, and in particular for the assistance they have derived from
your military knowledge and experience, in adopting the best plans for
the defence of the United Colonies."
f See this letter in Wilkinson's Memoirs, Vol. I. p. 43.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 407
hope you will strain every nerve for that purpose. Un
less it can be now done, Canada will be. lost for ever;
the fatal consequences of which every one must feel.
I have enclosed to you a copy of a resolve of Con
gress for reinforcing the army in Canada, and keeping
up the communication with that province. * I hope the
several colonies will immediately furnish their quotas of
men, who, or as many of them as may be necessary,
I should imagine had better be employed at the com
munications, and all the enlisted soldiers sent forward
to Canada. ' You have, also, another resolution for
employing and engaging a number of Indians in the
service, f though Congress have not particularized the
mode for raising and engaging them. I would have
you, and the Commissioners appointed for Indian affairs,
pursue such measures for the purpose, as to you may
seem best for securing their friendship and service. If a
smaller number than two thousand will do, I would not
advise more to be embodied than may be necessary.

* It was resolved, June 1st, that six thousand militia should be employ
ed from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and New York, to
reinforce the army in Canada.
t Congress had voted the raising of two thousand Indians for the Cana
da service. In reply, General Schuyler very naturally inquired where
they were to be found, and added, that, instead of raising this number for
the American cause, he thought that if they could be prevented from
joining the enemy it was more than could be expected. The Indians had
but one maxim in their alliances with the whites, which was to adhere to
the strongest side, where they were paid the most liberally, and ran the
least risk. Congress had small means, and were parsimonious from
necessity. They were moreover averse at first to employing this kind of
aid, and sought only to keep the savages in a peaceful neutrality. As this
was not possible, from the fierce and warlike nature of these sons of the
forest, and as the enemy had no scruples on the subject, it was deemed
necessary by Congress to seek their assistance. No moment, however,
could have been more unpropitious for such an attempt, than the present,
when the declining state of affairs in Canada held out feeble encourage
ments to a people, who acted upon the principle and with the ultimate
aim of the savages.

408 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44
If your presence or direction at St. John's, or any
post in Canada, could be of service and tend to. put our
affairs in a better channel than they now are, I would
wish you to go, as General Thomas is disabled with the
smallpox ; but I do not mean to direct or request you
to do it, if you think your remaining where you are, or
not going, will be of more public advantage, or that the
cause will be injured by doing it. You will be governed
by such measures, as appear to you best, and by the
circumstances of our affairs under your management,
and those in Canada with which you must be much
better acquainted than I am, or can possibly be, at this
distance. It is probable your presence may be neces
sary at the negotiation with the Indians, which will be
one cause to prevent your going.*
June 9th. — I have been much surprised at not re
ceiving a more perfect and explicit account of the defeat
of Colonel Bedel and his party at the Cedars. I should
have thought some of the officers in command there
would and ought to have transmitted it immediately;
but as they have not, it is probable that I should have
long remained in doubt as to the event, had not the
Commissioners called on me to day. Nor should I con
sider my not having a return of the army and stores in
Canada a matter of less wonder, had I not been accus
tomed to this neglect. If it is not become too invete
rate, I wish it could be got the better of. It is certainly
of much importance, and necessary to be known fre
quently. I am, &c.
* General Schuyler soon afterwards went to the German Flats, where
he met a large number of Indians from the western parts of New York,
with whom a treaty was formed.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 409
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 7 June, 1776.
Sir,
I do myself the honor to inform Congress, that I ar
rived here yesterday afternoon about one o'clock, and
found all in a state of peace and quiet. I had not time
to view the works carrying on, and those ordered to be
begun when I went away ; but I have reason to believe,
from the report of such of the general and other officers
as I had the pleasure to see, that they have been prose
cuted and forwarded with all possible diligence and
despatch. I am much concerned for the situation of
our affairs in Canada, and am fearful, ere this, it is
much worse than was first reported at Philadelphia.
The intelligence from thence not only confirms the ac
count of Colonel Bedel's and Major Sherburne's defeat,
but seems to forebode General Arnold's, with the loss
of Montreal. I have enclosed a copy of the letter,
which will but too well show that there is foundation for
my apprehensions.
On Wednesday evening I received an express from
General Schuyler, with sundry papers respecting Sir
John Johnson, which I have not time to copy, as the
post is just going off, but I will do myself the honor of
transmitting them to you as soon as I possibly can. * Be-

* Sir John Johnson resided at Johnstown, in Tryon county, about forty
miles north-west of Albany, and possessed large patrimonial estates in
that neighbourhood. Adhering to the royal cause, and having many of
the Indians in his influence, as well as two or three hundred Highlanders,
who were his tenants, an eye was kept upon his conduct. In January he
had given his parole, that he would take no part against the colonies. See
Remembrancer, Vol. III. p. 45. But General Schuyler received such in
telligence as convinced him, that Sir John was secretly instigating the
Indians, by which he had virtually broken his parole, and was likely to
produce much mischief on the frontiers. To prevent such a calamity, he
vol. in. 52 n

410 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
fore I left Philadelphia, I employed' a person to superin
tend the building of the gondolas, which Congress had
resolved on for this place. He is arrived, and all things
seem to be in a proper channel for facilitating the work ;
but when they are done, we shall be in much want of
guns, having never received any of those taken by
Commodore Hopkins. Be pleased to mention me to
Congress with the utmost respect. I am, Sir, with
every sentiment of regard and esteem, your and their
most obedient servant.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New York, 8 June, 1776.
Sir,
In my letter of yesterday, which was designed
to go by the post, but was prevented by his depart
ure before the usual time, I mentioned my having
received by express a letter and sundry papers from
General Schuyler, respecting Sir John Johnson, copies

thought it advisable to secure Sir John, and quell the rising spirit of hos
tility, which he was fomenting among the inhabitants and Indians in that
quarter. Colonel Dayton, with a part of his regiment then on its way to
Canada, was despatched to prosecute this enterprise. But Sir John,
getting notice of the preparations, and suspecting the object, made his
escape to the westward, and sought security with the Indians, and a small
British force on the lakes. Sir John's papers were examined by Colonel
Dayton, in compliance with his orders, and Lady Johnson was removed to
Albany, where she was retained as a kind of hostage for the peaceable
conduct of her husband. She wrote to General Washington, complaining
of this detention and asking his interference for her release ; but he left
the matter with General Schuyler and the Albany Committee. Colonel
Dayton was stationed for several weeks at Johnstown, with the troops
under his command. Sir John Johnson returned not again ; in the Janua
ry following he found his way to New York, then in possession of the
British army. He was a son of Sir William Johnson, so well known in
the history of the last French war.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 411
of which I herewith transmit to you for your inspection
and perusal. They will show you what measures were
planned and attempted for apprehending him, and secur
ing the Scotch Highlanders in Tryon county. In perus
ing the several resolves you honored me with when at
Philadelphia and since my return, I find one allowing a
chief engineer for the army in a separate department.
The service requiring many of them, I wish Congress,
if they know any persons skilled in this business, would
appoint them. General Schuyler has frequently applied,
and suggested the necessity of having some in Canada.
I myself know of none. I also find there is a resolve
of the 3d of June for taking Indians into the service,
which, if literally construed, confines them to that in
Canada. Is that the meaning of Congress, or that the
Commander-in-chief may order their service to any
place he may think necessary?
June 9th. — The resolve respecting General Woos
ter's recall, I will immediately transmit to him, with
directions to repair hither wdthout delay. * The situa-
* The President of Congress had written two days before; — "The
enclosed letter from the Commissioners in Canada, I am commanded by
CongTess to transmit to you. The contents of it are alarming. Our
army in that quarter is almost ruined for want of discipline and every
thing else necessary to constitute an army, or keep troops together. The
Congress, in this situation of our affairs, have resolved that General
Wooster be recalled from Canada. I am therefore to request you will
immediately order him to repair to head-quarters at New York."
It is hardly possible to conceive a more deplorable picture, than that
drawn by the Commissioners in their letter to Congress, dated at
Montreal, May 27th. " You will have a faint idea of our situation," say
they, " if you figure to yourself an army broken and disheartened, half
of it under inoculation and other diseases, soldiers without pay, without
discipline, and altogether reduced to live from hand to mouth, depending
on the scanty and precarious supplies of a few half-starved cattle, and
trifling quantities of flour, which have hitherto been picked up in different
parts of the country. General Thomas is now at Chamblee under the
smallpox. Being taken with that disorder he loft the camp at Sorel, and

412 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
tion of our affairs in Canada, as reported by the honora
ble Commissioners, is truly alarming ; and I am sorry,
that my opinion of the ill consequences resulting from
the short enlistments of the army should be but too well
confirmed by the experience they have had of the want
of discipline and order in our soldiery there. This in
duces me again to wish Congress to determine on a
liberal allowance, to engage the troops already in service
to re-enlist for a longer period, or during the continuance
of the war ; nor can I forbear expressing my opinion.
of the propriety of keeping the military chest always
supplied with money, as evils of the most interesting
nature are often produced for want of a regular payment
of troops. The neglect makes them impatient and un
easy. I am much surprised at the scarcity of provisions
there, particularly of flour ; as, from several accounts I
had received from thence, I was led to expect that
considerable supplies of that article could be procured
there. That our misfortunes may not become greater,
I have written to the commissary to forward more pro
visions, in addition to those already sent.
An adjutant and quartermaster general are indispen
sably necessary, with assistants. The expense saved to
the continent by their non-appointment will be but
wrote to General Wooster to come and take the command. When the
interest of our country and the safety of your army are at stake, we think
it a very improper time to conceal our sentiments, either with respect to
persons or things. General Wooster is, in our opinion, totally unfit to
command your army, and conduct the war. We have hitherto prevailed
on him to remain in Montreal. His stay in this colony is unnecessary, and
even prejudicial to our affairs. We would therefore advise his recall." —
MS. Letter.
General Wooster requested from Congress an inquiry into his conduct,
as commander of the forces in Canada. The subject was referred to a
committee, who, after a full examination, reported it as their opinion, that
nothing censurable or blameworthy appeared against him. — Journals,
August 17th. He resigned his commission in the Continental army, and
was appointed first major-general of the Connecticut militia.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 413
small and trifling, when put in competition with the loss
for want of them. Colonel Fleming, who acted in the
former capacity under General Montgomery, is now
here; but his indisposition is such as to render him
unfit at this time for the post ; it is an important one,
and requires vigor and activity to discharge the duties
of it. He will be of much service to Colonel Reed,
the business of whose office will increase considerably
by the augmentation of the army. It will be necessary,
too, that the commissaries in Canada, and the deputy
quartermaster-generals, should have several assistants
and clerks ; nor do I think a precise number can be
fixed on, as a variety of circumstances may and must
occur to render the number, essential for doing the
business in those departments, greater or less at differ
ent times. It will be better, I apprehend, to leave it
indefinite, and with power in the commanding officer to
allow such as may be wanted.
I am still in the dark, how the unfortunate affair ended
at the Cedars, or on what terms the surrender was
made, as the last letter from the Commissioners has
reference to a former, and mentions an agreement
entered into, which I have not seen ; but I know of it
more than I could wish. I am, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 10 June, 1776.
Sir,
Since I did myself the honor of writing to you yes
terday, I have had the satisfaction of seeing, and for a
few minutes conversing with, Mr. Chase and Mr. Carroll,
from Canada. Their account of our troops and the
situation of affairs in that department, cannot possibly
n*

414 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS [Mi. 44.
surprise you more than it has done me. But I need not
touch upon a subject, which you will be so well informed
of from the fountain-head; nor' should I have given you
the trouble of a letter by this day's post, but for the
distraction, which seems to prevail in the commissary's
department, as well as others in that quarter ; the ne
cessity of having it under one general direction; and
the dissatisfaction of Colonel Trumbull, at the allowance
made to him by Congress as an equivalent for his trou
ble. With respect to this particular matter, I can only
say, that I think he is a man well suited for the business,
and that, where a shilling is saved in the pay, a pound
may be lost by mismanagement in the office ; and that
his resignation at this time, I mean this campaign, may
possibly be attended with fatal consequences. I there
fore humbly submit to Congress the propriety of hand
somely rewarding those gentlemen, who hold such very
important, troublesome, and hazardous offices, as those
of commissary and quartermaster.
In speaking to the former about the supplies neces
sary for the troops to be raised, he informed me, that
the quantity of salt provisions, which was shipping from
hence, might render his attempts to do it precarious ;
in consequence of which I desired him to lay the matter
before the Convention of this colony, which he will do
this day, but in the mean while he desired Congress might
be informed of the matter, which I cannot better do
than in his own words enclosed, and submit the con
sideration of it to the wisdom of that honorable body.
To Congress I also submit the propriety of keeping the
two Continental battalions, under the command of
Colonels Shee and Magaw, at Philadelphia, when there
is the greatest probability of a speedy attack upon this
place from the King's troops. The encouragements
given by Governor Tryon to the disaffected, which are

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 415
circulated, no one can well tell how ; the movements of
this kind of people, which are more easy to> perceive
than describe; the confident report, which is said to
have come immediately from Governor Tryon, and
brought by a frigate from Halifax, that the troops at that
place were embarking for this; added to -a thousand
incidental circumstances, trivial in themselves, but strong
from comparison ; leave not a doubt upon my mind, that
troops are hourly expected at the Hook. *
I had no doubt when I left this city for Philadelphia,
that some measures would have been taken to secure
the suspected and dangerous persons of this govern
ment before now; and I left orders for the military to
give every aid to the civil power. But the subject is
delicate, and nothing is done in it. We may therefore
have internal as well as external enemies to contend
with. I have the honor to be, &c.
* General Howe wrote from Halifax to Lord George Germain, on the
7th of June, informing him, that the admiral had given orders to the cruis
ers off the northern coast to direct all the troops from Europe to proceed
to New York, from whence they might be ordered to their respective
destinations for the campaign ; and he added, that he should himself pre
cede the fleet in a frigate to New York, where he might consult Governor
Tryon, gain information, and be prepared to concert measures for further
operations. The plan was to attack New York, penetrate the country,
and if possible meet the army from Canada. In case of such an event, it
might be anticipated, that there would be some difficulty between General
Carleton and General Howe, sua to the command, since the former was
older in rank ; but General Howe assured the minister, that no such diffi
culty would arise, that he should yield the precedency to General Carleton
when their forces were united, suggesting that the armies might be en
camped separately, each general retaining command over his own division
in whatever related to its internal management, subject to a single head in
what pertained to the whole, as in the case of allied armies. — MS. Letter

416 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44
TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
New York, 10 June, 1776.
Sir,
Before this, I presume you have received the resolve
of Congress for augmenting our army here and in
Canada, with their requisition for the quota of men to
be furnished by your colony.* I must beg leave to
add, that, from intelligence I have received, and a variety
of circumstances combining to confirm it, General Howe,
with the fleet from Halifax, or some other armament, is
hourly expected at the Hook, with designs doubtless to
make an impression here, and possess themselves of
this colony, which is of the last importance to us in the
present controversy. Our works are extensive and
many, and the troops here but few for their defence,
being greatly reduced by the regiments detached on the
Canada expedition.
. In this critical conjuncture of affairs, the experience
I have had of your zeal and readiness to assist the
common cause, induces me to request the most speedy
and early succour, that can be obtained from your colony,
and that the militia may be forwarded, one battalion
after another, as fast as they can possibly be raised,
without waiting to make up the whole complement to
be furnished for this place, before any of them march.
I would advise, that they come properly provided with
field and other officers, and that the person appointed
by the colony to command the whole be here a day or
two before them, to receive his orders, and to be in readi-
* Congress had resolved on the 3d of June to reinforce the army at
New York by thirteen thousand eight hundred militia, to be drawn from
Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey ; and to estab
lish a flying camp in the middle colonies, to consist of ten thousand militia
from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. These troops were called
new levies.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 417
ness to take the command on their arrival. It will be
proper, too, that notice be sent a day or two before their
coming, that provision may be made for furnishing them
and disposing of them in proper places. I have written
a similar letter to the Jersey Convention, praying aid
from them. I am, Sir, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
New York, 13 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
If the accounts of Colonel Bedel's and Major Butter-
field's conduct be true, they have certainly acted a part
deserving the most exemplary notice. I hope you will
take proper measures, and have good courts appointed
to bring them, and every other officer, that has been or
shall be guilty of misconduct, to trial, that they may
be punished according to their offences. Our misfor
tunes at the Cedars were occasioned, as it is said, en
tirely by their base and cowardly behaviour, and cannot
be ascribed to any other cause.
In my letter of the 7th, which will have reached you
ere this, I enclosed a resolve of Congress for engag
ing the Indians, not more than two thousand, in our
service. This will indicate to you their opinion ; and
knowing their sentiments fully upon this head, I cannot
but advise, that you forthwith hold a conference with the
Six Nations, and any others, whom you and your broth
er commissioners may think necessary ; and form with
them an alliance on such terms and conditions, as shall
seem most likely to secure their interest and friendship,
without waiting the further directions of Congress.
The situation of our affairs will not suffer delay,
and I am persuaded your conduct, and the speech you
vol. in. 53

418 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
intend to oeliver the Sachems, will meet their approba
tion and thanks. I think that part of it, which mentions
the time and place of our taking post, might be omitted ;
but this I leave to you. I shall inform Congress of
what I have written to you on this subject, and of the
verbal intelligence you sent me by Bennet from Albany,
when you overtook him, respecting the Indians coming
down the Mohawk River under Sir John Johnson, and
of your preparing to resist them. I sincerely wish you
success, , and that their first incursions and attempts
againstrus may be attended with their entire defeat. It
will be necessary to employ Colonel Dayton and his
regiment in this service, and in securing a post where
Fort Stanwix formerly stood, which I esteem of much
importance ; but I submit it to you, who are much
better acquainted with that country than I am, whether,
previous to that, it will not be necessary and essential,
that a post be established lower down somewhere about
the falls below the German Flats, to secure our commu
nication with that garrison. Should this not be done,
will it not be in the power of the savages to come be
tween that and our frontiers, and intercept all supplies
of men and provisions going thither ?
I observe you esteem the ground opposite to Ticon
deroga to be the most advantageous for a post against
the enemy. Messrs. Chase and Carroll had told me
the same. I should think, therefore, that the place most
capable of defence, and having the greatest advantages,
should be improved, and necessary works thrown up,
with the utmost despatch. But will not both be best 1
Cannot Ticonderoga be kept, and this improved and
maintained at the same time 1 I must submit this to
you. If you know of any persons, who can be of ser
vice as engineers, do employ them. I know of none my
self, nor have I one whom I can possibly spare. I am, &c.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 419
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Head-Q,uarters, New York, 13 June, 1776.
Sir,
I have the honor of transmitting to Congress a, letter,
which came by express last night from General Schuy
ler, enclosing a copy of a letter to him from Colonel
Kirkland. I have likewise enclosed the copy of one
directed to General Putnam, or the commanding officer
at New York. The representations contained in these
letters have induced me, without waiting the determina
tion of Congress, to direct General Schuyler immediate
ly to commence a treaty with the Six Nations, and to
engage them in our interest, upon the best terms he
and his colleagues in commission can procure ; and I
trust the urgency of the occasion will justify my pro
ceeding to the Congress. The necessity for decision
and despatch in all our measures, in my opinion, be
comes every day more and more apparent. The ex
press, Mr. Bennet, was overtaken at Albany by General
Schuyler, who had received intelligence at Fort George,
that a considerable body of Mohawk Indians were
coming down the Mohawk River under the conduct of
Sir John Johnson. The general's extreme hurry would
not allow him to write ; but it seems his intention is to
collect at Albany a sufficient force to • oppose Sir John.
I have given him my opinion, that Colonel Dayton's
regiment should be employed in that service, and to
secure the post where Fort Stanwix formerly stood.
In consequence of information, that several mer
chants were exporting salt pork and beef from this
place, I requested the commissary to make application to
the Provincial Congress for a restraint to be laid on the
exportation of those articles, as I apprehended, not only
that the enemy might receive supplies by the capture

420 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [ Mi. 44.
of our vessels, but that our people might shortly experi
ence a scarcity. The Provincial Congress have accord
ingly made a resolution to stop the exportation for
fourteen days. They expect Congress will in the mean
time frame some general regulations on this head. They
are unwilling, they say, to subject their constituents to
partial restraints.
I once mentioned to Congress, that I thought a war-
office extremely necessary, and they seemed inclined
to institute one for our army ; but the affair seems to
have been since dropped. Give me leave again to in
sist on the utility and importance of such an establish
ment The more I reflect upon the subject, the more I
am convinced of its necessity, and that affairs can never
be properly conducted without it.
It is with pleasure that I receive the resolve enclosed
in your favor of the 1 1 th instant. One considerable
ground of dissatisfaction in the army is thereby removed.
I have employed persons in building gondolas and rafts,
which the Congress thought necessary for the defence
of this place, and, in conjunction with the Provincial
Congress, I have determined to sink chevaux de /rise
one of which is already begun.
June 1 4th. — I herewith transmit to you copies of a
letter from General Schuyler, and its several enclosures,
which I have received since I had the honor of addressing
you yesterday. From these you will learn that General
Thomas died the 2d instant ;* and the apprehensions
of our frontier friends in this colony, that our savage
foes are meditating an attack against them. I am, &c.
* He died of the smallpox, having taken the disorder without inocula
tion at Sorel. During his illness, General Thompon was at the head of
the army. On the 4th of June, General Sullivan arrived at Sorel, and
took the command.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 421
TO BRIGADIER- GENERAL SULLIVAN, IN CANADA.
New York, 13 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Intelligence having been received of the unfortunate
death of General Thomas, occasioned by the smallpox,
the command of the army in Canada devolves on you.
I am therefore to request your most strenuous exertions
to retrieve our circumstances in that quarter from the
melancholy situation, which they are now in, and to per
form the arduous task of bringing order out of confusion.
I confess there is more room for enterprise and activity,
than I could wish ; but then you will remember, that
you and your colleagues will be entitled to the grateful
thanks of your country, in proportion to the services you
render. Being extremely hurried in sending despatches to
Congress and General Schuyler, I have not time to write
to you so fully as I could wish ; and therefore shall only
add my request, that you from time to time make me
regular returns of the strength of the army, military
stores, and any material occurrence. Wishing that you
and your associates, under the direction of a gracious
Providence, may lead your army to conquest and victo
ry, I am, dear Sir, your most obedient servant.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL WARD.
New York, 16 June, 1776.
Sir,
The two schooners, considering their force and num
ber of men, certainly behaved extremely well in repel
ling the attack, made by such a number of boats ; and it
is only to be lamented that the affair was attended with
VOL. III. J*J

422 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
the death of Captain Mugford. He seemed to deserve
a better fate. I am this moment favored with yours,
advising me of the capture, made by the armed vessels,
of one of the transports with a company of Highlanders
on board, and I flatter myself, if our vessels keep a good
look out, as the whole fleet which sailed with her is
bound to Boston, that more of them will fall into our
hands. I am extremely sorry that your health is more and
more impaired, and, having heard by a letter from Presi
dent Hancock, that Mr. Whitcomb, Colonel Whitcomb's
brother, is appointed a brigadier-general, I shall order
him to relieve you as soon as I am informed, that he
accepts his commission ; and if he does, you may im
mediately call him to your assistance, before I am certi
fied of his acceptance. This will ease you of some
trouble, till I can regulate a few matters of importance
here, which I hope to do in a little time.
I am, Sir, your most obedient servant.

TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL SULLIVAN.
New York, 16 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I was favored with yours of the 5th and 6th instant
bj express yesterday evening from General Schuyler ;
and I am exceedingly happy on account of the agreea
ble and interesting intelligence it contains. Before it.
came to hand, I almost dreaded to hear from Canada,
as my advices seemed to promise nothing favorable,
but rather further misfortunes. But I now hope, that
our affairs, from the confused, distracted, and almost
forlorn state, in which you found them, will emerge and

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 423
assume an aspect of order and success.* I am con
vinced that many of our misfortunes are to be attributed
to a want of discipline, and a proper regard to the con
duct of the soldiery. Hence it was, and from our feeble
efforts to protect the Canadians, that they had almost
joined and taken part against us. As you are fully
apprized of this, and conceive them well disposed to
wards us, with confidence I trust, you will take every
step in your power to conciliate and secure their friend
ship. If this can be effected, of which you seem to
have no doubt, I see no objection to our indulging a
hope that this country, of such importance in the present
controversy, may yet be added to us and complete our
union. I confess this interesting work is now mdre
difficult, than it would have been heretofore, had matters
been properly conducted ; but yet, I flatter myself it
may be accomplished by a wise, prudent, and animated
behaviour in the officers and men engaged in it;
especially if assisted by the friendly disposition of the
inhabitants. I think every mark of friendship and favor
should be shown them, to encourage their zeal and
attachment to our cause.
Your conduct in pushing and securing posts low down
the country is certainly judicious, and of the utmost ad
vantage. The farther down we can take and maintain
posts, the greater will our possession of the country be ;
observing at the same time the necessity of having a
safe retreat left, if you should be obliged to abandon
them by a superior force. I shall anxiously wait in
the hope to hear of General Thompson's making a suc-

* Considering the actual state of things in Canada, Genera] Sullivan's
letters were very extraordinary. In his description of affairs, they bore
the most flattering aspect ; yet twelve days afterwards the whole Ameri
can army was driven out of the province, which all the officers on the spot,
except General Sullivan, had foreseen and predicted.

424 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi.4A.
cessful attack upon the party intrenching at the Three
Rivers. Their defeat will be of the most essential
service. It will chagrin them and disconcert their
schemes on the one hand, and animate our men and
give life to our Canadian friends on the other, and efface
from their minds the unfavorable impressions, which our
late conduct has made.
It will be of material consequence, in your advances
down the country, to secure the several important posts
as you go ; at which, in case you should be obliged to
decline the main object you have in view, you may
make a vigorous and successful stand in your retreat.
I concur with you in thinking it not of material moment
to keep a very large number of men at Lachine or the
upper posts. There should be no more than will be
necessary to repel such attacks and attempts, as may be
made by the savages, and the regular troops above you ;
allowing for such a number of disaffected Canadians as
may join them. But then there should be a sufficient
number for that purpose, as our further misfortunes
there might be of the most injurious consequence. If
they can be maintained, the disaffected above will dwin
dle away, and the insurrection threaten nothing dis
astrous. It is impossible for me at this distance, and not ac
quainted with the situation of affairs as well as you,
who are on the snot, to give any particular direction for
your conduct and operations. I therefore have only to
request, that you with your officers will in every in
stance pursue such measures, as the exigency of our
affairs may seem to require, and as to you shall appear
most likely to advance and promote the interest and
happiness of your country.
it is my most earnest request, that harmony, a good
understanding, and a free communication of sentiments

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 425
may prevail and be preserved between the general officers
and the field-officers, particularly the former. Nothing
can produce greater benefits than this, nor tend more to
promote your military operations ; whereas history and
observation sufficiently evince the fatal consequences,
which have ever resulted from distrust, jealousy, and
disagreement among officers of these ranks. Wishing
therefore your counsels and efforts to be founded in a
happy union, and to meet the smiles of a kind Provi
dence, I am, dear Sir, &,c.
P. S. Knowing your great zeal for the cause of your
country, and your desire to render her every possible ser
vice, I must caution you not to put too much to the hazard
in your exertions to establish her rights, and to receive
with a proper degree of caution the professions, which
the Canadians may make. They have the character .of
an ingenious, artful people, and very capable of finesse
and cunning. Therefore my advice is, that you put not
too much in their power ; but seem to trust them, rather
than actually do it too far. I would also have you keep
all your posts, as you go, well secured, to guard against
any treacherous conduct.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 17 June, 1776.
Sir,
The enclosed came to my hands as a private letter
from General Sullivan. As a private letter I lay it be
fore Congress. The tendency (it requires no explana
tion) will account for the contrast between it and the
letter of General Arnold. That the former is aiming at
the command in Canada is obvious. Whether he
vol. in. 54 J J*

426 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44
merits it or not, is a matter to be considered ; and that
it may be considered with propriety, I think it my duty
to observe, as of my own knowledge, that he is active,
spirited, and zealously attached to the cause. That he
does not want abilities, many members of Congress can
testify ; but he has his wants, and he has his foibles.
The latter are manifested in his little tincture of vanity,
and in an over desire of being popular, which now and
then lead him into embarrassments. His wants are
common to us all. He wants experience to move upon
a large scale ; for the limited and contracted knowledge,
which any of us have in military matters,, stands in
very little stead, and is greatly overbalanced by sound
judgment, and some acquaintance with men and books,
especially when accompanied by an enterprising genius,
which, I must do General Sullivan the justice to say, I
think he possesses.
But, as the security of Canada is of the last impor
tance to the well-being of these colonies, I should like
to know the sentiments of Congress respecting the
nomination of any officer to that command. The char
acter I have drawn of General Sullivan is just, according
to my ideas of him. Congress will, therefore, determine
upon the propriety of continuing him in Canada, or
sending another, as they shall see fit. Whether General
Sullivan knew of the promotion of General Gates at
the time of his writing, and that he had quitted the de
partment he left him in, when he marched his brigade
from hence to Canada, I cannot undertake to say ; nor
can I determine whether his wish to be recalled would
be changed by it, if he did. I shall add no more than
my respectful compliments to Congress, and that I have
the honor to be, with every sentiment of regard and
esteem, Sir, &c.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 427
TO THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
New York, 17 June, 1776.
Gentlemen,
It is with no small degree of pain, that I am under
the necessity of informing you, that it is out of my power
at this time to comply with the request made by your
honorable body.* The many important works carrying
on for the defence of this place, against which there is
the highest probability of an attack being made in a little
time, will not allow me to spare from hence any person
having the least skill in the business of an engineer. I
have but one on whose judgment I should wish to de-
pned in laying out any work of the least consequence.
Congress well know my wants in this instance, and
several of my late letters to them have pressed the ap
pointment of gentlemen qualified for the business.
On account of this deficiency, I have not been able
to secure or improve two posts in the Highlands, esteem
ed of the utmost importance to prevent the enemy from
passing up the North River, and getting into the interior
parts of this colony, should our attempts to stop them
here prove ineffectual. But I beg you to be assured,
that as soon as it is in my power, I shall with infinite
pleasure direct a person to attend the Committee for two
or three days, if the service will not admit of longer
absence, in order to trace out such works, and plans for
carrying them on, as shall appear necessary ; and wish-

* Congress had authorized the Committee of Safety in Philadelphia to
erect a redoubt at Billingsport, and throw obstructions across the Dela
ware at that place, for the purpose of opposing the progress of the enemy's
ships up the river, and had agreed that the same should be constructed at
the Continental expense. The Committee had requested the Commander-
in-chief to send them an engineer to plan and superintend these works.

428 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44
ing you to ascribe my non-compliance to want of ability,
and not of inclination to comply with your request,
I have the honor to be, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 20 June, 1776.
Sir,
I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors
of the 14th and 18th instant, and the interesting re
solves contained in them, with which I have been
honored. The several matters recommended to my
attention shall be particularly regarded, and the direc
tions of Congress and your requests complied with in
every instance, as far as in my power.
The instituting a war-office is certainly an event of
great importance, and, in all probability, will be recorded
as such in the historic page. The benefits derived from
it, I flatter myself, will be considerable, though the plan
upon which it is first formed may not be entirely perfect.
This, like other great works, in its first edition, may not
be free from error ; time will discover its defects, and
experience suggest the remedy, and such further im
provements as may be necessary ; but it was right to
give it a beginning, in my opinion. * The recommenda-
* Till this time the affairs of the army had not been in the hands of any
persons especially appointed for the purpose. The business was referred
to committees, selected as occasion required, and Congress acted upon
their reports. This being found a tedious and ineffectual mode of pro
cedure, without method or consistency, a permanent committee was at
length appointed, under the name of the Board of War and Ordnance,
having specific1 duties and powers, and consisting of five members, with a
secretary and the necessary clerks. It was the duty of this Board to
obtain and preserve an alphabetical register of all the officers in the Con
tinental army, with their rank and the dates of their commissions ; to keep
exact accounts of the artillery, arms, ammunition, and warlike stores, and

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 429
tion of the Convention of New York for restraining and
punishing disaffected persons; I am hopeful, will be
attended with salutary consequences ; and the prohibi
tion against exporting provisions appears to have been a
measure founded in sound policy, lest proper supplies
should be wanted, wherewith to furnish our armies. I
have transmitted to General Schuyler the resolves about
the Indians, and the others on which he is to act ; and
have requested his strict attention and exertions in order
to their being carried into execution with all possible
despatch. I have communicated to Major-General Gates the re
solve of Congress for him to repair to Canada, and
directed him to view Point-au-fer,* that a fortress may
be erected if he shall judge necessary. He is prepar
ing for his command, and in a few days will take his
departure for it. I would fain hope his arrival there
will give our affairs a complexion different from what
they have worn for a long time past, and that many es
sential benefits will result from it. The kind attention
Congress have shown to afford the Commander-in-chief
here every assistance, by resolving that recommendatory
letters be written to the Conventions of New Jersey and
New York, and the Assembly of Connecticut, to authorize
him to call in the militia in case of exigency, claims my
to have the same under their particular charge; to provide for the
forwarding of all despatches and moneys transmitted by Congress on the
public service ; " to superintend the raising, fitting out, and despatching
all such land forces, as should be ordered for the service of the United
Colonies ; to have the care and direction of all the prisoners of war, ac
cording to the orders and regulations of Congress ; " and to keep a careful
record of all their letters and transactions.
The persons chosen for the first Board of War, were John Adams, Sher
man, Harrison, Wilson, and Edward Rutledge. The secretary was Rich
ard Peters. — Journals of Congress, June 12th, 13th.
* A point of land on the western shore of Lake Champlain, between
Isle aux Noix and Isle la Motte.

430 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi.U.
thankful acknowledgments ; and, I trust, if carried into
execution, will produce many advantages in case it may
be expedient at any time to call in early reinforcements.
The delays incident to the ordinary mode may frequent
ly render their aid too late, and prove exceedingly inju
rious. General Wooster having expressed an inclination and
wish to wait on Congress, I have given him permission,
not having any occasion for him here. He set out this
morning. I have been up to view the grounds about
Kingsbridge, and find them to admit of several places
well calculated for defence ; and, esteeming it a pass of
the utmost importance, I have ordered works to be laid
out, and shall direct part of the two battalions from
Pennsylvania to set about their erection immediately,
and will add to their numbers several of the militia,
when they come in, to expedite them with all possible
despatch.* I am, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
New York, 20 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I herewith transmit to you sundry resolves of Con
gress, respecting the Indians, the fortifying of Fort Stan-
wix, and for rendering more easy and commodious our
passes into Canada. As the resolves are of an interest
ing and important nature, I must request your particular
* These works were of great importance in keeping open a communi
cation with the country. They embraced the fort on an eminence near
Hudson's River, called Fort Washington, the redoubts at Jeffrey's Point,
and on the hills north and east of Fort Washington, breastworks at Kings-
bridge, and Fort Independence on the north side of Haerlem Creek near
its junction with the Hudson.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 431
attention to them, and most active exertions for accom
plishing and carrying the whole into execution with all
possible despatch.
I hope the bounty, which Congress have agreed to
allow, as you will perceive by the last resolve, will prove
a powerful inducement to engage the Indians in our
service, and their endeavours to make prisoners of all
the King's troops they possibly can.* You will use
every method, which you shall judge necessary, to con
ciliate their favor ; and to this end you are authorized to
promise them a punctual payment of the allowance,
which Congress have determined on for such officers
and privates belonging to the King's army, as they may
captivate and deliver to us.
June 21s/. — I have this moment received your favors
of the 15th and 17th, and, the post being about to de
part, have not time to answer them fully. I shall only
add, that Lady Johnson may remain at Albany, till
further directions. I am, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 23 June, 1776.
Sir,
I herewith transmit you an extract of a letter from
General Ward, which came to hand by last night's post,
containing the agreeable intelligence of their having
* This resolve authorized General Washington to employ such Indians,
as he should take into the service, in any place where he should think they
would be most useful, and to offer them a reward of one hundred dollars
for every commissioned officer, and thirty dollars for every private soldier
of the King's troops, that they should capture in the Indian country, or on
the. frontiers of the colonies.

432 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
obliged the King's ships to leave Nantasket Road, and
of two transports more being taken by our armed ves
sels, with two hundred and ten Highland troops on
board. *
I sincerely wish the same success had attended our
arms in another quarter; but it has not. In Canada,
the situation of our affairs is truly alarming. The en
closed copies of Generals Schuyler's, Sullivan's, and
Arnold's letters will inform you, that General Thompson
has met with a repulse at Three Rivers, and is now a
prisoner in the hands of General Burgoyne, who, these
accounts say, is arrived with a considerable army.f
Nor do they seem to promise an end of our misfortunes
there ; it is greatly to be feared, that the next advices
from thence will be, that our shattered, divided, and
broken army, as you will see by the return, have been
obliged to abandon the country, and retreat, to avoid a
greater calamity, that of being cut off or becoming
prisoners. I will have done upon the subject, and leave
you to draw such conclusions as you conceive, from the
* Several British armed ships had kept possession of Nantasket Road,
from the time Boston was evacuated. On the 13th of June, in the even
ing, General Ward ordered five hundred men, and a detachment of the train
of artillery with a thirteen-inch mortar, two eighteen-pounders, and some
small cannon, under the command of Colonel Whitcomb, to take post on
Long Island, and annoy the British ships. The necessary works were thrown
up in the night, and the next morning the cannon and mortar opened a
fire, and soon drove the vessels out of the harbour. The fleet consisted
of thirteen in number, the Renown, of fifty guns, several smaller ships of
war, and transports with Highland troops on board. They blew up the
light-house as they went off, and put to sea.
General Ward wrote ; — " The Colonel taken in the transports is
Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, commander of one of General Frazer's
battalions of Highlanders ; he is a member of Parliament, and a gentle
man of fortune."
f Two days after General Sullivan's arrival at Sorel, he sent General
Thompson, at the head of three regiments, to meet and attack the enemy
at Three Rivers. By an unlucky series of accidents, his party was
assailed and beaten, and himself and other officers were taken prisoners.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 433
state of facts, are most likely to result ; only adding my
apprehensions, that one of the latter events, either that
they are cut off, or become prisoners, has already hap
pened, if they did not retreat while they had an oppor
tunity. General Schuyler and General Arnold seem to
think it extremely probable ; and if it has taken place,
it will not be easy to describe all the fatal consequences
that may flow from it. At least our utmost exertions
will be necessary, to prevent the advantages they have
gained from being turned to our greater misfortunes.
General Gates will certainly set out to-morrow, and
would have gone before now, had he not expected to
receive some particular instructions from Congress,
which Colonel Braxton said he imagined would be
given, and transmitted hither.
Enclosed is a copy of a letter from General Arnold
to General Schuyler, respecting some of the Indian
tribes, and a talk had at Albany with thirteen of the
Oneidas. They seemed then to entertain a friendly
disposition towards us, which I wish may not be chang
ed by the misfortunes we have sustained in Canada.
I have the honor to be &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL GATES.
Instructions.
Sir,
The honorable Continental Congress, reposing the
greatest confidence in your wisdom and experience,
have directed me to appoint you to the very important
command of the troops of the United Colonies in Cana
da, with power to appoint- a deputy adjutant-general,
a deputy quartermaster-general, a deputy mustermaster-
VOL. III. 55 KK

434 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44
general, and such other officers as you shall find neces
sary for the good of the service. You are also em
powered to fill up all vacancies in the army in Canada,
and notify the same to Congress for their approbation.
You are also authorized, until the first of October
next, to suspend any officers and fill up all vacancies,
transmitting to the honorable Congress such order and
suspension, giving your reasons therefor, and specifying
the particular charge made against such officer. You are
directed, previous to your departure, to consult with the
commissary-general, and concert with him the most
effectual measures for continuing proper supplies of
provisions for that department. You are in like manner
to consult with Colonel Knox about the artillery, which
may be wanted, and what may probably be procured
there ; and whether any brass or iron field-pieces can
be spared from hence for that service.
Upon your arrival in Albany, you will consult with
General Schuyler, in regard to the present state of pro
visions and stores, and fix upon some certain means of
forwarding the regular supplies in future from that place.
At the same time, endeavour to learn whether supplies
heretofore sent have not reached that department, and
by what means such failures have happened, that a
proper remedy may be provided. From General
Schuyler you will also receive such advice and informa
tion, respecting the operations of the campaign, as may
be useful and necessary. You are to direct all the
general officers, deputy quartermaster-general, local
commissaries, paymaster in Canada, and all other per
sons there, or on the communication, without delay to
render their accounts and settle them. No general
officer on such settlement is to receive pay as colonel
of a regiment, nor any field-officer as captain of a
company.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 435
Upon your taking the command of the troops, you
will give particular orders, agreeably to a rule of Con
gress, that no officer shall suttle or sell to the soldiers,
on penalty of being fined one month's pay, and of being
dismissed the service with infamy; that all sales of
arms, clothing, ammunition, and accoutrements, made
by soldiers, are to be deemed void; and that the
baggage of officers and soldiers is hereafter to be regu
lated conformably to the rules of the British army.
By a like resolve no troops in Canada are to be dis
banded there, but all soldiers in that country ordered to
be disbanded, or, their times of enlistment being ex
pired, refusing to re-enlist, shall be sent under proper
officers to Ticonderoga, or such other posts on the lakes,
as you shall direct, where they are to be mustered, and
the arms, accoutrements, blankets, and utensils, which
they may have belonging to the public, shall be delivered
up and deposited in the public store. You will, as soon
as possible, make as accurate a return as you can pro
cure of the troops, artillery, arms, ammunition, provis
ions, and stores, which you find in Canada, or upon the
communication with Albany, distinguishing where sta
tioned, and in what magazines ; and, if possible, trans
mit such a return to the honorable Continental Congress,
and to me, once a fortnight.
The distance of the scene, and the frequent chan
ges, which have happened in the state of our affairs in
Canada, do not allow me to be more particular in my
instructions. The command is important, the service
difficult but honorable, and I most devoutly pray, that
Providence may crown our arms with abundant success.
Given under my, hand at Head-Quarters, New York,
June 24th, 1776.*
* General Washington had been directed by Congress, on the 17th of
June, to send General Gates into Canada to take command of all the

436 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
New York, 24 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
The accounts transmitted by General Sullivan are
truly alarming, and I confess I am not without appre
hension lest the next advices should be, that the
unfortunate defeat and capture of General ¦ Thompson
have been succeeded by an event still more unfortunate,
the destruction of a large part if not the whole of our
army in that quarter. The weak, divided, and dis
heartened state, in which General Sullivan represents it
to be, does not seem to promise any thing much more
favorable, and it is what General Arnold appears to be
suspicious of. From the whole of the accounts, sup
posing the facts all true, there was nothing left to pre
vent their ruin, but a retreat. That, I hope, has been
made, as the only means of saving themselves, and
rendering their country the least service.
By reason of the succession of ills, that has attended
us there of late, and this last one, I fear we must give
up all hopes of possessing that country, of such impor
tance in the present controversy, and that our views
and utmost exertions must be turned to prevent the in
cursions of the enemy into our colonies. To this end,
I must pray your strictest attention, and request that you
- forces in that province. He enjoyed a high popularity in Congress at this
time. Richard Henry Lee, writing to Washington, June 13th, says, " It is
more than probable, that Congress will order our friend Gates to Canada.
His great ability and virtue will be absolutely necessary to restore things
there, and his recommendations will always be readily complied with.
You will find, that great powers are given to the commander in that distant
department. The system for Canada, adopted since the arrival of the
Commissioners here, will, I hope, be of essential service to our officers.
All good men pray most heartily for your health, happiness, and success,
and none more than your affectionate friend."

PartH.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 437
will use all the means in your power to fortify and secure
every important post and place on the communication.
You are as much impressed with the necessity of the
measure, as any man can be ; and with confidence I
trust, that nothing you can do will be wanting to effect
it. If the troops have retreated, they will in a little
time, I hope, complete such works on the passes, as to
bid defiance to the most vigorous efforts of the enemy
to penetrate our country ; especially when you are
assisted by the militia, who most probably are on their
march ere now. Had this unfortunate defeat not hap
pened, the militia were designed, not only to reinforce
the army in Canada, but to keep up the communication
with that province, as you will see by recurring to the
resolve directing them to be employed.*
Major-General Gates, whom Congress had appointed
to command after General Thomas's death, will set out
to-morrow. As Colonel Parsons has requested you to
send the person, who is supposed to have murdered his
brother, I have no objection to your doing it, if you
judge it necessary. He, from what I have been told,
designs to apply to Congress for instituting some mode
of trial for the offence.
I am, dear Sir, your most obedient servant.
* The following extract from a letter, written to Washington by the
ardent and patriotic Joseph Hawley, of Massachusetts, June 21st, relating
to the proposed reinforcements of militia, is characteristic of the author.
"The most important matters are soon to be decided by arms. Un
happy it is for the Massachusetts, and I fear for the whole continent, that
at this season we have a numerous assembly. More than one half the
House are new members. Their decisions are most afflictingly slow,
when every thing calls for the utmost ardor and despatch. The Lord
have mercy upon us ! This colony, I imagine, will raise the men required
by Congress, before snow falls, but in no season for the relief of either
New York or Canada. Pray, Sir, consider what there is to be done. It
is my clear opinion, that there will not a single company move in this
colony for either of those places these three weeks. I know, Sir, it will
vex you ; but you will not be alone in the vexation. My soul at times ia
KK*

438 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS- [Mi. 44.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 27 June, 1776.
Sir,
I this morning received, by express, letters from Gen
erals Schuyler and Arnold, with a copy of one from
General Sullivan to the former, and also of others to Gen
eral Sullivan; of all which I do myself the honor to
transmit to you copies. They will give you a further ac
count of the melancholy situation of our affairs in Cana
da, and show that there is nothing left to save our army
there but evacuating the country.
I am hopeful General Sullivan would retreat from
the Isle-aux-Noix, without waiting for previous orders
for that purpose ; as, from Generals Schuyler's and
Arnold's letters, it is much to be feared, by remain
ing there any considerable time, his retreat would be
cut off, or at least be a matter of extreme difficulty. I
would observe to Congress, that it is not in my power
to send any carpenters from hence to build the gondo
las and galleys, which General Arnold mentions, without
taking them from a work of the same kind, equally
ready to die within me, at others my blood to press out at the pores of _
my body. But what shall be the expedients ? I never was good at them.
If I may say it, I am astonished at the policy of Congress, in ordering
more regiments here, instead of ordering those, which are here, to parts
where they are infinitely more needed; but my opinion" is little worth.
Such as it is, I have given it."
Again, Mr. Hawley pressed this subject, on the 27th of June, and
added, — "For God's sake, if it is possible, let all Ward's people be in
stantly ordered to Canada, or to some place where they are more needed
than here. Pray, Sir, consider that they are officered, armed, and equip
ped, in all respects. Every thing is to be done for the militia. Our people
will fight here pro aris et focls ; but very few of them, believe me, will
be got to Canada this year. I pray your Excellency's pardon for my
troublesome repetition of this matter to you. I am here, and see the true
state and posture of affairs. No place on the continent I conceive is more
secure than Boston.''

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 439
necessary, if not more so, here ; and I submit it to them
whether it may not be advisable (as it is of great im
portance to us to have a number of those vessels on
the lake, to prevent the enemy's passing,) to withdraw
the carpenters for the present from the frigates building
up the North River, and detach them immediately, with
all that can be got at Philadelphia, for that purpose and
for carrying on those here.
I have the pleasure to inform you of another capture,
made by our armed vessels, of a transport on the 19th
instant, with a company of Highland grenadiers on
board. The enclosed extract of a letter from General
Ward, by last night's post, contains the particulars ; to
which I beg leave to refer you. I have transmitted
to General Schuyler a copy of the resolve of Congress
respecting the Mohickan and Stockbridge Indians, and
directed him to put an immediate stop to the raising of
the two companies.
Upon information that Major Rogers was travelling
through the country under suspicious circumstances, I
thought it necessary to have him secured. I therefore
sent after him. He was taken at South Amboy, and
brought up to New York. Upon examination, he in
formed me that he came from New Hampshire, the
country of his usual abode, where he had left his family ;
and pretended he was destined to Philadelphia on busi
ness with Congress.
As by his own confession he had crossed Hudson's
River at New Windsor, and was taken so far out of his
proper and direct route to Philadelphia, this consideration,
added to the length of time he had taken to perform his
journey, his being found in so suspicious a place as
Amboy, his unnecessary stay there on pretence of
getting some baggage from New York, and an expecta
tion of receiving money from a person here, of bad

440 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
character, and in no circumstances to furnish him out of
his own stock, the Major's reputation, and his being a
half-pay officer, have increased my jealousies about him.
The business, which he informs me he has with Con
gress, is a secret offer of his services, to the end that,
in case it should be rejected, he might have his way left
open to an employment in the East Indies, to which he
is assigned ; and in that case he flatters himself he will
obtain leave of Congress to go to Great Britain.
As he had been put upon his parole by Congress, I
thought it would be improper to stay his progress to
Philadelphia, should he be in fact destined thither. I
therefore send him forward, but, to prevent imposition,
under the care of an officer, with letters found upon
him, which, from their tenor, seem calculated to recom
mend him to Congress. I submit it to their considera
tion, whether it would not be dangerous to accept the
offer of his services. *
June 28th. — Congress, I doubt not, will have heard
of the plot, that was forming among many disaffected
persons in this city and government for aiding the King's
troops upon their arrival. No regular plan seems to
have been digested ; but several persons have been en
listed, and sworn to join them. The matter, I am in
hopes, by a timely discovery, will be suppressed and
put a stop to. Many citizens and others, among whom
is the mayor, are now in confinement. The matter
has been traced up to Governor Tryon ; and the
mayor appears to have been a principal agent between
him and the persons concerned in it. The plot had
been communicated to some of the army, and part of
* Congress directed, that Major Rogers should be sent to Now Hamp
shire, to be disposed of as the government of that province should
judge best. He soon afterwards went over to the British.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 441
my guard engaged in it. Thomas Hickey, one of them,
has been tried, and, by the unanimous opinion of a court-
martial, is sentenced to die, having enlisted himself, and
engaged others. The sentence, by the advice of the
whole council of general officers, will be put in execution
to-day at eleven o'clock. The others are not tried. I
am hopeful this example will produce many salutary
consequences, and deter others from entering into the
like traitorous practices.*
The enclosed copy of a resolve of the Provincial
Congress will show, that some of the disaffected on
Long Island have taken up arms. I have, agreeably to
their request, sent a party after them, but have not as
yet been able to apprehend them, having concealed
themselves in different woods and morasses. General
Gates set out on Tuesday with a fine wind, which has
been fair ever since, and would soon arrive at Albany.
I have this moment received a letter from Lieutenant Da
vison, of the Schuyler armed sloop, a copy of which I have
enclosed ; to which I beg leave to refer you for the in
telligence communicated by him.f I could wish Gene
ral Howe and his armament not to arrive yet, as not
more than a thousand militia have come in, and our
whole force, including the troops at all the detached
posts, and on board the armed vessels, which are com
prehended in our returns, is but small and inconsidera-
* From the Orderly Book, June 28th. — " The unhappy fate of Thomas
Hickey executed this day for mutiny, sedition, and treachery, the General
hopes will be a warning to every soldier in the army to, avoid those crimes,
and all others so disgraceful to the character of a soldier, and pernicious
to his country."
f Lieutenant Davison gave intelligence, that he had taken four prizes,
and that one of the prisoners said a fleet of one hundred and thirty sail
left Halifax for Sandy Hook on the 9th of July, General Howe himself
being on board. When the prisoners arrived at head-quarters, they con
firmed this report, stating that they had been on board the Greyhound,
one of the vessels of the fleet, and seen General Howe.
vol. in. 56

442 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44
ble, when compared with the extensive lines they are
to defend, and, most probably, the army that he brings.
I have no farther intelligence about him, than what the
Lieutenant mentions ; but it is extremely probable his
accounts and conjectures are true.
I have the honor to be, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
New York, 28 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I am sorry General Sullivan should have stopped at
the Isle-aux-Noix, until he could obtain orders for re
treating further, thereby hazarding his army without a
prospect of success, and rendering his retreat liable to'
be interrupted, or at least difficult, in case the enemy
were in a condition to pursue their victory. For these
reasons I cannot but approve your directions, and I hope
they have arrived in time, if he had not before left the
Isle-aux-Noix, by the advice of his council of war, and
joint intercession of his officers. My letter of the 24th
would show you, had it been received, that from his
representation of matters I thought a retreat the only
means left for the security of his army, and for their
doing any essential service to their country. If he
gets off, I shall be happy that our loss was so incon
siderable in numbers, though I regret much the captivity
of General Thompson.
I would have you make ready every thing necessary
for taking post at Fort Stanwix ; and, when you are
prepared, to use your utmost industry for erecting and
completing the work. Our most vigorous exertions
will be required in every instance. I am convinced our
enemies will strain every nerve against us this cam-

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 443
paign, and try to injure us wherever we may be un
provided. It will be extremely proper to forward the
militia for reinforcing the several garrisons on the com
munication, and securing the different passes. I wish
they were not so slow in repairing to the places of ren
dezvous; but I would fain believe they will be in
time to prevent any attempts our enemies may have in
view. I am extremely sorry for your indisposition, and
that you should be so harassed by the ague and fever ;
and wishing you a perfect recovery and a speedy one, I
am, dear Sir, &c*

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 29 June, 1776.
Sir,
The accounts communicated yesterday through Lieu
tenant Davison's letter are partly confirmed, and, I dare
say, will turn out to be true on the whole. For two or
three days past, three or four ships have been dropping
in ; and I just now received an express from an officer
appointed to keep a look-out on Staten Island, that
forty-five arrived at the Hook to-day ; some say more ;
and I suppose the whole fleet will be in, within a day

* Congress had come to a resolution to augment the number of troops
destined for the northern department by four thousand, and offered a bounty
of ten dollars to each soldier, who would enlist for three years. In com
municating this intelligence, President Hancock wrote ; — -"It is scarcely
necessary to mention the motives on which Congress acted, or to explain
the propriety of the measure. The arrival of General Burgoyne with a
large reinforcement, the known character of that officer for action and
enterprise, the defeat of General Thompson with the troops under his
command, and his being made prisoner, are so many circumstances, that
point out the absolute necessity of being more expeditious in our prepara
tions for the defence of Canada, and of increasing our force there."

444 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
or two. I am hopeful, before they are prepared to at
tack, that I shall get some reinforcements. Be that as
it may, I shall attempt to make the best disposition I
can of our troops, in order to give them a proper re
ception, and prevent the ruin and destruction they are
meditating against us.
June 30th. — I had the pleasure of receiving your
favor of the 29th early this morning, with which you
have been pleased to honor me, together with the re
solves for a further augmentation of our army. The
battalion of Germans, which Congress have ordered to
be raised, will be a corps of much service; and I
hope, that such persons will be appointed officers, as
will complete their enlistments with all possible expe
dition. I shall communicate to Colonel Stephenson and
one of his field-officers what you have requested, and
direct them to repair immediately to Philadelphia. It
is an unlucky circumstance, that the term of enlistment
of these three companies, and of the rifle battalion,
should expire at this time when a hot campaign is, in all
probability, about to commence.*
Canada, it is certain, would have been an important
acquisition, and well worth the expenses incurred in the
pursuit of it. But as we could not reduce it to our
possession, the retreat of our army with so little loss,
under such a variety of distresses, must be esteemed a
most fortunate event. It is true, the accounts we have
received do not fully authorize us to say, that we have

* Congress resolved, that four companies of Germans should be raised
in Pennsylvania, and four companies in Maryland. They also resolved,
that six companies of riflemen should be enlisted, four of them in Virginia,
and two in Maryland, to serve for three years, and be formed into a regi
ment with three companies already raised in New York. Captain Ste
phenson was appointed colonel of this regiment.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 445
sustained no loss ; but they hold forth a probable ground
for such conclusion. I am anxious to hear it confirmed. *
I have the honor of transmitting to you an extract of a
letter received last night from General Ward. If the
scheme the privateers had in view, and the measures he
had planned, have been carried into execution, the
Highland corps will be tolerably well disposed of; but
I fear the fortunate event has not taken place. In Gene
ral Ward's letter was enclosed one from Lieutenant-
Colonel Campbell, who was made prisoner with the
Highland troops. I have transmitted to you a copy.
This will give you a full and exact account of the
number of prisoners on board the four transports ; and
will prove, beyond a possibility of doubt, that the evacua
tion of Boston by the British troops was a matter neither
known nor expected when he received his orders. Indeed,
so many facts had concurred before to settle the mat
ter, that no additional proofs were necessary. I am, &,c.

TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL WILLIAM LIVINGSTON. f
New York, 29 June, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Since Colonel Reed left this place, I have received
certain information from the Hook, that about forty of the
* President Hancock had written; — "The loss of Canada is un
doubtedly on some accounts to be viewed in the light of a misfortune.
The Continent has been put to a. great expense in endeavouring to get
possession of it. That our army should make so prudent a retreat, as to
be able to save their baggage, cannon, ammunition, and sick from falling
into the hands of the enemy, is a circumstance, that will afford a partial
consolation, and reflect honor upon the officers, who conducted it. Con
sidering the superior force of the British troops, and a retreat unavoidable,
every thing has been done, which in such a situation could be expected.
In short, Sir, I am extremely glad, that our army is likely to get safe out
of Canada."
f Commander of the New Jersey militia, and at this time stationed at
VOL. III. LL

446 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
enemy's fleet have arrived there, and others are now in
sight, and that there cannot be a doubt, but the whole
fleet will be in this day and to-morrow. I beg not a
moment's time may be lost, in sending forward such
parts of the militia, as Colonel Reed shall mention. We
are so very weak at this post, that I must beg you to
order the three companies, which I mentioned in my
last for Staten Island, immediately to this city. If
General Heard is the commanding officer, I must request
you will lay my several letters, written to you, before
him without delay. I am, Sir, with esteem, &c.

TO THE CAPTAIN OF GOVERNOR FRANKLIN S GUARD.
Head-Quarters, New York, 30 June, 1776.
Sir,
I understand that the Convention of New Jersey re
solved, that Governor Franklin was an enemy to the
liberties of America, and that he should be conducted
under a safeguard into Connecticut, and for that purpose
he was committed to your charge. I have this morning
Elizabethtown. He had previously been a member of the Continental
Congress, and afterwards distinguished himself as the vigilant, able, and
patriotic governor of New Jersey, during the most trying period of the
revolutionary contest. The Memoir of his life, written by Mr. Sedgwick,
is a just and valuable tribute to his memory, as a lover of his country,
and a faithful friend to its liberties.
On the 29th of June, the following order was issued to the army.
" The General expects that all soldiers, who are entrusted with the de
fence of any work, will behave with great coolness and bravery, and will
be particularly careful not to throw away their fire. He recommends to
them to load for their first fire with one musket-ball and four or eight
buckshot, according to the size and strength of their pieces. The briga
diers are to order a circle to be marked round the several redoubts, by
which their officers are to be directed in giving orders for the first dis
charge. Small brush may be set up to make the line more distinct and
familiar to the men, who are by no means to be ordered to fire before the
enemy arrive at the circle."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 447
received information, that you have halted with him at
Hackensack. I would enjoin it upon you to set off im
mediately, and carry the resolve of the Convention into
execution. Delays are dangerous, and should any
accident happen, you never could answer for your
neglect to our much injured country.
I would, therefore, again repeat to you, that it is my
advice, immediately on receipt of this, to set forward on
your journey with Governor Franklin, and make all
possible despatch for the place you are ordered to.
Governor Franklin once had his choice, and chose
Connecticut, and it is not for you to hesitate on frivolous
pretences, but to do your utmost to execute the orders
you have received in every particular. I am, &c.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF ESSEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY.
New York, 30 June, 1776.
Gentlemen,
I received your favor by Mr. Treat, and cannot but
consider the officer of Mr. Franklin's guard extremely
blamable for his conduct. It is certainly his indispensa
ble duty to conduct Mr. Franklin to the place the Con
vention have ordered, without delay. The circumstan
ces you represent, his letter to his lady, and the whole
complexion of the case, afford a strong presumption,
nay, much more, full evidence, that he means to escape
if possible. He says in his letter, that, " during his
respite, the time between his writing and getting an an
swer from Congress, something may turn up to make
his removal improper, and, at any rate, to gain time will
be of advantage."
I have written to the captain of his guard upon the
subject ; and, as Mr. Franklin has evinced a most un-

448 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
friendly disposition to our cause, as the colony Conven
tion have ordered him to Connecticut, for refusing to
comply with such terms to procure his liberty as they
deemed necessary and proper for him to enter into, as
he does not propose to sign the parole, which they
formed, but has suggested several alterations, I am of
opinion your Committee should interfere in the matter,
and give immediate orders to the officer of the guard
to proceed with him, in execution of the duty where
with he is charged. And, further, if you apprehend
that there is the least danger of his being rescued, or
of the guard appointed to escort him being remiss in
their duty, your Committee should appoint a strong
escort for the purpose, and direct them to assist in per
forming the views of the Convention, and conducting
him securely to the place fixed upon to receive him. I
have enclosed the letter for the officer of the guard,
which, having read, you will seal and transmit to him.
I am, &c*

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 4 July, 1776.
Sir,
I have this moment received a letter from General
Greene, an extract from which I have enclosed. The
* The New Jersey Convention had declared Governor Franklin to be
an enemy to his country, and a person that might prove dangerous, and
had decided that he should be confined in such place and manner, as the
Continental Congress should direct. On considering his case, the Con
gress ordered him to be sent under guard to Governor Trumbull, in Con
necticut, who was desired to admit him to his parole, and if he should
refuse to give it, the Governor was requested to treat him agreeably to
the resolutions of Congress respecting other prisoners. After receiving
Washington's letter, the guard proceeded immediately with him to Con
necticut.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 449
intelligence' it contains is of the most important nature,
and evinces the necessity of the most spirited and vigor
ous exertions on our part. The expectation of the fleet
under Admiral Howe is certainly the reason why the army
already come has not begun its hostile operations. When
that arrives we may look for the most interesting events,
and such as, in all probability, will have considerable
weight in the present contest. It behoves us to be
prepared in the best manner ; and I submit it again to
Congress, whether the accounts given by their prisoners
do not show the propriety of calling the several Conti
nental regiments from the Massachusetts government,
raising the Flying Camp with all possible despatch, and
engaging the eastern Indians.*
July 5th. — General Mercer arrived here on Tuesday,
and, the next morning, was ordered to Paulus Hook to
make some arrangements of the militia as they came
in, and the best disposition he could to prevent the

* As an attack was shortly expected from the combined forces of the
enemy, the following order was issued.
" The time is now near at hand, which must probably determine whether
Americans are to be freemen or slaves ; whether they are to have any
property they can call their own ; whether their houses and farms are to
be pillaged and destroyed, and they consigned to a state of wretchedness,
from which no human efforts will probably deliver them. The fate of un
born millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct
of this army. Our cruel and unrelenting enemy leaves us no choice, but
a brave resistance or the most abject submission. This is all that we
can expect. We have, therefore, to resolve to conquer or die. Our own
country's honor calls upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion, and if we
now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world. Let
us jely upon the goodness of- the cause, and the aid of the Supreme
Being, in whose hands victory is, to animate and encourage us to great
and noble actions. The eyes of all our countrymen are now upon us, and
we shall have their blessings and praises^ if happily we are, the instru
ments of saving them from the tyranny meditated against them. Let us
animate and encourage each other, and show the whole world, that a
freeman contending' for liberty on his own ground is superior to any slavish
VOL. III. 57 LL *

450 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
enemy's crossing from Staten Island if they should have
any such views. The distressed situation of the inhabi
tants of Elisabethtown and Newark has since induced
me, upon their application, to give up all the militia from
the Jerseys, except those engaged for six month's. I
am hopeful they will be able to repel any incursions, that
may be attempted. Generals Mercer and Livingston
are concerting plans for that purpose. By a letter from
the latter last night, I am informed the enemy are throw
ing up small works at all the passes on the north side
of Staten Island, which it is probable they mean to
secure. None of the Connecticut militia is yet arrived ; so
that the reinforcement we have received is very incon
siderable. A letter from General Schuyler, with sundry
enclosures, has this moment come to hand, and will no
doubt claim, as it ought to do, the immediate attention
of Congress. The evils, which must inevitably follow a
disputed command, are too obvious and alarming to
admit a moment's delay in your decision thereupon ;
and, although I do not presume to advise in a matter
now of this delicacy, yet as it appears evident, that the
northern army has retreated to Crown Point, and means
to act upon the defensive only, I cannot help giving it
as my opinion, that one of the major-generals in that
quarter would be more usefully employed here, or in
the Flying Camp, than there ; for it becomes my duty to

mercenary on earth. The General recommends to the officers great cool
ness in time of action, and to the soldiers a strict attention and obedience,
with a becoming firmness and spirit. Any officer, or soldier, or any
particular corps distinguishing itself by any acts of bravery and courage,
will assuredly meet with notice and rewards ; and, on the other hand,
those who behave ill will as certainly be exposed and punished ; the
General being resolved, as well for the honor and safety of the country,
as of the army, to show no favor to such as refuse or neglect to do their
duty at so important a crisis." — Orderly Book, July 2d.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 451
observe, if another experienced officer is taken from
hence in order to command the Flying Camp, that youi
grand army will be entirely stripped of generals, who
have seen service, being in a manner already destitute
of such.* My distress on this account, the appoint
ment of General Whitcomb to the eastern regiments, a
conviction in my own breast that no troops will be sent
to Boston, and the certainty of a number coming to this
place, occasioned my postponing, from time to time,
the sending of any general officer from hence to the east
ward heretofore ; and now I shall wait the sentiments
of Congress relative to the five regiments in Massachu
setts Bay, before I do any thing in this matter.
I am, &c.

TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL LIVINGSTON.
Head-Q,uarters, New York, 6 July, 5 o'clock P. M., 1776.
Sir,
Your favor of this date, enclosing Major Duyckinck's
letter, was this moment received. The known disaffec
tion of the people of Amboy, and the treachery of those
of Staten Island, who, after the fairest professions, have
shown themselves our most inveterate enemies, have
* By the original organization of the Flying Camp, it was to consist of
ten thousand men, and to be put under the command of such Continental
officer, as General Washington should direct. These men were to be
obtained at the Continental expense from the militia in Pennsylvania,
Delaware, and Maryland, and engaged till the 1st of December following,
unless sooner discharged by Congress. They were now assembling at
Amboy, under the command of General Mercer. The New Jersey militia,
commanded by General Livingston, were distinct from those ofthe Flying
Camp, being called out expressly for the defence of that province. Con
gress afterwards augmented the Flying Camp with four battalions of militia
from Pennsylvania, and three from New Jersey. — Journals, June 3d and
July 19th.

452 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
induced me to give directions, that all persons of known
enmity or doubtful character should be removed from
places, where they might enter into a correspondence
with the enemy, and aid them in their schemes. For
this end, General Heard has directions to apprehend
such persons, as from their conduct have shown them
selves inimical, or whose situations, connexions, or
offices have given just cause of suspicion.
I have no knowledge of the persons apprehended ;
but I suppose General Heard had good reason for tak
ing hold of them. However, if there are any, who,
from your personal knowledge and opinion, you think
may be permitted to return, I have no objection, the
others being sent to the Provincial Congress for their dis
posal. But, as to the former, I would suggest to you,
that my tenderness has been often abused, and I have
had reason to repent the indulgence shown to them. I
would show them all possible humanity and kindness,
consistent with our own safety ; but matters are now too
far advanced to sacrifice any thing to punctilios.
General Mercer has just set off for Jersey. In his
experience and judgment you may repose great confi
dence. He will proceed to Amboy after conferring with
you. You will please to keep me constantly informed
of the proceedings of the enemy, and be assured of
every assistance and attention. I am, &c*
# General Howe's head-quarters were now at Staten Island. In a
letter to Lord George Germain, dated July 7th, he wrote ; — "I met with
Governor Tryon on board of a ship at the Hook, and many gentlemen
fast friends to government attending him, from whom I have had the
fullest information of the state of the rebels, who are numerous and very
advantageously posted, with strong intrenchments, both upon Long Island
and that of New York, with more than one hundred pieces of cannon for
the defence of the town towards the sea, and to obstruct the passage of
the fleet up the North River, besides a considerable field train of artillery.
" I have the satisfaction to inform your Lordship, that there is great
reason to expect a numerous body ofthe inhabitants to join the army from

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 453
TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.
Head-Quarters, New York, 9 July, 1776.
Sir,
Colonel Seymour arrived yesterday with a few of his
men, when I acquainted him, that it would be impossible
for me to have his horses remain here. Forage is not
to be procured ; and, if it could be, it would only be at a
great expense, without a single advantage arising from
it. The men are absolutely necessary, till the arrival of
the new levies. Colonel Seymour is to propose the
matter to them this morning, and return me an answer.
We have intelligence, which may be relied on, of Lord
Howe's being on his passage for this place, with a large
fleet and about fifteen thousand men, and he is hourly
expected. By several deserters from Staten Island and
the ships of war, whose accounts all agree, General
Howe proposes no attempt on us, till the arrival of this
reinforcement, when, it is said, with a part of his army,
he will make a descent on the Jersey side, while the
fleet and the other part of the army in conjunction will
attack this city. To oppose this force, in which the
ministry put so much confidence, I think it necessary to
exert every nerve, that, by defeating their views this
campaign, we may be enabled to meet them with double
advantage the next. Should they think proper to pur
sue their unwarrantable measures, I hope the good people
the provinces of New York, the Jerseys, and Connecticut, who in this
time of universal apprehension only wait for opportunities to give proofs
of their loyalty and zeal for government. Sixty men- came over a few
days ago with a few arms from the neighbourhood of Shrewsbury in Jer
sey, who are all desirous to serve ; and I understand there are five hun
dred more in that quarter ready to follow their example. This disposition
among the people makes me impatient for the arrival of Lord Howe, con
cluding the powers with which he is furnished will have the best effect at
this critical time ; but I am still of the opinion, that peace will not be re
stored in America until the rebel army is defeated." — MS. Letter.

454 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
of your colony or state, will be ready on all occasions
to fly to our assistance, if needed. I have a confidence
in them, and doubt not they will be ready and willing.
To prevent the enemy from obtaining fresh provisions
is a matter highly necessary to be attended to. I am
informed, that there are great quantities in the neigh
bourhood of New London, namely, at Fisher's, Block,
Plumb, and Elizabeth Islands, and Martha's Vineyard.
These are accessible to ships of force, and no doubt
they will soon be on a plundering voyage. I could wish
your attention to this matter, that the stock may all be
removed quite out of reach of the enemy. The east
end of Long Island, I am told, is not less exposed than
the others. I think effectual steps will be taken in re
gard to that, as I have had a conference with the Con
vention of this province, and an order has gone out for
driving all the stock from the sea-coasts. In the con
ference of a full board of general officers yesterday, it
was recommended, that I should apply to you for the
three row-galleys, being now at New London, or in the
river, together with as many heavy cannon as you can
possibly spare. They will be much wanted here ; and,
if you find it consistent, I would beg you to forward
them on as soon as possible.
I would not have it understood, from what I have said
above in regard to Colonel Seymour's body of horse,
that I think their coming forward a wrong step. I think
it a step, which was highly advisable ; and I am much
pleased to see with what cheerfulness and despatch your
orders were executed. Provided they are well armed
with good muskets, they must always be of greater ser
vice, on sudden emergencies to throw in succours when
called for, than the militia. * I have the honor to be, &c.
* No cavalry as yet belonged to the American army.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 455
TO MAJOR-GENERAL WARD.
New York, 9 July, 1776.
Sir,
The enclosed Declaration will show you, that Con
gress at length, impelled by necessity, have dissolved
the connexion between the American Colonies and
Great Britain, and declared them Free and Independent
States ; and in compliance with their order I am to. re
quest, that you will cause this Declaration to be immedi-
diately proclaimed at the head of the Continental regi
ments in the Massachusetts Bay. It being evident, from
a variety of concurring circumstances, that the British
armies mean to direct their most vigorous operations
this campaign against the. State* of New York, to pene
trate into it by way of the lakes and the North River,
and to unite their attacks. The importance of it has
induced Congress to take further measures, for baffling
their designs, and rendering it more secure.
You will see by the resolves now transmitted, that
the northern army is to be augmented by part of the
troops under your command ; and I desire, that you will
immediately detach for that purpose three of the fullest
regiments forthwith to march to Ticonderoga, or such
other place as the said army may be at, and. pufthem-
selves under the order and directions of the general
officer commanding the same.
You will also perceive, that Congress have resolved,
that the arms taken in the Scotch transports should be
sent hither. The President informs me, that he has
written to the agents respecting them ; but as I presume
they are in your possession, or in some of the stores by
* After the declaration of Independence the terms Colony and Province,
were dropped,, and that of State was substituted.

456 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.
your order, you will have the whole of them forwarded
with all possible despatch, in the usual route and with
necessary directions. Congress have made, some altera
tion in the establishment of chaplains, and advanced
their pay, as they have that of the regimental surgeons ;
as you will see by their proceedings, copies of which in
these instances are also transmitted.
You will be particularly attentive to hasten the
march of the three regiments, and give proper orders
for their route, and to the commissary and quarter
masters, that every thing necessary for the same may
be immediately provided. Their aid is much wanted,
and may be of the utmost importance. When they
have marched, you will be pleased to put the remaining
troops under the command of the oldest colonel, with
such instructions as you may judge necessary, and then
retire, if it shall be agreeable to you, for the recovery of
your health, as I cannot possibly request you longer to
continue ; and, wishing you a speedy restoration of it,
I am, Sir, very respectfully, &c*
P. S. I would have you consult with proper persons
and some of the members of the General Court, respect
ing the route of the three regiments to be detached to
the northern department.
* By General Ward's return, dated the 1st of July, the troops under his
command at Boston amounted to 2526 effective men, being five regiments
commanded by Colonels Whitcomb, Glover, Sargent, Phinny, and Hutch
inson. There was also a company of artillery.
From the Orderly Book, July 9th. — " The honorable Continental Con
gress having been pleased to allow a chaplain to each regiment, with the
pay of thirty-three dollars and one third per month, the colonels or com
manding officers of each regiment are directed to procure chaplains ac
cordingly, persons of good characters and exemplary lives, and to see that
all inferior officers and soldiers pay them a suitable respect. The blessing
and protection of Heaven are at all times necessary, but especially so in
times of public distress and danger. The General hopes and trusts, that
every officer and man will endeavour so to live and act as becomes a
christian soldier, defending the dearest rights and liberties of his country."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 457
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 10 July, 1776.
Sir,
I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your two
favors of the 4th and 6 th instant, which came duly to
hand, with their important enclosures.
I perceive that Congress have been employed in de
liberating on measures of the most interesting nature.
It is certain, that it is not with us to determine in many
instances what consequences will flow from our coun
sels ; but yet it behoves us to adopt such, as, under the
smiles of a gracious and all-kind Providence, will be
most likely to promote our happiness. I trust the late
decisive part they have taken is calculated for that end,
and will secure to us that freedom and those privileges,
which have been and are refused to us, contrary to the
voice of nature and the British constitution. Agreeably
to the request of Congress, I caused the Declaration
to be proclaimed before all the army under my im
mediate command ; and have the pleasure to inform
them, that the measure seemed to have their most
hearty assent ; the expressions and behaviour, both of
officers and men, testifying their warmest approbation
of it. I have transmitted a copy to General Ward at
Boston, requesting him to have it proclaimed to the
Continental troops in that department. *
* On communicating the Declaration of Independence to General
Washington, the President of Congress wrote as follows ; —
" The Congress, for some time past, have had their attention occupied
by one of the most interesting and important subjects, that could possibly
come before them, or any other assembly of men. Although it is not
possible to foresee the consequences of human actions, yet it is neverthe
less a duty we owe ourselves and posterity in all our public counsels, to
decide in the best manner we are able, and to leave the event to that Being,
who controls all things, to bring about his own determinations. Impressed
VOL. III. 58 MM

458 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
It is with great pleasure, that I hear the militia from
Maryland, the Delaware government, and Pennsylvania,
will be in motion every day to form the Flying Camp. It
is of great importance, and should be accomplished with
all possible despatch. The readiness and alacrity, with
which the Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania and the
other conferees, have acted, in order to forward the
associated militia of that state to the Jerseys for service,
till the men to compose the Flying Camp arrive, strongly
evidence their regard to the common cause, and that
nothing on their part will be wanting to support it. I
hope, and I doubt not, that the associated militia, im
pressed with the expediency of the measure, will im
mediately carry it into execution, and furnish in this
instance a proof of the continuance of that zeal, which
has so eminently marked their conduct. I have directed
the commissary to make the necessary provision for
their reception, who will also supply the army for the
with this sentiment, and at the same time fully convinced, that our affairs
may take a more favorable turn, the Congress have judged it necessary
to dissolve the connexion between Great Britain and the American Colo
nies, and to declare them free and independent states ; as you will per
ceive by the enclosed Declaration, which I am directed to transmit to you,
and to request you will have it proclaimed at the head of the army, in the
way you shall think most proper."
As soon as this communication was received, the following order was
issued to the army.
" The Continental Congress, impelled by the dictates of duty, policy,
and necessity, have been pleased to dissolve the connexion, which subsist
ed between this country and Great Britain, and to declare the United
Colonies of North America, Free and Independent States. The several
brigades are to be drawn up this evening on their respective parades at
six o'clock, when the Declaration of Congress, showing the grounds and
reasons of this measure, is to be read with an audible voice. The Gene
ral hopes, that this important event will serve as a fresh incentive to every
officer and soldier to act with fidelity and courage, as knowing that now
the peace and safety of his country depend, under God, solely on the
success of our arms ; and that he is now in the service of a state possess
ed of sufficient power to reward his merit, and advance him to the highest
honors of a free country." — Orderly Book, July 9th.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 459
Flying Camp with rations. A proper officer will be ap
pointed to command it.*
In pursuance of the power given me by Congress,
and the advice of my general officers, I have written to
General Ward, and desired him forthwith to detach
three of the fullest regiments from the Massachusetts
Bay to join the northern army, esteeming it a matter
of the greatest importance to have a sufficient force
there to prevent the enemy's passing the lake, and mak
ing an impression in that quarter. The Connecticut
militia begin to come in ; but from every account the
battalions will be very incomplete, owing, they say, to
the busy season of the year. That government, lest
any inconvenience might result from their militia not
being here in time, ordered three regiments of their
light-horse to my assistance, part of which have arrived.
But, not having the means to support them (and, if it
could be done, the expense would be enormous), I have
thanked the gentlemen for their zeal, and the attachment
they have manifested upon this occasion, and informed
them, that I cannot consent to their keeping their horses,
at the same time wishing them to stay themselves. I
am told they or part of them mean to do so.
I have the honor to be, &c.

TO THE GENERAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
Head-Quarters, New York, 11 July, 1776.
Gentlemen,
At a crisis like the present, when our enemies are
prosecuting the war with unexampled severity, when they
have called upon foreign mercenaries, and have excited
* General Washington had been authorized by Congress to appoint an
officer to command the Flying Camp.

460 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
slaves and savages to arms against us, a regard to our
own security and happiness calls upon us to adopt every
possible expedient to avert the blow, and prevent the
meditated ruin. Impressed with this sentiment, and im
pelled by necessity, the Congress have been pleased
to empower me, as you will perceive by the enclosed
copy of their resolve, which I have the honor of trans
mitting to you, to call to our aid so many of the St.
John's, Nova Scotia, and Penobscot Indians, as I might
judge necessary. At the same time they have desired,
that I should request the assistance of your honorable
body in carrying their views into execution, and assure
you, that whatever expenses you may necessarily incur
in doing it, and as incident to it, they will reimburse.
Esteeming this service of great importance, particularly
if the enemy should attempt an impression into the in
terior parts of the country, I must entreat your kind
offices upon this occasion, and your friendly exertions
immediately to engage, on the best terms you can, five
or six hundred men of these tribes, and to have them
marched with all possible expedition to join the army
here. Having professed a strong inclination to take part with
us in the present contest, it is probable they may be en
gaged for less pay and on better terms, than the Conti
nental troops ; but, if they cannot, they must be allowed
the same. The term of their enlistment should be for
two or three years, unless sooner discharged (the right
of which should be reserved to us), if they will engage
for so long a time ; if not, for such time as they will
agree, provided it is not too short ; and it must be part
of the treaty, and enjoined upon them, to bring every
man his firelock, if it can be possibly effected. As the
services they may render will probably depend on their
early and timely arrival, it is unnecessary to suggest to

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 461
you the urgency of the utmost despatch in the matter.
I well know that the execution of the work will be at
tended with some trouble and inconvenience; but a
consideration of the benefits, that may arise from em
ploying them, and your zeal for the common cause, I
am persuaded, will surmount every obstacle, and apolo
gize for my requisition ; especially as it comes recom
mended and supported by the authority of Congress.
I have the honor to be, &,c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL WARD.
New York, 11 July, 1776.
Sir,
Since writing to you on the 9th instant, I have been
honored with a letter from Congress, enclosing a re
solve, a copy of which is transmitted herewith, em
powering me to call to the assistance of the army here
the other two regiments of Continental troops, now in
the Massachusetts government, and not ordered in my
last to be detached to join the northern army. I am
now to request, by advice of my general officers, that
you will give immediate orders not only to them, but to
the three destined for the northward, to repair with all
possible despatch to Norwich, where they will embark ;
it being the opinion of all the officers, that it will be
better for the whole, as well the three intended for the
northward, as those to reinforce the troops here, to take
this route in preference to any other. It may turn out
the most expeditious, and it is certain the men will be
eased from the fatigues of a long and disagreeable march,
at this hot and uncomfortable season. * It will be ne-
* This order, in regard to the route of the regiment destined to the
MM*

462 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
cessary, that you should write to Mr. Huntington at Nor
wich to prepare as many vessels as will bring the whole
of them. To the quartermaster and commissary you
will give proper orders, that they may provide, in each
of their departments, such supplies of necessaries for
the route as may be wanted. I am, Sir, &c.

TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER.
New York, 11 July, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I received your favors of the 1st and 2d instant, and
agreeably to your request transmitted to Congress a
copy of the former and of its several enclosures. The
important subjects referred to them have met with their
attention, and the letter accompanying this will inform
you and General Gates of the result of their delibera
tions. I hope that harmony and a good agreement will
subsist between you, as the most likely means of ad
vancing the interest of the cause, which you both wish
to promote. They have determined the matter between
Mr. Trumbull and Mr. Livingston, and decided the right
of supplying the northern army, and appointing persons
for that purpose, to be in the former.*
northward, was afterwards countermanded, in consequence of two British
vessels sailing up Hudson's River, thereby cutting off the water com
munication between New York and Albany. Three regiments were
forwarded to New York by way of Norwich, and the two others marched
to Ticonderoga by land from Boston.
* General Gates had been appointed to the command in Canada, but
before he reached Albany the army had evacuated that province, and come
under General Schuyler as commander of the northern department. Gates
insisted, however, that the command of the northern army belonged to
him, wherever it should be stationed, and a difference on this point imme
diately arose between him and General Schuyler. They discussed the
matter amicably, and agreed to refer it to Congress, and to act in perfect

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 463
Since my last, General Howe's fleet from Halifax has
arrived, in number about one hundred and thirty sail.
His army is between nine and ten thousand, being
joined by some of the regiments from the West Indies,
and having fallen in with part of the Highland troops in
his passage. He has landed his men on Staten Island,
which they mean to secure, and is in daily expectation
of the arrival of Lord Howe, with one hundred and
fifty ships, and a large and powerful reinforcement.
This we have from four prisoners, who fell into our
hands, and some deserters. They add that nothing
will be attempted until his arrival. Their intelligence I
have no doubt is well founded; indeed the enemy's
having done nothing yet affords proof beyond question,
that they are waiting for more troops. We are strength
ening ourselves as much as possible, and deem their
staying out so long a fortunate circumstance, as it not
only gives us an opportunity of advancing our works,
but of getting some relief from the neighbouring provin
ces. From every appearance, they mean to make a
most vigorous push to subdue us this campaign; and
for that purpose to possess themselves of this colony,
if possible, as a step leading to it. ^ Our utmost exer
tions must be used, and I trust, through the favor of
divine Providence, they will be disappointed in their
views. It being evident that an attempt will be made by

harmony with each other, till the decision should be received. The
instructions of General Gates were too explicit to raise a doubt in any
other mind than his own, and Congress decided against his 'pretensions.
He was probably the more bold in claiming the command, as there was a
party in Congress, particularly among the New England delegates, well
disposed to sustain him in it. Mr. Gerry wrote to him on the 24th of
August, " We want very much to see you with the sole command in the
northern department, but hope you will not relinquish your exertions, un
til a favorable opportunity shall effect it."

464 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [.Et. 44.
General Burgoyne to penetrate and make an impression
into the colonies by way of the lakes, unless there is a
sufficient force to oppose him, I have exercised a dis
cretionary power, with which I was honored by Con
gress, and ordered three of the fullest Continental
regiments, that were stationed in the Massachusetts
government, to march immediately on receiving my
orders to join the northern army. I have directed them
to come to Norwich, and there embark for Albany,
hoping they will arrive as expeditiously in this way, and
with much less fatigue, than if they had pursued their
route by land altogether. These, with such militia as
may be furnished from the several colonies required to
provide them, and the troops that were under General
Sullivan in Canada, I flatter myself will be able and
more than equal to repel any invasion, that may be at
tempted from that quarter. It will be some time be
fore their aid can be available, as I have never had the
authority of Congress to order them until within this
week. You will perceive by the enclosed Declaration, that
Congress of late have been deliberating on matters
of the utmost importance. Impelled by necessity, and
a repetition of injuries no longer sufferable, and being
without the most distant prospect of relief, they have
asserted the claims of the colonies to the rights of hu
manity, absolved them from all allegiance to the British
crown, and declared them Free and Independent States.
In obedience to their order, the same must be pro
claimed throughout the northern army.
I am, dear Sir, your most obedient servant.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 465
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
New York, 11 July, 1776.
Sir,
In my letter of yesterday, I mentioned the arrival
of part of the Connecticut light-horse to assist in the
defence of this place, and my objection to their horses
being kept. Four or five hundred of them are now
come in; and, in justice to their zeal and laudable
attachment to the cause of their country, I am to in
form you, that they have consented to stay as long as
occasion may require, though they should be at the
expense of maintaining their horses themselves. They
have pastured them out about the neighbourhood of
Kingsbridge, being unwilling to send them away, at
the rate of half a dollar per week each, meaning to
leave it entirely with Congress either to allow or refuse
it, as they shall judge proper. I promised to make this
representation, and thought it my duty ; and I will only
observe, that the motives which induced them at first
to set out were good and praiseworthy, and were to
afford the most speedy and early succour, which they
apprehended would be wanted before the militia arrived.
-Their services may be extremely important, being most
of them, if not all, men of reputation and of property.
The subject of the enclosed copy of a letter from
Governor Trumbull I beg leave to submit to the con
sideration of Congress. They will perceive from his
representation the disquieting apprehensions, that have
seized on the minds of the people since the retreat of
the northern army, and how exposed the northern fron
tiers of New York and New Hampshire are to the
ravages and incursions of the Indians. How far it may
be expedient to raise the battalion he conceives neces-
vol. in. 59

466 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
sary to prevent the calamities and distresses he points
out, they will determine, upon what he has said, and the
necessity that may appear to them for the measure.*
As I am truly sensible the time of Congress is much
taken up with a variety of important matters, it is with
unwillingness and pain, that I ever repeat a request after
having once made it, or take the liberty of enforcing
any opinion of mine after it is once given ; but, as the
establishing of some office for auditing accounts is a
matter of exceeding importance to the public interest, I
would beg leave once more to call the attention of Con
gress to an appointment competent to the purpose.
Two motives induce me to urge the matter ; first, a con
viction of the utility of the measure ; secondly, that I
may stand exculpated if hereafter it should appear, that
money has been improperly expended, and necessaries
for the army obtained upon unreasonable terms.
For me, whose time is employed from the hour of
my rising till I retire to bed again, to go into an exami
nation of the accounts of such an army as this, with any
degree of precision and exactness, without neglecting
other matters of equal importance, is utterly impractica
ble. All that I have been able to do (and that, in fact,
was doing nothing) was, when the commissary, and

* " The retreat of the northern army and its present situation," said
Governor Trumbull in the letter referred to, " have spread a general alarm.
The prevalence of the smallpox among the troops is every way unhappy.
Our people in general have not had that distemper. Fear of the infection
operates strongly to prevent soldiers from engaging in the service. The
retreat of the army from Canada exposes the northern frontiers of New
York and New Hampshire to the ravages of the Indians, who will doubt
less be spirited up to fall upon them. Some of the settlements on Onion
River, I am informed, are breaking up and removing, and the whole are
filled with the most disquieting apprehensions. I could wish, that your
Excellency might think proper to recommend to the Continental Congress
to order a battalion to be raised and stationed there for the defence of
those settlements."

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 467
quartermaster, and director-general of the hospital (for
it is to these the great advances are made) applied for
warrants, to make them at times produce a general ac
count of their expenditures. But this answers no valua
ble purpose. It is the minutiae that must be gone into, the
propriety of each charge examined, the vouchers looked
into ; and, with respect to the commissary -general, his
victualling returns and expenditures of provisions should
be compared with his purchases ; otherwise a person in
this department, if he was inclined to be knavish, might
purchase large quantities with the public money, and
sell one half of it again for private emolument, and yet
his accounts upon paper would appear fair, and be sup
ported with vouchers for every charge.
I do not urge this matter from a suspicion of any
unfair practices in either of the departments before men
tioned ; and sorry should I be if this construction were
put upon it, having a high opinion of the honor and
integrity of these gentlemen. But there should never
theless be some control, as well upon their discretion as
honesty ; to which it may be added, that accounts become
perplexed and confused by long standing, and the errors
therein not so discoverable as if they underwent an
early revision and examination. I am well apprized,
that a treasury office of accounts has been resolved
upon, and an auditor-general for settling all public ac
counts; but, with all deference and submission to the
opinion of Congress, these institutions are not calculated
to prevent the inconveniences I have mentioned ; nor
can they be competent to the purposes, circumstanced
as they are.*
* Three commissioners were appointed to proceed to New York and
audit the accounts of the army, and the same number for the army in the
northern department.

468

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.

July 12th. — About half after three o'clock this eve
ning, two of the enemy's ships of war, one of forty and
the other of twenty guns, with three tenders, weighed
anchor in the bay opposite to Staten Island, and, avail
ing themselves of a brisk and favorable breeze, with a
flowing tide, ran past our batteries up the North River,
without receiving any certain damage that I could per
ceive, notwithstanding a heavy and incessant cannonade
was kept up from our several batteries here, as well as
from that at Paulus Hook. They, on their part, return
ed and continued the fire as they ran by. I despatched
an express to Brigadier-General Mifflin, at our encamp
ment towards the upper end of the island, but I have
not heard whether they have got by or received any
damage.* The account transmitted by this morning's
post, respecting the arrival of one of the fleet, seems to
be confirmed. Several ships have come in to-day ;
among them one this evening with a St. George's flag
at her foretop-mast head, which we conclude to be
Admiral Howe, from the circumstance of the flag, and
the several and general salutes that were paid. It is
probable they will all arrive in a day or two, and imme
diately begin their operations. I am, &c.

* General Howe consulted with the Admiral, July 7th, on the expedien
cy of sending a naval force up the North River, with the view of obstruct
ing the supplies, which came down the river to New York. The Admiral
did not at first approve the plan, but at length assented to it, and the
Phoenix of forty guns, and Rose of twenty, were despatched on this ser
vice, with three tenders. On the 6th of August, General Howe informed
Lord G«orge Germain of this movement, and said that no direct intelli
gence had then been received from these vessels, although by private
means it was ascertained, that they had not received the least damage, and
were in safety near the upper end of Tappan Sea. It is a little remarka
ble, that for three weeks no direct intercourse should have occurred be
tween these vessels and the fleet ; a proof of the vigilance with which the
American lines were guarded.

Pa*tIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 469
TO BRIGADIER-GENERAL GEORGE CLINTON.*
Head-Quarters, New York, 12 July, 1776.
Sir,
Two ships of force with their tenders have sailed up
Hudson's River. I am apprehensive, that they design
to seize the passes in the Highlands by land, which I
am informed may be done by a small body of men. I
must therefore request you instantly to desire General
Ten Broeck to march down as great a force as he can
collect to secure them, particularly the post where the
road runs over Anthony's Nose.f Send off an express
directly, if you please, to the west parts of Connecticut,
desiring them to collect all their force at the same point,
since I have the strongest reason to believe it will be
absolutely necessary, if it were only to prevent an in
surrection of your own Tories. I am, &,c.
* Commanding the New York militia on Hudson's River. He had al
ready anticipated the orders of the Commander-in-chief, by calling out
three regiments of militia, as soon as the signals had been given, that the
enemy's ships were ascending the river. One regiment he stationed at
Fort Constitution opposite West Point, another at Fort Montgomery, to
which he repaired in person, and the third at Newburg, ready to be called
down to the forts below, if occasion should require. He had likewise direct
ed several sloops and boats to be assembled at Fort Constitution, with the
design of drawing a chain of them across the narrowest part of the river,
prepared to be set on fire if the enemy's vessels should attempt to break
through. Colonel Woodhull commanded a regiment of militia under him
at Fort Montgomery ; and his brother, James Clinton, a colonel in the Con
tinental army, had been stationed for several weeks at Fort Constitution,
superintending the construction of the military works in the Highlands.
No fortifications had as yet been erected at West Point.
The invasion of the province of New York by the enemy, and the inter
nal excitement and trouble caused by the loyalists, had suddenly called home
from the Continental Congress two delegates, Clinton and Robert R. Liv
ingston. This was the reason why their names were not affixed to the
Declaration of Independence. Livingston was one of the committee, that
reported the draft of the Declaration.
f A mountain in the Highlands, opposite to Fort Montgomery.
VOL. III. NN

470 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi. 44.

TO THE SECRET COMMITTEE OF THE CONVENTION OF
THE STATE OF NEW YORK.*
Head-Quarters, 13 July, 1776.
Gentlemen,
A multiplicity of engagements, and a continual pres
sure of other concerns, have prevented our proceeding
in the case of the soldiers confined for seditious and
treasonable practices ; but, as soon as time will admit, a
proper attention will be paid to it. In the mean time, I
beg leave to suggest the propriety of the authority of the
province taking some steps, with regard to the persons
confined by them for the same offences. They certainly
are to be deemed the principals, and justice to the inferioi
agents, while the others pass unnoticed, I observe, only
excites compassion and censure. I am very sensible, tha'.
it is a case full of difficulty and perplexity, and well de
serving your most serious deliberation; nor do I entertair,
a doubt, but the result will be such, as will conduce ti
the public good. I have, some time ago, mentioned L
the body, of which you are a committee, the necessity
of falling upon some measure to remove from this city
and its environs persons of known disaffection and en
mity to the cause of America. The safety of the army.
the success of every enterprise, and the security of all,
depend so much on adopting the most speedy and
effectual steps for this purpose, that I beg leave again to
repeat it ; and do most earnestly entreat you to adopt
some plan for this purpose, or to give me your assistance
* This Committee was appointed expressly with reference to the
Tories, or disaffected persons. It was now sitting in the city of New
York, although the Convention was at White Plains. The title of Pro
vincial Congress was changed, on the 9th of July, to that of the Conven
tion of the Representatives of the State of New York, immediately after the
Declaration of Independence had been acceded to by that body. —
MS. Journal, July 9th.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 471
in doing it, so as to remove those disquieting and dis
couraging apprehensions, which pervade the whole army
on this subject. A suspicion, that there are many
ministerial agents among us, would justly alarm soldiers
of more experience and discipline than ours; and I
foresee very dangerous consequences, in many respects,
if a remedy for the evil is not soon and efficaciously
applied. The removal of the Tory prisoners, confined in the
gaol of this city, is a matter to which I would solicit
your attention. In every view, it appears dangerous and
important. In case of an attack and alarm, there can be
no doubt what part they would take, and none can tell
what influence they might have. You will, Gentlemen,
do me the justice to believe, that nothing but the im
portance and necessity of the case could induce me to
urge these matters, in which you have also an immediate
and common interest.* The gentlemen appointed to
give passes to persons leaving the city, I am informed,
decline acting. Great inconvenience will ensue to the
citizens, if this business should be committed to officers
of the army, who, from their ignorance of the inhabi
tants, as well as other reasons, are wholly improper for

* This representation had its effect. Thirteen Tory prisoners, includ
ing the persons most obnoxious for their principles and conduct, were
speedily removed by order of the Convention to the jail at Litchfield in
Connecticut. The crimes alleged against them were those of notorious
disaffection to the rights and liberties of the American States, counterfeit
ing the currency of the states, corresponding with the enemy, or engaging
in treasonable conspiracies.. The mayor of the city of New York was
one of the number, but the President of the Convention wrote to the
Committee of Litchfield, that though the. evidence against him was such,
as rendered his confinement necessary till he should be tried, yet his
offences were not of so heinous a nature as those of the other conspira
tors, and such indulgence was recommended in his behalf as should be
consistent with his safe keeping. — MS. Journal of the New York Conven
tion, July 19th.

472 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi.te.
the management of it. I should be glad, if your com
mittee will take this matter also into their consideration.
I am, Gentlemen, with great respect and regard, your
most obedient humble servant.

TO COLONEL RUDOLPHUS RITZEMA.
Head-Quarters, 14 July, 1776.
Sir,
At a period so critical as the present, when our un
natural enemies are in full view, and hourly expected to
strike a blow, which may be supposed in a great meas
ure to decide the fate of America, I must confess that I
am not a little surprised to find an officer of your rank
in the army soliciting leave to resign his commission,
more especially considering the predicament you are
now in. I should rather hope, that, as you are so con
scious of your innocence, you would urge an inquiry
into your conduct, to convince the world, that the
complaints exhibited against you are totally groundless ;
and that the malice of your worst enemies cannot do
the least injury to your reputation, which to a soldier
ought ever to be dearer than life. I do not know how
far I can with propriety countermand the order for the
court of inquiry, as it is already given out in general
orders ; however, I will think of it, and give you my
answer to-morrow. I am, Sir, &c.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New York, 14 July, 1776.
Sir,
General Sullivan, in a letter of the 2d instant, informs
me of his arrival with the army at Crown Point, where

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 473
he is fortifying and throwing up works. He adds, that
he has secured all the stores except three cannon left
at Chamblee, which in part is made up by taking a fine
twelve -pounder out of the Lake. The army is sickly,
many with the smallpox ; and he is apprehensive the
militia, ordered to join them, will not escape the infec
tion. An officer, whom he had sent to reconnoitre, had
reported that he saw at St. John's about a hundred and
fifty tents, twenty at St. Roy's, and fifteen at Chamblee;
and works at the first were busily carrying on.
About three o'clock this afternoon I was informed,
that a flag from Lord Howe was coming up, and waited
with two of our whale-boats until directions should be
given. I immediately convened such of the general of
ficers as were not upon other duty, who agreed in
opinion, that I ought not to receive any letter directed
to me as a private gentleman ; but if otherwise, and the
officer desired to come up to deliver the letter himself,
as was suggested, he should come under a safe-conduct.
Upon this, I directed Colonel Reed to go down and
manage the affair under the above general instruction.
On his return he informed me, that, after the common
civilities, the officer acquainted him, that he had a letter
from Lord Howe to Mr. Washington, which he showed
under a superscription, " To George Washington, Esq."
Colonel Reed replied, that there was no such person in
the army, and that a letter intended for the General
could not be received under such a direction. The of
ficer expressed great concern, said it was a letter rather
of a civil than military nature, that Lord Howe regretted
he had not arrived sooner, that he (Lord Howe) had
great powers. The anxiety to have the letter received
was very evident, though the officer disclaimed all
knowledge of its contents. However, Colonel Reed's
instructions being positive, they parted. After they had
VOL. III. 60 NN*

474 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Et. 44.
got some distance, the officer with the flag again put
about, and asked under what direction Mr. Washington
chose to be addressed; to which Colonel Reed an
swered, that his station was well known, and that cer
tainly they could be at no loss how to direct to him.
The officer said they knew and lamented it ; and again
repeated his wish, that the letter could be received.
Colonel Reed told him a proper direction would obviate
all difficulties, and that this was no new matter, this
subject having been fully discussed in the course of the
last year, of which Lord Howe could not be ignorant ;
upon which they parted.
I would not upon any occasion sacrifice essentials to
punctilio ; but in this instance, the opinion of others con
curring with my own, I deemed it a duty to my country
and my appointment, to insist upon that respect, which,
in any other than a public view, I would willingly have
waived. Nor do I doubt, but, from the-supposed nature
of the message, and the anxiety expressed, they will
either repeat their flag, or fall upon some mode to com
municate the import and consequence of it.*
The passage of the ships of war and tenders up the
river is a matter of great importance, and has excited
much conjecture and speculation. To me two things
have occurred, as leading them to this proceeding ; first,
a design to seize on the narrow passes on both sides of
the river, giving almost the only land communication

* On considering this subject, Congress passed the following resolution ;
— " That General Washington, in refusing to receive a letter said to be
sent from Lord Howe, and addressed to ' George Washington, Esq.' acted
with a dignity becoming his station ; and, therefore, this Congress do
highly approve the same, and do direct, that no letter or message be re
ceived, on any occasion whatsoever from the enemy, by the Commander-
in-chief, or others, the commanders of the American army, but such as
shall be directed to them in the characters they respectively sustain." —
Journals, July 17th.

PartIL] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 475
with Albany, and of consequence with our northern
army, for which purpose they might have troops con
cealed on board, which they deemed competent of
themselves, as the defiles are narrow; or that they
would be joined by many disaffected persons in that
quarter. Others have added a probability of their hav
ing a large quantity of arms on board, to be in readiness
to put into the hands of the Tories immediately on the
arrival of the fleet, or rather at the time they intend to
make their attack. The second is, to cut off entirely all
intercourse between this place and Albany by water,
and the upper country, and to prevent supplies of every
kind from going and coming.
These matters are truly alarming, and of such impor
tance, that I have written to the Provincial Congress of
New York, and recommended to their serious consider
ation the adoption of every possible expedient to guard
against the two first ; and have suggested the propriety
of their employing the militia, or some part of them, in
the counties in which these defiles are, to keep the en
emy from possessing them, till further provision can be
made ; and to write to the several leading persons on
our side in that quarter, to be attentive to all the move
ments of the ships and the disaffected, in order to dis
cover and frustrate whatever pernicious schemes they
have in view.*
In respect to the second conjecture of my own, and
* The ships passed all the batteries without receiving any apparent in
jury. The decks were guarded with ramparts of sand-bags, which pro
tected the men from small shot ; and the motion of the vessels was so
rapid, that they remained but a very short time within the range of the
heavy guns. They ascended to the broad part of the river, called Haver-
straw Bay, and anchored so far from the shore on either side, as to be out
of danger. Their boats were daily sent out to take soundings. When
they occasionally attempted to land, they were beaten back by the militia,
who watched them narrowly on both sides ofthe river.

476 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Mi.U.
which seems to be generally adopted, I have the pleas
ure to inform Congress, that, if their design is to keep
the armies from provision, the commissary has told me
upon inquiry, that he has forwarded supplies to Albany
(now there and above it) sufficient for ten thousand men
for four months; that he has a sufficiency here for
twenty thousand men for three months, and an abundant
quantity secured in different parts of the Jerseys for the
Flying Camp, besides having about four thousand barrels
of flour in some neighbouring part of Connecticut
Upon this head, there is but little occasion for any ap
prehensions, at least for a considerable time.
I have the honor to be, &c.

APPENDIX

APPENDIX.

No. I. p. 1.
WASHINGTON'S APPOINTMENT AS COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
OF THE AMERICAN ARMY.
After Congress had determined to embody and support a Con
tinental army, it was a matter of much difficulty and embarrassment
to select a commander, who should be at the same time competent
to fill that high station, and acceptable to all the colonies. On
the one hand, the existing army had been raised wholly by the four
New England provinces, and, to put it under the command of an
officer of a distant or more southern province, was felt to be an ex
periment of delicacy and hazard ; on the other hand, it was a thing
of vital moment to enlist in the common cause the interests of the
whole continent, and, in effecting so great an object, to sacrifice local
and party considerations to the higher motives of patriotism and the
general good.
Happily the New England delegates in Congress took this latter
view of the subject, and so far from pressing any claims, which might
be expected from the actual condition of affairs, or interposing any
obstacles, they were prompt in recommending the choice, upon
which Congress ultimately decided. The eyes of the public in Mas
sachusetts, as well as in other parts of the continent, had already
been turned upon Colonel Washington, as in all respects the best
qualified to be placed at the head of the army. On the 4th of June,
1775, Mr. Gerry, then a member of the Provincial Congress at Wa
tertown, wrote to the Massachusetts delegates in the Continental Con
gress, — "I should heartily rejoice to see this way the beloved
Colonel Washington, and do not doubt the New England generals
would acquiesce in showing to our sister colony Virginia the respect,
which she has before experienced from the continent, in making him

480 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
generalissimo. This is a matter in which Dr. Warren agrees with
me, and we had intended to write to you jointly on the affair.1' —
Austin's Life of Gerry, Vol. I. p. 79. Massachusetts and Virginia
had hitherto taken the lead in bold and decided measures. The
powerful weight of talents in Virginia, and its comparative impor
tance in the scale of numbers and territory, were circumstances not
to be overlooked, and which pointed to the policy, if not to the ne
cessity, of securing the strong attachment of that colony to the cause,
by recognising its just claims to influence. We hence understand
the meaning of Washington, in what he says of the political motive,
which contributed to his election ; and it was a most fortunate coinci
dence, that the man, who was preeminently qualified above all others
for the difficult and responsible duties of commander-in-chief, was a
native of the province, which stood in the first rank among its com
peers, and the cordial cooperation of which was essential.
The appointment was not made without due reflection and previous
consultation among the members of Congress. The subject was can
vassed in all its bearings, before it was formally introduced in the
House. The merits of other candidates were amply discussed, and
the political considerations applicable to each were deliberately
weighed. The popularity of Charles Lee, and the high opinion en
tertained of his military talents and experience,, brought him promi
nently into view. His foreign birth, however, was an effectual bar to
his pretensions, as it was a principle, consonant alike to the feelings
and pride of all parties, that none but a native American should be
elevated to this place of high dignity and trust. There were other
officers in the country, older than Washington, some of whom had
seen service in the last two wars, and who sustained an honorable
military reputation. These would of course have their friends and
their advocates ; but local biases and personal attachments Were
gradually yielded up, and the common consent fell upon the indi
vidual, who was afterwards selected. In discussing the question
respecting the army then besieging the British troops in Boston,
Mr. John Adams made a motion, that it should be adopted by the
continent, and, in enforcing this motion, he said it was his intention
to propose for the office of Commander-in-chief a gentleman from
Virginia, and one of their own body. His remarks on the qualifica
tions of this gentleman were so pointed, that they were known to ap
ply only to Colonel Washington, who, upon hearing this reference
to himself, immediately withdrew. The appointment was deferred
to a succeeding day, when Washington was nominated (as Mr.
Adams afterwards expressed his belief) by Mr. Thomas Johnson,

Appendix.] COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. 481
a delegate from Maryland. The choice was by ballot, and, on
counting the votes, it was found that he was unanimously elected.
The House then 'adjourned till the next day, when the notice of
his appointment was officially communicated to him by the Presi
dent, and he signified his acceptance in a short and appropriate
reply. It has usually been stated, that the nomination was made by
Mr. John Adams, but this is a mistake. No man, probably, was
more active in bringing about the appointment, than Mr. Adams ; and
it has been understood, that his influence on the minds of his brethren
from the eastern colonies was of the most salutary kind, in conduct
ing them to harmony of sentiment, and reconciling them to the
choice of a southern general to command their troops. In this he
was guided by the same principles of a true patriot, which marked
his career during the whole revolution. Mr. Johnson had been for
some years personally intimate with Washington, and on the score of
policy it was thought advisable, that the nomination should proceed
from a southern rather than an eastern delegate. Mr. Adams's im
pressions may be inferred from a letter written by him to Mr. Gerry,
three days after the appointment of a commander-in-chief.
" There is something charming to me in the conduct of Washing
ton. A gentleman of one of the first fortunes upon the continent,
leaving his delicious retirement, his family and friends, sacrificing his
ease, and hazarding all in the cause of his country ! His views are
noble and disinterested. He declared, when he accepted the mighty
trust, that he would lay before us an exact account of his expenses,
and not accept a shilling for pay." — Life of Gerry, Vol. I. p. 90.
By another part of the same letter it would seem, that Mr. Adams
had a hard struggle with himself in favoring the introduction of the
foreign officers, Lee and Gates, into the American service. It is
probable, that he held these sentiments in common with many other
persons ; and it is remarkable, that Washington should have been
himself a chief instrument in promoting two officers, who, at different
stages of the war, caused him much embarrassment, trouble, and
pain. " I have never in all my lifetime," says Mr. Adams, " suffered
more anxiety than in the conduct of this business. The choice of
officers and their pay have given me great distress. Lee and Gates
are officers of such great experience and confessed abilities, that I
thought their advice in a council of officers might be of great advan
tage to iis ; but the natural prejudices, and virtuous attachment of our
countrymen to their own officers, made me apprehensive of difficul-
VOL. III. 61 0 0

482 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
ties. But considering the earnest desire of General Washington to
have the assistance of these officers, the extreme attachment of many
of our best friends in the southern colonies to them, the reputation
they would give to our arms in Europe, and especially with the min
isterial generals and army in Boston, as well as the real American
merit of both, I could not withhold my vote from either."
The following is an exact transcript of General Washington's com
mission, taken from the original now deposited in the office of the
Secretary of State at Washington. It varies in some minor particu
lars from the one reported by the Committee, and published in the
Journals ofthe Old Congress.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S COMMISSION.
" In Congress. We the Delegates of the United Colonies of New
Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New
York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New Castle, Kent, and Sussex on
Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina,
" To George Washington, Esquire.
" We, reposing special trust and confidence in your patriotism,
conduct, and fidelity, do by these presents constitute and appoint you
to be General and Commander-in-chief of the army of the United
Colonies, and of all the forces raised or to be raised by them, and of
all others who shall voluntarily offer their service and join the said
army for the defence of American liberty, and for repelling every
hostile invasion thereof. And you are hereby vested with full power
and authority to act as you shall think for the good and welfare of
the service.
" And we do hereby strictly charge and require all officers and
soldiers under your command to be obedient to your orders, and dili
gent in the exercise of their several duties.
" And we do also enjoin and require you to be careful in executing
the great trust reposed in you, by causing strict discipline and order
to be observed in the army, and that the soldiers are duly exercised
and provided with all convenient necessaries.
" And you are to regulate your conduct in every respect by the
'rules and discipline of war (as herewith given you), and punctually to
observe and follow such directions from time to time, as you shall re
ceive from this or a future Congress of the said United Colonies, or a
Committee of Congress for that purpose appointed.

Appendix.] COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. 483
" This commission to continue in force till revoked by this or a
future Congress. " By order of Congress. " John Hancock, President.
" Dated, Philadelphia, June 19th, 1775.
" Attest, Charles Thompson, Secretary."
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S INSTRUCTIONS.
" This Congress having appointed you to be General and Com
mander-in-chief of the army of the United Colonies, of all the
forces raised or to be raised by them, and of all others who shall
voluntarily offer their service, and join the said army for the defence
of American liberty, and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof,
you are to repair with all expedition to the colony of Massachusetts
Bay, and take charge of the army of the United Colonies. For your
better direction ,- —
" 1. You are to make a return to us as soon as possible of all
forces, which you shall have under your command, together with their
military stores and provisions ; and also as exact an account as you
can obtain of the forces which compose the British army in America.
" 2. You are not to disband any of the men you find raised until
further direction from this Congress ; and if you shall think their
numbers not adequate to the purpose of security, you may recruit
them to a number you shall think sufficient, not exceeding double
that of the enemy.
" 3. In all cases of vacancy occasioned by the death or removal of
a colonel, or other inferior officer, you are by brevet, or warrant un
der your seal, to appoint another person to fill up such vacancy, until
it shall otherwise be ordered by the Provincial Convention, or the
Assembly of the colony, from whence are the troops in which such
vacancy happens, shall direct otherwise.
"4. You are to victual, at the Continental expense, all such volun
teers as have joined or shall join the united army.
" 5. You shall take every method in your power, consistent with
prudence, to destroy or make prisoners of all persons who now are,
or who hereafter shall appear in arms against the good people of the
United Colonies.
" 6. And whereas all particulars cannot be foreseen, nor positive
instructions for such emergencies so beforehand given, but that many
things must be left to your prudent and discreet management, as oc
currences may arise upon the place, or from time to time fall out,

484

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.

you are, therefore, upon all such accidents, or any occasions that
may happen, to use your best circumspection ; and, advising with
your council of war, to order and dispose of the said army under
your command as may be most advantageous for the obtaining of the
end for which these forces have been raised, making it your especial
care, in discharge of the great trust committed unto you, that the
liberties of America receive no detriment."

No. II. p. 14.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARRIVAL IN CAMBRIDGE.
When the Massachusetts Provincial Congress heard, that General
Washington had left Philadelphia, and was on his way to take com
mand of the army, they appointed a Committee to consider what
steps were proper to be taken for his reception. In consequence of
the Committee's report, the following resolves were passed; —
" Resolved, That Dr. Benjamin Church and Mr. Moses Gill be a
Committee to repair to Springfield, there to receive Generals Wash
ington and Lee, with every mark of respect due to their exalted
characters and stations ; to provide proper escorts for them from
thence to the army before Boston, and the house provided for their re
ception at Cambridge ; and to make suitable provisions for them in the
manner following, namely, by a number of gentlemen of this colony,
from Springfield to Brookfield, and by another company raised in
that neighbourhood from thence to Worcester, and by another com
pany there provided from thence to Marlborough, and from thence by
the troop of horse in that place to the army aforesaid ; and to receive
the bills of expense at the several inns, where it may be convenient
for them to stop for refreshment, to examine them, and make report
of the several sums expended at each of them for that purpose, that
orders may be taken by the Congress for the payment of them. And
all innkeepers are hereby directed to make provision agreeably to the
requests of the said Committee. And that General Ward be notified
of the appointment of General Washington as Commander-in-chief of
the American forces, and of the expectation we have of his speedy
arrival with Major-General Lee, that he, with the Generals of the
forces of the other colonies, may give such orders for their honorable
reception as may accord with the rules and circumstances of the

Appendix.] ARRIVAL IN CAMBRIGDE. 485
army, and the respect due to their rank, without however any ex
pense of powder, and without taking the troops from the necessary
attention to their duty at this crisis of our affairs.
. " Resolved, That the President's house in Cambridge, excepting one
room reserved by the President for his own use, be taken, cleared,
prepared, and furnished for the reception of General Washington and
General Lee."
The Committee accordingly proceeded to Springfield, and per
formed the duties here prescribed. The General was escorted by a
troop of horse from Brookfield, and several private gentlemen from
Worcester and other towns on the route. After he had reached
Watertown, the following address was presented to him.
" May it please your Excellency,
" The Congress of the Massachusetts colony, impressed with every
sentiment of gratitude and respect, beg leave to congratulate you on
your safe arrival, and to wish you all imaginable happiness and suc
cess in the execution of the important duties' of your elevated station.
While we applaud that attention to the public good, manifested in
your appointment, we equally admire that disinterested virtue and
distinguished patriotism, which alone could call you from those en
joyments of domestic life, which a sublime and manly taste, joined
with a most affluent fortune, can afford, to hazard your life, and to
endure the fatigues of war, in the defence of the rights of mankind,
and the good of your country.
" The laudable zeaTfor the common cause of America, and com
passion for the distresses of this colony, exhibited by the great de
spatch made in your journey hither, fully justify the universal satis
faction we have, with pleasure, observed on this occasion ; and are
promising presages, that the great expectations formed from your
personal character, and military abilities, are well founded. We
wish you may have found such regularity and discipline already es
tablished in the army, as may be agreeable to your expectation.
The hurry with which it was necessarily collected, and the many
disadvantages, arising from a suspension of government, under which
we have raised and endeavoured to regulate the forces of this colony,
have rendered it a work of time ; and though in great measure ef
fected, the completion of so difficult and at the same time so neces
sary a task is reserved to your Excellency, and we doubt not will be
properly considered and attended to.
" We would not presume to prescribe to your Excellency, but, sup
posing you would choose to be informed of the general character of
oo*

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
the soldiers, who compose this army, beg leave to represent, that the
greatest part of them have not before seen service ; and although
naturally brave and of good understanding, yet, for want of experience
in military life, have but little knowledge of divers things most essen
tial to the preservation of health, and even of life. The youth in the
army are not impressed with the absolute necessity of cleanliness in
their dress and lodging, continual exercise, and strict temperance, to
preserve them from diseases frequently prevailing in camps ; espe
cially among those, who, from their childhood, have been used to a.
laborious life. We beg leave to assure you, that this Congress will,
at all times, be ready to attend to such requisitions as you may have
occasion to make, and to contribute all the aid in our power to the
cause of America and your happiness and ease, in the discharge
of the duties of your exalted office.
" We most fervently implore Almighty God, that the blessings of
Divine Providence may rest on you ; that your head may be covered
in the day of battle ; that every necessary assistance may be afforded ;
and that you may be long continued in life and health, a blessing to
mankind."

No. III. p. 16.

STATE OF THE ARMY AT CAMBRIDGE WHEN GENERAL
WASHINGTON TOOK THE COMMAND.
The warlike preparations of the British authorities in Massachu
setts, from the time that the Boston Port Bill went into effect, had
alarmed the people of that province ; and on the 26th of October,
1774, the Provincial Congress resolved on measures of defence.
After reciting in a preamble the causes of such a step, among which
was the collecting of a formidable body of troops in the metropolis,
with the express design of executing acts of the British Parliament
subversive of the constitution and liberties of the province, they
recommended to the militia to form themselves into companies of
minute-men, who should be equipped and prepared to march at the
shortest notice. These minute-men were to consist of one quarter of
the whole militia, to be enlisted under the direction of the field-
officers, and divided into companies, consisting of at least fifty men
each. The privates were to choose their captains and subalterns,

Appendix.] STATE OF THE ARMY. 487
and these officers were to form the companies into battalions, and
choose the field-officers to command the same. Hence the minute-
men became a body distinct from the rest of the militia, and, by be
ing more devoted to military exercises, they acquired skill in the use
of arms. More attention than formerly was likewise bestowed on the
training and drilling of the militia.
But it was not till April 22d, 1775, three days after the affair of
Lexington and Concord, that any movement was made towards em
bodying a regular army. On that day the Massachusetts Congress
resolved unanimously, that it was necessary for the defence of the
colony that an army of thirty thousand men should be immediately
raised and established. It was at the same time resolved, that thir
teen thousand six hundred should be raised in Massachusetts, and a
committee was appointed to devise a plan for the establishment of
the army. The remainder of the thirty thousand it was expected
would be furnished by the other New England provinces, and for
this object letters were addressed to Connecticut, Rhode Island, and
New Hampshire.
In the mean time, the news of the Lexington battle had gone abroad,
and the militia from various parts in Massachusetts and New Hamp
shire began to assemble around Boston. Within three days several
companies from New Hampshire had arrived at Medford, and taken
their station in that place. The Massachusetts militia convened at
Cambridge. The plan ofthe new army was soon arranged, General
Ward was placed at its head, and recruiting orders were sent out.
To expedite the raising of recruits, any person, who enlisted fifty-nine
privates, was entitled to the command of a company ; and a commis
sion for commanding a regiment was promised to any one, who could
procure ten companies to serve under him. It is important to keep
this feature of the Massachusetts army in mind, while reading the
tetters of Washington during the first part of his command, as it was
a source of much inconvenience. The chief qualification required
for an appointment was ability to raise men. It was a means, how
ever, of promoting rapid enlistments.
The other three colonies agreed to furnish their proportion of
troops, who were raised and sent forward with as much expedition as
possible. Those from Connecticut were under the command of
Putnam, with the rank of major-general ; and those from Rhode Isl
and were commanded by Greene, with the same rank. The New
Hampshire regiments appear to have had no higher commander than
their colonels. General Ward acted as commander-in-chief of the
whole, and obedience was yielded to his orders, though in regard to

488

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.

their internal rules and discipline, the troops from each colony were
subject to their own regulations. No soldiers were enlisted to serve
longer than to the end of the year, and those, from Connecticut and
Rhode Island to the 1st of December only. General Ward's head
quarters were at Cambridge, where there were eight or nine thousand
men commanded by General Putnam. The right wing was at Rox
bury under General Thomas ; and on the left, at Prospect Hill, was
General Greene with part of the Rhode Island troops, having also iu
his division the New Hampshire regiments at Medford. Massachu
setts had organized a regiment of artillery under Colonel Gridley ;
and there was an artillery company from Rhode Island commanded
by Major Crane. Large detachments of the troops were constantly
employed in throwing up fortifications and lines of defence, from
Mystic River to Dorchester Neck.
Such was the general state of the army, as to its outlines, arrange
ment, and distribution, when General Washington arrived at Cam
bridge. The following table, made out from the adjutant's returns on
the 19th of July, will show what number of troops was present from
each of the colonies, and the aggregate of the whole army at that
time.

Colonies.

¦° a
s.s
5 bo
£ s
G
26 33
3
35

O *
." a
3 je
E 3
O a
OS o
789 125 98
107
1,119

T3 B g
11o
S3
1,326 174160
108
1,768

Rank and File.

-gl c
757
212 115 24
1,108

¦¥ g
450 o
20 18
490

j= 1 -a
Jii_L
311, 774
14
49 279
2
376 1,053

o
bi
11,688 2,333 1,664 1,085

Massachusetts,Connecticut,New Hampshire,
Rhode Island,

9,396
2,105 1,2011,041
13,743

Total

16,770

In addition to these returns, Colonel Gridley's regiment of artillery
amounted to four hundred and ninety-three officers and privates ;
and Major Crane's company from Rhode Island to ninety-six.
An army thus constituted could hardly contain within itself the
elements of uniformity or discipline. There was in reality no other
bond of union, than a voluntary acquiescence, and no controlling
head vested with any adequate power to maintain authority. By
common consent Massachusetts was allowed to take the lead. Not
only the usual affairs of the army were administered by General
Ward, but courts-martial were held by his order, and punishments

Appendix.] STATE OF THE ARMY. 489
inflicted. Experience had proved, however, that the officers were
deficient in the requisite qualifications for the rank they sustained,
which is not surprising, when it is considered upon what principle
the Massachusetts officers had been commissioned. Several arrests
and trials had taken place for misconduct or cowardice, even at the
memorable action of Bunker's Hill. Two days after he arrived in
Cambridge, Washington received the following impressive letter on
this subject from Joseph Hawley, then a member of the Massachusetts
Provincial Congress. " Watertown, 5 July, 1775.
" Sir,
" You were pleased the other day to mention to Colonel Warren
and me as your opinion, that it was highly probable Gage's troops
would very shortly attack our army in some part or other. I be
lieve your opinion is not ill founded, and I am sure your Excellency
will be pleased with every intimation, that may in any degree aid you
in the choice of measures tending to success and victory. Therefore,
that I may not be tedious, I ask your pardon when I suggest, that
although in the Massachusetts part of the army there are divers
brave and intrepid officers, yet there are too many, and even several
colonels, whose characters, to say the least, are very equivocal with
respect to courage. There is much more cause to fear, that the offi
cers will fail in a day of trial than the privates. I may venture to
say, that if the officers will do their duty there is no fear of the sol
diery. " I therefore most humbly propose to your consideration, the pro
priety and advantage of your making immediately a most solemn and
peremptory declaration to all the officers of the army, in general or
ders or otherwise as your wisdom shall direct, assuring them, that
every officer, who in the day of battle shall fully do his duty, shall not
fail of your kindest notices and highest marks of your favor ; but, on
the other hand, that every officer, who on such a day shall act the
poltroon, dishonor his general, and by failing of his duty betray his
country, shall infallibly meet his deserts, whatever his rank, connex
ions, or interests may be, and that no intercessions on his behalf will
be likely to be of any avail for his pardon.
" I know that your Excellency is able to form a declaration of the
kind conceived in such a style, and replete with such determined
sentiments and spirit, as cannot fail of begetting a full belief and per
suasion in the hearts of such to whom it shall be addressed, that the
same will be infallibly executed. I am almost certain the measure
will have the happiest tendency. Sed sapienti verbum sat est. Pray
vol. in. 62

490 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
pardon my prolixity, I never was happy enough to be concise. I am,
with the greatest respect and deference, your Excellency's most obe
dient humble servant. " Joseph Hawley."
"To General Washington."
It was no doubt in consequence of this suggestion and advice, that
the following order was issued on the 7th of July, after approving the
decision of the court-martial in the case of Captain John Callender.
" The Genera], having made all due inquiries and maturely con
sidered this matter, is led to the above determination, not only from
the particular guilt of Captain Callender, but the fatal consequences
of such conduct to the army, and to the cause of America. He now,
therefore, most earnestly exhorts officers of all ranks to show an ex
ample of bravery and courage to their men, assuring them, that such
as do their duty in the day of battle, as brave and good officers/shall
be honored with every mark of distinction and regard, and their names
and merits be made known to the General Congress and all America ;
while, on the other hand, he positively declares, that every officer, be
his rank what it may, who shall betray his country, and dishonor the
army and his general, by basely keeping back and shrinking from his
duty in any engagement, shall be held up as an infamous coward and
punished as such, with the utmost martial severity; and no connex
ions, interest, or intercessions in his behalf will avail to prevent the
strict execution of justice."
Captain Callender was cashiered for his conduct in the battle of
Bunker's Hill, the charge of cowardice having been sustained against
him before a court-martial. It is proper to state, however, that,
whatever may have been the fact in this particular instance, Captain
Callender afterwards fully vindicated himself from this imputation
upon his character. " He continued with his corps as a volunteer,
and desperately exposed himself in every action. At the battle of
Long Island, the captain and lieutenant of the artillery company, in
which he served, were shot. He assumed the command, and, refus
ing to retreat, fought his pieces to the last. The bayonets ofthe sol
diers were just upon him, when a British officer, admiring his chiv
alrous and desperate courage, interfered and saved him." — Swett's
History of Bunker-Hill Battle, p. 57. He continued in the service
to the end ofthe war, and his military reputation remained unsullied.
The following order was issued the day after General Washington
took command of the army.
" The Continental Congress having now taken all the troops of the

Appendix.] STATE OF THE ARMY. ' 491
several colonies, which have been raised or which may be hereafter
raised for the support and defence of the liberties of America, into
their pay and service, they are now the troops of the United Prov
inces of North America; and it is hoped, that all distinctions of
colonies will be laid aside, so that one and the same spirit may
animate the whole, and the only contest be, who shall render on this
great and trying occasion the most essential service to the great and
common cause, in which we are all engaged. It is required and ex
pected, that exact discipline be observed, and due subordination
prevail through the whole army, as a failure in these most essential
points must necessarily produce extreme hazard, disorder, and con-t
fusion, and end in shameful disappointment and disgrace. The
General most earnestly requires and expects a due observance of
those articles of war, established for the government of the army,
which forbid profane cursing, swearing, and drunkenness. And in
like manner he requires and expects of all officers and soldiers, not
engaged on actual duty, a punctual attendance on Divine service, to
implore the blessings of Heaven upon the means used for our safety
and defence."
Orders conceived in the same spirit, and inculcating the same
sentiments, were often repeated ; and it is an interesting fact, that,
through the channel of his daily orders, Washington did not strive
more earnestly to secure the discipline, than to strengthen the pa
triotism and improve the morals of his soldiers.
A graphic description of the American camp is contained in a
letter from the Reverend William Emerson, a chaplain in the army,
written a few days after the arrival of the Commander-in-chief.
" There is great overturning in the camp, as to order and regu
larity. New lords new laws. The Generals Washington and Lee
are upon the lines every day. New orders from his Excellency are
read to the respective regiments every morning after prayers. The
strictest government is taking place, and great distinction is made
between officers and soldiers. Every one is made to know his place
and keep in it, or be tied up and receive thirty or forty lashes accord
ing to his crime. Thousands are at work every day from four till
eleven o'clock in the morning. It is surprising how much work has
been done. The lines are extended almost from Cambridge to Mys
tic River, so that very soon it will be morally impossible for the en
emy to get between the works, except in one place, which is sup
posed to be left purposely unfortified to entice the enemy out of their
fortresses. Who would have thought, twelve months past, that all
Cambridge and Charlestown would be covered over with American

492 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
camps, and cut up into forts and intrenchments, and all the lands,
fields, orchards laid common, horses and cattle feeding in the choicest
mowing land, whole fields of corn eaten down to the ground, and large
parks of well regulated locusts cut down for firewood and other public
uses ? This, I must say, looks a little melancholy.
" My quarters are at the foot of the famous Prospect Hill, where
such great preparations are made for the reception of the enemy. It
is very diverting to walk among the camps. They are as different in
their form, as the owners are in their dress; and every tent is a por
traiture of the temper and taste of the persons, who encamp in it.
Some are made of boards, and some of sailcloth. Some partly of one
and partly of the other. Again others are made of stone and turf,
brick or brush. Some are thrown up in a hurry, others curiously
wrought with doors and windows, done with wreaths and withes in
the manner of a basket. Some are your proper tents and marquees,
looking like the regular camp of the enemy. In these are the Rhode
Islanders, who are furnished with tent-equipage, and every thing in
the most exact English style. However, I think this great variety is
rather a beauty than a blemish in the army." — MS. Letter.

Appendix.] RETURNS OF THE ARMY.

493

No. IV. p. 19.
RETURNS OF THE ARMY.

Table
Exhibiting a Summary ofthe Returns ofthe Army under the Command of
General Washington during the Years 1775 and 1776.

C m
o
.2 d
O O
OSS o

1
's S
%'&
v°c 0
2;

Hank and File.

2?
<

Militia of Massachusetts.

1 Present fit forduty.

OS

C
O EE
0

O
E-i

1775.

July 19,
1,119
1,768
13,743
1,108
490
376
1,053
16,770
585
July 29,
1,117
1,823
13,899
1,330
690
287
692
16,898
Aug. 5,
1,178
1,910
13,735
1,943
750
255
1,011
17,694
586
Aug. 12,
1,234
2,023
14,544
2,131
977
187
1,124
18,963
Aug. 18,
1,231
2,007
14,442
2,218
1,006
220
1,174
19,060
Aug. 26,
1,242
2,018
14,701
2,179
1,071
225
1,127
19,303
596
Sept. 2,
1,226
2,028
14,868
2,221
985
262
1,043
19,379
Sept. 9,
1,303
2,107
14,766
2,026
988
342
1,410
19,532
Sept. 23,
1,225
2,034
14,330
1,886
931
468
1,750
19,365
590
Oct. 17,
1,191
1,988
13,923
1,476
952
746
2,400
19,497
Nov. 18,
1,128
1,925
12,741
1,472
790
1,012
3,063
19,078
579
Nov. 25,
1,068
1,866
12,065
1,464
805
1,626
2,990
18,950
Dec. 30,
1776.
Jan. 8,
1,088
1,736
11,752
1,206
542
1,013
2,273
16,786
590
3,231
9,79
1,150
10,209
705
233
1,044
1,318
13,509
Jan. 21,
861
1,167
9,424
1,174
194
714
1,171
12,677
Jan. 28,
850
1,194
9,799
1,422
245
420
1,248
13,134
Feb. 4,
896
992
8,863
1,153
270
99
1,233
11,618
Feb. 18,
1,245
1,452
13,396
1,687
364
49
1,569
17,065
622,
Feb. 25,
1,228
1,515
14,123
2,056
389
63
1,845
18,276
1
6,287
March 2,
1,217
1,521
14,140
2,398
367
49
1,574
18,528
635
6,869
March 9,
1,254
1,535
14,232
2,445
330
29
1,374
18,410
640
6,838
April 28,
672
879
8,101
602
632
52
848
10,235
May 2,
597
758
6,900
618
279
51
995
8,843
May 12,
589
722
6,641
547
352
66
1,122
8,728
513
May 19,
592
757
6,717
577
303
61
1,109
8,767
527
June 12,
595
772
6,749
659
250
63
1,147
8,868
599
June 28,
677
870
7,389
744
231
73
1,931
10,368
585
July 6,
865
1,096
8,802
1,077
239
61
1,742
11,921*
588
July 13,
1,096
1,379
10,319
1,447
257
56
2,590
14,669*
July 20,
1,100
1,406
10,106
1,798
269
70
2,623
14,866*
July 27,
1,108
1,474
9,516
2,296
254
86
3,063
15,215*
588
Aug. 3,
1,225
1,502
10,514
3,039
629
97
2,946
17,225*
585
Sept. 21,
2,027
2,501
15,666
4,418
3,379
93
3,736
27,292*
543
Sept. 28,
1,791
2,182
14,759
4,175
3,344
122
3,479,25,879*
531
Oct. 5,
1,808
2,317
14,783
4,792
3,327
131
4,11527,148*
580
Dec. 22,
677
729
4,707
680
2,590
87
2,952111,016
VOL. 11
I.
PP
494 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
The above table is condensed from the original returns of the
adjutant-general to the Commander-in-chief. These returns, though
commonly made at stated times, were necessarily imperfect, on ac
count of the fluctuating condition of the army. They embrace such
troops only, as were under the immediate command of General
Washington, and not those that were in the northern or southern de
partments, nor the militia acting under the authority of particular
States, and within the limits of those States.
On the 30th of March, 1776, after the main body of the army had
marched to New York, five regiments of Continental troops remained
in Boston, amounting to two thousand one hundred and sixty-eight
men ; and there were at the same time six thousand six hundred and
ninety-eight militia, who were soon disbanded.
The first returns of militia at New York were made out on the 6th
of July, and were included in the returns of the Continental army.
This plan was followed till October 5th, so that it is not easy to tell
within that period the respective numbers of each. The Continental
troops, however, averaged from ten to twelve thousand. The aggre
gates, to which asterisks are affixed, include both the Continental
troops and militia. There seems to be a deficiency in the returns
for September 28th, as the aggregate is considerably smaller, than in
the week preceding and the week following.
Colonel Knox's regiment of artillery was diminished in March, by
a company left at Boston. It was enlarged again in June, by the
addition of Captain Hamilton's company of New York artillery.
The first return of cavalry was on the 28th of September, when
one hundred and sixty light-horse were returned.

No. V. p. 41.
INDIANS.

During the former wars in America between the English and
French, it had been customary on each side to solicit aid from the
Indians, and employ them as auxiliaries. Such had been the uni
form practice from the first settlement of the country, and it was to
be presumed that the same system would be pursued in the revolu
tion. Considering the ferocity of these people, and the wild and
savage manner in which they engaged in all the enterprises of war,

Appendix.] INDIANS. 495
it is no wonder that the policy of seeking their alliance, or even per
mitting their aid, should be regarded by every friend of humanity with
unqualified reprobation. Writers of all parties have united in con
demning a practice, so unjustifiable in itself, and so hostile to the
principles of civilization, while at the same time belligerents of all
parties have continued to follow it, even down to the late war be
tween England and the United States.
It has been usual in America to represent the English as much
the most censurable on this score in the revolutionary war, and if we
estimate the amount of deserved censure by the effects produced, this
opinion is no doubt correct. But such is not the equitable mode of
judging on the subject, since the principle and intention are chiefly
concerned, and not the policy of the measure, nor the success of its
execution. Taken on this ground, historical justice must award to
the Americans a due share of the blame. Before the rencounter at
Lexington and Concord, the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts
had enlisted in their service a company of minute-men among the
Stockbridge Indians residing in that colony, and had even written
the following letter to the Reverend Samuel Kirkland, a missionary
to the Indians in the western parts of New York. " Concord, 4 April, 1775.
" Sir,
" The Provincial Congress have thought it necessary to address
the sachem of the Mohawk tribe, with the rest of the Six Nations,
upon the subject of the controversy between Great Britain and the
American colonies. We are induced to take this measure, as we
have been informed, that those who are inimical to us in Canada
have been tampering with those nations, and endeavouring to attach
them to the interest of those, who are attempting to deprive us of our
inestimable rights and privileges, and to subjugate the colonies to ar
bitrary power. From a confidence in your attachment to the cause
of liberty and your country, we now transmit to you the enclosed ad
dress, and desire you will deliver it to the sachem of the Mohawk
tribe to be communicated to the rest of the Six Nations, and that
you will use your influence with them to join with us in the de
fence of our rights ; but, if you cannot prevail with them to take an
active part in this glorious cause, that you will at least engage them
to stand neuter, and not by any means to aid and assist our enemies ;
and as we are at a loss for the name of the sachem of the Mohawk
tribe, we have left it to you to direct the address to him1 in such way
as you may think proper."
From this paper it is evident, that the Massachusetts Congress

496

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.

were disposed to engage the Six Nations in the contest, which it was
foreseen must soon commence. The reason for this step, however,
must not be overlooked. The leaders in Massachusetts had sent
emissaries into Canada, instructed to consult with a few friends to
the American cause known to be in that province, and to report such
information as they should obtain respecting the temper of the people,
particularly the Canadians, and the designs and movements of the
English party, as far as they could be ascertained. Letters from
these qmissaries, and other persons in Canada, agreed in the state
ment, that secret agents had been sent among the Indians of the Six
Nations to gain them over and stir them up against the colonists.
On the strength of this intelligence the Massachusetts Congress sent
the above letter, and the address accompanying it. The Stockbridge
Indians were retained in service for some time after the war began,
and came down and joined the camp at Cambridge. It was likewise
from apprehensions of the English influence at Quebec on the east
ern Indians, that the same Congress wrote to the Penobscot tribe,
May 15th, promising them protection, and proposing to enlist and
take into pay a company of their young men. Captain Lane, who
went on this service, sent down a chief and three other Indians to
Watertown, as ambassadors from their tribe to the Congress then
sitting at that place. — MS. Journal of the Provincial Congress, May
15th and June 21st. — Captain Lane's Letter, June 9th.
It was also rumored, and subsequent events confirmed the sus
picion, that Colonel Guy Johnson and Sir John Johnson, who resided
on the Mohawk River, the latter as Indian Agent under the King's
appointment, were instigating the Indians in that quarter, and pre
paring them for hostilities. But notwithstanding the attempts of
persons in the British interest to engage the Indians in the quarrel,
no encouragement was afforded by the Continental Congress to any
efforts of this kind, on the part ofthe colonies, till more than a year
after the contest had begun. • Their first plan was that of conciliation
and neutrality.
Soon after the meeting of the second Congress, in 1775, the sub
ject of the Indians was taken into consideration, and in July three
Indian departments were constituted, the northern, middle, and
southern, and commissioners were appointed for each. The duty pre
scribed to the commissioners was to hold councils with the Indians,
form treaties, and endeavour to keep them in peace. In an address
sent out at the same time by the Congress to the Six Nations, it was
stated ; — " We desire you will hear and receive what we have now
told you, and that you will open a good ear and listen to what we

Appendix.] INDIANS. . 497
are now going to say. This is a family quarrel between us and Old
England. You Indians are not concerned in it. We do not wish
you to take up the hatchet against the King's troops. We desire you
to remain at home, and not join on either side, but keep the hatchet
buried deep. In the name and behalf of all our people, we ask and
desire you to love peace and maintain it, and to love and sympathize
with us in our troubles ; that the path may be kept open with all our
people and yours, to'pass and repass without molestation." In con
formity with this counsel, a treaty was made with some ofthe northern
Indians, but to little purpose. It was not consistent with their nature
, or habits to be in the midst of a war, without taking a part on one
side or the other. Through the influence of the Johnsons and others,
the Six Nations for the most part adhered to the British. After the
sanguinary affair at the Cedars, where the savages, under the com
mand of a British officer, but as it would seem not under his control,
murdered several American prisoners, and a threat was given out,
that the others should share the same fate if any attempt were made
to rescue them, the Congress openly changed their system. On the
25th of May, 1776, they resolved, " that it was highly expedient to
engage the Indians in the service of the United Colonies," and they
empowered the General to employ in Canada and elsewhere a num
ber not exceeding two thousand, offering them a " reward of one
hundred dollars for every commissioned officer, and thirty dollars for
every private soldier of the King's troops, that they should take pris
oners in the Indian country, or on the frontiers of these colonies." —
Secret ^Journal, May 25th, June 3d, 17th. The Congress also au
thorized General Washington to employ the Indians of Penobscot, St.
John's, and Nova Scotia, who had proffered their services. They
were to receive the same pay as the Continental soldiers, but whether
any of them ever joined the army, or were ever embodied for that
purpose, may at least be doubted.
In short, whatever scheme was pursued at any time in regard to
the Indians, it may be asserted with truth, that they rendered no es
sential aid to the cause of the United States during the war. Their
friendship was seldom sincere, and always cost more than it was
worth. As the British occupied the frontiers, they had every advan
tage in operating upon these people, and it was to be v expected, that
they would understand and profit by this state of things. The In
dians fought for pay and plunder. According to their custom of war
ring upon each other, they committed ravages and frightful cruelties
on the border inhabitants, which excited the indignation of the coun
try. The blame was laid at the door of the British ministry, who
vol. in. 63 pp*

498

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix

were believed to approve, if not to promote, these acts of barbarity
and horror, and the impression derived from this source contributed
not a little to fan the flame of animosity, which had been kindled by
the original causes of the war.

No. VI. p. 43.
CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN GENERAL CHARLES LEE
AND GENERAL BURGOYNE.
General Burgoyne and General Lee had served together in Portu
gal, and an intimate friendship of long standing subsisted between
them. When the former arrived in Boston, General Lee was at
Philadelphia, not yet appointed to his command in the American
army, and he wrote a letter to his friend, filled with invectives against
the British court and cabinet, setting forth with his usual ability and
eloquence the injustice of their proceedings in regard to the colonies,
and explaining his own views of the merits of the contest. This let
ter, though written with a warmth approaching to violence, was re
ceived in good part, and was answered by General Burgoyne in terms
of courtesy and kindness, on the 8th of July, after it was known to
him that General Lee had joined the American camp. In closing
his letter, General Burgoyne proposed an interview with his friend at
Brown's house, on Boston Neck, a little within the British advanced
sentries, pledging his parole of honor for the safe return of General
Lee, and soliciting the same for himself. This invitation General
Lee was inclined to accept, but, not choosing to do it without the
sanction of the civil authority, he laid the matter before the Provin
cial Congress. "Head-Quarters, 10 July, 1775.
" General Lee presents his respects to the President and gentle
men of the Provincial Congress of Massachusetts, and submits to
their perusal a letter, which he yesterday received from General
Burgoyne in answer to one, which was read and approved by the
delegates of this province, and other members of the Continental
Congress. He begs leave to receive their commands, with respect to
the proposed interview. If they approve it, he shall be glad to ac
cept of it ; if they disapprove, he shall reject it. But if they approve

Appendix.] GENERAL LEE. 499
it, he must request that they will depute some one gentleman of their
body to accompany General Lee, and be witness ofthe conversation.
He desires their answer immediately, as he has engaged to inform
General Burgoyne by four o'clock this afternoon whether the inter
view is to take place. He will be much obliged to the gentlemen if
they will return the letter, but if they choose to take a copy he can
have no objection."
The Congress appointed a committee to report on the subject, and
after as much deliberation as the shortness of the time would permit,
they returned the following answer on the same day.
" Sir,
" The Congress have perused the letter from General Burgoyne,
which you were kind enough to submit to their inspection. They
can have no objection to the proposed interview, from any want of
the highest confidence in the wisdom, discretion, and integrity of
General Lee ; but, as the confidence of the people in their generals is
so essentially necessary to the well conducting of the enterprise in
which we are engaged, and as a people contending for their liberties
are naturally disposed to jealousy, and not inclined to make the most
favorable construction of the motives of conduct, which they are not
fully acquainted with, they beg leave to suggest whether such an in
terview might not have a tendency to lessen the influence, which the
Congress would wish to extend to the utmost of their power to facili
tate the operations of war. The Congress, agreeably to your request,
and to prevent as far as we are able any disagreeable consequences,
which may arise from the jealousy of the people on such an occasion,
have appointed Mr. Elbridge Gerry to attend you at the proposed in
terview, if you shall think proper to proceed in it ; and, as they do
not think themselves authorized to counteract the General's inclina
tion, they would submit it to his opinion whether the advice of a
council of war might not be taken in a matter of such apparent
delicacy." — MS. Journal, July 10th.
These hints had their effect on the mind of General Lee, and he
wrote a complimentary note to General Burgoyne, the next day, de
clining the interview.
When General Lee entered into the service of the United Colonies,
he represented to Congress, that by such a step he must not only give
up his half-pay as a British officer, but run the risk of losing, a con
siderable portion of his private fortune. Whereupon it was resolved,
" That these colonies will indemnify General Lee for any loss of
property, which he may sustain by entering into their service." —
Secret Journal, June 19th. — Remembrancer, Vol. I. p. 139.

500 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
No. VII. p. 60.
GENERAL GAGE'S ANSWER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.
" Boston, 13 August, 1775.
Sir,
"To the glory of civilized nations, humanity and war have been
compatible ; and compassion to the subdued is become almost a gen
eral system. Britons, ever preeminent in mercy, have outgone com
mon examples, and overlooked the criminal in the captive. Upon
these principles your prisoners, whose lives by the law of the land
are destined to the cord, have hitherto been treated with care and
kindness, and more comfortably lodged than the King's troops in the
hospitals ; indiscriminately it is true, for I acknowledge no rank, that
is not derived from the King.
" My intelligence from your army would justify severe recrimination.
I understand there are of the King's faithful subjects, taken some
time since by the rebels, laboring, like negro slaves, to gain their
daily subsistence, or reduced to the wretched alternative, to perish by
famine or take arms against their King and country. Those who
have made the treatment of the prisoners in my hands, or of your
other friends in Boston, a pretence for such measures, found barbarity
upon falsehood.
" I would willingly hope, Sir, that the sentiments of liberality,
which I have always believed you to possess, will be exerted to cor
rect these misdoings. Be temperate in political disquisition ; give
free operation to truth, and punish those who deceive and misrepre
sent ; and not only the effects, but the causes, of this unhappy conflict
will be removed. Should those, under whose usurped authority you
act, control such a disposition, and dare to call severity retaliation, to
God, who knows all hearts, be the appeal for the dreadful conse
quences. I trust that British soldiers, asserting the rights of the
state, the laws ofthe land, the being of the constitution, will meet all
events with becoming fortitude. They will court victory with the
spirit their cause inspires ; and, from the same motive, will find the
patience of martyrs under misfortune.
" Till I read your insinuations in regard to ministers, I conceived
that I had acted under the King, whose wishes, it is true, as well as
those of his ministers, and of every honest man, have been to see this
unhappy breach for ever closed ; but, unfortunately for both coun
tries, those who long since projected the present crisis, and influence

Appendix.] GENERAL GAGE'S LETTER. 501
the councils of America, have views very distant from accommoda
tion. I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,
" Thomas Gage."
" George Washington, Esq."
On receiving this letter, General Washington resolved to adopt the
same mode of treatment towards the British prisoners then in his
possession, which was practised by General Gage. Colonel Reed,
his secretary, wrote the next day by his order to the Council of Mas
sachusetts, directing that the officers at Watertown and Cape Ann,
who were prisoners, should be confined in Northampton jail, adding
that, " as General Gage was resolved to know no distinction of rank
among our prisoners in his hands, he was obliged, contrary to his
disposition, to observe the same rule of treatment to those gentlemen ;
to whom it might be proper to explain the reasons of a conduct, which
otherwise might appear harsh and cruel." This order was immedi
ately complied with by the Council, so far as to send away the officers
to the interior. But for some reason, not now understood, the Gen
eral altered his mind in regard to their imprisonment, and his secre
tary wrote as follows to the Committee of Northampton.
" When Captain Knight and the other gentlemen went from hence
yesterday, it was intended they should be put into the same confine
ment as prisoners of a common rank, but some circumstances have
since changed this intention ; and I now therefore by direction of his
Excellency, General Washington, am to acquaint you, that Captain
Knight and those of his company, for whom he will engage his and
their parole of honor not to go out of the limits, which you may pre
scribe to them, are to be indulged with the liberty of walking about
your town ,' and the General further requests, that every other indul
gence and civility consistent with their security may be shown to
them, as long as they demean themselves with decency and good
manners. As they have committed no hostility against the people of
this country, they have a just claim to mild treatment, and the Gene
ral does not doubt, that your conduct towards them will be such, as
to compel their grateful acknowledgments, that Americans are as
merciful as they are brave."
Captain Knight had been recently taken prisoner at Machias, with
six other officers of subordinate rank.

502 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix,
No. VIII. p. 116.
DR. BENJAMIN CHURCH.
The case of Dr. Church became a matter of consequence and
notoriety, rather from the high station which he held in the ranks of
those, who were leaders in the American cause, than from the sub
stance of what was called his traitorous correspondence. He was a
graduate of Harvard College, and had distinguished himself as a
writer in prose and verse, on politics and miscellaneous subjects.
He published a poem called The Clwice, another called The
Times, nnd Elegies on Mayhew and Whitefield, which were
thought to indicate genius and poetical taste ; and in that curious
laudatory tribute of Harvard College to the King, entitled Pietas et
Grattjlatio, dictated by the Muses in three languages, Greek,
Latin, and English, the contribution of Dr. Church was pronounced
by the critics, as Dr. Eliot informs us, to be the best in the collection.
His oratorical powers were commended, particularly as displayed in
an oration commemorative of the fatal 5th of March. His fertile pen
supplied the newspapers with numerous essays on the political state
of the times, in which he appeared as the champion of liberty, and a
strenuous opposer of British encroachments.
With these claims to consideration, it was natural that he should
be put forward when the day of trial came. As a member of the
Provincial Congress he was prominent and active, serving on the
important committees and trusted as a faithful friend. He was sent
on a special mission to the Continental Congress, and obtained from
that body the appointment of surgeon-general to the army. When
General Washington left Philadelphia, Dr. Church's name was on
the list of those recommended to him by the Massachusetts delegates,
as worthy of special confidence ; and he was one of the Committee
appointed by the Provincial Congress to meet the General at Spring
field, and accompany him to Cambridge.
He discharged the duties of his office in the army with approbation,
till about the 1st of October, 1775, when it was discovered, that he
had held a correspondence with his brother-in-law in Boston, a Mr.
Fleming, who adhered to the enemy. The circumstances attending
this discovery were somewhat remarkable. In the month of July, soon
after General Washington took command of the army, Dr. Church
gave a letter to a woman, who was going to Newport, and instructed
her, when there, to go on board the British vessel in the harbour, com-

Appendix.] DR. BENJAMIN CHURCH. 503
manded by Captain Wallace, and put the letter into his hands. A
letter written at the time by Mr. Ward to General Greene, then at
Cambridge, will explain the result. " Providenee, 2G September, 1775.
"Sir,
" This letter waits upon you by Mr. Maxwell, who goes down to
Cambridge upon a matter, into which I think the strictest inquiry
ought to be made. It is in short this. In July last a woman, with
whom Mr. Wainwood had an acquaintance in Boston, came to his
house and wanted him to assist her in procuring an opportunity of
seeing Mr. Dudley or Captain Wallace, and by all her behaviour
showed that she had some secret of consequence. He artfully drew
from her, that she had been sent from Cambridge with a letter to be
delivered to either of the persons above named, to be forwarded to
Boston. It immediately occurred to him, that the letter was proba
bly sent from some traitor in our army. Upon which he started every
difficulty in the way of her seeing Dudley or Wallace, that he could
think of, and finally prevailed upon her to entrust him with the de
livery of the letter.
" He kept the affair to himself some time, being at a loss what
step he should, take in it, and at length imparted the secret to
Mr. Maxwell, who, upon opening the letter, found it written in char
acters, which he did not understand. Here it rested until very lately,
when Mr. Wainwood received a letter from the woman, discovering
great uneasiness about the letter she had entrusted him with, which
naturally induced a suspicion, that the writer of it still continued his
correspondence in Boston, and had received information, that the let
ter had never been transmitted. Mr. Wainwood and Mr. Maxwell,
who are both of them friends to the cause of America, rightly
judging, that the continuance of such a correspondence might be at
tended with the most pernicious consequences to the interest of
America, thought proper to come to Providence and consult me upon
it, having prudently kept the matter entirely to themselves. By my
advice they proceed to Cambridge, to lay it with all the circumstances
before you.
" I think it best to introduce Mr. Maxwell to General Washington,
and for you and the General, with not more than one trusty person
besides, to consider as to the most prudent measures to discover the
traitor. Perhaps the first step should be to take up the woman, who
is now at Cambridge, in so private a way as to create no suspicion ;
and it is probable, that rewards and punishments properly placed be
fore her will induce her to give up the author ; in which case he,

504 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
with all his papers, ought to be instantly secured. If the woman
3hould be obstinate, some clew may be found from her connexions
that will probably lead to a discovery. But I beg pardon for under
taking to give my advice in this case, when you, upon the spot, pos
sessed of all the circumstances, will be so much better able to judge
of the measures proper to be pursued. As Mr. Wainwood is well
known to many of the inhabitants of Boston, I have advised him to
go no further than' Dedham, where he may be sent for as soon as it
shall be thought proper for him to appear. I will only add, that if
they are happily the means of discovering a treacherous correspon
dence, carried on by any person of note and trust in our public affairs,
they will do a most essential service to their country, and deserve an
adequate reward. I am, with great truth and esteem, Sir, your most
obedient and very humble servant,
"Henry Ward."
This letter was shown by General Greene to the Commander-in-
chief, together with the suspicious epistle in cipher. The woman
was examined, but she refused to name the author, or give any infor
mation on the subject. She at last yielded to threats or persuasion,
and said she received the letter from Dr. Church, before she went to
Newport. He was immediately arrested and put under guard.
Meantime the obnoxious epistle was deciphered by the Reverend
Samuel West, a learned and eminent divine of that day, who was
then acting as one of the chaplains in the army. The task of deci
phering was not difficult. The original is now among Washington's
papers. Although the characters are wholly arbitrary, yet as each
character stands for a distinct letter in the alphabet, a little patience
only was necessary to ascertain by repeated experiments a small num
ber of the consonants and vowels in the words, which most frequently
occur in composition. Colonel Porter, assisted by Mr. Gerry, also
deciphered the letter, after it had been done by Mr. West, and a
copy thus obtained was sent by Mr. Gerry to the Massachusetts dele
gates in the Continental Congress. But the copy used at the trial of
Dr. Church, and afterwards published, was the one deciphered by
Mr. West.
As soon as Dr. Church found out, that the contents of the letter
were known, he wrote an incoherent account of the matter to Gene
ral Washington, attempting to vindicate himself from any design un
friendly to his country. A council of war assembled, at which all
the generals were present. Dr. Church was summoned, and, when
the letter in cipher was produced, he confessed it was written by him,

Appendix.] DR. BEN J AMIN CHURCH. 505
and that the substance of it was accurately deciphered. He protested
that he was innocent, and declared that his only motive was to prevent
the enemy from making an attack upon the American lines, in their
present dangerous condition from want of powder, by exaggerating
their strength and resources, and in the hopes of effecting a speedy ac
commodation of the dispute between the two countries. The members
ofthe council were not satisfied with his asseverations, and they were
unanimously of the opinion, that he had carried on a criminal corre
spondence. The council moreover decided, that the articles of war did
not authorize them to inflict an adequate punishment for a crime of
this nature, and that the case should be referred to Congress.
Dr. Church was kept in close custody ; and, as he was a member
of the Massachusetts General Court, the Commander-in-chief sent to
that body at their request the proceedings of the council and other
papers. A resolve was passed to bring the delinquent member to
the bar of the House, and require him to show cause, if he had any,
why he should not be expelled. Accordingly on a stated day he was
conducted under guard from Cambridge to Watertown, and exam
ined before the House with a good deal of form and ceremony. See
Journal, October 27th. His defence, as written out by himself and
since published in the first volume of the Massachusetts Historical
Collections, is ingenious and able ; but his arguments were not con
vincing to his auditors, however much they might be moved by his
rhetoric and eloquence. He was expelled by a vote of the House,
and his seat declared vacant.
A still severer ordeal awaited him in the Continental Congress.
After considering the case, as laid before them in General Washing
ton's letter, they decided that Dr. Church should be confined in a jail
in Connecticut, without the use of pen, ink, or paper, and that he
should not be allowed to converse with any person, except in the
hearing of a magistrate of the town, or sheriff of the county. He
was accordingly imprisoned at Norwich. In May following his
friends petitioned Congress for his release from confinement on the
ground that his health was suffering. This petition was granted,
upon condition that he should be removed to Massachusetts and be
put in charge of the Council of that colony, giving his parole with
sureties in the penalty of one thousand pounds, that he would not
hold correspondence with the enemy, nor go out of that colony with
out a licence. He returned, and during the year obtained permis
sion to depart for the West Indies. As the vessel in which he sailed
was never heard of afterwards, it was supposed to have been lost
at sea. VOL. III. 64 Q Q,

506 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
There was a difference of opinion as to the intentions of Dr.
Church. His letter contained little, if any thing, which could have
an injurious effect upon the American cause. His conduct at his
examination and trial was said to indicate guilt ; and it was thought
inconceivable, that a -man of his sense and character should resort to
such shallow means, and employ them in so strange a manner, to at
tain such a purpose as he pretended. It was indubitable, that he
had held a secret correspondence with the enemy. This act was in
itself deemed a crime of the deepest die. For this he was con
demned and punished. If his designs were innocent, he was unfor
tunate ; but the burden of proof lay upon himself; and public justice
could not be satisfied by his individual assertion, nor by the plea of
folly or mistake.

No. IX. p. 118.
CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN GENERAL GAGE
AND LORD DARTMOUTH.
The following extracts from the correspondence between General
Gage and Lord Dartmouth, while the former commanded in Boston,
are not more curious than valuable as historical records, which have
not before been made public. They discover in an especial manner
the kind and degree of information, upon which the English govern
ment proceeded in that eventful crisis; showing alike the strange
misapprehensions and wavering counsels of the General in America,
and the impracticable aims of the ministry at home. These extracts
are copied from the original letters.
GENERAL GAGE TO LORD DARTMOUTH.
"Boston, 2 November, 1774. — The Americans confide in their
numbers, and a small force rather encourages resistance than terri
fies. If I may venture an opinion in matters of such consequence, I
should take the liberty to tell your Lordship, that I am confident, if
the misunderstandings proceed to the last extremity, that to begin
with an army of twenty thousand strong will in the end save Great
Britain both blood and treasure. Your Lordship will doubtless re
ceive many accounts of the situation of this country ; this province

Appendix.] GAGE'S CORRESPONDENCE. 507
without courts of justice or legislature, the whole country in a fer
ment, many parts of it, I may say, actually in arms and ready to
unite. Letters from other provinces tell us they are violent every
where, and that no decency is observed in any place but New York.
Great Britain had never more occasion for firmness, wisdom, and
unanimity." "November 15th. — The proceedings of the Continental Congress
astonish and terrify all considerate men ; but though I am confident,
that many of their resolutions neither can nor will be observed, I fear
they will generally be received, as there does not appear to be reso
lution and strength enough among the more sensible and moderate
people in any of the provinces openly to reject them. This Provin
cial Congress [of Massachusetts] has been encouraged by the general
union, and the readiness shown by the rest of the New England
provinces to appear in arms at their call, to go the length they have."
" January 18th, 1775. — The eyes of all' are turned upon Great
Britain ; and it is the opinion of most people, that, if a respectable
force is seen in the field, the most obnoxious of the leaders seized,
and a pardon proclaimed for all others, government will come
off victorious, and with less opposition than was expected a few
months ago." LORD DARTMOUTH TO GENERAL GAGE.
" London, January 27th. — The violences committed by those,
who have taken up arms in Massachusetts, have appeared to me as
the acts of a rude rabble, without plan, without concert, without con
duct; and therefore I think that a small force now, if put to the test,
would be able to conquer them, with greater probability of success,
than might be expected from a larger army, if the people should be
suffered to form themselves upon a more regular plan, to acquire a
confidence from discipline, and to prepare themselves, without which
every thing must be put to the issue of a single action.
"In this view ofthe situation ofthe King's affairs, it is the opinion
of the King's servants, in which his Majesty concurs, that the first
essential step to be taken towards reestablishing government would
be to arrest and imprison the principal actors and abettors in the
Provincial Congress (whose proceedings appear in every light to be
acts of treason and rebellion), if regardless of your proclamation, and
in defiance of it, they shall presume again to assemble for such re
bellious purposes ; and if the steps taken upon the occasion be ac
companied with due precaution, and every means be devised to keep

508 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
the measure secret till the moment of execution, it can hardly fail of
success, and will perhaps be accomplished without bloodshed. But
however that may be, I must again repeat, that any efforts on their
part to encounter a regular force cannot be very formidable, and
though such a proceeding should be, according to your idea of it, a
signal for hostilities, yet for the reasons I have already given, it will
surely be better, that the conflict should be brought on upon such a
ground, than in a riper state ofthe rebellion.
" It must be understood, however, of all I have said, that this is a
matter, which must be left to your own discretion to be executed or
not, as you shall, upon weighing all the circumstances, think most
advisable. It is here considered as the best and most effectual means
of vindicating the authority of the kingdom. Some attention must
be given to the consideration of what it may be fit to do with those,
who shall be made prisoners in consequence of this proceeding ; and
here I must confess the little hope I have, that, in the present situa
tion of things, and, the temper of the population, they could be prose
cuted to conviction. Their imprisonment, however, will prevent
their doing any further mischief; and, as the courts of justice are at
present not permitted to be opened, the continuance of that imprison
ment will be no slight punishment.
" With regard to the state of America in general, affairs there are
now come to a crisis, in which the government of this country must
act with firmness and decision. You will be on your guard, and on
no account suffer the people, at least of the town of Boston, to as
semble themselves in arms on any pretence whatever, either of town
guards or militia duty ; and I the rather mention this, as a report
prevails, that you have not only indulged them in having such a
guard, but have also allowed their militia to train and discipline in
Faneuil Hall. In reviewing the charter of Massachusetts, I observe
there is a clause, that empowers the governor to use and execute the
law martial in time of actual war, invasion, and rebellion. The en
closed copies of a reply made to me by the attorney and solicitor gen
eral contain an opinion, that the particulars stated in the papers you
have transmitted are the history of an actual and open rebellion in
that province ; and therefore I conceive, that according to that opinion
the exercise of that power is strictly justifiable, but the expediency
and propriety of adopting such a measure must depend upon your
own discretion under many circumstances, that can only be judged
of on the spot."

Appendix.] GAGE'S CORRESPONDENCE. 509

GENERAL GAGE TO LORD DARTMOUTH.
"Boston, February 17th. — If the Provincial Congress is not to
be deemed a rebellious meeting, surely some of its resolves are rebel
lious, though they affect not to order, but to recommend measures to
the people; which measures I have learned, from the emissaries I
have sent through the country, have not been regarded as to the rais
ing of money, though they have been training men in several town
ships, as they could get them in the humor to assent. I would
remark concerning this Congress, that though the whole assembly is
concerned in the criminality of the measure, yet many went, and
were purposely sent by their towns, to oppose the violent party."
LORD DARTMOUTH TO GENERAL GAGE.
" London, April 15th. — It would appear necessary and expedient,
that all fortifications should be garrisoned by the King's troops, or
dismantled and destroyed ; that all cannon, small arms, and other
military stores of every kind, that may be either in any magazine, or
secreted for the purpose of aiding the rebellion, should also be seized
and secreted, and that the persons of such, as, according to the
opinion of his Majesty's attorney and solicitor general, have com
mitted themselves in acts of treason and rebellion, should be arrested
and imprisoned.
" I observed, that in your letter of January 18th, you said, that if a
respectable force is seen in the field, the most obnoxious of the lead
ers seized, and a pardon proclaimed for all others, government will
come off victorious. The two first of these objects are already pro
vided for, and it only remains for me to signify to you the King's
pleasure, that, if you shall continue to be of opinion, that an offer of
pardon will be advisable, you do by virtue of the power already given
to you by his Majesty's special commission, under the great seal for
pardon for treason and other offences, issue a proclamation within your
government at such time as you shall judge proper, offering a reason
able reward for apprehending the President, Secretary, and any other
of the members of the Provincial Congress, whom you shall find to
have been the most forward and active in that seditious meeting, re
quiring all persons who may, in consequence of their resolves and
exhortations, have appeared in arms to oppose the law, to render
themselves to the Governor and Council within a reasonable time,
and declare, that upon such surrender, and upon taking the oaths of ,
allegiance and making such declaration of their obedience, as you

510 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
shall think proper, they shall receive his Majesty's gracious pardon
for all treasons they have committed." *
GENERAL GAGE TO LORD DARTMOUTH.
" Boston, May 15th. — They have been enlisting among the coun
try people as many men as could be collected at forty shillings a
man ; and we are told they are enlisting them in the other provinces.
If they proceed in their movements it seems impossible to be long
before we come again to blows ; and from the beginning I have per
ceived it was the wish and design of the leaders here to bring affairs
to that crisis ; but so to manage it as to bring the rest of the colonies
to support them. It is astonishing how they have duped the whole
continent." "June 12t7i. — It has been mentioned to your Lordship, that the
disaffected generally receive very quick intelligence of what is doing
at home, and that those, who have committed themselves most noto
riously in acts of treason and rebellion, fled upon the arrival of a ship
from England some days before the Nautilus and Falcon sloops reached
this place with your despatches. From what has passed, your Lord
ship will judge that a plan for rebellion has been long conceived, and
the people's minds ripened for it, and it is now too open and manifest
to need the opinion of the law officers. I hear that the rebels, after
surprising Ticonderoga, made incursions and commenced hostilities
upon the frontier of the province of Quebec, which will justify Gen
eral Carleton to raise bodies of Canadians and Indians to attack them
in return ; and we need not be tender of calling on the savages, as
the rebels have shown us the example, by bringing as many Indians
down against us here as they could collect." t

* It was in consequence of this letter, that General ,Gage issued his memo
rable Proclamation of the 12th of June, declaring the opposers of the King's
government to be in rebellion, offering pardon to such as should immediately
lay down their arms, and return to the duties of peaceable subjects, except
Samuel Adams aud John Hancock, and publishing and ordering the use and
exercise ofthe law martial in the province of Massachusetts.
t It is a singular fact, that the first intelligence of the capture of Ticonde
roga was communicated to General Gage through a letter from Dr. Joseph
Warren to Mr. John Scollay, dated May 17th, at Watertown, just one month
before he was slain at Bunker's Hill. A copy of the letter was procured by
General Gage and sent by him to Lord Dartmouth. The following is an
extract. " Thus a war is begun, which I have frequently said to you and others
would, if not timely prevented, overturn the British empire ; but I hope, after

Appendix.] GAGE'S CORRESPONDENCE. 511
"June 25th. — The success, of which I send your Lordship an
account by the present opportunity, was very necessary in our present
situation, and I wish most sincerely that it had not cost us so dear.
The number of killed and wounded is greater, than our forces can af
ford to lose. The officers, who were obliged to exert themselves,
have suffered very much, and we have lost some extremely good of
ficers. The trials we have had show the rebels are not the despica
ble rabble too many have supposed them to be, and I find it owing to
a military spirit, encouraged among them for a few years past, joined
with an uncommon degree of zeal and enthusiasm, that they are
otherwise. When they find cover, they make a good stand, and the
country, naturally strong, affords it to them, and they are taught to
assist its natural strength by art, for they intrench and raise batteries.
They have fortified all the heights and passes around this town, from
Dorchester to Medford or Mystic, and it is not impossible for them to
annoy the town. *
" Your Lordship will perceive, that the conquest of this country is
not easy, and can be effected only by time and perseverance, and
strong armies attacking it in various quarters and dividing their
forces. Confining your operations on this side only is attacking in
the strongest part, and you have to cope with vast numbers. It
might naturally be supposed, that troops of the nature of the rebel
army would return home after such a check as they had got, and I
hear many wanted to go off, but care has been taken to prevent it;
for any man that returns home without a pass is immediately seized
and sent back to his regiment. In all their wars against the French,
they never showed so much conduct, attention, and perseverance as
a full conviction both of our ability and resolution to maintain our rights,
¦Britain will act with that wisdom, which is so absolutely necessary for her
preservation ; this I most heartily wish, as I feel a warm affection still for the
parent state."
* With this letter Was communicated the official account of the battle of
Bunker's Hill, and a return of the killed and wounded. General Gage was
recalled in conquence of the disastrous issue of that battle. A despatch had
been made out for him, just before the news reached England, but not yet
forwarded, in which a sketch of future operations was drawn, and important
questions put to him, which he was desired to answer. As soon as intelligence
of the battle arrived, a separate letter was written, August 2d, directing Gene
ral Gage to hand over the despatch to General Howe, who would succeed him
in the command, and closing with the following words.
" From the tenor of your letters, and from the state of affairs after the action
ofthe 17th, the King is led to conclude, that you have little expectation of ef
fecting any thing further this campaign, and has therefore commanded me to
signify to you his Majesty's pleasure, that you do, as soon as conveniently may

512 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
they do now. I think it my duty to let your Lordship know the true
situation of affairs, that administration may take measures accord
ingly. " The people's minds are kept so much heated and inflamed, that
they are always ripe for every thing that is extravagant. Truth is
kept from them, and they are too full of prejudices to believe it, if
laid before them, and so blind and bigoted, that they cannot see they
have exchanged liberty for tyranny. No people were ever governed
more absolutely, than those of the American provinces now are, and
no reason can be given for their submission, but that it is a tyranny
they have erected themselves, as they believe, to avoid greater evils."
LORD DARTMOUTH TO GENERAL GAGE.
" London, July 1st. — I am to presume, that the measure of send
ing out a detachment of your troops to destroy the magazines at Con
cord was taken after the fullest consideration of the advantages on
the one hand, and hazards on the other, of such an enterprise, and
of all the probable consequences that were to result from it. It is
impossible for me to reflect upon this transaction, and upon all its
consequences, without feelings, which, although I do not wish to
conceal them, it is not necessary for me to express ; but I believe
every man of candor will agree with me in opinion, that, let the event
be what it may, the rashness and rebellious conduct of the provincials
on this occasion evince the necessity, and will manifest to all the
world the justice of the measures, which the King has adopted for
supporting the constitution, and in which his Majesty will firmly
persevere.
be after you receive this letter, return to England, in order to give his Maj
esty exact information of every thing, that it may be necessary to prepare, as
early as possible, for the operations of the next year, and to suggest to his Maj
esty such matters in relation thereto, as your knowledge and experience ofthe
service enable you to furnish."
It will hardly be deemed amiss to state in this place, that the American
Congress showed a due degree of sensibility for the loss sustained by the
nation in the death of General Warren, who fell at Bunker's Hill. At the
same time that they voted to erect a monument to his memory (April 8th,
1777), they ordered, that his eldest son should be educated at the expense of
the United States. And on the 1st of July, 1780, they resolved, that the half-
pay of a major-general, to commence at the time of General Warren's death,
should be paid out of the national treasury towards the education and mainten
ance of his three other children, the same to be continued till his youngest
child should be of age. It appears by the treasury books, that this money was
paid for several years after the war.

Appendix.] GAGE'S CORRESPONDENCE. 513
" From the moment the blow was struck, and the town of Boston
invested by the rebels, there was no longer any reason to doubt of
the intention of the people of Massachusetts Bay to commit them
selves in open rebellion. The other three New England provinces
have taken the same part, and in fact all America (Quebec, Nova
Scotia, and the Floridas excepted) is in arms against Great Britain,
and the people involved in the guilt of levying a war against the King
in every sense of the expression. In this situation every effort must
be made, both by sea and land, to subdue the rebellion."
GENERAL GAGE TO LORD DARTMOUTH.
" Boston, July 24th. — A pamphlet published by the Continental
Congress, called a ' Declaration of the United Colonies,' has been
sent in from the rebel camp, copies of which will' no doubt be sent
to England from Philadelphia. They pay little regard to facts, for
the contents of it are as replete with deceit and falsehood, as most of
their publications. The rebellion being general, I know of no better
plan to quell it, than that I mentioned to your Lordship in a former
letter. This province began it, I might say this town, for here the
arch-rebels formed their scheme long ago. This circumstance
brought the troops first here, which is the most disadvantageous place
for all operations, particularly where there is no diversion of the rebel
forces, but all are collected into one point. Was this army in New
York, that province might to all appearance be more easily reduced,
and the friends of government be able to raise forces to join the
troops." "August 26th.* — The designs ofthe leaders of the rebellion are
plain, and every day confirms the truth of what was asserted years
ago by intelligent people, that a plan was laid in this province, and
adjusted with some of the same stamp in others, for a total indepen
dence, whilst they amused people in England, called the friends of
America, as well as many in this country, with feigned professions of
affection and attachment to the parent state, and pretended to be
aggrieved and discontented only on account of taxation ; that they
have designedly irritated government by every insult, whilst they art
fully poisoned the minds of the people and ripened them for insurrec
tion. They would still deceive and lull the mother country into a
belief, that nothing is meant against the nation, and that their quarrel

* The remarks here following relate to two intercepted letters of John
Adams, printed in the present work, Vol. II. p. 499. They were enclosed in
this letter to Lord Dartmouth.
vol. in. 65

514 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
is only with the ministers. But it is hoped, that the nation will see
through this falsehood and deceit. It matters not who hold the helm
of the state ; the stroke is levelled at the British nation, on whose
ruins they hope to build their so much vaunted American empire,
and to rise like a Phoenix out of the ashes of the mother country."
" September 20th. — I am to hope, from the affection I bear to my
country, that no man in Great Britain or Ireland will be long de
ceived by fallacious professions and declarations, but see, through all
the disguise, that this is no sudden insurrection of America, but a
preconcerted scheme of rebellion, hatched years ago in the Massa
chusetts Bay, and brought to this perfection by the help of adherents
on both sides of the Atlantic."
" At Sea, October 15th* — It will give me pleasure, as I think it
my duty, to send jour Lordship every hint or intelligence, that can
be of use at this important crisis ; nor am I disposed to do it in a se
cret manner, as it behoves every man in such times as these to de
clare his sentiments openly. People agree now, that there has been
a scheme for a revolt from the mother country, long conceived be
tween those, who have most influence in the American councils,
which has been preparing the people's minds by degrees for events,
that at first view they regarded with horror and detestation. If the
Boston Port Bill had not furnished a pretext for rebellion, something
else would have brought it forward. Unfortunately few could believe
it possible for them to prevail with the people to rise, and to the last
the friends of government assured them it was only threats and men
aces, meant to intimidate. Misfortune has arisen from this incre
dulity ; for the rebels have been prepared to exercise their plan, while
the government, not apprehensive of so general a revolt, has been un
prepared to oppose it. The conduct of the leaders on the 19th of
April evinced their intention to begin hostilities, and had they not
commenced then, they would only have been deferred. Your Lord
ship has a perfect idea of the transactions of that day, which were so
far unlucky, as it put an immediate stop to supplies of every kind.
Otherwise our magazines would have been better filled.
" I am convinced, that the promoters of the rebellion have no real
desire of peace, unless they have a carte blanche. Their whole con
duct has been one scene of fallacy, duplicity, and dissimulation, by
which they have duped many well inclined people. Your Lordship
will judge if the last petition of the Congress to the King is to be
* This letter was written on General Gage's voyage to England, after re
signing the command to General Howe.

Appendix.] GAGE'S CORRESPONDENCE. 515
relied upon ; and yet we are told, that this petition was obtained by
the most moderate of the members with great difficulty and after very
long debate. There has been much heat and division in the Con
gress, and a jealousy ofthe New England members; and I am told it
was owing to jealousy, that Washington was appointed to the com
mand of the rebel army, in which there is much discontent. Lee is
neither respected nor esteemed among them, though it is said, that
he is supported by the Boston rulers in opposition to Washington,
and that he is for making an attack without delay upon the troops,
but that the rest think it too desperate an undertaking. The rebel
forces are well fed, in general ill clothed and badly paid, though
paper money has been issued to them lately. The credit of the
paper is now kept up by force, and I have not heard that any plan
has been fixed upon to redeem it.
" They give out that they expect peace on their own terms, through
the inability of Britain to contend with them ; and it is no wonder
that such reports gain credit with the people, when letters from Eng
land and English newspapers give so much encouragement to rebel
lion. Many people are of the opinion, that the rebels will not hold
together another year ; but, though the country will be very greatly
distressed, and the people tired of the work, I will take the liberty to
say, that from their presumption, arrogance, and encouragement from
England, we can rely on nothing but our own force to procure even
decent terms of peace, and that, if it was ever necessary to obtain
peace through the means of war, it is highly so in the present junc
ture. I transmit to your Lordship a packet of letters, that were
picked out from a number of papers scattered about Cushing's house.
They contain no intelligence of present transactions, but show the
nature of the correspondence, that the two Lees, Dr. Franklin, and
others kept up with the leaders of this rebellion."
Unable to account for the concert and unanimity, with which all
the colonies joined in opposition to the British government, General
Gage ascribes it to a purpose long settled among the colonists
to break the bond of allegiance, and set up an independent power.
This topic we have heretofore considered (Vol. II. p. 496), and shown
that there was not the slightest foundation for such a supposition, either
in the history of preceding events, or in the sentiments ofthe persons,
who were then leading in the measures of resistance. It was natural,
perhaps, that he should in this way solve the enigma of the ill success
and want of foresight, by which his command in Boston had been
signalized, and thus assign to himself and the ministers some plausi
ble reason for his disappointment and failure. The true cause, how-

516 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
ever, was of quite a different character. It was the same, that had
deceived and misled his superiors in Great Britain, as well as his
coadjutors in America ; a total ignorance of the spirit of the Ameri
can people, and the actual state of feeling and opinion among them,
produced by what they deemed the oppressive acts and imperious
bearing of the British government during the last ten years. This
ignorance generated a contempt, fatal to accurate observation, blind
ing the eyes and perverting the judgment, fruitful of deception and
false hopes, equally unjustifiable in its origin and mischievous in its
effects.

No. X. p. 125.
MARINE OPERATIONS.
When General Washington took command of the army, no meas
ures had been adopted by Congress for prosecuting a naval war
fare. The subject had never been in any shape brought before
them. Rhode Island fitted out and armed two small schooners in
June, 1775, which were chiefly intended to protect the waters of
that colony from the depredations of the enemy's small craft, although
before the end of the summer one of them was sent to cruise on the
coast. Connecticut likewise about the same time fitted out one or
two armed vessels. On the 20th of June the Provincial Congress of
Massachusetts resolved to provide six armed vessels. — MS. Journal,
June 20th. But it appears by General Washington's letter to the
Continental Congress, that none of them had been got in readiness
as late as the 12th of October.
The English army, and the inhabitants of Boston, being entirely
excluded from any communication with the country, it was necessary
that all their supplies should come by water, and the multitude of
small vessels employed for this purpose suggested the idea of provid
ing some means of diminishing the enemy's resources by capturing
these vessels. The General had received no instructions from Con
gress, which authorized him to engage in naval enterprises ; but he
thought that the powers with which he was vested, by a proper con
struction, enabled him to attempt any designs to annoy and distress
the enemy, which should not operate to the disadvantage of the great

Appendix.] MARINE OPERATIONS. 517
interests entrusted to him. There being sea captains and sailors in
the army, he formed the project of employing a select number of
them on their congenial element, and sent persons to Salem, Beverly,
Marblehead, and Plymouth, to find out and engage for the public
service suitable vessels, which could be expeditiously prepared for a
short cruise. He appointed agents to superintend the necessary
preparations and furnish supplies, and also to take charge of prizes
when brought in, and to dispose of them according to such directions
as they should receive. The first person commissioned as a naval com
mander, under the authority of the Continental Congress, or rather
the authority of Washington derived from Congress, was Captain
Broughton of Marblehead. TO CAPTAIN NICHOLSON BROUGHTON.
Instructions.
" 1. You, being appointed a captain in the army of the United
Colonies of North America, are hereby directed to take the command
of a detachment of said army, and proceed on board the schooner
Hannah, at Beverly, lately fitted out and equipped with arms, ammu
nition, and provisions at the Continental expense.
"2. You are to proceed, as commander of said schooner, immedi
ately on a cruise against such vessels as may be found on the high
seas or elsewhere, bound inwards and outwards to or from Boston, in
the service of the ministerial army, and to take and seize all such
vessels, laden with soldiers, arms, ammunition, or provisions for or
from said army, or which you shall have good reason to suspect are
in such service.
" 3. If you should be so successful as to take any of such vessels,
you are immediately to send them to the safest and nearest port to
this camp, under a careful prize-master, directing him to notify me by
express immediately of such capture, with all particulars, and there
to wait my farther direction.
" 4. You are to be very particular and diligent in your search after
all letters and other papers, tending to discover the designs of the
enemy, or of any other kind, and to forward all such to me as soon
as possible.
" 5. Whatever prisoners you may take, you are to treat with kind
ness and humanity, as far as is consistent with your own safety.
Their private stock of money and apparel is to be given them after be
ing duly searched; and when they arrive at any port, you are to apply
VOL. III. R K

518

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.

to the Committee, or to any officer of the Continental army stationed
at such port, for a guard to bring them up to head-quarters.
" 6. For your own encouragement, and that of the other officers
and men, to activity and courage in this service, over and above your
pay in the Continental army, you shall be entitled to one third part
of the cargo of every vessel by you taken and sent into port (military
and naval stores only excepted, which, with vessels and apparel, are
reserved for public service), which said third part is to be divided
among the officers and men in the following proportions ; to a captain
six shares ; a first lieutenant five ; a second lieutenant four ; ship's
master three ; steward two ; mate one and a half; gunner one and a
half; boatswain one and a half; gunner's mate and sergeant one
and a half; privates one share each.
" 7. You are particularly charged to avoid any engagement with
any armed vessel of the enemy, though you may be equal in strength,
or may have some small advantage, the design of this enterprise being'
to intercept the supplies of the enemy, which will be defeated by your
running into unnecessary engagements.
" 8. As there may be other vessels employed in the same service
with yourselves, you are to fix upon proper signals, and, your stations
being settled so as to take the greatest range, avoid cruising on the
same ground. If you should happen to take prizes in sight of each
other, the rules, which take place among private ships of war, are to
be observed in the distribution ofthe prize-money.
" 9. In case of retaking the vessel of any friend to the American
cause, I will recommend it to such person to make a suitable com
pensation to those, who have done such a service ; but such vessels
are not to be deemed as coming within the directions respecting other
vessels. " 10. You are to be extremely careful and frugal of your ammu
nition, by no means to waste any of it in salutes, or for any purpose,
but what is absolutely necessary.
" Given under my hand, at Head-Quarters, Cambridge, this 2d
day of September, 1775. " George Washington."
Before the end of October, six vessels of a small size had been
armed and manned, and sent out to cruise within the Capes. It was
the design, as expressed in the instructions, to intercept the enemy's
supplies, and not to seek for encounters with armed vessels. The six
schooners were commanded by Captains Broughton, Selman, Manly,
Martindale, Coit, and Adams ; and the names of five of them were

Appendix.] MARINE OPERATIONS. 519
the Hannah, Harrison, Lee, Washington, Lynch. Several prizes
were brought in, some of which were valuable, particularly one taken
by Captain Manly, consisting of munitions of war, which was said to
be worth ten thousand pounds. But, on the whole, the cruises of
these vessels were not very satisfactory. Some of the officers proved
incompetent, the men mutinied and caused difficulties, and the season
was unfavorable. Captains Broughton and Selman had been unsuc
cessful in their cruise to the St. Lawrence, and had shown but little
discretion in conducting the enterprise. They sent in several vessels,
which were restored to the owners, as not being subject to capture.
Captain Martindale's vessel was taken by the enemy, and himself
made prisoner.
At length, on the 1st of February, 1776, the navy, if so it might be
called, was formed into a new establishment, being composed of four
vessels; the Hancock, commanded by Manly as commodore; the
Warren, Captain Burke ; the Lynch, Captain Ayres ; the Harrison,
Captain Dyer. The instructions were the same, as those origin
ally given to Captain Broughton, with the addition of three ar
ticles ; —
" 1. As Captain Manly is appointed commodore of the four
schooners now fitted out, he will fix upon proper signals by which
you may know each other, and you are to obey him as such in all
cases. If it should happen that a prize is taken in sight of other ves
sels, fitted out at the Continental expense, or at the charge of indi
viduals, the rules, which take place among private ships of war, are
to be observed in the distribution of the prize-money.
"2. You, your officers, and men are, from the date hereof, to con
sider yourselves as engaged in the service of the United Colonies, and
in every respect subject to the rules and regulations formed by the
Congress for the government of the army, raised for the defence of
American liberty, or as nearly so as possible, consistent with the dif
ference ofthe land and sea service. A book ofthe rules and articles
you will receive herewith, at the end of which, you, your officers, and
men must subscribe your names.
" 3. As it is very apparent, that the ill success, which attended the
major part of the armed vessels in former cruises, was owing to the
want of industry, and to the inactivity of the officers . who com
manded ; you will, therefore, take notice, that a fondness to be on
shore, indolence, and inactivity will meet with their just deserts.
For, if it appears, that the captain or any of the officers do not exert
themselves, and do all that they possibly can for their own and the
public good, they shall be dismissed from the service, and rendered in-

520 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
capable of serving their country in any honorable station hereafter in
the army or navy."
As commodore of this little fleet, Captain Manly sustained and in
creased the high reputation he had already acquired. His valor and
discretion became the theme of public applause, and so far attracted
the attention of Congress, that when the navy of the United States
was organized, he was appointed to the command of a frigate. The
four vessels, put under his command in February, were successful ;
but after the evacuation of Boston, and the march of the army to New
York, Washington had no more to do with naval affairs. His con
duct in this matter received the full approbation of Congress.

No. XI. p. 130.
THE BURNING OF FALMOUTH.
As the burning of Falmouth was apparently a wanton act of power,
and cruel in its effects on the people, it caused great indignation
throughout the Continent. There seemed to be a fatality in the
British operations at the beginning of the war, which were so con
ceived and executed, as to widen the breach, and kindle hostile
feelings even in the breasts of those, who were then least inclined
to pursue forcible measures of resistance.
The ministry have been too much censured, however, for these
early acts of the British officers. It is certain, that neither the affair
at Lexington and Concord, nor the destruction of Falmouth, was
approved by the government. It was reported at the time, on the
authority of Lieutenant Mowat, and history thus records it, that or
ders had been issued for burning all the seaport towns on the coast,
and this was charged upon the British cabinet. — Remembrancer,
Vol. II. p. 125. But I have seen the original correspondence be
tween the minister and General Howe on this subject, in which the
former expresses much surprise, that such an act should have been
committed, and requires, in a tone almost amounting to a reprimand,
that all the particulars should be forwarded to him for the inspection
of the King. General Howe wrote the following explanation.
" Before the departure of General Gage, an expedition was con
certed by the General and Admiral for the destruction of Cape Ann
and Falmouth, two seaport towns on the coast to the eastward, that

Appendix.] MARINE OPERATIONS. 521
were distinguished for their opposition to government. The Can-
ceaux, and an armed transport, having a small detachment of troops
on board, were sent to execute it. From circumstances it was found
inexpedient to make any attack upon Cape Ann ; whereupon they
proceeded to Falmouth, which place, after giving timely warning to
the inhabitants for the removal of themselves and effects, they de
stroyed on the 18th of October, burning about five hundred houses
and fourteen sea vessels, and taking and destroying several others
without any loss on our part."
This account was not satisfactory, and, on receiving it, Lord
George Germain wrote again to General Howe ; — "I am to suppose,
that Admiral Graves had good reasons for the step he took to destroy
the town of Falmouth, and that he did not proceed to that extremity
without an absolute refusal on the part of the inhabitants to comply
with those requisitions, stated in the orders he received from the
Lords of the Admiralty, which, however, does not appear from any
account of that transaction, which I have seen."
After the removal of the British army to Halifax, and General
Howe had leisure to inquire into the matter more at large, he col
lected and sent to the minister the following particulars.
" In obedience to your Lordship's commands for a more explicit
account of the expedition to Falmouth, which was entrusted to Lieu
tenant Mowat of the navy, assisted by a detachment of marines and
artillery, I have reexamined the officer, who commanded this detach
ment, and find that his orders from General Gage were, to embark
on board several armed vessels, the 6th October, 1775, and to aid
and assist Lieutenant Mowat in annoying and destroying all ships be
longing to rebels on the coast and in the harbours to the eastward of
Boston ; that they first examined the harbour of Cape Ann, and find
ing the attack upon it inexpedient, they proceeded to Falmouth and
laid the armed vessels before the town on the evening of their arrival,
after which Lieutenant Mowat sent an officer on shore with a sum
mons to the inhabitants to deliver up their arms and ammunition, ac
quainting them at the same time, that his orders directed him to de
stroy the town if they did not comply with his demand, of which they
should be allowed two hours to consider and to remove their women
and children.
" Shortly after, three persons deputed by the inhabitants came on
board, requesting a longer time, and it was agreed to wait their an
swer until eight o'clock the next morning ; about which hour the
same persons returned, and reported that the inhabitants were deter
mined to await their fate. Within half an hour a signal was made
VOL.111. 66 RR»

522

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.

by Lieutenant Mowat, the vessels began a cannonade, and several
carcasses were thrown into the town, which set fire to the houses,
and in a few hours consumed the greatest part of them. A detach
ment was then landed, who completed the destruction and reem-
barked without loss. The small vessels in the harbour were burnt,
sunk, or brought away, and the armament returned to Boston the
5th of November without attempting any thing further."
By this statement it would appear, that Mowat's original instruc
tions were to annoy and destroy the shipping in the harbours on the
coast ; but, from the boldness of his conduct, it is probable that in
burning the town he acted with the consent, if not by the express or
ders of Admiral Graves, who, as Gordon relates, was offended with
the people of Falmouth on account of the obstructions, which they
had given to the shipment of masts from that place. Mowat had
likewise been rudely treated at Falmouth a few months before, in
consequence of the injudicious zeal and unjustifiable enterprise of
Colonel Thompson and his adherents in seizing him while on shore ;
and this circumstance may be presumed to have been the primary
cause of the rash and unwarrantable exploit of burning the town.
No part of this reproach can rightfully attach to the British ministry.
The act had no higher source, than the wounded pride of a subordi
nate officer, coinciding with the hasty resentment of his superior in
command. In its results, however, nothing could have been more
unfortunate for the cause of the government. The whole continent
was roused to indignation at so wanton a deed, new antipathies
were kindled, and the spirit of resistance became more intense and
widely diffused.
For other particulars, and a plan of Falmouth when it was burnt,
see Willis's History of Portland, Part II. p. 153.

No. XII. p. 206.
IMPRISONMENT OF JAMES LOVELL.
Mr. Lovell was a scholar, and a gentleman ofthe highest respectabil
ity. His letter to Washington was dated " Boston Prison, December
6th." The following is an extract.
" Chargdd with ' being a spy and giving intelligence to the rebels,'
I have been suffering the pains and indignities of imprisonment from

Appendix.] JAMES LOVELL. 523
the 29th of June last, without any sort of trial. Captain Balfour, aid-
de-camp to General Howe, some time ago directed Mrs. Lovell to tell
me, from the Commander-in-chief, that I must obtain the exchange
of Colonel Skene and his son, as the only condition of my enlarge
ment ; and I have waited weeks in a vain hope of being enabled to
write with more precision to your Excellency.
" I have no argument but of a private nature, to make use of upon
this occasion ; and it is addressed to your Excellency's humanity,
which I am well satisfied will attend the decision of your wisdom. I
myself am reduced to such a risk of life, and my family to such mis
eries, by my imprisonment, as to make both objects of compassion to
all, who are not learnedly barbarous and cruel."
This letter was referred to a committee of the Continental Con
gress; the subject was considered, and a resolve passed, — "That
Mr. James Lovell, an inhabitant of Boston, now held a close prisoner
there, by order of General Howe, has discovered, under the severest
trials, the warmest attachment to public liberty, and an inflexible fidel
ity to his country; that, by his late letter to General Washington, he
has given the strongest evidence of disinterested public affection, in
refusing to listen to terms offered for his relief, till he could be in
formed by his countrymen, that they were compatible with their safety
and honor." — Journals of Congress, January 5th, 1776.
In consequence of this resolve, General Washington wrote to Gen
eral Howe, on the 30th of January.
" Sir,
" I have it in command from the honorable Continental Congress
to propose an exchange of Governor Skene for Mr. James Lovell and
family. If the proposition is agreeable, you will please to signify as
much to me and Mr. Lovell, that he may prepare for his removal,
whilst I cause Mr. Skene to be brought to this place. I am, Sir,
your most humble servant,
" George Washington."
general howe's answer.
" Boston, 2 February, 1776.
" Sir,
" In answer to your letter ofthe 30th ultimo, which was delivered
with the seal broken, I am to acquaint you, that, having lately dis
covered a prohibited correspondence to be carried on by Mr. James
Lovell, the liberty, which I fully intended to have given him, cannot
take place. I am, Sir, your most humble servant, _
" W. Howe."

524 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
The particulars of this prohibited correspondence are not ex
plained. Mr. Lovell was kept in prison, till the British army evacu
ated Boston, and then was taken to Halifax, where he was still held
in close confinement. By accident he and Ethan Allen met in the
same jail. Allen had been a wanderer during his captivity, having
first been sent from Montreal to England in irons, and then trans
ported back to Halifax by way of Ireland and North Carolina. Several
other Americans were incarcerated in the same apartment. Nothing
more was done for the release of Mr. Lovell, till the July following,
when Lieutenant-Colonel Paterson, adjutant-general to the British
army, had an interview with General Washington in New York,
where the subject was renewed, and Colonel Paterson himself, in
behalf of the British commander, proposed his exchange for Governor
Skene. The case of Allen was also brought forward ; but as he had
been taken in Canada, the affair was considered as belonging to Gen
eral Carleton's department, and General Howe declined any inter
ference. Both the prisoners were brought to New York, and Mr.
Lovell was exchanged in November. He was chosen a delegate to
the Continental Congress from Massachusetts, on the 10th of Decem
ber, and reelected for several successive years ; during a large portion
of which he was chairman of the Committee of Foreign Affairs, an
important and responsible station.
Major Skene had been appointed Governor of Ticonderoga and
Crown Point; and empowered to raise a regiment in America. On
this ground he was taken into custody, when he arrived in Philadel
phia, June, 1775 ; his papers were examined by order of Congress,
and he was retained as a prisoner. — Journals of Congress, June 8th.
He had been many years in the army ; he was an ensign at Carthagena
and Porto Bello under General Wentworth ; he served in Flanders ;
was a lieutenant at the battle of Culloden ; served under Sir Jeffrey
Amherst in Canada ; was first major of brigade at the conquest of Mar
tinique and Havana, at which latter place he entered the breach when
it was stormed ; was often wounded ; was appointed to run a line be
tween Canada and the British colonies, and to superintend the settle
ment of the border country then uninhabited ; and, in 1773, he applied
to Lord Dartmouth to recommend him to the King for the appointment
of Governor of Ticonderoga, Crown Point, and their dependencies,
where he at that time commanded a corps of militia, having lands and
a residence at the southern extremity of Lake Champlain. — MS.
Memorial in the State Paper Office, London.

Appendix.] LORD DRUMMOND. 525
No. XIII. p. 289.
LORD DRUMMOND.
Two attempts were made by Lord Drummond to propose a plan of
reconciliation between Great Britain and the colonies. They were
both unavailing, and have little claim to notice, except as they ema
nated, in one instance at least, from high authority, and involved
some particulars of interest in the events with which they were con
nected. The first notice of the matter is contained in a letter from
Mr. Lynch to General Washington, dated at Philadelphia, January
16th, 1776, in which he says ; —
" A gentleman well known in Maryland, Lord Drummond, just
from England, tells me, that he has had many conversations with the
ministry, and showed me a paper approved by each of them, and
which he is sure will be supported in both Houses. The substance
of it is, — America to be declared free in point of taxation and inter
nal police ; judges to be approved by the judges of England, and
commissioned during good behaviour, upon stated and sufficient sup
port to be statedly assigned them by the colonies ; all charters to be
held sacred ; that of Boston to be restored ; Britain to regulate trade
sub modo ; all duties laid for the purpose of regulation to be paid into
the colony treasury where they arise, applicable to its uses by its own
legislature, in lieu of which, America shall by duties on such articles
as will probably keep pace in its consumption with the rise or declen
sion of the colony, laid by each legislature by permanent act of As
sembly, grant towards the general support of the empire annual sums
in proportion to five thousand pounds sterling for this colony. As
this sum is little more than half of what did arise by duties heretofore
paid in this place, I doubted his information, but was assured, that
ministry wanted nothing but a show of revenue to hold up to Parlia
ment, as they are afraid to propose reconciliation, without saving
what the stiff old Englishmen call the honor of the nation. His
Lordship came hither through Halifax, Boston, and New York,
where I fancy he saw what induced him to hint once or twice at be
ginning with a suspension of arms, to which I turned a very deaf ear,
well knowing that the season of winter is ours, and that much may
be done by April next I sincerely wish I had your sentiments on
these heads. I shall propose them to the consideration of Congress,
as soon as the most urgent affairs are over. I think they merit it."

526 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
Three weeks afterwards, when Mr. Lynch was in New York, as
one of a committee from Congress to consult with General Lee re
specting the fortification and defence of that city, he there met Lord
Drummond, and wrote again to General Washington ; —
" I mentioned to you some time ago certain propositions, which
Lord Drummond had been talking to me of. General Robertson
writes to him by Clinton, that he (Clinton) is very desirous of being
instrumental in bringing about the same end. It is mysterious to me
how such a man should be sent on such an errand. Be it as it may,
it will not produce any remission of our using the present moment to
strengthen ourselves and weaken our enemies. Lord Drummond's
great point is to get some member of Congress to go home, to inform
the cabinet of the real desires and intentions of that body respecting
the reestablishment of peace. To promote this purpose he has de
sired me to enclose to you a letter, which, after you have read it, if you
think it can do no harm, you will be so kind as to forward to Robert
son, and to send his answer to his Lordship under your cover. Rob
ertson will doubtless send it open to you."
LORD DRUMMOND TO GENERAL ROBERTSON.
" New York, 5 February, 1776.
" My Dear Sir,
" Just as I was sitting down to write to you, I received yours by
Genera] Clinton, but have not as yet had an opportunity of seeing
him. During the very few months I was with you at Boston, I ex
pressed my wish of being able to make known at Philadelphia the
disposition in England towards an accommodation upon liberal terms,
and such as were founded in equity and candor.
" You then concurred with me in thinking, that however much
those gentlemen, whose province it now is to think for the public,
might be held up as aiming at a total separation, they had as their
sole object such a reconciliation, as would give a constitutional secu
rity to their children. In this opinion I think we were not deceived.
From all the conversation I had at Philadelphia with those gentlemen,
who allow me, I hope, to rank among the number of their friends, I
have every reason to think them most seriously disposed towards re
conciliation ; nor am I without hopes of success. Should such an
event take place, it is not impossible but a deputation from hence
may be found expedient, and in that case a passport requisite for a
security against English cruisers. Such a passport must be left
blank, for filling up names, and sent by the same conveyance that

Appendix.] LORD DRUMMOND. 527
this passes through. It will be needless to caution you against delay.
My slight acquaintance with General Howe and Admiral Shuldham
will furnish you with an apology for not making a more direct appli
cation. "I continue, my dear friend, yours, &c.
" Drummond."
" P. S. Let me guard you against letting this get to the public, till
we see how far my hopes are well grounded."
This letter was forwarded to General Washington at Cambridge,
with the view of its being sent by him into Boston. Its extraordinary
purport, coming as it did from a person of whom nothing was known
as a negotiator, induced him to enclose it to Congress, retaining a
copy only in his own possession. Congress instructed their President
to inform the Commander-in-chief, that, they highly approved his care
and attention in stopping Lord Drummond's letter, and entirely con
curred with him, in regard to his Lordship's officious and unwarrant
able zeal. Hence the letter never found its way to General Robert
son, and we hear no more of its author, till we find the Committee of
Safety in New York exacting from him a parole of honor, that he
would hold no correspondence directly or indirectly with those, who
were in arms against the colonies, nor go into any port or harbour
occupied by the enemy, nor on board their ships. His bearing and
intercourse had been such, as to excite suspicions of his being too
intimately concerned with the manoeuvres of Governor Tryon, and
his friends the Tories.
Towards the end of April, his Lordship obtained permission of
the Committee of Safety to visit Bermuda for the benefit of his
health, but he was not by this indulgence to be released from his pa
role. It happened, however, that in going out to sea through the
Narrows, he found his way on board his Majesty's ship Asia, where
he communicated with Captain Vandeput; and that, on his return,
three or four months afterwards, he came directly into the harbour of
New York, which was then thronged with the British fleet, and held
intercourse with Lord Howe and other officers. Here it was that
Lord Drummond's desire to become an agent in settling the differ
ences between the two countries received a new impulse, and he
drew up a set of articles, which he sent to Lord Howe with the fol
lowing note.
" I take the liberty of sending enclosed the sketch of propositions
referred to in my late conversation with your Lordship, which propo-

528 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
sitions I have understood the colonies were disposed not many
months ago to make the basis of a reconciliation to Great Britain."
Lord Howe considered the propositions, and, on returning them,
said in reply; —
" As I think they contain matter, that, on a conference and cool
discussion, might be wrought into a plan of permanent union, I shall
with great satisfaction embrace the first opportunity, that may be
offered upon those grounds, to promote so desirable an event."
A copy of the propositions, and of the correspondence with Lord
Howe, was transmitted to Washington by Lord Drummond with the
following letter. " 17 August, 1776.
" Sir,
" Being deeply interested in the welfare of America, I think it my
duty to communicate a matter of intelligence, which I flatter myself
may be rendered conducive to the restoration of a desirable peace.
And in this view I request your Excellency's permission to land at
New York, to go directly to Philadelphia, in order to lay the same
before the General Congress. In the course of a conversation I have
had with Lord Howe, I perceive that the powers he is vested with, as
well as his disposition for establishing an equitable and permanent
peace, are altogether misunderstood by the colonies. For, in conse
quence of a sketch of some propositions being offered for his consid
eration, he very frankly assured me he was willing to confer upon
those grounds with any gentleman of the greatest influence in this
country. " As I am at liberty to declare his sentiments, I have the honor to
enclose for your Excellency's information a copy of my correspon
dence with his Lordship, and of the propositions referred to in his
letter, which are the motives of my present request. Attending in
the boat to be indulged with your answer, I have the honor to be
your Excellency's most humble servant, " Drummond "
This letter was immediately answered by General Washington,
in terms that could not have been flattering to its author, as he
was charged with a violation of his parole, which was plainly proved
by his holding correspondence with the enemy, and going on board
their ships- For this reason Washington added ; — "I find myself
under the disagreeable necessity of objecting to the mode of negotiat
ing proposed, while your Lordship's line of conduct appears so excep
tionable." All the papers, however, were submitted to Congress, and

Appendix.] LORD DRUMMOND. 529
the decision of that body was made known to Washington by the
President. " Philadelphia, 24 August, 1776.
" The late conduct of Lord Drummond is as extraordinary, as his
motives are dark and mysterious. To judge the most favorably of
his intentions, it should seem, that an overweening vanity has be
trayed him into a criminal breach of honor. But whether his views
were upright, or intended only to mislead and deceive, cannot at
present be a matter of any importance. In the mean time, I have
the pleasure to acquaint you, that Congress highly approve the man
ner in which you have checked the officious and intemperate zeal of
his Lordship. Whether his designs were hostile or friendly, he
equally merited the reproof you gave him, and I hope for the future
he will be convinced, that it is highly imprudent to attract the atten
tion of the public to a character, which will only pass without cen
sure when it passes without notice.
" The Congress, having considered the matter thoroughly, are of
opinion to decline taking any public or further notice of his Lordship,
or his letters, and particularly as you have so fully expressed their
sentiments on the subject in your letter to him.
" I have the honor to be, &c. " John Hancock."
Thus ended Lord Drummond's proposals to act the part of a nego
tiator. He attempted to vindicate himself from the charge of having
broken his parole, and to explain his conduct, but without, success.
The facts in the case were too obvious and indisputable to be extenu
ated by any testimony he produced, or by the mere assertion of honor
able motives. When General Lee was a prisoner in New York the
summer following, he became acquainted with Lord Drummond, and
was prevailed upon by him to solicit from Washington a reexamina
tion of the affair, stating that his Lordship felt wounded at the treat
ment he had received, and expressing a conviction of his innocence.
Washington replied with his usual firmness, that he had thoroughly
investigated the subject at the time, that he had no disposition to in
jure Lord Drummond, that the impression left on his mind was deep
and decided, and that no circumstances had since come to light,
which tended to alter his opinion.

vol. in. 67 ss

530 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
No. XIV. p. 307.
EVACUATION OF BOSTON.
The evacuation of Boston by the British troops, after having held
possession of the town for eleven months, was a source of no less joy
in America, than of astonishment in England. Intelligence of this
event was published by the ministry on the 3d of May, in a short par
agraph, which merely announced, that " his Majesty's forces had
embarked from Boston with the greatest order and regularity, and
without the least interruption from the rebels," and were destined for
Halifax. Parliament being then in session, the subject was called up
by the Duke of Manchester, on the lOtH of May, who proposed a mo
tion for an address to his Majesty, that he would be pleased to order
the late despatches of General Howe and Admiral Shuldham to be
laid before the House of Lords. A long and warm debate ensued,
in which the ministers were severely censured for the recent occur
rences in America.
The Duke of Manchester said ; — " To come now, my Lords, to
that which has cast the deepest stain on the glory of the British arms,
to that which must rouse the indignation of all, who feel for her dis
grace ; the army of Britain, equipped with every possible essential of
war, a chosen army, with chosen officers, backed by the power of a
mighty fleet, sent to correct revolted subjects, sent to chastise a re
sisting city, sent to assert Britain's authority, has for many tedious
months been imprisoned within that town by the provincial army,
who, their watchful guards, permitted them no inlet to the country,
who braved all their efforts, and defied all that their skill and abilities
in war could ever attempt. One way indeed of escape is left ; the
fleet is still respected ; to the fleet the army has recourse ; and British
generals, whose names never met with a blot of dishonor, are forced
to quit that town, which was the first object of the war, the imme
diate cause of hostilities, the place of arms, which has cost this na
tion more than a million to defend. We are informed of this extraor
dinary event by a gazette, published by authority from government,
in which it is related, that General Howe had quitted Boston ; no
circumstances mentioned to palliate the event, no veil but that of si
lence to cast over the disgrace. But, my Lords, though the govern
ment account is short and uncircumstantial, yet private intelligence,
public report, on which, till it is with authenticity denied, I must
rely, informs us, that General Howe quitted not Boston of his own

Appendix.] EVACUATION OF BOSTON. 531
free will ; but that a superior enemy, by repeated efforts, by extraor
dinary works, by the fire of their batteries, rendered the place un
tenable." The Earl of Suffolk, in defence of the ministry, told the House
that there was nothing extraordinary in the evacuation of Boston,
that it was not intended to pursue the war in Massachusetts since the
disaffection had become general, that orders had been sent out for
a removal of the troops when the commander should think proper,
and that he had resolved on this step ten days before it actually took
place. " The noble Duke," he added, " says there must have been
a convention between General Howe and the rebel commander,
which, I do assure his Grace, was by no means the case ; no conven
tion, stipulation, concession, or compromise whatever, having been
made. The General thought proper to shift his position, in order,
in the first place, to protect Halifax, and, after that object was se
cured, to penetrate by that way into the interior country and pursue
his future intended operations." The Marquis of Rockingham re
plied, after stating certain particulars, which had come through a
private channel ; — "If those accounts are true, of which I have
very little doubt, your Lordships will perceive, though possibly there
might have been no formal convention or capitulation signed, which
I understood was avoided by the generals on both sides for particular
reasons, that, in whatever manner the business might have been ne
gotiated, it had every substantial requisite of a treaty or compromise,
as much as if it had been ever so solemnly authenticated or sub
scribed. The troops were permitted to evacuate the town without
interruption, because they engaged on the other hand not to burn or
destroy it, either previous to their departure, or after they had got on
board their ships." The same sentiments were expressed by Lord
Shelburne, and other Lords in the opposition, but the minister per
sisted, that he had no knowledge or belief of such a matter.
The facts in the case, however, prove to have been very nearly as
represented by the Marquis of Rockingham. The inhabitants of
Boston, fearing the consequences of an attack, as General Howe had
prepared to set the town on fire in such an event, were very anxious
to avert a calamity, that would involve them in ruin. An informal
statement was drawn up, signed by the Selectmen, addressed to no
body, but intended for General Washington. An exact transcript
from the original is here inserted. " Boston, 8 March, 1776.
" As his Excellency General Howe is determined to leave the town
with the troops under his command, a number of the respectable in-

532 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
habitants, being very anxious for its preservation and safety, have
applied to General Robertson for this purpose, who at their request
has communicated the same to his Excellency General Howe, who
has assured him, that he has no intention of destroying the town, un
less the troops under his command are molested during their embar
kation or at their departure, by the armed force without ; which
declaration he gave General Robertson leave to communicate to the
inhabitants. If such an opposition should take place, we have the
greatest reason to expect the town will be exposed to entire destruc
tion. Our fears are quieted with regard to General Howe's inten
tions. We beg we may have some assurance, that so dreadful a
calamity may not be brought on by any measures without. As a
testimony ofthe truth ofthe above, we have signed our names to this
paper, carried out by Messrs. Thomas and Jonathan Amory and Peter
Johonnot, who have at the earnest entreaties of the inhabitants,
through the Lieutenant-Governor, solicited a flag of truce for this
purpose. " John Scollay,
" Timothy Newell,
" Thomas Marshall,
" Samuel Austin."
This paper was taken to the lines at Roxbury, and given to Colonel
Learned; who carried it to head-quarters. He returned, and wrote
to the messengers, who had been the bearers of it as follows.
" Roxbury, 9 March, 1776.
" Gentlemen,
" Agreeably to a promise made to you at the lines yesterday, I
waited upon his Excellency General Washington, and presented to
him the paper handed to me by you, from the Selectmen of Boston.
The answer I received from him was to this effect ; — ' That, as it
was an-unauthenticated paper, without an address, and not obligatory
upon General Howe, he would take no notice of it.' I am, with es
teem and respect, Gentlemen, your most obedient servant,
" Ebenezer Learned."
" To Messrs. Amory and Johonnot."
Notwithstanding this apparently uncompromising answer, yet, as
the paper evidently conveyed the dispositions of General Howe, and
as Washington could have no wish to destroy the town, but on the
contrary the strongest motives for preserving it, no direct annoyance
was afterwards offered to the British troops. Every thing was in

Appendix.] EVACUATION OF BOSTON. 533
readiness to make an attack at a moment's notice, should any symp
toms appear during the embarkation, that harm was intended to the
town. This mutual understanding doubtless saved much destruction
of property and much bloodshed.
When the Congress received intelligence of the evacuation of Bos
ton, they resolved, " That the thanks of this Congress, in their own
name, and in the name of the thirteen United Colonies, whom they
represent, be presented to his Excellency General Washington, and
the officers and soldiers under his command, for their wise and
spirited conduct at the siege and acquisition of Boston ; and that a
medal be struck in commemoration of this great event, and presented
to his Excellency ; and that a committee of three be appointed to
prepare a letter of thanks, and a proper device for the medal." The
committee were John Adams, John Jay, and Stephen Hopkins.
TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. " Philadelphia, 2 April, 1776.
" Sir,
" It gives me the most sensible pleasure to convey to you, by order
of Congress, the only tribute which a free people will ever consent to
pay, the tribute of thanks and gratitude to their friends and benefac
tors. The disinterested and patriotic principles, which led you to
the field, have also led you to glory ; and it affords no little consola
tion to your countrymen to reflect, that, as a peculiar greatness of
mind induced you to decline any compensation for serving them, ex
cept the pleasure of promoting their happiness, they may without your
permission bestow upon you the largest share of their affections and
esteem. " Those pages in the annals of America will record your title to a
conspicuous place in the temple of fame, which shall inform posterity,
that, under your direction, an undisciplined band of husbandmen in
the course of a few months became soldiers ; and that the desolation
meditated against the country by a brave army of veterans, com
manded by the most experienced generals, but employed by bad men
in the worst of causes, was, by the fortitude of your troops, and the
address of their officers, next to the kind interposition of Providence,
confined for near a year within such narrow limits, as scarely to ad
mit more room than was necessary for the encampments and fortifi
cations they lately abandoned. Accept, therefore, Sir, the thanks of
the United Colonies, unanimously declared by their delegates to be
due to you, and the brave officers and troops under your command ;
SS*

534 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.
and be pleased to communicate to them this distinguished mark of
the approbation of their country. The Congress have ordered a
golden medal, adapted to the occasion, to be struck, and when fin
ished to be presented to you.
"I have the honor to be, with every sentiment of esteem, Sir, your
most obedient and very humble servant, " John Hancock, President."
A private letter from Mr. Adams, written at the same time, will
show the lively interest and the agency, which he took in the affair.
"Sir,
" I congratulate you, as well as all the friends of mankind, on the
reduction of Boston; an event, which appeared to me of so great and
decisive importance, that, the next morning after the arrival of the
news, I did myself the honor to move for the thanks of Congress to
your Excellency, and that a medal of gold should be struck in com
memoration of it. Congress have been pleased to appoint me, with
two other gentlemen, to prepare a device. 1 should be very happy to
have your Excellency's sentiments concerning a proper one. I have
the honor to be, with very great respect, Sir, your most obedient and
affectionate servant, " John Adams."
The medal, which was struck in Paris, contains on the obverse a
head of Washington in profile, exhibiting an excellent likeness, and
around it the inscription ;
GEORGIO WASHINGTON SVPREMO DVCI EXERCITV-
VM ADSERTORI LIBERTATIS COMITIA AMERICANA.
On the reverse is the town of Boston in the distance, with a fleet
in view under sail. Washington and his officers are on horseback
in the foreground, and he is pointing to the ships as they depart
from the harbour. The inscription is
HOSTIBVS PRIMO FVGATIS BOSTONIVM RECVP&
RATVM XVII MARTII MDCCLXXVI.

Appendix.] GENERAL SCHUYLER. 535
No. XV. p. 397.
GENERAL SCHUYLER.
The artful and insidious attempts, that were made by the Tories,
and others deceived by the false reports propagated through their
means, to injure the character of General Schuyler, are the more
worthy of notice, as they afford an explanation ofthe succeeding in
cidents, which attended the military fortunes of this active and patri
otic officer. It should be premised, that the frontiers of the New
England colonies, particularly New Hampshire and Massachusetts,
were exposed to the inroads of the enemy from Canada by way of
Lake Champlain, and that the people of Berkshire county, the New-
Hampshire Grants, and even in the neighbourhood of Connecticut
River, looked upon their salvation as depending on a vigorous de
fence in that quarter. When they found the whole army, therefore,
retreating from Canada, and leaving all the upper parts of the Lake
open to the ravages of the enemy, they were greatly alarmed for their
own safety, and, in the midst of their murmurs of despair, they were
ready to throw all the blame upon the commander of the northern
department, and, in every case of ill success, to discover symptoms of
criminal neglect, or more criminal treachery, on his part.
In this humor they were found by the Tories, who participated in
the schemes of Governor Tryon, and who by their secret emissaries
fanned the flame of suspicion, till it became general and was openly
avowed. Committees of towns and districts assembled, and passed
resolves, expressing distrust of General Schuyler, and insinuating
weighty charges against his motives and conduct. Resolves of this
kind were forwarded to Washington, and to the New York Provincial
Congress. They of course made no impression, for all who were
acquainted with General Schuyler knew, that there was not a truer
patriot in America, nor one who labored more earnestly in the cause
of his country ; yet for his own information it was deemed a duty to
make known these charges to him in their original shape. To a
committee of the Provincial Congress, who had been the organ for
communicating them, he replied ; —
" I am much obliged to you for having taken prudent measures to
prevent the evils, that might be occasioned by the scandalous and
false reports, propagated to prejudice your respectable body and my
self with the public. We must bear with the caprice, jealousy, and
envy of our misguided friends, and pity them. Our Tory enemies we

536

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.

must watch with care and circumspection, and convince our country
men by our actions, that we are true sons of liberty. I have some
reason to apprehend, that the Tories are not the only ones, that have
been assiduous in propagating this story. In the district you mention
are some persons, who applied for offices, which neither the Commit
tee nor I could confer. This disappointment chagrins them, and I
believe they have occasioned the report. I am much obliged to
Mr. Trumbull for the step he has taken. It is something singular,
that at the very time I was sending troops to apprehend Tories, to
whom I am so obnoxious that they would not hesitate to assassinate
me, the country below should be arming against me as a Tory."
TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. " Fort George, 28 May, 1776.
" Sir,
" Your Excellency's letter of the 21st instant, enclosing a copy of
the infamous libel transmitted to you by the Committee of King's
district, I received last night. Whilst this was only report, I treated
it with contempt, without taking any notice of it; but it is now a
duty, which I owe myself and my country, to detect the scoundrels ;
and the only means of doing this is by requesting, that an immediate
inquiry may be made into the matter, when I trust it will appear, that
it was more a scheme calculated to ruin me, than to disunite and
create jealousies in the friends to America. Your Excellency will
therefore please to order a court of inquiry the soonest possible ; for I
cannot sit easy under such an infamous imputation, since, on this ex
tensive continent, numbers ofthe most respectable characters may not
know what your Excellency and Congress do of my principles and
exertions in the common cause. It is peculiarly hard, that at the
very time that assassins and incendiaries are employed to take away
my life and destroy my property, as being an active friend to my
country ; at the very time when I had taken measures and given or
ders, some of which are actually executed, to secure the Tories and
to send them down to your Excellency, a set of pretended Whigs (for
such they are that have propagated these diabolical tales) should pro
claim me through all America a traitor to my country.
" May 31st. — I am informed by persons of good credit, that about
one hundred persons, living on what are commonly called the New
Hampshire Grants, have had a design to seize me as a Tory, and
perhaps still have. There never was a man so infamously scandal
ized and ill-treated as I am, and I hope Congress will publicly do me

Appendix.] GENERAL SCHUYLER. 537
that justice, which I thank your Excellency for having done me in
your letter of the 21st, if that respectable body is convinced (of which
I make no doubt) of my zeal and attachment to the cause of my in
jured country. I am, dear Sir, ever most sincerely, your Excellency's
most obedient humble servant, " Philip Schuyler."
By the following letter addressed to General Washington, and ex
pressing the sentiments of a public body, it would seem that there
were some persons disposed to do justice to General Schuyler, not
withstanding the clamor raised against him.
" Great Barrington, 26 May, 1776.
"Sir,
" A Convention ofthe Committees of Berkshire and the parts adja
cent have lately, by two expresses, communicated to your Excellency
their suspicion of a plot being formed for the destruction of these
United Colonies, by a combination of a number of persons among
ourselves for that purpose ; with the evidence upon which that sus
picion was principally grounded. Amongst other persons accused,
General Schuyler was one ; whose important station would give him
peculiar advantages to distress us by withholding support from the
army in Canada, if he were inimically disposed. The said Conven
tion, therefore, took all those methods they could, devise, to find out
the sentiments of the General ; and it is with the greatest pleasure
we are now able to acquaint your Excellency, that the Convention
are satisfied that their suspicions respecting him were wholly ground
less. That there has been a plan forming among our enemies in the
colonies is beyond doubt, and we hope the whole will be soon brought
to light ; but that some wicked and designing men have greatly mag
nified it, and falsely asserted divers persons of distinction and merit
to be concerned in it, in order to influence the timid and ignorant,
and promote jealousies among us, is indisputable. The Committees
of this town, Sheffield, and Canaan thought it their duty to acquaint
your Excellency with the above, as perhaps it might have some influ
ence upon your orders or conduct relating to these matters ; and they
have ordered me to inform you accordingly. This goes by express.
By order of said Committees. I am your Excellency's most obedient
humble servant, " Mark Hopkins."
A few days after this communication, another was received on the
same subject, which is interesting chiefly as it exhibits in a condensed
vol. in. 68

538 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix-.
form the charges of the people against General Schuyler, and the
grounds of their complaint.
" Address of the Committees of Safety and Inspection for several
Towns in the County of Berkshire, Massachusetts Bay, border
ing on the Colony of New York, and with the Approbation of
King's District in said Colony.
"May it please your Excellency,
" We beg leave to lay before your Excellency the distresses of our
minds with all humility. Fear of injuring our common cause by
writing as well as speaking, on the one hand, or by silence on the
other, has filled us with peculiar concern. The purport of this epistle
is so delicate, that we write with iear and trembling, lest, when we
mean to serve our country, we do it an irreparable injury. Purity of
intention will not always secure us against wrong steps. We beg
leave to assure your Excellency, that it is our hearty intention to sup
port you in the defence of America against the tyranny and usurpa
tion of Great Britain to the last extremity, and, if that is the pleasure
ofthe Continental Congress, to the building up of a distinct republic
or American empire. But what has filled our minds with a pe
culiar sense of danger to the common cause are the following things,
which we take to be facts, though we may be deceived as to some of
them. " That General Schuyler has had the superintending oversight
of our Canadian army ; that, after the defeat of December 31st,
1775, at Quebec, in an attempt to take it by storm, recruits were for
warded in the slowest and most dilatory manner ; that our army be
fore the walls of Quebec, during a long and tedious winter, under
went every kind of hardship, and their spirits were broken by being-
neglected ; that about the 4th of May so inconsiderable was the army,
so miserably provided with provisions and ammunition, in a word, so
greatly neglected, that it was obliged precipitately to raise the siege,
and disgracefully to retreat, so as not only to leave those five hundred
valiant sons of America taken within the walls of Quebec to the
mercy of our enemies, but an additional number of sick to be dis
posed of at their pleasure ; that General Schuyler some time last win
ter went on an expedition to subdue the internal enemies of this
country, competed in arms against the country at Johnstown, and
after the suppression of the said rebellion, the ringleader, Sir John
Johnson, was not so much as put under moderate confinement; that
the said Sir John Johnson has since collected a number of said en-

Appendix.] GENERAL SCHUYLER. 539
entries, as we suppose, and joined some of the King's forces in the
upper forts, and raised a number of Canadians and Indians, and
come down upon Colonel Bedel's regiment stationed at the Cedars,
and taken them to a man, not less than about five hundred in num
ber, many of whom were shot and others tomahawked in cool blood
by the insatiable savages, after they were made prisoners ; this we
have from men of credibility, who were made prisoners at the same
time, but found means to get away, the Colonel of said regiment be
ing necessarily absent at the time of said fight ; that our army has
long been in a most deplorable situation in Canada as to provisions
and intrenching tools, and we view them as in danger of being driven
wholly out of those territories, which event we have but too much
reason to fear will decide the fate of New England, ai^d be of the
most dangerous consequence to all the United Colonies ; that the
minds of many officers, soldiers, and others are greatly dissatisfied
with the conduct of General Schuyler, and have great fears respect
ing his fidelity to his country, though they may be wholly without
foundation, and we find a great backwardness in men to enlist in this
expedition on this account.
"God forbid that we should harbour ungrounded jealousies of the
deliverers, and, in a sense, saviours of our country, or wilfully shut
our eyes against the greatest dangers. We beg leave to assure your
Excellency, that we consider all the United Colonies but as one, and
observe no other distinctions, than those of friends and enemies to
their country. We indulge no private disgust or resentment ; we are
of no faction or party. We wish not to injure the reputation and
glory of General Schuyler, were it in our power ; we sincerely hope
his name may be handed down with immortal honor to the latest pos
terity, as one of the great pillars of the American cause. We must
not conclude, without assuring your Excellency of the utmost confi
dence placed in you by persons of all ranks and conditions, within
the sphere of our knowledge. We can cheerfully rest in your wis
dom under the direction of Him, who ruleth over all, for directing
the military operations in general through this great continent, in
conformity with the advice of the Continental Congress. We heart
ily pray for success to your arms and salvation to America; and that
your disinterested services may meet with a glorious reward. By
order of the Committee. "Asa Douglass, Chairman.''
"Pittsfield, 7 June, 1776."
It needs only be added, that some of the above statements are not

540

WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [Appendix.

entirely accurate, and that, as far as they are so, General Schuyler
was in no degree censurable for the unfortunate occurrences therein
enumerated, having done all in his power to provide against them.
In their historical bearing, however, they are important, when re
garded as showing the impressions of the people, and as connected
with the events of the next year.

END OF VOL III.

CAMBRIDGE:
CHARLES FOLSOM, PHINTEK TO THE UNIVERSITY.